Tips For Driving In The Rain

Spring and summer weather is here. With the sunny days ahead, we must also remember the rainy season. More specifically, as drivers, it’s important to remember best practices for driving in the rain. At Pizano Insurance, we would like to help drivers like the ones in Wayzata, MN stay safe on the road in the coming weeks. Here are a few tips to remember if you’re driving in the rain.

Slow Down

As the roads get more slippery, it makes sense to slow down. Many accidents happen on highways because other people are driving too fast. It may be hard to stop when braking the vehicle in the rain. Therefore, it’s important to slow down and give yourself more time to react if there is an accident ahead.

Use Your Lights

Always remember to turn your headlights on when it starts raining or even on a cloudy day. Visibility is a significant factor in accidents when you’re driving. If it starts to downpour, pull over to the side of the highway and consider turning on your emergency lights. Other vehicles can also see you if they decide to go on the shoulder.

Don’t Panic

If your car does start to hydroplane, don’t panic. One common mistake is to slam on your brakes immediately. This will only make the car slide out of control. Instead, steer in the direction you want the car to go and gradually use your brakes. When in doubt, don’t attempt to drive in poor conditions and wait if possible.

Conact Pizano Insurance

We provide cities like Wayzata, MN with comprehensive auto insurance policies. Do you need an estimate for an insurance policy for your vehicle? Don’t hesitate to contact us today. In the meantime, stay safe on the rainy roads this season. 

Beyond the Basics: Understanding the Different Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

Regarding auto insurance coverage, it’s essential to understand that many different coverage options are available. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned veteran in the Wayzata, MN area, you need to understand the different types of coverage available from Pizano Insurance.

Liability Coverage

Auto insurance is an essential tool for protecting yourself and your finances in case of accidents on the road. Liability coverage, in particular, is among the most fundamental types of auto insurance coverage available. This kind of coverage safeguards you from legal and financial obligations that may arise after accidents that result in bodily injury or property damage to a third-party. 

Personal Injury Coverage

Personal injury coverage is another type of auto insurance designed to protect you if you are injured in an accident. This type of coverage typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, and other related expenses due to an accident.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is another sort of auto insurance coverage designed to protect you if your vehicle is damaged in a collision with another car or object. This kind of coverage generally covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is the final significant kind of auto insurance coverage designed to protect you if your vehicle is damaged in a non-collision-related event, such as theft, vandalism, or a natural disaster. This type of coverage often covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and may include coverage for things like rental car expenses and towing.

Understanding the different types of auto insurance coverage available to you in the Wayzata, MN area is an integral part of being a responsible driver. At Pizano Insurance, we are committed to helping clients find coverage options to suit their needs. If you have any questions or want more information about the different types of auto insurance coverage available, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

How To Pick The Right Coverages For Your Vehicle

No matter what vehicle you drive, whether a small electric car or a large truck, it’s always essential to think about picking the right coverages. Vehicle owners should consider what they need to be covered against and what they might not need. Ensuring you’re getting the right coverage is important whenever you’re considering getting a new policy.

At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN, we help our clients understand what coverage they need. Here are a few tips for picking the appropriate coverage.

Think About The Expense Of Replacement

A critical factor for your vehicle insurance policy is the expense of replacement. You may carry a lower deductible and pay more monthly for your policy. If you were to have an accident that was your fault, you would have to pay the deductible. However, replacing your car could be costly. You don’t want to spend that much out of pocket if you could avoid it.

Understanding Collision And Comprehensive Coverage

You’ll also need to consider collision and comprehensive vehicle coverage. Collision coverage means that your insurance company can help pay for damage to your vehicle caused by a collision. Comprehensive coverage means that your insurance company will help pay for damage to your car other than a collision, such as vandalism or damage caused by a natural disaster.

Not carrying comprehensive coverage, for example, comes down to your risk tolerance because it’s not always required. For instance, if a flood damaged your car, you would pay for damages out of pocket if you didn’t carry comprehensive coverage. Other parts of your policy, like liability, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage, should also be discussed in more detail with your local insurance agent.

Contact Us About Auto Insurance In Wayzata, MN

Pizano Insurance can help ensure you get the proper lifestyle insurance. Call today to get a personalized estimate. 

Don’t Drive Without Auto Insurance – It’s Against the Law

Do you live in the Wayzata, MN area? Pizano Insurance can provide the insurance coverage that is so important.

Why is it important? In 48 out of 50 states, personal auto insurance is required and provides financial protection if you are involved in an accident.

Car insurance is a binding contract between the policyholder and the insurer that guards against financial loss if theft or accident occurs. In exchange for the premium payment, the insurance company will pay for your losses as stated in the policy.

