Insurance Blog

Insurance Blog

Is Damage to Accessories Covered by Motorcycle Insurance?

Motorcycle riders often add accessories to make their bikes safer, more comfortable, or more customized to their preferences. When something goes wrong, the question becomes whether those accessories are protected under a standard motorcycle insurance policy through Anchor Insurance Agency LLP, serving Plymouth, MN. The answer depends on how the bike is insured and how much coverage the rider selected at the start of the policy.

Core Parts Coverage

Most basic motorcycle insurance policies focus on the core parts of the bike. That usually includes the frame, engine, wheels, and factory-installed components. Accessories, however, fall into a different category. Items such as custom seats, upgraded exhaust systems, backrests, saddlebags, aftermarket lights, and added electronics are often considered enhancements rather than essential parts. Because of that distinction, they may not be included automatically.

Optional Accessories

Many Minnesota riders choose to add optional accessory coverage so custom parts are protected if they’re damaged in a covered accident. This coverage is typically offered as an add-on and can be adjusted based on the value of the upgrades. It usually applies to both factory-installed options and aftermarket equipment, as long as the rider lists or documents what has been added. Without this extra coverage, the insurance company may only pay a small default amount, which often doesn’t come close to the full value of the accessories.

Claiming Damage

It’s also important to understand how claims work. If the bike is damaged in a collision or other covered event, the insurer will evaluate the accessories separately from the main structure of the motorcycle. Riders who have kept receipts or photos of their upgrades generally have an easier time getting accurate compensation.

Minnesota riders who have invested in custom parts should review their policies and confirm that the amount of accessory coverage aligns with what they’ve added. A quick conversation with a local agent at Anchor Insurance Agency LLP, serving Plymouth, MN, can help make sure everything is protected before the riding season begins.

Why Is Liability Insurance Often Overlooked in Boat/Watercraft Insurance?

In Minnesota, many residents own a boat or another form of watercraft. If you’re a boat owner, it’s essential to cover not just your own boat, but your liability if you damage someone else’s boat or cause bodily injury. If you’re located in Plymouth, MN, Anchor Insurance Agency LLP is here for you. We’ll work with you to ensure you are adequately covered, whether you use your boat seasonally, recreationally, or year-round.

Mistakes Homeowners Make

Unfortunately, some Minnesota homeowners mistakenly believe their boat or watercraft is covered by their homeowners policy. This is not often the case, as many of these policies only provide limited coverage. Liability insurance will protect you if your boat accidentally causes injury or suffering to another person or damage to another person’s property. Without the right insurance policy, any boating incident can lead to repair costs, legal fees, and extensive medical bills. 

Misunderstanding Risk

For many boat owners, underestimating the power of a watercraft accident is another reason why liability insurance is often overlooked. While you may relax in your boat most of the time, unpredictable weather, crowds, and unexpected guests can increase the likelihood of an accident or damage to your vessel. Comprehensive protection matters for those who also lend their boat or watercraft to friends and family members. 

Understanding why liability insurance is often overlooked when protecting boat investments in Plymouth, MN, is crucial for anyone who owns a boat or watercraft. Even if you’re a new boat owner, the right insurance policy can make all the difference. To learn more about your options when it’s time to renew or obtain boat insurance, contact Anchor Insurance Agency LLP for your quote and consultation. 

Why Umbrella Insurance Is Especially Useful for Dog Owners

Your furry friend brings joy to your family, but as a responsible dog owner, you need to consider the potential liability risks that come with pet ownership. Even well-behaved dogs can react unpredictably in certain situations, and when incidents occur, the financial consequences can be devastating. Anchor Insurance Agency LLP in Plymouth, MN helps dog owners understand how umbrella insurance provides crucial protection beyond standard homeowners coverage.

Dog Bite Statistics Are Sobering

The average dog bite claim costs around $50,000, with some cases reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars. These incidents can happen anywhere, whether at your home, during walks, or when friends are watching your pet. Your homeowners’ insurance typically covers dog-related incidents, but most policies have liability limits between $100,000 and $500,000. When medical bills, plastic surgery, lost wages, and legal fees add up, these limits can be quickly exhausted.

Liability Risks Beyond Bite Incidents

Dogs can cause liability issues in other ways, too. Your energetic pup might knock down an elderly neighbor, chase a cyclist into traffic, or cause someone to trip while avoiding them. If your dog damages someone else’s property or causes an accident, you could be held responsible. These scenarios often result in claims that exceed typical homeowners’ policy limits.

Comprehensive Protection for Dog Owners

Umbrella insurance typically provides an additional $1 million to $5 million in liability coverage, offering protection when your primary insurance isn’t enough. The cost is relatively modest compared to the potential financial exposure you face as a dog owner.

Don’t let your love for your pet put your financial future at risk. Contact Anchor Insurance Agency LLP in Plymouth, MN today to learn how umbrella insurance can protect you from unexpected costs while letting you enjoy life with your four-legged companion.

What You Need to Know Before a Summer Road Trip

With summer just around the corner, many families and friend groups may be planning a road trip. Remember, as the song says, "It’s a long way down the holiday road." If you take the time to plan ahead and be ready for anything, the journey may be long, but not necessarily difficult. Whether you’re driving a family SUV or a compact car, there are things you need to do before hitting the road.

Inspect Your Car

The first thing you want to check before a long summer trip is your AC to ensure it’s working properly. Check your engine oil level and change it if it is dark brown or black. Your coolant, brake, and steering fluid also need to be checked. Inspect your tires to ensure they’re roadworthy. Check your brake pads; the last thing you want is for them to fail on the road. While you might hope you won’t need your wipers, ensure they work. Many modern cars have electrical parts, so ensure they’re all functioning. Once your vehicle is in order, make sure you have all the valid documents, plan your route, decide who will handle navigation duties, prepare an emergency kit, and keep an eye on weather conditions.

Contact Anchor Insurance Agency LLP in Plymouth, MN

If you live in Plymouth, MN, and need auto insurance, please contact Anchor Insurance Agency LLP. We are happy to help.

Commercial Insurance Protects Employees and Customers

If you have a business or plan on starting one, one of the most important aspects you’ll need to consider is protecting yourself, your company, your employees, and your customers. You can do that with a commercial insurance policy, and if you’re in the Plymouth, MN area, Anchor Insurance Agency LLP can help. Our trusted agents know how important it is for your business to have adequate levels of protection to ensure you can keep operating and growing your business for the long term.

A commercial policy is the right choice for the type and level of protection you need, giving you security and peace of mind. Your employees will know they have protection and support if they’re injured on the job, and customers who come into your business can also feel safe. Additionally, you’ll have coverage for your company if a customer gets hurt while they’re on your property. You don’t want to operate a business without ensuring you have solid protection to keep everyone around you secure.

Of course, a commercial policy is about more than just employees and customers. You also want to protect yourself from natural disasters and random issues that could cause damage to your equipment, inventory, or other aspects of your company. There’s no reason to spend time worrying about that when you have the right coverage for all your company’s needs.

If you’re in the Plymouth, MN area and need a commercial insurance policy, contact us at Anchor Insurance Agency LLP today. We can help you get the right commercial insurance for your business based on your work and other factors. Then, you can feel confident that you’ll be protected when you need it most.