Increased Vehicle Costs

- Tariffs Impact Prices: If tariffs are imposed on foreign auto parts and vehicles, the cost of manufacturing cars may rise. Manufacturers often pass these increased costs onto consumers, leading to higher sticker prices for new vehicles.

- Used Car Market: As new car prices escalate, more consumers may turn to used cars, which could drive up the prices in the used car market as well.

Insurance Premiums

- Higher Replacement Costs: Insurance premiums are closely tied to the value of the vehicle. As new and used car prices rise due to tariffs, the cost to replace or repair vehicles would also increase, which could lead to higher overall insurance premiums.

- Parts Availability and Repair Costs: If tariffs lead to higher prices for auto parts, repair costs could increase. This might make insurers more wary, leading to adjustments in premiums to account for the greater expense of repairs.

Industry Economic Impact

- Consumer Behavior: If car prices rise, consumers may delay purchases or opt for less expensive models, which might change the demographics of insured vehicles. This shift could impact insurance companies' risk assessments and pricing models.

- Market Competition: Domestic automakers may face less competition from foreign manufacturers if tariffs reduce imports, potentially leading to less incentive to keep prices low, which again could drive up costs.

Potential Benefits for Domestic Manufacturers

- Support for Local Production: Tariffs aimed at foreign vehicles and parts can support domestic manufacturers by leveling the playing field. If they manage to increase production without drastic cost changes, this could stabilize prices and potentially prevent sharp increases in premiums.

- Investments in Innovation: A more stable domestic automotive market might lead to increased investments in innovation and efficiency, which could, over time, help lower costs.

How to Prepare for Potential Changes

- Evaluate Insurance Policies: Drivers should review their current insurance policies with a focus on coverage types and limits. Understanding how the overall increase in vehicle costs could affect claims in the future is essential.

- Shop Around for Coverage: If premiums begin to rise due to increased vehicle costs, it may be wise to shop around for better rates or discounts. Insurance companies often adjust their rates based on market conditions, and a little research could yield savings.

- Consider Vehicle Choices Carefully: If purchasing a new vehicle, consider opting for those that are less affected by tariffs, such as domestic models or those made with fewer foreign parts.

Monitoring Legislative Changes

- Stay Informed: Keeping an eye on the status of any proposed tariffs, as well as broader economic conditions, can help consumers anticipate changes in pricing both for vehicles and insurance.

- Engagement with Insurance Providers: Regularly engaging with your insurance provider can help assess how changes in the market may impact your premiums and coverage options.

Proposed tariffs on foreign auto parts and vehicles could lead to increased vehicle prices, higher insurance premiums, and changes in market dynamics. Drivers can benefit from being proactive; staying informed, reassessing their current policies, and making strategic choices when purchasing vehicles can help mitigate the impact of these potential changes.

At Suburban, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate market changes and their direct impact on your insurance needs.

As our world becomes increasingly interconnected and reliant on secure identification, understanding the REAL ID initiative is essential for residents of New Jersey. The REAL ID Act was established by the federal government to enhance security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. If you’re a New Jersey resident planning to fly, access federal buildings, or enter nuclear power plants, it's crucial to know what the REAL ID is and how to obtain one.

What is REAL ID?
 
The REAL ID Act, signed into law in 2005, was designed to improve security by establishing minimum security standards for state-issued IDs. A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card indicates that the holder has verified their identity and is compliant with federal standards. Starting from May 7, 2025, you'll need a REAL ID or another federally acceptable form of identification (like a passport) to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities.
 
Who Needs REAL ID?
 
While not all New Jersey residents will need a REAL ID, it’s essential for those who plan to:
 
- Fly within the United States after May 7, 2025
- Access military bases or federal facilities
- Enter nuclear power plants
 
If you don’t plan on using your ID for these purposes, your current New Jersey driver’s license or ID will remain valid for other uses, such as driving, voting, or identification for age-restricted purchases.
 
REAL ID Requirements in New Jersey
 
Unlike the standard driver’s license or ID, obtaining a REAL ID requires a unique combination of documents.
 
