How to Prepare Your Boat or Watercraft for Hurricane Season in Raleigh, NC

Posted on September 30, 2024September 25, 2024 by admin

When Does Hurricane Season Begin in Raleigh, NC?

Hurricane Season in Raleigh, North Carolina, typically runs from June 1st through November 30th each year. Learn how to prepare your boat or watercraft for hurricane season from the insurance experts at Craig Insurance Group.

Raleigh-Specific Hurricane Risks

While Raleigh isn’t situated directly on the coast, its proximity to the ocean makes it prone to feeling some of the most devastating effects and the aftermath of Atlantic hurricanes.

Raleigh residents won’t typically have to battle high storm surges; however, they may experience flooding from heavy rainfall overfilling local rivers and creeks and structural failures caused by hurricanes.

During extreme weather events, high-velocity winds and wind gusts from blowing hurricanes can easily damage boats, watercraft, and other water-faring vessels.

Your boat’s susceptibility to sinking or flooding during a strong hurricane depends on some of the following factors:

Boat Type and Condition
Hull Material
Mooring and Anchoring Practices
Hurricane Preparedness

Boat and watercraft owners should note that there are always some potential risks of sinking or flooding, especially during strong hurricanes with violent winds.

Prepare Your Boat or Watercraft for Hurricanes

Equip Your Vessel with Emergency Supplies
Create An Evacuation Plan
Know your Evacuation Routes
Look up Local Road Conditions
Research the Weather Conditions
Prepare for Power Outages

Get more local advice from the boat and watercraft insurance experts at Craig Insurance Group and get a comprehensive quote for boat and watercraft insurance when you contact us today!

The Rising Need for Personal Umbrella Insurance

Posted on August 30, 2024August 22, 2024 by admin

At Craig Insurance Group in Raleigh, NC, we’ve observed a growing trend in claims that could be covered under umbrella insurance. These policies offer added liability coverage beyond your primary policies, including auto and homeowners insurance. This article will highlight scenarios where umbrella insurance can be incredibly beneficial.

Situations Where Umbrella Insurance is Advantageous

Numerous unexpected situations occur in our everyday lives. Preparation for such incidents can be significantly boosted with a personal umbrella insurance policy.

Homeowners Protection

In addition to your primary policy, umbrella coverage can cover expenses exceeding your liability insurance. This additional coverage can be beneficial if someone sustains injuries on your property or causes damage to another’s property.

Automobile Accidents

This scenario offers a compelling argument for considering umbrella policies. Standard auto insurance policies might not cover the complete cost of damage resulting from severe accidents causing extensive injuries or property loss. An umbrella policy can fill in this gap.

Social Host Liability

If an event you host sees a guest sustain injuries or property damage occurs, your umbrella policy might offer essential protection.

Defamation or Invasion of Privacy

If a personal dispute escalates into legal matters in this modern digital era, umbrella insurance can offer a comprehensive layer of coverage if you find yourself amid defamation or invasion of privacy claims.

Prepare for Unexpected Incidents

If you want to be prepared to tackle the potential hazards of daily life, contact Craig Insurance Group in Raleigh, NC, to learn more about umbrella insurance coverage. We’ll guide you toward an appropriate policy and provide a coverage quote.

Why You Need Flood Insurance Outside a Flood Zone

Posted on July 30, 2024July 24, 2024 by admin

Securing a home and flood insurance is crucial when you buy a house. Without flood insurance, you leave yourself susceptible to a widespread disaster that can annihilate a dwelling. Flood insurance often gets overlooked, but this oversight can lead to catastrophic financial loss in the event of a flood. Floods can be incredibly damaging, and it’s crucial that you’re protected against this risk. Contact us at Craig Insurance Group in Raleigh, NC to initiate a policy.

Flood Zones

Many areas, specifically those adjacent to water bodies, are identified as flood zones. These areas are predicted to endure floods within a certain time frame, like every 20 or 50 years. Typically, homeowners in these areas are required to purchase flood insurance to safeguard their property. However, floods can occur anywhere, not just flood-prone areas. Being financially unprepared for such an event is easier than you might think.

Flood Claims

While most flood claims originate from flood zones, not all do. Roughly 20% of claims come from areas non-designated as flood zones, which implies that one out of five flood claims ensue from regions where the necessity for flood insurance might be underestimated. Being financially prepared is always the best course of action when faced with potential flooding that can severely damage or annihilate a home.

Get Flood Insurance No Matter Where You Live

Flood insurance is necessary regardless of your dwelling location. Contact us at Craig Insurance Group in Raleigh, NC to discuss coverage.

Financial Stability: Making the Most of Life Insurance Payouts

Posted on June 28, 2024June 26, 2024 by admin

Receiving a life insurance payout can provide financial stability during a challenging time. Managing this payout is crucial to ensuring long-term financial security and meeting immediate needs around Raleigh, NC.

