Communities in and around New Windsor, NY thrive when individuals feel secure and protected. While many may be familiar with various forms of insurance, such as auto or home insurance, umbrella insurance plays a crucial but often overlooked role in enhancing community well-being.

Comprehensive Protection for Individuals and Families

Umbrella insurance is an added liability coverage for auto or homeowners insurance policies. It protects against lawsuits and claims resulting from accidents, injuries, or property damage for which an individual may be held responsible. This comprehensive coverage not only safeguards individuals and families but also contributes to the overall sense of security within a community.

Mitigating Financial Risks

In the event of a significant liability claim, such as a severe car accident or a lawsuit stemming from an incident on one’s property, the costs can escalate beyond the coverage limits of standard insurance policies. Without adequate coverage, individuals may face financial ruin, leading to ripple effects within the community. Umbrella insurance helps mitigate these risks by providing additional coverage, ensuring that individuals do not bear the entire financial burden.

Promoting Responsibility and Accountability

Knowing they have umbrella insurance coverage encourages individuals to act responsibly and take precautions to prevent incidents that could lead to liability claims. This heightened awareness promotes safer behavior, benefiting individuals and delivering a safer environment.

Strengthening Community Bonds

By investing in umbrella insurance, individuals contribute to their community’s collective well-being. When everyone has adequate protection against potential liabilities, it fosters a sense of solidarity and mutual support. Knowing that one’s neighbors are protected can strengthen community bonds in times of crisis or unforeseen circumstances.

How Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. Can Help You

At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., we can help answer questions concerning umbrella insurance. We serve the New Windsor, NY, area. Call us today.  

A simple assessment can help determine whether you have enough condo insurance coverage. Use the following tips to help you pinpoint if your insurance policy needs updating.

Location

Review the location of your condo. Do a lot of burglaries occur in the area? Have you witnessed some natural weather events that have damaged neighboring properties? If you answer yes to either of these questions, you may want to increase your condo policy’s insurance coverage.

Assets

Prepare a list of your assets. The list should include furnishings, clothing, artwork, jewelry, tools, recreational equipment, and any other valuable possessions. Review your insurance policy. The review will provide insight concerning the coverage amount you currently qualify for.

You may notice that one or more of your assets aren’t covered or not provided with sufficient coverage. If so, you will need to have your condo insurance policy updated.

Structural Design

Inspect the structural design of your condo. The design may influence the likelihood of your residence becoming damaged in the future.

For instance, if your home is not adequately insulated, it may risk encountering water damage. Seek repairs to the structure if needed. Once repairs have been made, have your condo insurance policy reviewed and modified.

Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc.

Your condo is likely one of the largest investments that you have made in your life. It is important to equip your condo with adequate insurance coverage for the entire duration you reside in your home.

Contact one of our agents who serve New Windsor, NY. An agent at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. will schedule an appointment to update your existing insurance policy.

Life insurance has many benefits that can help people of all ages. Plus, there are different kinds of life insurance to meet specific needs. Our Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. team knows that understanding life insurance can be difficult for anyone. As a result, we take pride in educating New Windsor, NY residents on how life insurance works, what’s available to them, and the different types of life insurance. 

What is life insurance?

Life insurance is a form of insurance that pays a named beneficiary or beneficiaries when you die. Some policies have living benefits as well. Typically, people purchase whole life insurance that is good for the entirety of a person’s life or term life insurance. Term life insurance is good for a specific period. When you invest in life insurance, you pay a monthly sum for the life of the terms of your policy. When you pass away, your beneficiaries receive a lump sum of money that can be used however they see fit. Life insurance can have many moving parts, including different benefits unique to your situation. However, it would be best to make your payments monthly, without lapse, for your policy to remain active. A lapse in your policy or an extended payment period would cancel your insurance, and your beneficiaries wouldn’t receive any money in the event of your death. 

Is it too early to invest in life insurance?

As a young person, life insurance is likely not the first thing on your mind. However, investing in young people can have benefits. For example, investing at a young age could help you to lock in a good rate over the life of your policy. Also, investing early would put you in a good position once you have a family. However, even without a family, life insurance still has benefits that would be helpful when you pass away. If you have questions regarding the benefits of life insurance, call us.

For New Windsor, NY business owners, a commercial insurance policy is one of the more crucial decisions they must make. However, several myths need to be debunked before an informed choice can be made. Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. is here to help with that. Let’s take a moment to dismantle said myths, shall we?

Small Businesses Don’t Need Insurance

“My small business does not need any insurance. We’ll be fine,” you say. We have heard this before, and nothing could be further from the actual truth. The size of the business will play zero role in whether they need a commercial policy. While a smaller business may require less coverage than a larger one, the idea that they do not need coverage at all is a total misnomer.