The MVC summarizes the process as 2 + 1 + 6 = REAL ID, which means:

• Two documents to prove your address.
• One valid Social Security number (SSN).
• Identity documents that add up to six points.

Step 1: Prove your address
 
Applicants must provide two of the following documents as proof of address:

• A valid New Jersey driver’s license or MVC-issued driver license renewal form displaying a residential address.
• A utility or credit card bill issued within the past 90 days.
• A bank or credit union statement issued within the past 60 days.
• An original, unexpired lease or rental agreement.
• Tax-related documents or government correspondence received within the past year.
• First-class mail from a government agency within the past six months.
• A statement from a parent or guardian certifying the applicant’s address (for those under 18).

 
Step 2: Provide proof of your SSN

• A Social Security card.
• A pay stub with the full Social Security number.
• A W-2 or 1099 form issued within the past year. Alternatively, applicants can enter their Social Security number directly on the application, and the MVC will verify it electronically.

 
Step 3: Verify your identity with six points
 
To meet the six-point requirement, applicants must present a combination of primary and secondary identity documents. Examples include:

• A U.S. passport or birth certificate (4 points each).
• A certificate of naturalization (4 points).
  
• A current permanent resident card (3 points).
• A U.S. school or college photo ID with a transcript (2 points).
• A legal name change court order, civil marriage certificate or divorce decree (2 points each).
• Additional documents, such as a current U.S. military ID or New Jersey firearm purchaser card, which can contribute to the six-point total.

 
When is the REAL ID deadline?
 
REAL ID is federally mandated and will be required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. Standard New Jersey licenses will no longer be accepted for these purposes after that date.
 
Final Thoughts
 
As the deadline for REAL ID approaches, it's essential to be proactive if you anticipate needing this identification. Familiarize yourself with the requirements, gather your documents, and visit your local MVC to apply. As we move forward into a more digitized and security-conscious world, adapting to these changes will help ensure that you have the identification necessary for your daily obligations and travels.
 
For any additional questions or to find more information, visit the New Jersey MVC website or contact your local office. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make sure you have everything you need to avoid last-minute scrambles as the deadline approaches. Safe travels!

By understanding the program's details, homebuyers can make informed decisions when purchasing a new home in New Jersey. If you're a homebuyer considering purchasing a new home in the Garden State, be sure to ask about the New Jersey New Home Warranty Program and how it can benefit you.

At Suburban, we offer homeowners insurance that provides financial protection against disasters. A standard policy insures the home itself, or apartment or condo, and the things you keep in it.

Homeowners insurance is a package policy. This means that it covers both damage to your property and your liability or legal responsibility for any injuries and property damage you or members of your family cause to other people. 

Before buying a homeowners insurance policy, it's important to:

• Understand the way homeowner's insurance works
• Identify the kind of policy and coverage you really need
• Compare policies from different companies to find the best values

It is really all about protecting yourself financially if something unexpected happens to your home or possessions. That's important because chances are your home is likely one of your largest investments.

​It is important to know that homeowner’s insurance is meant to cover unexpected damage, not routine maintenance.
 
Ask your Suburban agent to talk about what is covered and be sure to read your policy so you know exactly what's included and what is not.

Set up time with your insurance agent to talk through disaster scenarios unique to your home and property. What coverage would you have if wind knocked that maple tree in your front yard onto your home? If a fire is caused by human error? If a leaky old pipe damages a wood floor? Sometimes talking it out is easier than deciphering a policy’s fine print. At Suburban, we are proud of our hard-earned reputation in the insurance industry and our customer-focused principles.

Here are some steps to help you effectively manage the process:
 
1. Understand Your Policy
Review Your Coverage: Before filing a claim, read through your insurance policy to understand your coverage limits, exclusions, and the type of claims you can file (e.g., homeowners, auto, health).
 
Know Your Deductible: Be aware of your deductible, which is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in.

2. Document the Incident
Gather Evidence: Take photos, videos, or notes related to the incident. For auto claims, this may include photos of damage and the accident scene. For home claims, document damages and any items affected.
 