Assess Immediate Financial Needs

Upon receiving a life insurance payout, the first step is to assess immediate financial needs. This includes covering funeral expenses, paying off outstanding debts, and addressing immediate living expenses. Prioritizing these needs ensures that you and your family remain financially secure during the initial period following a loss.

Establish an Emergency Fund

Creating or bolstering an emergency fund is vital in maintaining financial stability. An emergency fund offers a safety net for unexpected expenses. Aim to set aside three to six months’ living expenses in a readily accessible account.

Pay Off Debt

Using some of the payouts to pay off high-interest debt is a smart move. This can lower monthly expenses and provide more financial flexibility.

Invest for the Future

Investing part of the payout can help secure your financial future. Standard investment vehicles include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. Diversifying your investments can help grow your assets and provide a steady income stream.

Plan for Long-Term Financial Goals

Allocate funds towards long-term financial goals, such as retirement savings, college funds for children, or other significant life events. Setting aside money for these goals ensures you are prepared for the future.

Seek Professional Advice

A professional financial advisor can provide tailored guidance on budgeting, investing, and planning to maximize the payout’s benefits and maintain economic stability.

Craig Insurance Group Helps Guide You

Craig Insurance Group will help guide you and show you how life insurance can save you in the long haul. Our team covers the Raleigh, NC region. Get in touch with us today.

Insuring Your Items in a Storage Unit

Posted on May 29, 2024May 29, 2024 by admin

At Craig Insurance Group, we serve our Raleigh, NC neighbors with renters’ insurance that helps them protect their financial investment in their personal belongings. When you rent a home, your landlord’s insurance covers the structure, but your renter’s policy covers your personal property inside the house. But renters need to cover items stored elsewhere, too.

Renters Insurance Covers Storage Units

Renters insurance covers more than the items in your apartment or home. You can purchase renters’ insurance for a storage unit’s contents or a rented garage space. It will cover all the items you store inside the unit.

This applies to a garage space you rent, too. Renters’ insurance covers the vehicle, parts, and tools you store there.

Renters’ Insurance Components

Your renters’ policy contains two components – personal property coverage and liability coverage. If something happens at the storage unit or garage that damages your property, the insurance policy covers the replacement of it up to the policy maximum.

The liability component kicks in if, for instance, an accident occurs while you work on your vehicle at the garage or while you and a buddy move things into your storage unit. The liability component covers your medical expenses and that of your friend.

Update Your Renters’ Policy

Contact Craig Insurance Group today to update your renters’ policy to cover your belongings stored in a storage unit and your other rented spaces, such as your garage parking. Your rented space doesn’t even have to be in Raleigh, NC. Our policies cover your items stored throughout North Carolina. Just add the addresses of storage units to your policy. Call us today to update your renters’ policy.

Do You Need Personal or Commercial Auto Insurance?

Posted on April 29, 2024April 28, 2024 by admin

Do you sometimes use a personal vehicle for commercial purposes? If so, you may need to buy a commercial auto insurance policy to avoid being denied compensation if you’re involved in an accident.

When Does a Personal Vehicle Need Commercial Auto Insurance?

Raleigh, NC residents will need commercial auto insurance if a personal vehicle is used for the following purposes:

Business deliveries– If you work for DoorDash, Uber, Lyft, or similar companies, you’ll need commercial auto insurance.
Travel to and from markets- Do you sell goods at a local market? If so, you may need commercial insurance. This depends on the type of items you transport. Talk to a knowledgeable insurance agency such as Craig Insurance Group for expert advice.
Travel to meet with clients- Do you regularly travel to meet clients or business partners or to close sales? You’ll need commercial insurance if you use your vehicle for this purpose.
Employee Travel- Your vehicle will need commercial insurance if you want coverage for employees who are using the vehicle for business-related work.

What is and isn’t Covered by Commercial Auto Insurance?

A basic commercial auto insurance policy covers bodily injury, property damage, collisions, and medical payments. It also includes liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage. However, it doesn’t cover the theft of the vehicle. It also won’t cover theft, damage, or loss of valuable business assets stored in or transported by the vehicle.

Get Insurance Assistance from Craig Insurance Group Today

We take pride in helping Raleigh, NC, entrepreneurs find the right insurance policies for their businesses. Contact us to learn more about commercial auto insurance options or to get a quote on your chosen policy.

On the Water or On Your Trailer Boat Insurance Has You Covered

Posted on March 29, 2024March 24, 2024 by admin

Imagine Bob’s ordeal; "As I reversed the boat off the ramp, Dave urgently honked…". These dramatic episodes occur frequently, especially among boat owners around picturesque locations like Raleigh, NC. For them, the professional and veteran team at the Craig Insurance Group brings peace of mind thanks to their extensive expertise in insuring all boat-related incidents.

Shielding Your Boat In Every Situation

Although the actors and circumstances may differ, many boating accidents reveal striking resemblances. They typically commence with a simple exercise on a mundane day and often occur even before the boat reaches the water. Moreover, these mishaps tend to occur in the most extraordinary situations, often resulting in damage to structures like sheds, barns, or garages where boats are stored.

