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Kannapolis, NC 28083

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How Auto Insurance Applies to Car Sharing and Delivery Apps

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The rise of car-sharing and delivery apps has made it easier than ever to earn extra income using your own vehicle. Whether you’re driving for a rideshare service or delivering food on the weekends, these gigs offer flexibility—but they can also create confusion when it comes to your auto insurance. At Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC, we help drivers understand where their coverage begins and ends in these situations.

Personal Auto Insurance vs. Commercial Use

One common misconception is that your personal auto insurance will fully cover you while driving for a car-sharing or delivery service. The reality is that most personal policies don’t cover accidents that occur while you’re using your vehicle for commercial purposes. This means if you’re involved in an accident while making a delivery or transporting a passenger, you could be left paying out of pocket unless you have the appropriate coverage.

Understanding App-Based Coverage

Some apps provide limited insurance coverage while you’re actively using their platform, but there are often gaps—especially during the period when you’re logged in but haven’t yet accepted a ride or delivery. Knowing how these policies work and when they apply is crucial to avoiding unexpected expenses.

Protect Yourself Before You Hit the Road

If you’re using your car for more than just personal errands, it’s time to review your insurance coverage. Depending on how often and for what purpose you’re using your vehicle, you may need a rideshare endorsement or a commercial auto policy.

Are you unsure about the type of coverage you need? Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC can help you navigate the details. Contact us today to ensure you’re fully protected every mile of the way.

What Happens When a Customer Is Injured on Your Property? A Look at Liability Claims

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Accidents happen, even in the safest of spaces. When they occur on your business property, the consequences can go beyond a spilled cup of coffee or a wet floor. At Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC, we help business owners understand what’s at stake when a customer is injured on their premises—and how commercial liability insurance can step in to help.

The Immediate Aftermath

If a customer slips, trips, or is injured in any way while visiting your business, your top priority should always be their well-being. Medical assistance should be called if necessary, and the incident should be documented thoroughly. This includes taking photos, gathering witness statements, and filing an internal report.

Understanding Liability Claims

After the incident, the injured party may decide to file a liability claim against your business. This is where your commercial general liability insurance becomes essential. A typical policy can help cover medical expenses, legal fees, and any settlements or judgments if your business is found responsible for the injury.

Prevention Is Key—But So Is Preparation

While preventing accidents is always the goal, preparation is equally important. Regular maintenance, clear signage, and prompt attention to hazards can significantly reduce risks. However, even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen. Having the right insurance coverage ensures you’re not left financially vulnerable.

Navigating liability claims doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC, help you build a strong commercial insurance plan that protects both your business and your peace of mind. Contact our team today to learn more.

Three Red Flags That Your Home Might Be Underinsured

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Every homeowner in Kannapolis, NC is required to have some level of home insurance. However, not all homes are adequately insured, and discovering that your coverage is insufficient after an incident can be devastating. At Pethel Insurance Group, we’ve encountered numerous individuals who have lost significant amounts of money due to damage or theft of their homes. To prevent this from happening to you, be mindful of these warning signs that your home may be underinsured.

1. You Opted for the Minimum Level of Coverage – Choosing the minimum level of coverage is a significant indicator that your home may not be adequately insured. While this may save you money initially, it could lead to substantial losses if your home suffers from a fire, flood, or burglary. Don’t settle for the legal minimum when purchasing home insurance, especially if you’re moving into a new home.

2. Recent Home Improvements – Home renovations can alter the value of your property. Therefore, any major changes to your home should prompt a review of your home insurance policy. The value of your home could increase significantly after a kitchen or bathroom remodel, which may render your original home insurance policy insufficient.

3. Lack of Regular Policy Review – It’s crucial to regularly review your home insurance policy, even if there haven’t been any changes to your home. Make sure your policy includes provisions for flooding and natural disasters. Additionally, as labor costs rise over time, it’s important to ensure your policy covers these potential increases.

Pethel Insurance Group has successfully assisted numerous individuals in the Kannapolis, NC area in updating their home insurance policies. If you’re interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.

Renters Insurance: Protecting What Makes Your Home a Home

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Today, renting is more popular than ever before. This trend is driven by several factors, including the rise of remote work options and a more mobile lifestyle. Regardless of why or where you rent, it’s always a good idea to protect the things you care about. That’s why so many renters in the Kannapolis, NC area rely on the trusted and professional team at Pethel Insurance Group for all their renters’ insurance needs.

Renters Insurance: Protecting What Makes Your Home a Home

Whether you rent or own your residence, what makes a home is often the people and the cherished items within it. The old grandfather clock that chimes every hour, the items that carry our memories, stories, and family history – these are the things we can protect with renters’ insurance. That’s why many renters turn to the helpful and friendly team at Pethel Insurance Group for renters’ insurance solutions.

