Author: agentinsure

What are the Benefits of Umbrella Insurance for Owners of Multiple Rental Properties?

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For owners of multiple properties in Florida, it’s crucial to have adequate coverage to protect your assets. When you speak with one of our agents at McCormick Insurance Inc., we’ll serve as your trusted resource for obtaining umbrella insurance to safeguard your properties.

Benefits of Umbrella Insurance

If you own multiple properties in Florida and use them as rental properties, it’s recommended to supplement your landlord insurance with umbrella insurance. This additional layer of protection can be invaluable.

Enhanced Protection

With multiple rentals and tenants, the likelihood of accidents increases, whether it’s a tenant or a visitor who is injured on the property. Such incidents can lead to legal action. If you are held responsible, you may face claims that result in attorney fees, court costs, and settlements. Umbrella insurance provides coverage for these situations, reducing your financial risk.

Additional Coverage

When a claim exceeds the limits of your landlord insurance, an umbrella policy steps in to provide additional coverage. Without this extra protection, your personal assets could be at risk if a claim surpasses your landlord insurance limits.

Streamlined Coverage

Umbrella insurance can cover all your rental properties under one policy, eliminating the need for separate policies for each property. This simplifies your insurance management and ensures comprehensive protection.

Cost-Effective Solution

Umbrella insurance is considered an affordable option to ensure funds are available when needed. Our agents will review factors such as the number of rentals you own and their locations to help determine the cost of an annual premium that fits your budget.

Contact Us

At McCormick Insurance Inc. in Pembroke Pines, FL, we are committed to protecting your investments with umbrella insurance. Contact us today to start creating a plan that safeguards your properties and financial well-being.

Can You Sue A Beneficiary For Life Insurance?

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Typically, a person chooses their life insurance beneficiaries, and those individuals receive the death benefit. However, there are situations where you can legally challenge and stop someone from receiving it. This process is known as contesting the beneficiary, but it is subject to specific legal requirements.

Understanding Standing

To contest a beneficiary, you must have "standing," which means proving that you have a valid legal interest in the policy. This includes individuals who are heirs or beneficiaries to other assets, such as a trust. An insurance company like McCormick Insurance Inc. can help you learn more about heirs and their rights.

A current spouse may also file a lawsuit, especially if a former spouse is named as the beneficiary and they believe the designation is unfair. It’s crucial to establish standing, as a lawsuit without it will likely be dismissed in a Pembroke Pines, FL court.

Reasons to Contest a Beneficiary

To successfully contest a beneficiary, you must prove that the listed individual was not the policyholder’s true choice. For example, you may demonstrate that the policyholder was pressured, abused, or under distress when naming the beneficiary. If the policyholder lacked the mental capacity to make decisions, you can argue that they were unable to express their wishes accurately.

Forgery is another reason to contest a beneficiary, but you must provide evidence to support this claim. In some states, technical errors, such as mistakes on the beneficiary form, can also be grounds for a legal challenge.

Working with the Insurance Company

Many of these situations require collaboration with the life insurance company. Companies like McCormick Insurance Inc. maintain detailed records of every policy, ensuring that documents are completed correctly and dates are verified. To learn more, contact us today. We proudly serve the Pembroke Pines, FL area and are here to assist with your insurance needs.

How Flood Insurance Supplements Your Home Insurance Policy

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When it comes to protecting your home, many homeowners rely on their standard insurance policies, assuming they’re covered for most situations. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. One of the most common and costly disasters, flooding, is typically not covered by a standard home insurance policy. This is where flood insurance becomes essential. At McCormick Insurance Inc. in Pembroke Pines, FL, we help homeowners understand how flood insurance can fill in the gaps and provide an extra layer of protection.

What Standard Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Standard homeowners insurance generally covers events like fire, theft, and certain types of water damage, such as a burst pipe. However, if water enters your home due to rising water levels caused by storms, hurricanes, or heavy rainfall, your regular policy likely won’t cover the damage. This type of damage is classified as flooding and requires a separate flood insurance policy.