Such commonly encountered scenarios illuminate the importance of boat insurance. With a comprehensive coverage plan, you can secure your maritime vessel in transit, on water, or while in storage.

Equip Yourself with Proficient Boat Insurance

If you have inquiries about boat insurance, the well-versed and professional team at the Craig Insurance Group is here to assist you. Contact us today to avail the protection Raleigh, NC boat owners warrant. Oh, and by the way, Bob and Dave emerged unscathed, but their boat didn’t fare as well.

How RV Insurance Protects You on and off the Road

Posted on February 28, 2024February 19, 2024 by admin

Secure Your Travelling Home with Craig Insurance Group

Are you a proud RV owner in Raleigh, NC looking for comprehensive RV insurance? At Craig Insurance Group, we appreciate the treasured investment that your RV is and the numerous ways in which you may use it. Whether it’s your full-time home on wheels or a stored vacation unit, we ensure it receives the right cover.

Why Choose Our Skilled Agents for RV Insurance?

At Craig Insurance Group, we understand the unique requirements and risk factors associated with owning an RV. Our dedicated agents prioritize securing your RV against damage, theft, and other potential losses.

Is Your Stored RV Insurance Protected?

Many RV owners make the mistake of suspending their insurance during non-travel periods. Your RV may be at risk even while in storage, making ongoing insurance essential. Our agents are committed to ensuring you remain protected all year round.

Getting the Right Coverage for Your RV

Understanding and selecting the right insurance can be daunting. Our agents bring deep knowledge, enabling them to provide the best quotes from leading insurers for your consideration. This enables you to select the coverage that fits your needs confidently.

Contact Craig Insurance Group for RV Insurance in Raleigh, NC

Let’s secure your RV together. If you’re in Raleigh, NC, and are looking for comprehensive RV insurance coverage, contact us at Craig Insurance Group today. We provide round-the-year protection for your mobile home, regardless of how frequently it hits the road.

Do I Need Additional Policies Beyond Umbrella Insurance?

Posted on January 22, 2024January 25, 2024 by admin

For some people, purchasing the least number of insurance policies for their personal or business needs may seem like the best course of action so they can simplify their lives in Raleigh, NC. It’s tempting to think an umbrella insurance policy will cover all perils, but that’s not necessarily true. The team at Craig Insurance Group can explain why you need more than umbrella insurance to protect yourself.

What is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is an add-on policy that will give you additional liability and legal protection beyond the limits of standard insurance policies. If you have one for your business, you’ll also need a separate one for your home and vice versa. The policies work best for high-worth individuals who need protection from excessive lawsuits. Umbrella insurance won’t cover injuries or damage to your property. It also won’t cover reckless or unruly acts.

Other Types of Insurance to Consider

If you are a business owner, you should have a basic business operations policy (BOP) in place. Within this policy, you can request various provisions that fit your company and your specific industry. Among the types of coverage you may consider are professional liability, general liability, professional liability, business interruption insurance, and more.

Homeowners should protect themselves through a basic homeowner’s policy, along with a schedule of coverage for valuable personal property worth more than a deductible. Add-ons to a homeowner’s policy to consider include tropical storm and flood insurance, provisions for sewer backups, and various individual policies, including auto, health, and life insurance.

The world of insurance policies can be confusing, but our agents are ready to help you navigate your needs in Raleigh, NC. Contact the Craig Insurance Group office to schedule your consultation on finding insurance protection for your business or personal life.

What kinds of events does flood insurance cover?

Posted on December 21, 2023December 30, 2023 by admin

In its most basic terms, a flood is simply when there is an excess of water on land that is normally dry. Flooding can cause serious damage and even destroy your Raleigh, NC home. Unfortunately, flooding is not covered under a regular homeowners policy. Craig Insurance Group can help you assess your risk, so you can decide if flood insurance is right for you and your family.

What Kinds Of Incidents Are Covered By Flood Insurance?

There are some kinds of water damage and mold that may be covered by your homeowner’s insurance, such as when a storm causes direct damage to your roof and allows water in. Here are the kinds of events that are covered by flood insurance:

When a river, lake, or other body of water overflows its banks.
When a hurricane causes a storm surge.
If there is heavy rain that causes water to build up faster than it can drain.
A mudflow or mudslide.
When a large amount of snow melts and manages to get into your home.

What Is Protected By Flood Insurance?

If you have flood insurance, you have protection for:

your home itself and any unattached buildings on your property,
plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and gas systems,
small and large appliances,
furniture,
curtains and carpeting,
clothing,
and other personal items such as books and cell phones.

Call Today To Discuss Your Options

If your home or business is in Raleigh, NC, you may experience flooding at some time in the future. Flood insurance is often the only way to get protection from those kinds of damages. If you have any questions about flood insurance or if you would like to discuss your policy options, please feel free to call Craig Insurance Group today.