The coverage is as follows:

  • Property – damage or theft to your car
  • Liability – the legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage
  • Medical – the cost of treating injuries and rehabilitation, lost wages, and funeral expenses

Policies are typically issued for a six-month or one-year period and are renewable. The insurance company will let you know when the policy is up for renewal.

Your policy will cover you and other family members listed on the policy. The policy will also provide coverage if a driver not on your policy is driving your car with consent.

Auto insurance requirements are different from state to state. When financing a car, the lender may have additional requirements. Every state requires by law for car owners to have the following:

  • Bodily injury liability will cover costs associated with an injury or death
  • Property damage liability will reimburse others for damage you cause to another driver’s car or property, such as a fence, utility pole, or building.

Many states also require the following:

  • Medical payments or PIP, which provides reimbursement for medical costs for any injuries to you or anyone in your car. It will also cover lost income and other expenses.
  • Uninsured motorist coverage will reimburse you if a driver causes an accident without auto insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage is also available.

Pizano Insurance can provide you with a quote or answers to your questions. Contact our team today.

When should I add my teen driver to my auto insurance policy?

As a parent, you are likely aware that adding your teen driver to your auto insurance policy can be a costly experience in Wayzata, MN. But when? In this blog post, Pizano Insurance looks into this question.

When Should I Add My Teen Driver? 

If you plan on allowing your teen access to one or more vehicles, it will be important for them to be listed on the family’s policy as soon as possible. 

What Are My Options? 

Once you have decided that it’s time for your teen driver to join the family auto insurance policy, several options are available. Some standard options include non-owner liability coverage, which covers only liability; comprehensive/collision coverage, which covers personal property damage; and full coverage, which includes both property damage and bodily injury protection. You may also want to consider adding rental car reimbursement coverage or uninsured motorist protection if applicable. 

How Can I Lower Costs? 

Adding a teen driver does not necessarily mean that premiums will skyrocket overnight—there are plenty of ways for parents to keep costs down. Many insurance companies offer discounts for young drivers who take specific safety courses or get good grades in school. Additionally, many companies will offer multi-car discounts if multiple vehicles in the household are insured under the same policy.

Ultimately, when it comes time to add a teen driver onto an auto insurance policy, it’s important for parents in Wayzata, MN to understand their options and look into any potential discounts that might apply before deciding what type of coverage is best for their family’s needs. Do you still have questions? Contact Pizano Insurance today – we are here for you.

Safe driving tips for new drivers

New drivers face several unique challenges on the road, from dealing with heavy traffic and confusing signs to learning how to adjust their driving habits for inclement weather. Whether you’re just starting out behind the wheel or are an experienced driver new to a different area, it’s essential to be aware of some basic safety tips that will help keep you and your passengers safe on the roads.

New drivers should first focus on practicing good defensive driving habits. Always stay alert when you’re behind the wheel and watch for any potential hazards in front of, beside, and behind your vehicle. Often, other drivers may not follow all the rules of the road or may be distracted, so it’s important always to expect the unexpected.

Another critical factor in safe driving is proper vehicle maintenance. This includes keeping your tires properly inflated, addressing any mechanical issues as soon as you notice them, and staying up-to-date with routine oil changes and other scheduled maintenance. Driving under or overinflated tires can be dangerous for new and experienced drivers, especially during inclement weather when roads are slick.

Finally, never drive impaired – this means avoiding alcohol or drugs before getting behind the wheel; even a tiny amount of alcohol can negatively impact your driving skills and reaction times. It’s also vital to ensure you get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel, as driving while overtired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence.

For more tips to keep new drivers safe, call Pizano Insurance today. We proudly serve new and experienced drivers in the Wayzata, MN area. 

Tips to Help You When Driving in Frightful Winter Weather

During the winter, the weather outside can be frightening. If you are planning on driving home for the holidays or using winter vacation to take a road trip, you need to be careful when driving. At Pizano Insurance, serving the greater Wayzata, MN area, we want to provide tips to help you stay safe as you drive in less-than-ideal winter weather. 

Avoid Driving in the Dark or In Inclement Weather

When possible, avoid driving after dark or during periods of inclement weather, especially if you are driving on unfamiliar roads that you are not used to traveling on. This can help you avoid black ice or other dangerous conditions. 

Always Map Out Your Route and Ensure You Know Where You Are Going

Another tip that can help you stay safe when driving on unfamiliar roads in poor weather is to map out your route ahead of time and try to memorize it. Creating a route ahead of time and familiarizing yourself with it can help you avoid getting lost, missing your turn-off, or having to swerve at the last second to avoid missing a turn. 