Collect Information: If applicable, gather contact information from witnesses, other parties involved, and police reports if necessary.
 
3. Notify Your Insurer Promptly
Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the incident as soon as possible. Most policies require timely reporting of claims. You can find claim information for most insurance companies on our website.
 
Provide Necessary Information: Share all relevant details, including your policy number, the nature of the claim, and any supporting evidence you’ve gathered.

4. Complete Claim Forms
Fill Out Required Documentation: Your insurer may require you to complete specific forms detailing the incident. Be thorough and accurate in your responses.
 
Keep Copies: Always keep copies of any forms or documents you submit for your records.
 
5. Follow Up Regularly
Track Your Claim Status: Keep in touch with your claims adjuster or customer service representative to get updates on your claim. Make notes of names, dates, and conversations.
 
Respond Promptly: If your insurer requests additional information or documentation, provide it as soon as possible to avoid delays.
 
6. Review the Claim Decision
Understand Insurer’s Evaluation: Once the insurance company processes your claim, they will provide a decision regarding coverage and payment. Review this document carefully.
 
Evaluate Settlement Offers: If you receive a settlement offer, assess whether it fairly compensates you for your losses.
 
7. Appeal if Necessary
Dispute Denials or Low Offers: If you disagree with the decision or feel the settlement is inadequate, you have the right to appeal. Refer to your insurer’s appeal process and provide additional evidence if needed.
 
Document Everything: Keep records of all correspondence related to the appeal.
 
8. Stay Organized
Create a Claims Binder: Keep all documentation, correspondence, and evidence in one place to refer easily and ensure you have everything at hand if needed.
 
Log All Communications: Maintain a detailed log of all interactions with your insurer, including dates, times, and details of discussions.
 
9. Learn for the Future
Review Your Experience: After the claims process concludes, reflect on what went well and what could be improved. This can help you better prepare for any future claims.
 
Re-assess Your Coverage: Based on your experience, consider whether your insurance coverage still meets your needs, and adjust if necessary.

Let us help alleviate the stress of managing claims, so you can focus on what matters most. If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us!

Call your Insurance Agent – Suburban Brokers

Insurance agents are equipped with specialized knowledge and resources regarding homeowners' insurance policies that the average individual may not have. Here are several key aspects where we provide expertise:

1. Carrier Comparison: We have access to multiple insurance carriers and can compare different policies, coverage options, and premiums that individuals might not have the time or expertise to analyze.

2. Policy Details: We are well-versed in the specific terms, conditions, exclusions, and endorsements of various homeowner’s policies, helping clients understand the nuances that could affect their coverage.

3. Risk Assessment: We can assess your unique risks based on your location, home type, and personal belongings, allowing us to recommend suitable coverage levels and options.

4. Claims Process: We understand the claims process in detail and can guide you through it, helping you gather necessary documentation and communicate effectively with the insurance company.

5. Discounts and Incentives: We are knowledgeable about available discounts, such as bundling policies, protective device discounts (e.g., alarms or smart home technology), and loyalty rewards that you may not be aware of.

6. Local Knowledge: We have insights into local regulations, risks (like specific natural disasters in an area), and community resources that can help navigate the right insurance choices.

7. Policy Reviews: We can conduct periodic reviews of existing policies to ensure that homeowners maintain adequate coverage as your needs change over time or as market conditions shift.

8. Understanding of Legal Requirements: Many regions have specific insurance requirements for homeowners, and we can ensure that you are compliant with local laws and regulations.

By collaborating with us, you can navigate these steps more effectively and choose a home insurance carrier that best meets your needs. At Suburban, we can offer the right coverage with the personal touch you would expect from your neighborhood insurance agency.

As we enter Fire Prevention Month, consider implementing these strategies to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your home:
 
1. Install Smoke Detectors:
   - Ensure smoke detectors are installed in key areas, such as kitchens, bedrooms, and hallways. Regular testing and battery replacement are essential. Test all smoke alarms in your home now.
 