Renters Insurance for Kannapolis, NC Area Renters

If you live in the Kannapolis, NC area and rent your home, you might be interested in how renters’ insurance can help protect the things you care about. We can help. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment for all your rental insurance needs. Protect what matters to you with renters’ insurance solutions from Pethel Insurance Group today.

My Motorcycle is Stored: Do I Need Insurance Coverage?

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You might wonder if you are required to have motorcycle insurance if it is stored in a garage or warehouse. The answer is, "yes." The North Carolina motor vehicle law requires all motorcycle operators to purchase insurance, whether you are actively riding it or storing it. It doesn’t seem right to have to carry coverage if you aren’t riding it, but the expert team at Pethel Insurance Group, serving Kannapolis, NC, wants you to protect your investment. If you store your motorcycle for a long time, you can cancel or suspend your insurance if you give your license plate to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). Once the plate is turned in, you can cancel your liability insurance without penalties.

Why Should I Keep Motorcycle Insurance If It is Stored Long Term?

Insurance protects your investment. Remember that if you don’t have insurance coverage while stored, and your motorcycle is stolen, damaged, or affected by a natural disaster, you have to pay for the repair or loss. If you are storing it for a long time, consider comprehensive coverage. This insurance will protect your motorcycle from fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters like fire and flood.

Protect Your Motorcycle and Get Peace of Mind

It’s essential to carry insurance whether you are riding your motorcycle or not. Before you cancel your motorcycle insurance, consider the pros, cons, and risks. Your bike is a valuable investment. If you don’t have the proper coverage and the unexpected happens, you must pay for the damage or loss out of your own pocket. Pethel Insurance Group, serving the Kannapolis, NC area, offers a range of motorcycle insurance options. Our experienced agents can provide a policy tailored to your needs. Contact us today.

At What Age Should I Get Life Insurance?

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Life insurance is often associated with older individuals, people who are well into life and want further protection to ensure that those who depend on them most are capable of getting through life with the financial support left behind by life insurance. While life insurance is best for those who have dependents, these milestones may vary from person to person. So, when should you get life insurance? Is there a specific age? If you’re asking these questions, here’s some further guidance on when you should consider getting life insurance and how you can begin shopping for an insurance policy with our support at Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC.

When Should You Get Life Insurance?

Speaking to age, the best time to consider life insurance is early in life, specifically around your 20s, although your 30s is still a good time as well. Because most 20-year-olds are young and healthy, securing a life insurance policy during this time is a great way to take advantage of early premiums and begin protecting yourself and others early on. But more than that, when in life should you get life insurance? What are the circumstances that you should consider when you’re thinking about life insurance? Life insurance is often best for those who have dependents as they will likely be unable to support themselves in the event of your untimely passing financially. However, life insurance can also be a valuable investment when you have debt, want to cover funeral costs, and even if you’re looking for alternative investment opportunities as a single person.

Shop Life Insurance With Us Today!

If now is the time to shop for life insurance, you can trust us here at Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC to make the process seamless. Compare quotes now or contact us today!

Do Single Vehicle Accidents Require a Police Report For an Insurance Claim?

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As a conscientious driver in North Carolina, you maintain your car insurance to ensure you’re covered in case of an incident. The severity of incidents can vary, and as we at Pethel Insurance Group, serving Kannapolis, NC, know, a driver may often experience a single-vehicle accident.

Understanding Single Vehicle Accidents

A single-vehicle accident involves only one vehicle. Even if other vehicles are present on the road, only one vehicle is involved in the accident. Examples include:

  • Colliding with a tree
  • Striking infrastructure (light post, sign, curb, etc.)
  • Crashing into property (house, garage, etc.)

Is a Police Report Required for a Single Vehicle Accident Insurance Claim?

Often, single-vehicle accidents require a police report for insurance purposes, depending on the circumstances. A police report serves as an official record of the accident, providing details that can assist your insurance company in processing the claim more efficiently. While not all single-vehicle accidents legally require a report, filing one to protect your interests is generally recommended.

When a Police Report is Required

According to North Carolina law, a police report is required if the accident results in injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. This includes situations like hitting a utility pole, guardrail, or other roadside objects. Even if the accident seems minor, reporting it can provide documentation that may prevent disputes later. Without a police report, your insurer might question the legitimacy of your claim, potentially delaying or even denying coverage. Filing a report is particularly important if external factors contributed to the accident, such as hazardous road conditions, wildlife encounters, or mechanical failure. In these cases, the police report can support your claim by documenting the external cause of the accident.

If you experience any damage-related incident with your vehicle, please get in touch with Pethel Insurance Group, serving Kannapolis, NC, for assistance with your claim.

