What To Do After a Car Accident

Getting into a car accident can be a stressful experience. In the aftermath, it’s hard to remember what to do. We all hope an accident never happens, but here at Focus Insurance, we want to ensure you’re not unprepared.

Here are five actions you should take after a car accident:

  1. Get to a safe location, and turn off your car. Make sure it’s safe to exit your vehicle. Then, turn your vehicle off, as a gas leak could lead to a fire.
  2. Contact the local police. They can file an official incident report and collect information from everyone involved. If you’ve crashed in an area where it is unsafe to exit your vehicle (like a highway), the police can also help you get to a safe place.
  3. Get information from the other driver(s) and police. This includes the driver’s name, driver’s license, vehicle make/model, insurance company and policy number, address, and contact information.
  4. Take photos of the damage and write down every detail. At the scene, take photos of your car and any others involved, including vehicle license plates. As soon as you get home, write down all the details you can remember about the accident.
  5. Contact your insurance agent to file a claim. Don’t wait! If you’re involved in a car accident in Eureka, MO—or anywhere in the world—call your insurance company to report the incident as soon as possible.

However, the most important step you can take before an accident occurs is to ensure you have sufficient car insurance coverage. This simple step will give you peace of mind.

Have questions about car insurance coverage? Contact us at Focus Insurance today so you’re prepared for tomorrow. We are proud to serve the Eureka, MO area.

How to prepare your car for winter weather

Winter is coming, and it’s time to prepare your car for the cold weather. Whether you drive an old beater or a brand-new luxury vehicle, some essential steps must be taken to ensure your car runs smoothly throughout winter. From checking fluids and changing tires to stocking up on emergency supplies and testing batteries, this blog post will provide helpful tips on how to get your car ready for winter weather. So don’t wait until it’s too late—start prepping now with these tips from us at Focus Insurance so you can stay safe while driving in cold Eureka, MO temperatures!

The first step is to check your car’s fluids. Ensure the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are all at adequate levels and that you have the right oil for cold weather. It’s also vital to examine your tires and ensure they are correctly inflated—this will ensure better handling in icy conditions. If possible, it may be wise to switch out summer tires for winter tires with a greater grip on snow and ice.

In addition to checking your car’s mechanical parts, it’s also a good idea to stock up on emergency supplies such as blankets, flashlights, flares, a shovel, a bag of kitty litter (for traction if you get stuck), and a small tool kit. Having these items on hand can make a big difference if you’re ever stranded in the cold.

Before heading out, testing your car battery and checking its voltage level is important. Cold weather strains batteries, so make sure yours is strong enough to handle the winter season. 

For more winter driving tips, call us at Focus Insurance today. We proudly serve the Eureka, MO area. 

Auto Insurance is Mandatory – Don’t Be Caught Without It

Are you a licensed driver living in or near the Eureka, MO area? If so, the Focus Insurance professionals can provide the necessary insurance to ensure you drive legally.

Why is car insurance so important? Quite simply, it provides financial protection. Suppose you are the cause of a car accident. In that case, you will be held responsible for any expenses associated with it, including legal costs, the injured party’s medical expenses, and their lost income if they cannot work. The liability portion of the policy will cover these costs.

Insurance is important. It helps you live with peace of mind knowing that you will receive financial help if an accident occurs. The most obvious benefit of car insurance is the payment of losses. Maintaining the correct type of coverage protects you from other drivers who do not have or have inadequate insurance. Without it, you could suffer a disastrous financial setback leaving you with expensive repair costs and medical bills to pay.

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing car insurance is your state’s minimum liability and property coverage amounts. Simply put, you need to maintain an auto insurance policy so you remain legal to drive. This insurance is mandatory in 48 out of 50 states. Without it, you risk losing your license and possibly paying hefty fines without it.

The three main types of car insurance coverage are:

  • Collision coverage protects your car if you hit another vehicle, person, or non-moving objects, such as a tree or fence.
  • Comprehensive coverage protects you from things that liability and collision do not cover. Theft, vandalism, fire, or weather events will be covered under this coverage.
  • Liability coverage is the most important thing every driver needs to drive legally. It protects you if you cause damage to other drivers.

Make sure you are not driving illegally. Contact Focus Insurance today for a no-obligation quote. You will be glad you did.

How to Choose the Right Auto Insurance Coverage for You

Auto insurance is one of those things that everybody knows they need, but few people actually understand. When it comes time to choose a policy, most people simply pick the cheapest option and hope for the best. However, this is a risky strategy, as a cheap policy may not provide adequate coverage in the event of an accident. In order to find the right auto insurance coverage for you, it is important to understand the different types of coverage available. Only then can you make an informed decision about what level of protection you need.

Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO provides this guide in navigating auto insurance.

Here is how to choose the right coverage for you:

1. Decide What Type of Coverage You Need

The first step in choosing the right auto insurance coverage for you is to decide what type of coverage you need. There are four basic types of coverage: liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist. Each type of coverage protects you in different ways, and you will need to decide which type of coverage is right for you based on your individual needs.

