​Your dashboard is filled with icons and alerts that can tell you when your vehicle needs attention. Some of these notifications are more serious than others, but it’s a good idea to know what they all mean.
But your dashboard isn’t the only way to tell if something is wrong. Sometimes you need to rely on your senses, which is why it’s also important to listen to the sounds your vehicle makes. 
Have you noticed any clunking, grinding or high-pitched squealing lately? Here’s what some of these odd noises might mean.

• Squealing when you start the car. A high-pitched squealing noise that happens when you start your car could indicate a worn serpentine belt. 
  
  
• Grinding when you brake. A grinding noise when you brake typically means that your car’s brakes need to be serviced or replaced. 
  
  
• Humming when you accelerate. A humming noise when you step on the gas could point to a wheel bearing issue. This kind of noise may also be related to the engine. 
  
  
• Clicking when you turn. If you hear a clicking or maybe a popping noise when you make a turn, parts on your car’s front axle may need to be replaced. 
  
  
• Clunking while you drive. A clunking noise coming from underneath your car as you drive could be caused by a few different things: an issue with the suspension system, shock absorbers or the rods and pistons. 

Ask Your Mechanic 
These warning noises may help you diagnose the problem, but this list is by no means comprehensive. If you hear something unusual, always ask a trusted mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring a strange sound can mean more expensive repairs down the road. 
Have questions about your coverage? Reach out anytime.

​If you ever needed to evacuate or shelter in place, would you be prepared?
You can't always predict things like severe weather or power outages. But you can prepare for the unexpected by packing a home emergency kit for you and your family.
Review this list of must-have items, then get in touch to make sure your home has enough coverage to bring you peace of mind.

• First-Aid Kit: In addition to bandages, gauze, antiseptic and petroleum jelly, keep an extra supply of pain relievers, stomach soothers and prescription medications for all the people and pets in your home.
  
  
• Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio (preferably with charging capability) may be good options. A radio may be the best way to get local news in an emergency that affects cellular and internet services.
  
  
• Lights: A flashlight will do, but a headlamp or lantern can also be helpful. Make sure to have extra batteries and backup lights, such as candles and lighters or waterproof matches.
  
  
• Water and Nonperishable Food: Pack at least three days' worth of water and nonperishable goods. Protein bars are compact and may provide you with more energy. And don't forget about food and water for your pets.
  
  
• Miscellaneous Items: Cash, personal documents and paper maps might not seem essential now, but they could come in handy. Other nice-to-have items include duct tape, cleaning products and a multitool.

Together, we can make sure you have the right protection for your home and car so your losses are limited in case of unexpected events. 
Reach out if you have questions about what's covered in your policy or anything else.

​Do you know how damaging potholes can be? 
Unfortunately, this common road hazard can potentially send your vehicle to the repair shop. 
Here’s what to know if you ever find yourself dealing with pothole problems. Plus: Find out how you might be able to avoid them in the first place.
What kind of damage can a bad pothole cause?

• Tires: They could sustain internal damage that can’t be patched or repaired. Check your dashboard for the tire pressure light to see if you’re losing air.
• Wheels: As with tire damage, a bent or cracked wheel rim may need to be replaced.
• Alignment: Does your car seem to pull to the right or left after you hit a pothole? You could be looking at a bent steering or suspension part in your alignment. Get it checked out to be sure. 

Thinking of filing a pothole damage claim?
Your policy may cover pothole damage, but such a claim is likely to be considered a single-car accident, which means the fault gets assigned to you. Having an at-fault accident on your record could cause your rates to go up. 
Before you file a claim, check your deductible to see if the cost of repair will exceed your out-of-pocket amount. If not, there’s no benefit to filing a claim. Not sure what to do? Reach out to us for help weighing your options.
How can you avoid pothole damage?
Pothole season may be unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean potholes themselves can’t be avoided. Here are a few tips for preventing pothole damage: 

• Keep your eyes on the road. The best way to avoid hitting a pothole is to see it coming up so you can switch lanes or drive around it.
• Use a navigation app with pothole warnings. Waze and other GPS apps now have this feature.
• Beware of puddles. It might actually be a pothole full of water, so go around or drive slowly through it. 
• Mind your speed. The slower you go over a pothole, the less likely you are to sustain damage. 

Have questions about pothole damage claims or your policy in general? Reach out today.

Unfortunately, car break-ins happen, but you can take steps to minimize your risk and keep your vehicle and belongings safe. 
By taking a few minutes to review these tips now, you could avoid the hassle of repairing (or replacing) your car later.
Here are 10 smart ways to keep your vehicle safe from theft.
Don’t Make a Break-In Easy

• Lock your car and never leave it running unattended, even if you’re just heading inside your home for a minute. 
• Close your windows and sunroof when you’re not in the car.
• Take your key fob with you, and don’t leave a spare house or car key hidden in your vehicle.

Plan Ahead (Even in Your Neighborhood)

• Stow valuables in your trunk. 
• Avoid driving or parking in high-crime areas. If you’re driving to an unfamiliar destination, research your route ahead of time.
• Seek out well-lit parking spots, garages and lots. And if you park in your driveway at night, consider installing a motion-sensor light.

Hide What’s Important

• Don’t leave anything a thief might want, including spare change, shopping bags or other personal belongings.
• Take your garage door opener, wallet, purse, phone and keys out of your car. If necessary, hide your items — but not in an obvious place like the center console.
• Keep your vehicle title in the house and your registration in your wallet.

What to Do After a Crime
If you’re the victim of a vehicle break-in or theft, take photos of the damage, file a police report and reach out for help filing an insurance claim. 
We can also help you be more proactive. Get in touch to learn about additional coverage for your vehicle or home.

The spring season calls for refreshing and maintaining your most lived-in spaces, including your home and car. 
Taking care of basic maintenance tasks can also help you avoid dealing with expensive repairs in the future. 
In other words, now is the perfect time to make sure your property is in tiptop shape. Here are six essential car and home tasks to have on your radar.
Car Maintenance
First, check your vehicle's service schedule. That way, you'll know when and how often your car needs certain repairs, including: 

• Oil Change: Check with your mechanic, but most people advise replacing engine oil every 3,000 miles. Delaying this can result in damage to your engine.
• Tire Rotation: Like an oil change, see if your tires should be rotated every 3,000 miles to prolong their use and save you money on future replacements.
• Worn-Out Parts: Using old wiper blades, engine air filters and brake pads can lead to bigger problems later on. Replace these as needed to avoid damage to your vehicle.

Home Maintenance
Do you want to avoid expensive home repairs in the future? Here's what the experts suggest.

• Roof Inspection: Have a pro check leak-prone areas such as the attic, chimneys and skylights to catch a problem before it affects your home's entire roof. 
• Gutter Cleaning: Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof. You can clean out this area yourself or hire someone, depending on the size of your home. 
• Exterior Paint and Siding: The exterior protects your home from weather and water damage. Touch up cracked paint and issues with siding quickly to avoid the whole area needing to be remodeled. 

Do you have questions about your policy? Reach out today.