Brianna’s Law and What It Means For You and Your Boat

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Brianna’s Law went into effect on August 6, 2019. A terrible tragedy inspired it in 2005 when 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck was killed in a boating accident. This law mandates that all power boaters (including sailing vessels and PWC) of any age in New York must complete a boater safety course. Governor Cuomo’s reasoning is, "It protects the operator of the boat and everyone that operator could come into contact with, and it will make our waters safer." Such a course would educate boaters on how to operate a boat safely. 

What This Means For You

For starters, you have to take a state-approved class. The online course is free and lasts about four to eight hours, which you can pause as you like to fit your schedule. You can then print out a free certificate that is good for 90 days. If you want something permanent, you can order a card for $15 or apply for an Adventure License for $13.50. It is not technically a boating license, per se. However, once you’ve earned your boating safety certificate, you can have an endorsement for it placed on your driver’s license. 

And Your Boat

If all you have is a rowboat, raft, or anything powered by paddling, this may not apply to you. However, if your sailboat has motorized auxiliary power, it does. If you have a personal watercraft such as a Jet Ski, this applies to you, too. 

Contact Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY 

If you live in the Amityville, NY, area and want to know more about insuring your boat, don’t hesitate to contact Acme Insurance Brokerage. Our reliable and courteous agents are here to help. 

Why you need commercial insurance for your home business

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Understanding Insurance for Your Home Business

Having a home business has become increasingly popular because it allows flexibility and freedom from all the hazards that a small business faces. No worrying about rent or damage to your property when your business is located in your home. However, you must remember that home insurance was not designed to protect a home business, and you may find yourself underinsured if you rely on just home insurance. At Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY, we make it our business to know your business and the coverage you require.

Property Insurance

Home insurance has property and content coverage. With commercial insurance, those two things are combined and covered under property. Your home insurance does have content coverage for personal property, so while it might cover some of your business property as part of personal property, a great deal of the things that you need to do business will not be covered and would be a complete loss. The cost of getting adequate coverage for your business needs will repay itself through peace of mind.

Liability Coverage

One of the easiest ways for your business to be ruined is through getting sued. Your home insurance does provide liability coverage and, hopefully, a great deal of it. Still, when people are visiting you to do business, they are not covered under your home insurance plan. If a customer is hurt or a vendor or even an employee, you could be left holding the bag for the amount of the lawsuit and the legal expenses.

Owning any business comes with many risks, and the number of businesses that fail is huge. Don’t be one of them, protect yourself with commercial insurance.

Contact us at Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY to discuss all your insurance needs.

Creating and storing a home inventory-Why is it so important?

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Creating a home inventory can seem daunting due to the time and effort involved. However, should a severe damage event occur to your home, necessitating a list of lost items for the insurance company, you’ll be thankful you invested the time. At Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY, we are an independent insurance agency committed to ensuring our customers have the comprehensive home insurance they need.

Creating a Home Inventory

Armed with a pad, pen, and a camera or smartphone, begin the process in one room. In case of severe home damage, you may have to do this without the ability to visually inspect your rooms. Document every item in the room, including opening closets and drawers, and provide as much detailed information as possible for high-value items. Where available, attach invoices or receipts. Take pictures of the room from various angles.

Follow the same process for every room in your home; remember, it doesn’t need to be completed in one day. Take the time to do a thorough job, and ensure you include basements and attics.

Storing Your Home Inventory

It’s crucial to store your inventory in a safe location. It’s not advisable to keep it within your home. If you have a safety deposit box, use that. Alternatively, retain it in a waterproof and fire-resistant box. Create a digital copy and store it in a cloud service for added security.

Contact us at Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY, to find out more about how we can serve your home insurance needs.

Auto Insurance for the Protection Every Driver Needs

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There are many benefits to owning and driving a vehicle and many responsibilities that come with the privilege of driving. Arguably, one of, if not the highest concern is about driving safety and insurance. Not only when it comes to protecting and being safe regarding you and your own vehicle but also for the welfare of others. These are also only a few reasons why drivers from in and around the Amityville, NY area rely on the Acme Insurance Brokerage’s friendly and professional team of agents for all their auto insurance needs.

The Protection Every Driver Needs

As convenient, quick, and even comfortable as driving can be as a mode of transportation, it is also not without its share of risks. From other drivers, first and foremost, to road conditions, mechanical failures, and other concerns, driving demands a certain amount of caution. Unfortunately, however, even the most cautious drivers can prevent accidents from happening.

The good news is that if you are ever in an accident, having the right auto insurance coverage will make things easier, more affordable, and generally better. From help with repairs and damages to medical expenses and more, sometimes auto insurance is exactly what we need; it is the protection every driver needs.