2. Consider Your Budget

Once you know what types of coverage you need, you can start considering your budget. Auto insurance can be expensive, so it is important to find a policy that fits your budget. Don’t sacrifice coverage in order to save money, but do look for discounts that can help reduce the cost of your premium.

3. Get a Quote

The best way to find the right auto insurance coverage for you is to get a quote. By getting a quote, you will be able to compare different policies and find the one that offers the best coverage for the best price. Make sure to get quotes from several different companies in order to get an accurate comparison.

4. Read the Policy Carefully

Once you have found the right auto insurance policy for you, it is important to read the policy carefully. Make sure you understand what is covered and what is not covered under the policy. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your agent or broker before you purchase the policy.

5. Review Your Coverage Annually

Your needs will change over time, so it is important to review your auto insurance policy on a yearly basis. Make sure the coverage you have still meets your needs and adjust your policy accordingly.

Contact Us Today

Choosing the right auto insurance coverage can be a challenge, but it is important to make sure you have the protection you need. By following these steps, you can be sure you are getting the right coverage for yourself. If you have any questions, be sure to contact Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO today for more information.

Who needs to have auto insurance in Eureka?

Owning a vehicle in the Eureka, MO area continues to be a necessity for a lot of people. If you are looking for a vehicle when you are here, it is important that you carefully assess your personal responsibilities as well. One responsibility that you will have is your need to get insurance. There are various reasons why you need to have auto insurance coverage when you are here. 

Coverage is Needed for Those with Loans

A reason that you need to get auto coverage is that it could be required if you have taken out a loan. Due to high vehicle costs and low-interest rates, now is a great time to finance a vehicle. If you choose to take out a loan, your lender will always require that you get proper insurance coverage. This will often include requiring you to have collision and comprehensive coverage until you have paid off the full balance of the loan. 

Coverage is a State Requirement

You should also get an auto coverage plan to comply with state requirements. Those that want to drive a car in Missouri will need to carry insurance at all times. If you drive a car on a public road and do not at least have liability insurance, you could find yourself in violation of the law and can face various penalties. 

Those that are in the Eureka, MO area will always want to ensure they have proper insurance coverage. For vehicle owners that are looking for a new plan, calling Focus Insurance is a great option. There are a lot of choices that go into picking auto insurance and Focus Insurance can make it easier for you. The team here will help you assess your needs and options and build a quality plan. 

Which Auto Insurance Policy is Right For You?

When you are shopping for auto insurance, what factors do you consider? When buying auto insurance, it’s usually a balancing act between needs, preferences and cost.  While there exist several auto insurance coverages, how do you know the ones suitable for you? How do you choose coverages that answer your specific needs? If you are unsure which auto insurance is right for you, Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO, is here to guide you.

Understanding different types of auto insurance coverages

Even if you are a seasoned motorist, buying auto insurance calls for some research. And as you build your auto insurance know-how, you must first understand the below car insurance coverages:

  • Liability insurance: This coverage protects you when you cause bodily injury or property damage to other people. This coverage is mandatory in many states, including Missouri.
  • Comprehensive coverage: It covers your vehicle from physical damage caused by non-accident perils like fire, theft, and natural disasters.
  • Collision coverage: It covers your vehicle from physical damage of collision with stationary objects or other motorists.
  • Medical payments / Personal Injury Protection (PIP): It covers medical expenses for you and your passengers following an auto accident.
  • Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage: This insurance plan covers you when you collide with a motorist carrying no or insufficient auto insurance. Besides, it covers hit-and-run scenarios.

The above are typical auto insurance coverages. You can also consider the below add-ons to boost your auto insurance policy.

  • Roadside assistance
  • Spare parts coverage
  • Engine protect
  • Zero depreciation
  • Consumables coverage
  • OEM endorsement

At Focus Insurance, we usually recommend you choose auto insurance coverages you can afford comfortably. Consider your financial situation, too. Do you own many assets? If yes, you need higher liability coverage. Also, when deciding about deductibles, think about your cash flow position – settle on a deductible amount you can afford.

Learn more about auto insurance in Eureka, MO

Would you like to get more information about auto insurance? If so, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Focus Insurance to get more insights on auto insurance.

Why basic auto insurance may not be right for you

Basic auto insurance is right for some people. It is up to you to decide if you are one of them. It isn’t for everyone since, well it is basic. There are many reasons why it may not be right for you and by talking to your local independent insurance agent you can come up with the perfect auto insurance for you. In Eureka, MO that is Focus Insurance. With more than 20 years of experience, we can provide the guidance you need. 

In Missouri, basic insurance means liability coverage only. You must have 25/50/10. That is $25,000 for one individual in an accident for medical bills and injuries with $50,000 for the complete accident. $10,000 is for property which isn’t much when you consider the price of a vehicle. 