Predictive Analytics: Revolutionizing Underwriting for Commercial Policies

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The landscape of commercial insurance underwriting is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the power of predictive analytics around Kannapolis, NC. Predictive analytics allows insurers to make more accurate, data-driven decisions by analyzing vast amounts of data and identifying patterns. This evolving technology enhances underwriting processes, improves risk assessments, and delivers more personalized policies for businesses.

Improving Risk Assessment with Predictive Analytics

Traditional underwriting methods rely heavily on historical data, such as past claims and financial stability, to assess a business’s risk profile. Predictive analytics takes this a step further by analyzing real-time data and external factors, such as industry trends, weather patterns, and even social media activity. These insights enable insurers to comprehensively evaluate risk, leading to more precise premium pricing and policy terms.

For example, predictive models can identify emerging risks that might not have been apparent using traditional methods, such as cybersecurity threats for tech companies or supply chain disruptions for manufacturers.

Personalizing Coverage with Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics also allows insurers to tailor policies to each business’s specific needs. By leveraging company size, operations, and industry data, insurers can offer customized coverage options that align with a business’s unique risks. This personalized approach not only helps businesses secure the right level of protection but can also result in cost savings by avoiding overinsurance.

Enhancing Claims Management with Predictive Analytics

Beyond underwriting, predictive analytics plays a role in optimizing claims management. By forecasting a claims likelihood and severity, insurers can streamline claims processes and respond more efficiently. This proactive approach benefits both the insurer and the policyholder, fostering a more efficient, customer-centric insurance experience.

Contact Pethel Insurance Group for Your Insurance Needs

Pethel Insurance Group underwrites policies to fit our customers’ needs. We serve Kannapolis, NC, and the surrounding cities. Contact us today.

How do you further protect your home after a covered peril?

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When your home is damaged by a peril covered by your insurance policy, each homeowner has specific responsibilities to ensure that no further damage occurs to the property before a claims adjuster can come and assess the damage. This prevents a $2000 claim from becoming a $20,000 situation and aids in your faster return to your home and return to the normalcy you and your family desire.

At Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC, we understand that during a time of loss, your emotions are high, and your stress is unbelievable. So, we are here to help guide you through what to do next.

What is a Covered Peril?

A covered peril is a thing that your insurance policy covers your home against. Those things include fire, smoke damage, explosion, lightning strikes, wind and hail, theft, and falling objects. In addition, you can get coverage to protect your home against water damage, vandalism, malicious mischief, the weight of ice and snow, and damage from aircraft or vehicles. There are other damages, such as floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, that you can also get coverage for.

Check your homeowner’s policy to see what perils are covered.

After an Incident Has Occurred

Once you have filed a claim, you need to protect your home. First, you should document any damage you see in the house by writing it down and taking pictures. Then, take an inventory of everything that was damaged or destroyed, including the cost and what you believe it will cost to replace the items.

Next, you take steps to prevent additional damage, such as boarding up broken windows or placing a tarp on a leaking roof. You also make any temporary repairs needed in order to avoid further damage. Finally, save receipts for any supplies and materials you purchased to be reimbursed by insurance.

Then, you will need to provide any information that the insurance company may need during the investigation so that they can get your claim processed in a timely manner. Contact the fire department or police authorities for any relevant information to process your claim.

Lastly, never admit fault when speaking to an insurance adjuster; instead, disclose all events as they happened.

Give us a call today!

If you have any more questions or concerns about your responsibility after a covered peril, we are here to help. Call Pethel Insurance Group in Kannapolis, NC, at (704) 933-9488 today.

Does Renters Insurance Cover My Roommate?

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Renters insurance provides financial protection in the event of a covered incident. If you rent an apartment, having renters insurance can save you money should you need to replace your belongings due to events like a fire or theft. If you need renters insurance, the professionals at Pethel Insurance Group servicing Kannapolis, NC can help. If your roommate also needs renters insurance, we can provide answers to help both of you get the coverage you need.

What Does Renters Insurance Cover?

Renters insurance covers the repair or replacement of belongings when a covered event occurs. For example, if a kitchen fire damages your apartment, your renter’s insurance will pay to repair or replace damaged belongings.

Every policy is different, but standard renters insurance typically covers events such as:

  • Windstorm
  • Fire
  • Smoke
  • Theft
  • Vandalism
  • Explosion
  • Lightning

Your renter’s insurance policy may also cover certain types of water damage.

Will It Cover My Roommate’s Stuff?

If your roommate’s items are damaged in a covered event, they will not be covered by your renter’s insurance policy unless your roommate has been added to your policy. Most insurance companies require roommates to have their own separate insurance policy.

My Roommate Wants Insurance – What Should They Do?

If your roommate is interested in renters insurance, you can provide them with the contact information for Pethel Insurance Group servicing Kannapolis, NC. We offer renters insurance to clients who want to protect their belongings during a covered event. We work with a range of insurance carriers to make this possible so you and your roommate can find the best policy for their needs. Call today.

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