Auto Insurance for Amityville Drivers

If you live in or around the Amityville, NY, area and have questions about auto insurance or need coverage for your vehicle, we can help. Our professional and experienced team can help you get the coverage, plan, and protection you need for you, your vehicle, and your driving demands. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment for the auto insurance protection you need and deserve at Acme Insurance Brokerage today.

Standard Auto Policy Vs. Classic Car Insurance

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When you own a classic car, you might wonder whether you need a standard auto policy or a dedicated classic car policy. We provide both policy types at Acme Insurance Brokerage, located in Amityville, NY.

Not All Cars Qualify for Classic Car Coverage

While any street-legal vehicle can get a standard auto policy, achieving classic car coverage involves certain requirements, which can vary according to the policy.

Typically, your vehicle should be at least 15 years old or qualify as an exotic car. The frequency of usage can also influence your eligibility – a car driven daily usually doesn’t qualify for a classic car policy.

Vehicle Valuation

Under a standard auto policy, the vehicle value is determined after an accident or claim based on the vehicle’s present value.

On the other hand, with a classic car policy, you and the insurance company agree upon the vehicle’s value at the policy’s outset. Classic cars should maintain their value instead of standard vehicles that depreciate with time.

Classic car policies usually include higher coverage limits due to the intrinsic higher value of classic cars compared to standard vehicles.

Policy Cost

Classic car insurance policies typically cost less than standard auto policies. This is mainly because classic cars are not frequently driven, thereby reducing the risk of an accident.

Classic car owners may also need to store their vehicles in a secure area, which mitigates risks from weather conditions and vandalism.

Classic Car Insurance at Acme Insurance Brokerage

If you are in Amityville, NY, and in the market for classic car insurance, contact us at Acme Insurance Brokerage. Our experienced agents are eager to discuss your requirements and assist you in finding the ideal policy.

Differences Between Renter’s Insurance, Condo Insurance, and Home Insurance

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At Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY, we help local residents determine the right type of insurance for their dwelling. Some folks may rent apartments or homes; others might rent a condo or be homeowners. Each living situation requires different insurance coverage, so it pays to know the differences between them.

What Is Renter’s Insurance?

Renter’s insurance is for folks who are renting an apartment or home. It covers qualifying damages, replacing stolen valuables, and liability if someone is injured on the property in a qualifying event. It does not cover aspects of the property that are the landlord’s responsibility.

What Is Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance covers condominiums. If a place is not considered a condo, it wouldn’t be eligible for this coverage. From liability to repairing damage from qualifying disasters, condo insurance coverage is similar to home and renter’s insurance.

What Is Home Insurance?

For homeowners, home insurance is a must. It covers a primary residence. This means that you can’t use it to cover a vacation home.

Key Differences Between Them

The main difference between the three insurances above is what they cover. The renter’s insurance covers a rental unit at the end of the tenant. Condo insurance covers a condo that is rented or owned by the policyholder. To qualify for home insurance, you must own a home and live in it as a primary dwelling. 

While the specifics of what they cover may be similar, that’s where their similarities end. If you rent an apartment or home, you should know that renter’s insurance is your best option. Carrying your own policy is wise, even if your roommate has this insurance.

For more information, call us at Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY!

Commercial Insurance and the Legal Compliance

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Commercial insurance is a must in any industry to protect against financial risks, especially in litigation scenarios in the Long Island and Amityville, NY, area. Understanding commercial insurance’s legal requirements and implications is crucial for companies to operate legally and responsibly through the three primary business insurances: workers’ compensation, general liability, and commercial auto. 

Legal Obligations

Businesses are often legally required to carry certain types of commercial insurance to comply with state regulations, industry standards, and contractual obligations. This insurance covers damages or accidents resulting from the performance of any service or business. 

Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ Compensation Insurance deals with employees who become injured or sick due to work-related issues. It helps with medical bills and pays a portion of wages. Workers must comply by following all the doctor’s orders and do what they can to return to work if possible. 

General Liability Insurance

General Liability Insurance safeguards workers from financial losses. This form of coverage is particularly essential for businesses that perform services for the public. When claims are filed, companies must follow the policy’s rules. 

Commercial Auto Insurance

This type of commercial insurance is necessary for businesses utilizing vehicles within their industry. It is mandatory and serves the same purposes as regular auto insurance, except higher coverage to compensate for business operations. Fleets must be maintained and kept in road safety compliance. 

Importance of Compliance

Complying with legal requirements for commercial insurance is necessary to avoid penalties and fines and is essential for protecting businesses from financial risks and liabilities. Failure to carry the required insurance coverage can result in severe legal consequences and fines.

Let Acme Insurance Brokerage Give You Information

Acme Insurance Brokerage answers all your commercial insurance questions and serves the Amityville, NY, region. Call us today.

