Reasons to Carry Boat insurance Even When Your Boat Is In Storage

Posted on February 28, 2025February 24, 2025 by admin

It’s easy to think that insurance is no longer necessary once your boat is tucked away for the off-season. After all, if it’s not on the water, what could go wrong? At McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL, we often remind boat owners that risks don’t disappear just because a boat is in storage. Keeping your boat insured year-round can save you from unexpected financial losses.

Protection Against Theft

Even in secure storage facilities, boats can be a target for thieves. Theft can be a major financial setback, whether it’s the entire vessel or valuable components like electronics, motors, or trailers. Without insurance, replacing stolen items comes out of your pocket. A comprehensive boat insurance policy ensures you’re covered if theft occurs.

Coverage for Fire and Weather Damage

Storage doesn’t make your boat immune to fire, storms, or other natural disasters. A fire in a storage unit or marina could destroy multiple boats, and severe weather can cause damage even when your boat is not in use. These damages could mean costly repairs or even a total loss without insurance.

Liability Doesn’t Stop in the Off-Season

Even in storage, your boat can cause damage to other property. If it shifts, falls, or leaks hazardous fluids, you could be held responsible for repairs or environmental cleanup. Year-round liability coverage ensures you’re protected from these unexpected expenses.

Just because your boat isn’t on the water doesn’t mean it’s free from risk. McBride Benefit Solutions, proudly providing insurance products, including boat insurance, to residents in and around the greater Florence, AL region can help you find the right boat insurance to keep your investment protected all year long. Contact us today to learn more!

Umbrella Insurance Coverage for a Large Business

Posted on January 31, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

An umbrella insurance policy can significantly enhance your financial protection. If you own a large business generating substantial revenue, you might have considered adding umbrella insurance to your commercial insurance policy.

Understanding Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance boosts your business’ liability coverage. An umbrella insurance claim can only be filed after the limits of your original policy have been exhausted. To be eligible for an umbrella policy, you must have an active liability policy.

Assessing Commercial Assets

Analyze your commercial assets. Consider the inventory stored at your business premises. Review the machinery, equipment, vehicles, and other tangible assets essential for your business operations.

If an accident occurs at your business location, would your current liability plan offer enough coverage? As a large business operator, you might find that your existing policy doesn’t provide sufficient protection.

Evaluating Risk Factors

Consider the risk of injury or damage to your business location. If the risk of being sued is high, obtaining umbrella insurance coverage may be in your best interest.

Umbrella Insurance Inclusions

Research the inclusions that an umbrella insurance policy may provide. An umbrella insurance policy might cover the cost of retaining legal advice, filing legal paperwork, and some or all of the costs associated with a physical injury or property damage.

Contact an Agent Serving Florence, AL

Now that you’ve reviewed umbrella insurance, you might be ready to obtain this type of coverage for your large business. If so, contact one of our agents at McBride Benefit Solutions. An agent will schedule an appointment for you to learn more about umbrella insurance.

What is Medicare Preventive Care Coverage?

Posted on December 24, 2024December 23, 2024 by admin

Maintaining good health becomes increasingly important as we age. Medicare preventive care coverage aims to reduce the risk of medical conditions worsening through early detection. The team at McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL can provide information on the enrollment criteria for Medicare preventive care.

Understanding Medicare Preventive Services

Medicare offers a range of preventive care services designed to help individuals stay healthy by detecting medical issues early. The plan requires all insured individuals to undergo a medical examination within the first year of enrollment. This examination, conducted by a physician, includes measuring vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate. The physician may request additional tests, like blood work or a urine sample, to confirm their initial diagnosis. Regular follow-up examinations are necessary to monitor or prevent medical conditions. Additionally, enrollees can participate in counseling or other preventive services.

The Significance of Medicare Wellness Screenings

Medicare wellness screenings are crucial for early detection of potentially serious health issues. These screenings can identify symptoms of diseases, such as cancer and heart ailments, in their early stages, making treatment options more effective.

How Medicare Counseling Sessions Operate

Medicare offers various counseling services, either individually or in group sessions. Trained professionals can provide assistance with quitting smoking, losing weight, or managing stress. Topics often discussed include finding a hobby to curb smoking cravings, adopting a healthier diet, and making lifestyle changes to reduce stress. These counseling sessions typically take place in a primary healthcare facility.

Now is the time to consider Medicare preventive care coverage. The team at McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL can help enhance your healthcare coverage with quality alternative options. Call and schedule an appointment today.

Renters Insurance Covers Replacement of Expensive Hobby Equipment in Case of Loss

Posted on November 26, 2024November 25, 2024 by admin

Hobbies are an important part of life. They provide exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Often, a hobby requires special types of equipment that can be expensive. If you rent your living quarters, these items are not covered under your landlord’s insurance policy, and you may be faced with expensive replacement costs if a fire, theft, or vandalism of your home occurs. At McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL, we help our clients acquire renters insurance to cover their expensive hobby equipment.

What Hobby Equipment Will Renters Insurance Cover?