My Homeowners’ Policy Is All I Need

A homeowners’ insurance policy is also great, but it will not be able to provide the necessary protections. In these instances, a commercial insurance policy and a homeowners’ policy should be considered as totally separate entities. Homeowners’ insurance does not provide a business with any level of protection.

Cyber Attacks Aren’t That Common

In this day and age, this mentality will lead to all sorts of short and long-term difficulties. While cyberattacks may not occur daily, that does not mean they never happen. No forward-thinking business owner can afford to find themselves behind the proverbial eight-ball if a cyberattack occurs.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to schedule a hassle-free consultation as soon as possible. Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. is here to help New Windsor, NY business owners learn everything they need to know before making a final decision.

The privilege of owning an exotic or rare classic car is a cherished dream for countless automotive fanatics in and around New Windsor, NY. These exceptional vehicles, often one-of-a-kind, demand specialized care and protection and require a different class of insurance. 

Challenges in Ensuring Exotic and Rare Classics

Insuring these masterpieces can be a complex endeavor. Several challenges are unique to these vehicles:

1. Appraisal Complexity: Determining the value of an exotic or rare classic car can be undertaken due to limited market data and the individuality of each vehicle. 
2. Parts and Restoration: Locating replacement parts and conducting restoration work for these vehicles can be expensive. 
3. Limited Mileage: Owners of exotic and rare classics frequently restrict their driving to preserve the vehicle’s pristine condition. 

Specialized Classic Car Insurance

Specialized classic car insurance is precisely designed to tackle the distinctive needs of exotic and rare classic cars:

• Agreed Value Coverage: Like standard classic car insurance, policies for exotic and rare models offer "agreed value" coverage. This means the vehicle’s value is determined upfront and is paid out in full in case of a covered loss, irrespective of depreciation.
• Appraisal Expertise: Insurance providers specializing in rare classics often have a network of seasoned appraisers who can accurately evaluate the vehicle’s value, considering its uniqueness and historical importance.
• Parts and Restoration Coverage: Specialized insurance can cover the unique parts and restoration work that exotic and rare classics may necessitate. 
• Limited Mileage Flexibility: Recognizing the restricted use of these cars, many policies offer flexibility in mileage restrictions while still providing comprehensive coverage.

Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. Can Help You

At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., we can help answer questions concerning classic car insurance. We serve the New Windsor, NY area. Contact us today. 

You might think you don’t need insurance because you don’t own a property. Well, that would be wrong! The truth is renters insurance is not only available but may prove to be very necessary in the future. You might want to know a few things before you get renter’s insurance. 

What Is Renters Insurance? 

It’s also known as tenant insurance. Renters insurance covers personal items, which your landlord’s insurance won’t cover. If you must evacuate due to damages, renters insurance will reimburse you for lodging fees and food. It will also cover your legal costs if someone is injured in your home. 

Is It Required?

While renters insurance is not required by law, some landlords may insist on a renter’s policy. Know your policy well. Read it through to see if you have something that will pay to replace stolen or damaged property. Remember that loss due to flooding may not be covered by renters insurance. 

How Do I Go About Getting Renters Insurance?

First, assess your needs. Photograph or digitally record your possessions. If you own something with a serial number, write it down. Keep these records somewhere safe. After estimating the cost of replacing these items, you can choose an insurance company if the worst happens. Research their ratings and see if you can get a good deal. After that, you can start the application and fine-tune your policy. 

Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. 

If you are interested in a renters insurance policy, then contact Windgate Insurance Agency. Our agents serving New Windsor, NY are guaranteed to put you first and see that you have complete satisfaction with knowledgeable and friendly service. 

Like other sectors, motorcycle insurance is experiencing the impact of emerging technologies and evolving trends. The emerging trends in motorcycle insurance, including usage-based insurance, telematics, and coverage for electric motorcycles, are helping motorcycle owners in and around New Windsor, NY obtain affordable premiums. These trends are shaping the future of motorcycle insurance by offering more personalized coverage options and accommodating the changing landscape of motorcycle ownership.

Paying for What You Use

Usage-based insurance (UBI), including motorcycle insurance, is gaining popularity across the insurance industry. UBI utilizes technology to monitor and track an individual’s riding habits, allowing insurers to offer customized premiums based on current usage. This trend benefits responsible riders who may ride less frequently or take safety precautions, as they can receive lower premiums compared to traditional fixed-rate policies.

Connecting Motorcycles and Insurance

Telematics is another emerging trend that combines technology and motorcycle insurance. Insurers can collect data on riding behavior, speed, distance traveled, and braking patterns by installing telemetric devices on motorcycles. 