How Home Insurance Financially Protects You

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Your home is a large investment. It’s likely to be the largest one that you have. That’s why you need to have the financial protection of a home insurance policy. Your lender requires you to have this coverage to protect their investment in the home. Local covenants and HOAs also require it. Even if it isn’t required for you, it’s vital that you have this insurance. To get started with a policy, call us at Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY.

Home Protection

If something serious were to happen to your home that damaged it, your home insurance policy can pay for the repairs you’ll need as long as the event was a covered type. These policies cover many calamities and disasters, and paying for the damages yourself could be costly. Always have this kind of insurance in case of damaging events. 

Belongings Protection

It isn’t just the house that needs protection—it’s also everything inside it. You’ve invested quite a bit into your belongings and must protect that investment. An event that causes serious damage to your possessions can be very expensive to fix. Without home insurance, you’d need to pay for all replacement items from your pocket. 

Liability Protection

If someone comes to your home and gets any injury there, you’re generally liable for the costs of that injury. This can include high medical bills even if the injuries are mild. With home insurance, those costs get paid by the policy to save you from financial problems after an accident. 

Get Home Insurance

If you need a home insurance policy, we’re here to help. Call Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville, NY, to get started. 

Auto Insurance Essentials for Amityville NY Drivers

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Amityville, NY, drivers seeking to decrease stress and increase their peace of mind when driving on local roadways can protect their rides from auto accidents and non-collision-related incidents by proactively protecting their rides with comprehensive auto insurance. 

Have questions about choosing the best auto insurance policy? Learn about auto insurance essentials from Acme Insurance Brokerage in the guide below. 

Auto Insurance Essentials for Drivers in Amityville, NY

1. Understand Auto Insurance Types

Knowing the differences between available auto insurance policies helps local drivers choose the best policy for their budget, lifestyle, and driving patterns. State regulations require New York drivers to carry minimum auto insurance coverage with optional add-ons for comprehensive coverage. 

2. Comprehensive Auto Insurance

True to its name, comprehensive auto insurance is a type of full-coverage insurance that protects drivers from collision-related and non-collision-related damages. It can help cover the costs of repair or replacement for auto theft, vandalism, animal collisions, and flooding from natural disasters. 

3. Factors to Consider When Driving in New York

Choosing the right auto insurance policy goes beyond selecting the policy with the lowest premium. Local area drivers must also consider nearby driving hazards when choosing auto insurance coverage to safeguard their financial interests. The following are a few examples of location-specific traffic concerns Amityville’s drivers face. 

  • Traffic Congestion
  • Inclement Weather and Snowstorms
  • Commuting to and From New York City
  • Coastal Flooding Possibilities
  • Tourist Traffic
  • Ongoing Road Construction

Protect Your Ride with Essential Auto Insurance Coverage

Contact a licensed insurance agent at Acme Insurance Brokerage in Amityville to take proactive steps to protect your vehicle from theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and auto collisions. Knowledgeable agents are standing by to answer your auto insurance-related questions and offer you a quote! 

How Does Classic Car Insurance Differ From Regular Auto Insurance?

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Understanding Classic Car Insurance Needs: A Guide for Amityville, NY Classic Car Owners

Being a classic car owner in the Amityville, NY community is, undoubtedly, not just about having a means of transportation. It’s about cherishing and preserving a valuable asset that demands unique insurance needs. This blog post from Acme Insurance Brokerage focuses on the distinct difference between classic car and regular auto insurance.

Agreed Value Coverage

A significant factor separating classic car insurance from regular car insurance is how the vehicle’s value is determined. Classic car insurance often operates on an agreed-value coverage premise. This means you and the insurance company agree on the vehicle’s value at the beginning of the policy. Consequently, in the unfortunate event of a complete loss, you initially receive the value agreed upon.

Limited Usage

Another crucial facet of classic car insurance is its usage limitation. Many policies stipulate the vehicle should only be used for exhibitions, club events, or recreational purposes – not for everyday commuting. This controlled usage helps reduce the potential risk of accidents and subsequently keeps the insurance premiums more attainable.

Specialized Coverage Options

Classic car insurance policies often offer specialized coverage options to cater to classic car owner’s unique needs. These could include coverage for restoration costs by certified mechanics and spare parts replacements.

Qualification Requirements

Qualifying for classic car insurance generally comes with specific prerequisites regarding the vehicle’s age, condition, and usage. In essence, to qualify as a classic car, your vehicle should meet requisite criteria like being of a certain age, being adequately maintained, and retaining its base features.

In conclusion, classic car insurance and regular auto insurance differ in several ways, including agreed-value coverage, limited usage, specialized coverage options, preservation of originality, and qualification requirements. If you are a classic car owner in Amityville, NY, and need help securing the appropriate insurance coverage for your vehicle, get in touch with Acme Insurance Brokerage today.