Why Flood Insurance Is Important

Floods can cause extensive damage in a short amount of time. Even a few inches of water can destroy flooring, walls, appliances, and more. Without flood insurance, you may be left paying for these repairs out of pocket. Flood insurance provides coverage for both the structure of your home and your personal belongings, something many homeowners don’t realize until it’s too late.

Preparation Is Key

Living in Pembroke Pines, FL means being proactive about weather-related risks. Flood insurance isn’t just a luxury; it’s a smart investment that complements your home insurance to provide comprehensive coverage.

If you’re unsure about your current coverage or want to learn more, contact McCormick Insurance Inc. today. We’re here to help you secure the right protection before the next storm arrives.

Why Do I Need Renter’s Insurance for My Condo in Florida?

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Residents renting a condo in Pembroke Pines, FL, may wonder if they need insurance or assume they are covered by the condo owner’s policy. However, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered. While the owner’s policy provides coverage for certain areas, it does not protect the renter in all situations. To learn more about renters’ insurance, contact our agents at McCormick Insurance Inc. We can discuss your options and recommend a plan tailored to your needs.

About Renters Insurance

Things to Consider

  • While renters’ insurance is highly recommended, it is not a legal requirement in Florida unless specified by the condo owner or condo association as part of your lease agreement.
  • The condo owner’s insurance typically covers the building’s exterior, common areas (if applicable), and plumbing. However, it does not include coverage for your personal belongings. If your items are not covered by the condo policy, you will be responsible for their replacement costs.
  • Renters’ insurance also provides liability coverage. For example, if a visitor to your unit slips and falls, the policy can address expenses related to the claim.
  • If the condo becomes uninhabitable due to an unforeseen event, renters’ insurance may help cover temporary living expenses, such as alternate housing arrangements.

Contact Our Team

With a call to McCormick Insurance Inc., renters in Pembroke Pines, FL, can gain peace of mind knowing they have a policy in place to protect their assets. Whether you own a few personal items or many, you never know when an unexpected event might leave you in a difficult situation. Take the first step toward protection and security with a renters’ insurance policy today.

What Are The Reasons Why An Auto Insurance Carrier Would Cancel Your Policy and How to Avoid That

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If you’ve ever received a notice that your auto insurance policy is being canceled, you know how stressful it can be. At McCormick Insurance Inc. in Pembroke Pines, FL, we understand how important it is to stay protected on the road. That’s why we’re breaking down the most common reasons why an insurer might cancel your policy, and how you can avoid it from happening in the first place.

Missed Payments Can Be a Deal Breaker

One of the leading causes of policy cancellation is non-payment. Life gets busy, and sometimes a due date slips by unnoticed. However, missing even one payment can prompt your insurance carrier to take action. The good news is that most companies offer a grace period or send reminder notices before canceling your policy.

Too Many Claims in a Short Period

Filing multiple claims in a short span can raise red flags with your insurer. While insurance is there to help when things go wrong, excessive claims may signal risky behavior to your provider. It’s wise to evaluate whether filing a claim is worth it for smaller incidents, especially if the repair cost is close to your deductible.

Major Traffic Violations

Serious offenses like DUIs or reckless driving can lead to immediate policy cancellation. These violations significantly increase your risk profile and may make you ineligible for standard coverage.

Avoiding Cancellation Is Easier Than You Think 

The best way to keep your policy active is to drive responsibly, stay on top of payments, and communicate with your provider if issues arise. If you have questions or need assistance with your current policy, reach out to McCormick Insurance Inc. in Pembroke Pines, FL. We’re here to help keep you covered.

Seasonal Inland Marine Insurance Options in Pembroke Pines

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Owning inland marine tools, equipment, and materials in Pembroke Pines, FL comes with unique insurance needs, especially when considering seasonal coverage. With Florida’s year-round events and construction activities, many businesses in the region require tailored seasonal inland marine insurance. At McCormick Insurance Inc., we help our clients find the best insurance options to meet their inland marine needs.