This data helps insurers assess risk more accurately and offer personalized premiums based on individual riding habits. Telematics promotes safer riding by providing riders with feedback to improve skills and reduce risks.

Adapting to Electric Mobility

With the rising popularity of electric motorcycles, insurance providers are adapting their coverage options to accommodate this emerging trend. Electric motorcycles have unique features and maintenance requirements compared to traditional combustion engine bikes. 

Insurance policies for electric motorcycles sometimes include coverage for specialized components, charging equipment, and battery-related issues. These tailored policies ensure electric motorcycle owners have coverage specific to their needs. 

How Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. Can Help You

At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., we can answer all your questions concerning motorcycle insurance coverage. We assist the New Windsor, NY region. Contact us today. 

Motorhomes have become an increasingly popular way to explore and stay in national parks in New Windsor, NY and across the country. From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the sandy beaches of Florida, there are beautiful landscapes for everyone to enjoy. But taking your motorhome to a national park can be intimidating if you’re unprepared. Here are some tips from us at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. for making sure your trip is enjoyable and successful:

1. Plan ahead: Before heading out, research the park you’re going to and check with the local visitor center about regulations, fees, and safety issues. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with any campsite rules to know what amenities will be available during your stay.
2. Pack provisions: Ensure you bring all necessary items like food, water, supplies for cooking, toiletries, and camping gear like sleeping bags and chairs. If possible, stock up on non-perishable items so you don’t have to worry about restocking during your stay. 
3. Check your vehicle: Ensure your motorhome is in good shape before venturing on the open road. Ensure that everything is working correctly – from brakes and lights to tires and fluids – so that you don’t run into any problems while driving through or staying at a national park campground. 
4. Be mindful of wildlife: National parks are home to many creatures, big and small! When traveling through or camping in a national park, never leave food out or unattended, as it may attract animals trying to get into your RV or campsite looking for food. 

For more tips, call us at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. today. We are proud to serve the New Windsor, NY area.

As the temperature soars and the days grow longer, boat lovers begin to anticipate their favorite time of year. To ensure your time on boating is safe and fun, the licensed insurance professionals at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., serving the greater New Windsor, NY area, want you to remember these boating safety tips –

1. Make Sensible Decisions. 

Don’t operate a boat while drowsy or under the influence.

2. Follow the Weather Forecast. 

Before leaving the dock, check local weather conditions. Watch for sudden weather changes.

3. Give Someone Your Itinerary.

Include dates and where you are going. It is important for someone to know where to find you if you don’t return.

4. Carry a Life Jacket for Everyone.

Each boat passenger should have access to a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life-jacket. The boat should have a throwable flotation device for emergencies.

5. Do Not Overload the Boat.

Carry only the number of passengers and cargo allowed. You do not want to sink the boat.

6. Test the Horn.

Make sure you can communicate with other boats and send emergency signals.

7. Navigation Lights Should Be Kept On.

This is essential as it ensures other boats will clearly see you on the water.

8. Be Prepared for an Emergency On-Board.

Carry critical safety equipment – a first-aid kit, flares,  an emergency blanket, and fire extinguishers, an emergency blanket, on-board at all times.

9. Shut Off the Engine When Approaching Swimmers.

To minimize the risk of injury, turn off the engine and keep swimmers on the operator’s side of the boat.

10. Dress appropriately.

Wear slip-proof shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and waterproof clothing.

Are you looking for additional protection while boating? Talk to one of the licensed professionals at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., a full-service insurance company serving the greater New Windsor, NY vicinity. We can be reached conveniently online or by telephone at 845-562-8800.

Umbrella insurance is one of the least understood types of insurance. It has nothing to do with an umbrella but everything to do with providing protection and coverage against all the bad things life can throw at you. We will be happy to discuss the benefits of adding an umbrella insurance policy to your portfolio at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY. 

There is a feeling that umbrella insurance is only for the wealthy. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Do you have any assets? You are in danger of losing them if you are sued. If someone sues you and wins, you must also pay the judgment and legal fees. If you don’t have umbrella insurance, this will be from your own pocket. In the event you don’t have enough cash, you may be forced to sell some of your assets or have your wages attached. This could affect your financial health for many years to come. 

Umbrella insurance could take care of paying that judgment and your legal fees. You don’t need to be rich to benefit from this type of coverage; you need assets and a liability coverage policy. Umbrella insurance is not a stand-alone policy; you add it to a policy or policies you already have. This includes a home policy, auto insurance, condo insurance, renter’s insurance, and boat or motorcycle coverage. 

When your primary policy pays out and runs out of coverage, the umbrella policy will kick in and pay up to its maximum. Most umbrella policies start at one million dollars. 

Call us at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, or drop into the office to discuss why umbrella insurance may be the right choice for you.