2. Create a Fire Safety Plan:
   - Develop and practice an emergency evacuation plan. Ensure all household members are aware of escape routes and meeting points.
 
3. Maintain Electrical Systems:
   - Regularly inspect and maintain electrical systems. Avoid overloading circuits and use appliances safely.
 
4. Fire Extinguishers:
   - Keep properly rated fire extinguishers accessible in various locations, particularly in kitchens and garages.
 
5. Safe Storage of Flammable Materials:
   - Store flammable materials in appropriate containers and away from heat sources. Follow local regulations for hazardous materials.
 
6. Proper Cooking Practices:
   - Cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Stay attentive while cooking, avoid leaving heated pans unattended, and keep flammable items, such as oven mitts and dish towels, away from the stove.
 
7. Heating Safety:
   - Use heaters according to manufacturer instructions and keep flammable materials at a safe distance.
 
8. Landscaping and Clearing Debris:
   - Maintain landscaping to reduce fire fuel, especially in wildfire-prone areas. Regularly clear dry leaves and debris.
 
9. Sprinkler Systems:
   - Consider installing fire sprinkler systems, especially in commercial and larger residential properties.
 
10. Educate Your Family:
    - Conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows the emergency procedures.

How Fire Prevention Affects Your Insurance
 
1. Insurance Premiums:
   - Proper fire prevention measures can lead to lower insurance premiums. Insurance companies may offer discounts for homes and businesses with robust fire safety systems.
 
2. Coverage Limits:
   - Understanding what is and isn’t covered in a fire insurance policy is crucial. Many policies have specific terms regarding fire-related losses and may limit liability if proper prevention measures weren’t taken.
 
3. Claims Process:
   - In the event of a fire, insurers will investigate the cause and extent of the damage. If negligence in fire prevention is identified, it may affect the claims process, and the amount paid.
 
4. Required Fire Safety Measures:
   - Some insurance policies require certain fire safety measures to be in place as a condition of coverage. Familiarize yourself with these stipulations to ensure compliance.
 
5. Loss Prevention Programs:
   - Many insurance companies offer resources and programs focused on loss prevention, including consultations on fire safety measures.
 
6. Building Codes and Inspections:
   - Compliance with local building codes and regulations can influence insurance rates and coverage. Insurers may require proof of inspections or upgrades for older properties.

Fire prevention is essential not only for minimizing risks to life and property but also for managing insurance costs and claims. Property owners and businesses should prioritize fire safety measures and stay informed about their insurance policies to ensure that they are fully covered in the event of a fire.
 
Fire Prevention Month is not merely a reminder; it’s a call to action. By being proactive and prepared, we can reduce the number of fires and protect our families and communities. Regular communication with insurance providers about risk reduction strategies can also lead to enhanced coverage and lower premiums.
 
Reach out to us today to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your home.

At Suburban, we can offer the right coverage with the personal touch you would expect from your neighborhood insurance agency. Call us at 201-796-1881.

What can homeowners do? Insurance Information Institute shows us 12 ways to lower your homeowners insurance costs below. Click the link above for the full article.

If you are considering lowering your homeowners insurance costs, give us a call so we can review your policy and any potential changes in your house or household or other discounts that might now apply to you. We’re always here for you. Reach out at 201-796-1881.

You've probably wondered why all the superstitious hype and booked up wedding venues during the month of June. The name June is derived from the Roman goddess of marriage, Juno. Families believed when a couple married in June, they would be blessed with happiness forever.

Starting with the purchase of an engagement ring, consumers should insure their ring under their homeowner’s policy (condo policy or renter’s policy). When considering a wedding venue, their insurance agent should explain the importance of purchasing insurance.

If someone were to get injured during a reception due to a couple’s negligence, or if property gets damaged, proper insurance coverage will protect you. Also, a lot of venues now require couples to provide them with a certificate of insurance. The type of venue and where your reception will be held will dictate the level of coverage required.