Seasonal Insurance Needs

In Pembroke Pines, seasonal insurance needs may include:

  • Landscaping Crews: Active during the growing and autumn seasons.
  • Pool Service Providers: Operating throughout the spring and summer months.
  • Trade Show Vendors and Exhibitors: Participating in weekend circuits and events.

Seasonal businesses can choose tailored insurance options that align with their operational periods, making premiums more affordable.

Key Considerations for Seasonal Insurance

When comparing seasonal insurance options, keep the following in mind:

  • Flexibility: Plan coverage for specific months of operation in advance.
  • Floaters: Protect materials waiting for installation off-site and seasonal mobile or high-value equipment with installation and tools/equipment floaters.
  • Bailee Coverage: Covers third-party property in your care.
  • Transit Protection: Insures materials and tools during transportation between locations.

Steps to Choose Seasonal Policies

To select the right seasonal inland marine insurance policy, follow these steps:

  • Identify your seasonal and landscaping schedule.
  • Gather details about your assets, materials, and client property.
  • Work closely with your insurance agent to assess your needs.
  • Compare quotes and policy options to find the best fit for your needs.
  • Adjust your policy annually or more frequently based on season length and asset changes.

Understanding seasonal inland marine insurance options enables you to address your protection needs throughout the year. Whether you own a seasonal business or need coverage for specialized equipment, McCormick Insurance Inc. is here to help. Contact us today for more information and personalized assistance.

Motorcycle Insurance and Animal Accidents: What Riders Must Know

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Florida has more than alligators and crocodiles crossing busy streets. Deer, bears, tortoises, dogs, cats, squirrels, and other wildlife frequently cross busy lanes and highways as well. Pembroke Pines, FL, residents are aware of this, but sometimes, your motorcycle may collide with an animal. Other times, you might swerve to avoid hitting one and accidentally hit a vehicle or object instead.

Will Motorcycle Insurance Cover Animal Accidents?

Coverage is possible only if your situation fulfills certain conditions:

  • The type of animal involved in the accident
  • The type of coverage included in your policy
  • How you responded to the animal (swerve vs. head-on collision)

Motorcycle insurance categorizes animals as either domesticated or wild. Motorcycle insurance typically does not cover accidents involving domesticated animals (such as dogs, cats, or farm animals) because there is someone to hold responsible—the owner. However, it does cover accidents involving wild animals, as there is no one to blame. Most carriers cover animal-related accidents through comprehensive coverage, while others offer this coverage through collision coverage. Full-coverage motorcycle insurance policies generally include both options. Additionally, personal injury protection coverage will always cover injuries from animal accidents, as it is a legal requirement in Florida.

If you swerve to avoid hitting an animal and end up hitting an object or vehicle, collision coverage and personal injury protection are your best chances for compensation.

Does My Motorcycle Insurance Have Adequate Coverage?

That’s where the team at McCormick Insurance Inc. can help. We will review your motorcycle insurance policy to determine if you have adequate coverage for animal accidents. If you don’t, we’ll discuss your carrier’s options and add-ons with you. You can also switch to one of our partner carriers that offers the coverage you need at a budget-friendly price.

McCormick Insurance Inc. doesn’t want customers paying for animal accidents out of pocket. Securing the right coverage makes these situations less stressful and frustrating. We want motorcycle insurance to work for you, not against you. For more information on motorcycle insurance, call or visit our Pembroke Pines, FL, office today.

Who’s Liable For Boat Damage During Dry Dock?

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Dry docking is an essential part of responsible boat ownership, whether for maintenance, hurricane preparation, or seasonal storage. But what happens if your boat gets damaged while it’s out of the water? In Florida, where dry dock usage is common, liability depends on where the damage occurs, who was in control of the vessel at the time, and what your insurance covers. McCormick Insurance Inc., serving Pembroke Pines, FL, can provide valuable insights on this important topic.