Basic liability coverage is fine if you don’t have a lot of assets. But if you have assets you need to make sure they are protected, and you will need considerably more than basic liability coverage. If you have a lot of assets you may even want to consider adding an umbrella policy for maximum protection. 

While basic insurance protects other people from you, what about your vehicle? If you are a normal person you count on your vehicle every day to do the things that people do, go to work, shop, run errands, and more. If you are responsible for an accident you are responsible for repairing or replacing your vehicle. If you could do that without insurance then maybe basic coverage is okay but if it would be a hardship then you need to carry collision insurance. Comprehensive insurance is another type that protects your vehicle from things beyond your control 

When you are ready to discuss what you need from auto insurance, contact Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO. 

Who can I add to my auto policy

In the state of Missouri, you are required to have basic auto insurance. This means basic liability coverage of 25/50/25 and uninsured motorist coverage of 25/50. Your auto insurance will cover all the vehicles you own. Most people have one insurance policy for all of their vehicle and all their immediate family members. When you are in the market for auto insurance Focus Insurance in Eureka MO we have been in business for more than 20 years and offer our customers insurance products from 15 national carriers. 

Auto insurance can be considered a family affair. All of the family members who live in your home can and should be added to your policy. You and your spouse or partner will be the primary insured members and then any other licensed drivers who may drive your car. This includes your children but it can also include grandchildren, nieces and nephews, in-laws, and any family members who actually live in your home and will be driving your vehicles. 

If you have children who have moved out of the house but who you still support, they can also be listed on your auto policy. This means college students get to stay on their parent’s policy. Once a child owns a home or apartment they are considered financially independent and need to get their own policy. If your child marries they need their own policy unless they live with you. 

If you have a caregiver who will be using your vehicle regularly, you should talk to your insurance carrier to see if they need to be listed on your policy as well. But since the insurance is on your vehicle, they may not need to be listed. 

At Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO, we are locally owned and operated and we are here to help you chose the best auto policy for your needs. 

Types of Auto Insurance Coverages

Having auto insurance is crucial if you want to protect yourself and your vehicle. It is also illegal to drive without proper insurance. However, how do you know what type of coverage you need? Below there are six main types of auto insurance that are available when you purchase a policy.

Liability

It includes two parts – property damage liability and bodily injury liability. The purpose of this type of auto insurance is to pay for the other party’s vehicle repairs and medical bills in case of a road accident. 

Collision 

This insurance covers repairs and the replacement of your vehicle after an accident. It also covers damage caused by collision with an object (for example, a tree or house) or an accident in which objects are not involved (for example, if the car flips). 

Comprehensive 

The goal of this type is to protect a vehicle against damages that are not caused by road accidents. For example, if a tree falls on your car, or it is stolen, comprehensive car insurance will step in and cover financial losses and repairs. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

It is also known as no-fault insurance. It covers your medical expenses in case of an accident regardless of whose fault it was. Coverage can also extend to other drivers included in the policy, members of your family, and passengers. 

Auto Medical Payments

It is similar to PIP coverage, but it is more limited. It covers accident-related medical expenses for you as a driver, other policyholders, your household members, and passengers.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If you are injured, or your car is damaged in an accident caused by a driver without proper auto insurance,  this type of insurance will cover car repairs and your medical bills. 

If you are a car owner living in Eureka, MO, and you are looking for auto insurance for your vehicle, contact Focus Insurance. This reliable company has been in business since 1999. Whether you are looking for a new car insurance policy or you have questions to ask, do not hesitate to call Focus Insurance, whose qualified insurance agents are more than happy to assist. 

Do I Need More Than Basic Auto Insurance Coverage

As a car owner in Missouri, you have thousands of miles of road to enjoy. Unfortunately, you are not the only one who is using those roads. Protecting yourself and others with auto insurance is important. Missouri mandates that you have liability insurance to protect those who are hurt in an accident that you cause. You must carry $25.000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and property damage coverage of $10,0000. At Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO, our team of experienced agents can help you make sure you comply with the law.

If you cause a severe car accident, the cost of damages could easily go way beyond the state-mandated basic coverage. If you have assets, they could be in danger since you would be required to pay the additional amount personally. It isn’t worth risking the loss of all that you have worked so hard to accumulate. While liability is an important coverage, what about the damage that can happen to your car? If your vehicle is stolen and damaged seriously in an accident, could you afford to replace or repair it? When you carry collision and comprehensive coverage, you are protecting your vehicle. Most lenders require that you carry it, but after the auto loan is paid off, it may be tempting but not necessarily wise to remove this critical coverage. 

If you are getting auto insurance for the first time or are ready to talk to someone about a change of policy, you can stop by the office of Focus Insurance in Eureka, MO for a no-obligation quote. You can also give us a call or use our online rating tool to get a quote from home. Having the coverage you need is vital for your peace of mind.