The Insurance Information Institute suggests couples explore Special Event Insurance. Special event insurance covers cancellations necessitated by adverse weather and natural disasters, such as hurricanes. Most policies also provide coverage for cancellation due to the death, illness or serious injury of a key participant in the event, such as the groom or a member of the immediate family. Also, if an officiant (such as a minister or rabbi), or a key vendor (like the caterer, florist or photographer) does not show up, special event insurance allows you to recover some of the costs.

Special event insurance riders may include coverage for:

• Military service – Provides coverage in the event the bride or groom is in the military or active reserves and is suddenly called to duty.

• Gowns and tuxedos – Provides coverage if your bridal salon goes out of business, or if the clothing is damaged.

• Gifts – If gifts are not covered by your homeowners or renters insurance policy, this provides protection against their theft or damage.

• Honeymoon – Provides coverage if you need to cancel your trip due to illness, bad weather or other circumstances.

• Professional counseling – Covers treatment of severe emotional stress due to the cancellation or postponement of the event (a doctor’s note will be needed).

• Liability – Event venues generally have their own liability insurance. If you are holding the event at home, you may want to purchase liability insurance above and beyond what is provided under your homeowners policy.

Couples should also consider purchasing a travel coverage policy for their honeymoon. Some medical insurance policies do not cover traveling abroad. Travel insurance is not highly regulated, so every policy won’t be the same. Be sure to understand exactly what coverage you need and what the policy covers.
 
Before purchasing special event insurance, check to see whether any coverage is already provided through credit cards you might be using, or through your homeowners, auto insurance or any other policies you may already have.
 
At Suburban, we are always here to talk with you about your policies and finding the best insurance that provides the coverage you need at the right price. Reach out and call us at 201-796-1881.

It’s hard to believe that the Atlantic hurricane season starts in less than 30 days. If you live in a hurricane-prone region, National Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 5-11) presents an excellent opportunity to kick-start your preparations.
 
Don’t wait until the National Weather Service issues a hurricane warning. Take proactive steps now to ensure that you are prepared well in advance.

The best time to prepare for a hurricane is before hurricane season begins on June 1. It is vital to understand your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding, and wind. Here is your checklist of things to do BEFORE hurricane season begins.
 
Additional resources covering What to do Before a Tropical Storm or Hurricane, are provided by the National Weather Service. They have multiple checklists and free resources to assist you as well as How to Prepare for Hurricane Season from the Insurance Information Institute.

These tips from Travelers prepare you for a hurricane and help prepare your home as well.
Click here for the full article.

Hurricanes are some of the most devastating, and costly, natural disasters known to man. Travelers Insurance provides a Hurricane Survival Guide: Things to Do During and After the Storm.
 
The New Jersey Department of Health also provides Emergency Preparedness and Hurricane Readiness information which includes important information you need to know about generators and carbon monoxide poisoning.

This hurricane season insurance checklist can help you understand your coverage and whether it’s adequate to repair or rebuild your home, if necessary, and replace your belongings. Most importantly, know that we are here for you, and we are happy to review your policy with you to ensure that you are structurally and financially prepared. Call 201-796-1881.

As you begin to think about which flood mitigation options might be the best for you and your home, consider these three key steps:

1. Know Your Risk. Learn more details about your home’s level of flood risk, including the type of flood zone it is in.
2. Insure Your Property. Even if your home is in a low or moderate risk flood zone, purchase a flood insurance policy is highly recommended. It provides you with financial protection from a flood event. Flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowners’ insurance policies.
3. Reduce Your Risk. Decide how to prepare your family and protect your home from flooding.

For additional tips and information, download the brochure from FEMA - Protect Your Home From Flooding.

Insurance is one of the most critical items to consider when preparing for a flood. Remember, most flood insurance policies have a waiting period of 12 to 30 days, so don’t leave it to luck.

Reach out to us to review your flood policy and make sure you are protected. Call us at 201-796-1881.

Thinking about buying a new car? Buying a car is one of the biggest purchases many people make. There are many factors to consider in choosing the right one. 