Drive Slower Than Posted Speed Limits

Lastly, if the weather is less than ideal, always drive slower than the posted speed limit. The posted speed limits are meant to be followed in clear weather and when visibility is clear. When you are driving in the rain, snow, or icy conditions, you need to slow down. Take your time and drive safely. 

Taking the above steps can help to decrease your chances of being involved in an accident, but you cannot prevent that from happening altogether. This is why it is so important that you have auto insurance and a policy that best meets your needs. The team at Pizano Insurance, serving the greater Wayzata, MN area, can help. Call us now to learn more about obtaining a new auto insurance policy. 

The Safest Vehicles for First-Time Drivers

At Pizano Insurance, we know driving is a rite of passage for most. It brings independence, freedom, responsibility, and new challenges for newly licensed drivers. The best cars for first-timers have plenty of safety features that protect your child and help keep them safe as they learn to drive. In addition to a vehicle with the latest safety technology, proper car insurance is crucial for a new driver in Wayzata, MN.

Best Vehicles for Safety 

It’s essential to ensure your child has a safe vehicle that can protect them as they learn to drive. To do this, you’ll want to look for cars with plenty of safety features. Most importantly, look for seat belts and airbags. You should also consider anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC), and automatic headlights.

These Vehicles Top the List in Wayzata, MN 

Safety features are essential for any vehicle, from airbags to seatbelts and anti-lock brakes. First-time drivers need to be as protected as possible when they start driving, so it’s essential to look into which cars have the best safety ratings.

You will want a vehicle that is easy for your child or teen driver to handle yet still offers plenty of protection in case of an accident. The safest vehicles also tend to be smaller cars with good fuel economy and high crash test scores. Examples would be a Mazda3, Honda Civic, Chevrolet Volt, or Toyota Corolla.

Contact Us

The best way to keep your child safe on the road is by choosing a vehicle with all the latest safety features and proper car insurance. Call one of our auto experts today to discuss your up-and-coming driver! Pizano Insurance understands the best ways to ensure your family is adequately covered and you get the best rates on your auto insurance.

What type of coverage comes with auto insurance in Minnesota?

The Albertville and Wayzata, MN area continues to be a great place to live. Owning a car is a practical necessity if you want to enjoy the area as much as possible. You will have a lot easier time getting around the community with a car. Along with a vehicle, you should also get an auto insurance plan. This insurance offers various forms of support and coverage here. 

Protection for Car

One type of coverage you will get with your auto plan is coverage for your car. A car is a very large investment and asset you will always want to know is adequately covered. A great way to do this is by getting auto insurance. Having the right coverage will offer support if your car is damaged in an accident or stolen. To obtain full coverage, you should select a comprehensive plan. 

Liability Mitigation

You also will want to have an auto insurance plan to ensure you can mitigate your liability risks. Whenever you are going to drive a car, you could cause an accident. If you do cause an accident, you will want to have auto insurance for the liability coverage that it provides. With this auto insurance, you can offset this risk and have support if you are found liable during an accident. 

Having a full auto insurance plan is always a good idea when you are a car owner in the Albertville or Wayzata, MN area. If you own a car here, the team with Pizano Insurance can offer support as you look for a new plan. Pizano Insurance will help you thoroughly evaluate your options and build a policy that will protect you and your car. 

Will my auto insurance pay for the damage from a tree branch?

Auto insurance protects you, your car, and other drivers. However, different types of coverage are created to cover specific situations under an auto insurance policy. There are particular types of auto coverage to suit different situations. Our Pizano Insurance team in Wayzata, MN is dedicated to taking the guesswork out of auto insurance. 

Auto Insurance Requirements in Minnesota

Believe it or not, most states only require drivers to carry liability insurance. Liability insurance will only cover damage, injuries, and other situations that affect other people. Liability protects you when you’re found at fault for damage or injuries to other people, property, or vehicles. Liability coverage will not cover your property damage, injuries, or any damage to your vehicle. However, this is typically the only auto insurance required by law in many states. Liability insurance covers other people’s repair, replacement, and financial compensation.

Other Forms of Auto Insurance Coverage

Liability coverage is just one type of insurance coverage provided by auto insurance. Other forms of coverage will provide compensation, repair, and replacement for you, your property, and your vehicle. For example, collision coverage will pay for the repair of your car regardless of fault or if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. Comprehensive coverage covers repairing or replacing damage to your vehicle based on a non-collision accident like theft, vandalism, or a falling tree. 

Comprehensive Coverage for Non-Moving Accidents/Incidents

If a tree branch falls on your car, your comprehensive coverage will cover the repair of the damage. Of course, you’ll have to invest in more than liability insurance if you want this coverage. However, liability coverage is required by law, and you can add comprehensive coverage to your auto policy. If you have questions about your auto coverage options, call us. We’d be happy to answer all of your questions.