Hobbies vary in the types of equipment needed and how much the equipment costs. If you are a cyclist, your bike costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars. A photography buff can have equipment that easily reaches into thousands of dollars. If music is your hobby, replacing your instrument can cost thousands of dollars. The loss of these items can be a significant financial burden to replace.

What Types of Hazards Are Included in Renters Insurance Coverage?

The standard renters insurance policy will cover fire, theft, vandalism, and water damage that originates from inside the property. It does not cover flood damage that comes from an outside source. Your policy will even cover your hobby items if they are stolen from your car while it is parked on your rental property premises.

Contact McBride Benefit Solutions For Your Renters Insurance Policy

Our agents in Florence, AL, can answer your questions about renters insurance and how much coverage your hobby items may need. We offer a range of policies for home, auto, health, life, and business. Contact McBride Benefit Solutions today for a no-obligation quote on renters insurance to protect you from the costs of replacing your hobby equipment.

Is Your RV Insured for a Hurricane?

Posted on October 28, 2024October 24, 2024 by admin

Weather events in 2024 have taught us that even if you live in Florence, AL, or anywhere in northern Alabama, a hurricane can damage your RV. Many McBride Benefit Solutions customers ask, "Is my RV insured in case of a hurricane?"

If you carry comprehensive insurance on your RV, the answer is "Yes, except…." McBride Benefit Solutions can help you with the exceptions.

Comprehensive insurance is designed to provide coverage for almost all the hazards RV owners face.

If you carry comprehensive insurance, and a tree falls on your RV, you are covered to the limit of your policy minus your deductible. The same coverage applies if you carry comprehensive insurance and hail knocks out your windshield.

But an ordinary comprehensive rider may not be enough if your RV is knocked over by straight-line winds, carried away by a tornado, or submerged by floodwaters. You may need additional coverage in the event of a hurricane.

The time to get additional coverage is always now. If you take your RV on a trip to the Gulf, you can’t get wind and flood coverage once a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning goes out, and you can’t get this coverage at the last minute.

And since even inland locations can be affected by powerful hurricanes, we recommend a review of your comprehensive coverage even if you are storing your RV in Florence, AL, or another location far from the coast. If you are storing your RV in a rented, covered stall, your homeowners policy may cover it, but if you have your RV in a garage or shed at home, you will need "other structures" coverage.

Don’t let a hurricane strike without coverage. Call us today to make sure you have the coverage you need.

Seasonal Motorcycle Insurance: Do You Need Coverage Year-Round

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

Riding a motorcycle offers a thrilling experience, but weather changes can affect this. During unfavorable weather, most people store their bikes and cease riding, questioning the need for continuous insurance coverage. At McBride Benefit Solutions, serving Florence, AL, we field queries about seasonal motorcycle insurance and the necessity of year-round coverage.

What is Seasonal Coverage?

Some riders opt to insure their motorcycles only during the peak riding seasons of spring and summer. This strategy may provide short-term savings, but it also carries risks. Without off-season coverage, unexpected expenses could arise if your bike is damaged or stolen while in storage.

Advantages of All-Season Coverage

Year-round coverage offers continuous protection. Even when your motorcycle is parked, risks such as theft, fire, or damage from falling objects persist. Full-year insurance ensures that you’re protected against potential losses, offering peace of mind regardless of the season.

Financial Implications

While pausing your insurance coverage may seem cost-effective, consider the long-term financial impact. If an incident occurs during the off-season, you would bear the full cost of all repairs or replacements. Year-round policies sometimes come with discounts, offering a balance between comprehensive protection and expense.

Flexibility for Unforeseen Rides

Sometimes, unexpected perfect riding conditions show up in the middle of winter. With year-round coverage, you can hop on your motorcycle anytime without concern about insurance gaps, enjoying spur-of-the-moment rides whenever the opportunity presents itself.

For further information on choosing the best motorcycle insurance plan, contact McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL. We’re committed to helping you find coverage that aligns with your riding habits and shields your investment throughout the year.

The Type of Boat Insurance Needed to Sail Abroad

Posted on August 30, 2024August 28, 2024 by admin

The Importance Of Boat Insurance For International Sailing

Every boat owner dreams of sailing abroad at least once in their lifetime. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is the type of boat insurance needed for such an adventure. The team at McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL, can assist you in securing the appropriate coverage for your voyage.

The Necessity Of Boat Insurance For International Travel

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea grants all boats the right to navigate the waters outside their country’s domestic territory. However, without boat insurance, entering a foreign country’s port can be complicated and delay your international sailing voyage.

Before setting sail for international waters, all occupants must possess valid passports or visas. Additionally, the boat’s captain must have the proper boat insurance paperwork and personal identification. European countries, in particular, insist on proof of insurance for boats entering their waters. This makes docking at local marinas a much smoother process.

Providing Protection and Indemnity Coverage

Sailing abroad necessitates more comprehensive boat insurance coverage than what travelling in domestic waters typically requires. A key addition to your policy should be Protection and Indemnity Coverage. This type of coverage is beneficial as it covers bodily injury, property damage, and passenger liability.