According to iSeeCars.com, January and February are typically months when the most discounts are available, while data from Edmunds.com ranks January and February among the months with the smallest discounts. Buying a car at the end of March, June, September, or December often leads to even better deals as dealerships are trying hard to reach sales goals.

With Safety being a huge concern amongst consumers, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is making it hard to earn its TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ Awards. They followed tougher requirements this year and the winners offer the highest level of protection for both vehicle occupants and other vulnerable road users.
 
To earn the awards, a vehicle must offer good protection in a small overlap front crash, in which 25% of the vehicle’s width on either side collides with another vehicle or a stationary object. This year the driver-side and passenger-side evaluations have been combined into a single rating. The test is performed on both the driver and passenger sides, and the rating is equivalent to the lower of the two results.

Hyundai Motor Group, which includes the Genesis, Hyundai and Kia brands, has the most 2024 awards overall — six Top Safety Pick+ and 10 Top Safety Pick awards for a total of 16. Toyota Motor Corp., which includes the Toyota and Lexus brands, has the next highest total with one Top Safety Pick+ and 12 Top Safety Pick awards. Mazda earns the most Top Safety Pick+ awards of any single brand, with five, as well as one Top Safety Pick.

By class, small SUVs, midsize SUVs and midsize luxury SUVs are tied for the most Top Safety Pick+ awards, with five each. Midsize luxury SUVs, which qualify for an additional 12 Top Safety Pick awards, earn the most awards overall. Relatively few cars, pickups and minivans qualify for either award.

Whether you are purchasing a new car now, or at some point in the future, I highly recommend you check out the IIHS Award Winners. You can never be too safe when it comes to car safety.

Looking for the best insurance rates for your new or existing car? Give us a call and we can help you find the best insurance that provides the coverage you need at the right price.
 
Be safe on the roads.

Extremely cold temperatures put your pipes at risk in the winter. Learn which pipes are most at risk and get tips on preventing frozen pipes.
 
Frozen pipes can present an invisible threat – one that you might not recognize until the weather starts to warm. By then, the water damage can be significant and costly.  Fortunately, keeping your home warmer, at a consistent temperature, and better insulated can help protect your pipes from freezing this winter.

What Do You Do if You Have a Frozen Pipe?

If you suspect pipes in your home have been exposed to freezing temperatures, or water is not flowing through a faucet normally, follow these steps to help reduce the potential for water damage:

• Locate and close the main water shutoff valve as soon as possible and before temperatures rise above freezing.
• Open all faucets including those outside to drain remaining water from pipes.
• Have buckets, towels and fans available to contain, clean-up and dry water leaks.
• Slowly turn water back on and inspect for leaks. If there are leaks, be prepared to turn the water off immediately.
• Also inspect pipes for damage in areas like attics and crawl spaces, where it is safe to do so.
• Never use torches or heat guns to facilitate thawing as these can create fire hazards.
• As temperatures increase above freezing, watch and listen for signs of water leaks.
• If there is pipe damage, call a licensed plumber for repairs.

Why is a Frozen Pipe a Concern?
Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?
How do you Prevent Frozen Pipes?

Check out the entire article from Travelers.  You will be glad that you did.

Winter can be harsh and demanding. Take steps now to prepare your home and ensure your family’s safety and your peace of mind.

We have been helping homeowners with insurance coverage for over 60 years. We will help you get the best coverage for your needs. Reach out to us if you would like more information at 201-796-1881.

It’s that time of year again when Frosty the Snowman isn’t the only reminder of the cold weather outside!
 
Winter storms can bring cold temperatures, power failures, loss of communication services, and icy roads. To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, you should know how to prepare your home in advance.

The best defense is a good offense. Follow these 7 tips to safe safeguard your home and your family all season long, compliments of The Andover Companies.

1. Protect your pipes. This is priority number one when it comes to winterizing your home, and the time to do it is well before outdoor temperatures dip below freezing temperatures. To-dos: Drain outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Disconnect outdoor hoses. Insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home. Leave indoor faucets dripping in extremely cold weather.