Liability May Depend on Where the Boat Is Stored

If your boat is damaged while stored in a marina’s dry dock facility, liability could fall on the business, especially if the damage results from employee negligence, faulty equipment, or improper storage procedures. However, if the marina has a waiver or limited liability clause in your storage contract, its responsibility might be reduced or even waived entirely.

Boat Owners Might Still Be Responsible

In some situations, the boat owner remains liable, particularly if the damage occurred while you were moving or preparing the boat, or if your own equipment (such as a trailer or cradle) failed. If another boater caused the damage, their liability insurance might cover the costs, provided fault can be clearly established.

Review Your Boat Insurance Coverage

Many boat insurance policies include coverage for damage sustained during haul-out, storage, or routine maintenance. However, not all policies are the same. Some may exclude dry dock incidents or offer only limited protection. It’s crucial to confirm whether your policy includes “lay-up” coverage or protection during non-use periods.

Prevent Confusion with Proper Coverage

Dry dock damage can lead to disputes if you’re not adequately insured. McCormick Insurance Inc., serving Pembroke Pines, FL, specializes in marine policies and can help you navigate the fine print to ensure your investment is protected, whether your boat is in the water or stored high and dry.

Does RV Insurance Cover Personal Belongings?

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If you spend a lot of time using your RV and bring along many personal belongings, you may wonder what will happen to them if they are lost or damaged while you’re on the road. Will your RV policy adequately protect your possessions? The answer depends on the coverage you select for your investment. McCormick Insurance Inc., serving residents of Pembroke Pines, FL, can help you choose the right coverage for your personal belongings.

RV Policies Are Not One-Size-Fits-All

RV policies vary widely, offering different options for covering various types of vehicles. Before settling on an RV policy, carefully review its provisions to determine if it includes personal property coverage, also known as personal effects coverage. Personal property insurance is typically optional and comes with a limit on the amount your insurer will pay for lost or damaged items. Covered risks that result in lost or damaged belongings are similar to those covered by homeowner’s insurance, including fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage.

What Types of Items Are Covered?

Personal property coverage generally protects most items you bring into your RV or travel trailer. These include:

  • Clothing
  • Shoes
  • Appliances
  • Electronics
  • Cookware
  • Furniture

However, some policies may not cover theft or damage to personal effects unless your RV itself is stolen or damaged.

If you keep valuable items like jewelry, artwork, or small collections in your RV, consider purchasing additional insurance. A standard personal property provision may not cover the full value of your loss. Options include a jewelry policy or a rider that lists specific items for a scheduled fee.

Protect Your Belongings on the Road

Learn more about how you can safeguard your belongings while traveling in your RV. Contact the agents at McCormick Insurance Inc., serving Pembroke Pines, FL, to schedule an appointment and explore your coverage options.

Building a House? Insure it Now!

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If you’ve decided to build a house instead of buying one, you’re likely planning to get homeowners’ insurance. But why wait until the house is built? You own the property and are responsible for it. Moreover, there are a lot of expensive tools, materials, and machinery around during the construction. Construction can be a dangerous job, and accidents happen. What you need is builders’ & vacant risk insurance.

Understanding Builders & Vacant Risk Insurance

If you’re working with a general contractor, they likely have insurance for their equipment, time, and materials, plus workers’ compensation for any employees who might get injured on the job. (It’s advisable to work only with insured contractors.) Builders and vacant risk insurance covers everything that is your property. It also covers the cause of loss and available policy extensions. If an underground sewage pipe gets damaged during construction, you’re covered. You’re covered if your half-built home is damaged by theft, vandalism, bad weather, or an unexpected event. You may want to look into some extensions. A policy that would cover all plants and sod will almost certainly be readily available. Once construction is finished, you’ll want to remove some debris. Any pollutants must be cleaned up by law. Ask your insurer about extensions that will pay for cleanup and removal costs.

Get Insurance from McCormick Insurance in Pembroke Pines, FL

If you need builders’ and vacant risk insurance and are in the Pembroke Pines, FL, area, please contact McCormick Insurance Inc. We’ll discuss all available extensions and get you the policy that best suits your needs.