Comprehensive liability coverage ensures you get back on the water swiftly following an unexpected insurance claim. This coverage is responsible for all damage and repair costs that may occur, such as damage caused by dragging your anchor, damage to the dock, or injuries sustained from an unforeseen accident. Failing to add Protection and Indemnity Coverage to your policy could leave you responsible for all associated costs.

Considering Overseas Sailing? Contact McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL

If you’re contemplating sailing abroad, get in touch with McBride Benefit Solutions in Florence, AL, to learn more about the coverage needed for such an endeavor. Our staff can alleviate your concerns by crafting an international boat insurance policy allowing you to sail in foreign waters confidently. Schedule an appointment today to learn more.

When You Need A Little More, Umbrella Insurance Has You Covered

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

Insurance is a pivotal part of preparation when it comes to accidents and the unexpected events life throws our way. The main issue is that accidents and unforeseen circumstances create inconvenience and financial burdens and are inherently unexpected. The silver lining is that, in most cases, insurance serves as a sufficient safety net to help individuals navigate these challenging situations. However, the fact remains that unpredictability is associated with these events, which can lead to unexpected outcomes. If you are in the Florence, AL, area and are seeking a reliable partner to assist you with all your insurance needs, the team at McBride Benefit Solutions is here to help.

Umbrella Insurance: When You Need Additional Coverage

Quite frequently, when the impact of an accident surpasses our initial estimations or when an injury proves to be more severe than what was initially believed, the associated costs also escalate. These could be in the form of claims, damages, or repair costs that surpass the limits of your conventional insurance policy. In such instances, an umbrella insurance policy can ensure you stay protected.

While it is impossible to predict when an accident will occur or anticipate its outcome, what we can do is prepare for situations that go beyond the expected. If you need more protection than your standard policy offers, umbrella insurance could be the answer. Partnering with the right insurance agents can prove to be the ideal solution.

Umbrella Insurance in Florence, AL

If you are located in or around Florence, AL, and wish to know more about umbrella insurance or are in need of it, our friendly and professional team at McBride Benefit Solutions is just a phone call away. Don’t let unexpected circumstances catch you off-guard. Avail the extra coverage you deserve with our umbrella insurance solutions. Contact us to explore more and schedule an appointment today.

Options to Add to Medicare

Posted on June 28, 2024July 1, 2024 by admin

McBride Benefit Solutions aims for seniors in Florence, AL, to savor and enhance their Medicare coverage, hence maintaining their health as they age. This blog explains what Medicare parts do and the role of supplemental insurance.

Free Coverage Covers Hospital Stays

Upon reaching 65 years of age, the U.S. government provides you with free Medicare coverage, known as Part A. It requires signing up, but after that, it covers your hospital stays, hospice care, and skilled nursing facilities. In some cases, it extends to home health care as well.

Covering Day-to-Day Medical Care

Preventative care aids Alabamans in staying out of the hospital. However, you must choose and finance the Part B coverage that compensates for annual doctor visits, wellness programs, etc. When registering for Medicare, you decide if you wish to add this coverage—you cannot insert it at a later date.

Prescription Drug Coverage

Contrary to expectations, this coverage isn’t called Part C but rather Part D. It focuses on making medication more affordable. Similar to Part B, you need to select to add Part D when you register for Medicare—inclusion at a later date isn’t permitted.

Other Supplemental Coverage

As situations evolve, consider a supplemental insurance plan if you didn’t have the means to shoulder the high premiums for government coverage of Parts B and D when you registered for Medicare. Medicare recipients have the option to purchase private insurance. Let McBride Benefit Solutions help you discover an affordable alternative to Parts B and D, enabling you to relish high-quality medical care in Florence, AL, as you advance in years.

Can My Roommate and I Combine Our Renters Insurance?

Posted on May 31, 2024June 5, 2024 by admin

Roommates sharing renters’ insurance policies is relatively common, and many insurance companies allow those policies, but they are not for everyone. A shared renters insurance policy can be the best option for some people, but you should consider several issues before choosing that option. If you need answers concerning renters or other forms of insurance, contact our McBride Benefit Solutions team, which serves the Florence, AL, area.

Roommates Sharing a Renters Insurance Policy

Roommates often share renters’ insurance policies for convenience and to save money. Shared policies require a single payment and allow roommates to share the insurance costs. However, renters’ insurance is relatively inexpensive in Alabama, averaging $27 per month for $40,000 in personal property and $300,000 in liability coverage with a $1,000 deductible.

Renters’ insurance is inexpensive, but shared policies can bring complications. One occurs when a roommate moves out. Who pays the premium moving forward? Also, roommates sometimes argue about how to share the cost when one roommate has more valuable possessions.

A crucial consideration, however, concerns if you make a claim. When you are included on a shared insurance policy, each claim becomes part of your seven-year insurance record, so a claim filed by a roommate becomes part of your long-term insurance record.

These issues may cause little concern if your roommate is someone you know well, but that is not always the case. Remember that a shared insurance policy is a shared legal obligation, so a slightly higher expense may be a better option to maintain legal separation.

Insuring with McBride Benefit Solutions

McBride Benefit Solutions serves the Florence, AL, area and will help develop an insurance plan to meet your needs. Call us today at 256-767-2603 or stop in to protect yourself and your possessions.

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