2. Turn up the heat. Are the leaves dropping off the trees? Is it sweater weather? Now’s the time to make sure your furnace is in good running condition. To-dos: Change your furnace filter every four months (every two if you have pets). Install a programmable thermostat. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans so they direct warm air downward.

3. Stop ice dams before they start. Ice dams occur when snowmelt freezes on the edge of your roof. If it happens repeatedly, you run the risk of roof leaks and water damage. To-dos: Clean out your gutters and downspouts. Seal around vent pipes, exhaust fans, and attic hatches. Clear soffit vents. Install snow and ice slides on your roof. Add insulation to your attic floor.

4. Check your chimney. Before you curl up by the fire this winter, check your chimney—creosote and critters have a way of building up inside it. To-dos: Have a chimney sweep and give your fireplace or wood stove a good cleaning. Keep the flue closed when you’re not using the fireplace. Install a chimney inflatable to block cold air and retain warm air.

5. Mind the gaps. Cold air can seep in from the tiniest gaps. Caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors keep cold and condensation at bay and boost your home’s energy efficiency. To-dos: Check windows and doors and caulk or weather-strip as needed. Upgrade to double- or triple-pane windows and insulated doors or add storm windows and doors.

6. Prepare for emergencies. What’s inevitable in winter besides ice and snow? Power outages. That’s why it’s smart to have emergency supplies on hand. A family communications plan is a good idea, too. To-dos: Stock up on sand, ice melt, candles, lighters, water, canned goods, and shovels. Check the charge on your fire extinguisher. Invest in a back-up generator.

7. Check CO detectors. Each year, over 400 Americans die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and thousands more are hospitalized, according to the CDC. The risk of CO poisoning spikes in the winter. To-dos: Check your carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed. Never run a generator, grill, or similar device in or near your home. Keep them 20 feet from doors and windows. If your CO alarm sounds, go outside or open windows and doors.

Remember, winter can be harsh and unpredictable. Take steps now to prepare your home against storms and cold—and ensure your family’s safety and your peace of mind.

We have been helping homeowners with insurance coverage for over 60 years. We will help you get the best coverage for your needs. Reach out to us if you would like more information at 201-796-1881.

Daylight Savings Time is another reminder that fall weather is here. Wet leaves and dashing deer are just a few of the obstacles that we need to remain cautious about here in the northeast. And fall weather can change rapidly from warm to cold, causing roads to ice overnight.

Here are some fall driving tips and advice for protecting your car:

Slippery roads
Wet leaves can be just as slick as ice. Slow down when driving over large patches of leaves and increase your distance from the car ahead of you.

Camouflaged potholes (and people)
It’s more difficult to spot potholes, road debris and the curb when leaves are strewn across the road. Slow down to avoid hitting something that could damage your car. And never drive over a large pile of leaves—kids and dogs may be playing in them.

Fire hazards
Wet leaves aren’t the only culprit. Dry leaves can ignite from the heat of your car’s exhaust system or catalytic converter. To avoid this, don’t park on a pile of leaves.

Car Damage
Remove leaves from your car, both when you are parked and before you drive. Sap and acid from the leaves can damage your paint. Leaves can get stuck beneath your windshield wipers, making them less effective. And leaves that accumulate under your car’s hood can clog air vents and impact your ventilation system.

Longer Nights
Daylight saving time ends in fall, and you may begin driving in the dark more often. Maintain a speed that allows you to stop for an obstacle at the far reaches of your headlights.

More Fog
As the air begins to cool, the chance of fog increases. When driving in fog, reduce your speed to increase your reaction time. Driving with your low-beam headlights helps you see the roadway more clearly.

Roaming Deer
You’re more likely to cross paths with deer during the fall, which is their mating season. Stay especially alert at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. If you can’t avoid hitting a deer, don’t swerve—but do brake firmly and stay in your lane.

These tips are courtesy of AAA. You can read the full article here.  The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation also provides Fall Driving Tips.
 
Be safe on the roads and reach out if you would like to review your policies or have any additional questions we can help with. 201-796-1881.