Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Home Insurance.

Posted on April 26, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

Do you own a home in the Sioux Falls, SD area? If you do, you already know it is one of the most beautiful places to live. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., we are proud to serve homeowners, renters, travelers, and businesses with quality insurance services. Here are a few common questions about homeowner’s insurance:

Home Insurance FAQs in South Dakota

How much homeowner’s insurance is required in South Dakota? Legally, you do not have to have homeowner’s insurance if you own your home outright. If you have a mortgage, your mortgage company likely requires enough coverage to cover the remaining cost of the loan. Although it is not a legal requirement, it is an affordable way to protect your family’s assets.
Is my home covered in the event of a flood? Typically, homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage. This is why adding flood coverage is a good idea if you live in an area with any risk. There are various affordable options to protect your home from the unique risks that may be in your area.
How much coverage do I need? If you have a mortgage, you need at least enough coverage to cover the cost of your home. If you do not have a mortgage, then each situation is unique, but we will be happy to discuss your coverage needs, so you have the exact protection you need.

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. serves Sioux Falls, SD with friendly and efficient service. If you have any questions about homeowners insurance, give us a call, and we will be happy to make it as easy as possible for you to get the coverage you need.

A Newbie’s Guide to Motorcycle Insurance

Posted on March 29, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

You have saved enough, and you have gone ahead and bought a bike for yourself; congratulations. You are now part of South Dakota’s rich riding culture. While owning a motorcycle comes with its fair share of freedom, you have to deal with the respective responsibilities. One of such obligations is motorcycle insurance.

Because you are new in the motorcycle world, you might be wondering: should I buy motorcycle insurance? Is it mandatory in South Dakota? At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., situated in Sioux Falls, SD, we are glad you asked. Here, we help riders like you understand the motorcycle insurance landscape, helping you choose the right coverage.

Want to find out more? Please keep reading.

Is motorcycle insurance mandatory in South Dakota?

Yes, South Dakota requires you to carry motorcycle insurance, and you are required to show proof before registration of your bike. When on the roads, failure to show proof of insurance could lead to severe fines and penalties, including license suspension.

What motorcycle insurance options are offered in South Dakota?

While the state requires you to carry minimum motorcycle insurance coverage, your agent should advise whether it’s adequate. At first glance, the minimum coverages might look sufficient but may fall short when you are involved in a significant accident.

Other motorcycle insurance options that are offered for South Dakota riders include:

Collision coverage to pay for your bike’s damages when involved in an accident.
Comprehensive coverage to protect your ride from theft, vandalism, fire, and other perils stated in your policy.
Medical payment coverage to pay for medical costs, loss of income, and funeral expenses in accident-related injuries.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Did you know that approximately 8 percent of South Dakota motorists are uninsured? With many less responsible motorists on the road, you need this cover if you are involved in an accident with one of them.

What determines my motorcycle insurance rate?

While each insurance company computes its rate differently, the below factors are primarily considered in the computation.

Your bike’s value and power rating
Your location
Your driving record
Type of coverage you opt

Need motorcycle insurance? Whether you are an occasional rider or a seasoned biker, at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc., located in Sioux Falls, SD, we can customize motorcycle insurance for you. Contact us today, and our team shall handle the rest.

Common Renters Insurance Myths Exposed

Posted on February 25, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. serves the Sioux Falls, SD community by offering multiple types of policies. One of our primary goals is to provide excellent customer service to our clients. We take pride in serving the community as an independent agency.

Common Renters Insurance Myths

Renters Insurance allows you to protect your assets. The policy covers any damage to your personal items if a fire occurs or some other type of natural disaster. You are also covered if someone steals or vandalizes your property. Liability coverage is also important, as you will be protected if someone gets injured while visiting your property. Here are some common renters insurance myths to avoid while researching coverage.

I Don’t Have Valuable Assets.

Perhaps you may feel that you don’t need renters insurance coverage because you don’t have any valuable possessions. This is a mistake. Any item that you own holds some value. That’s why you need coverage. If something were to happen to your items, things could get pricey very quickly without renters insurance.

The Policy Is Restrictive

Many people assume that renters insurance only provides adequate coverage for personal items. You have more flexibility than you may realize. For example, you can add temporary living coverage to your policy so that you will be protected while you seek temporary lodging and your rental property is being repaired.

I Can Rely On My Landlord’s Policy

This is incorrect, as your landlord’s coverage does not protect your personal items if an accident occurs. Your landlord’s policy covers any damages to the building. However, you are responsible for covering your belongings.

Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. Will Help You Protect Your Assets

Visit our website today to learn more information about renters insurance.

When to review your auto policy

Posted on January 28, 2021July 19, 2023 by admin

For most people, an auto policy is not something you think about unless you need to file a claim. Most policies renew yearly, and they include a declaration that lists all the important facts about your policy. At Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we are an independent agency that strives to tailor our policy suggestions to our customers’ needs. We have partnered with a selection of top carriers.

When you receive your auto insurance renewal, review the declaration. It lists the drivers on your policy, the vehicles, the level of liability coverage, other included coverages, and the deductible amount. This is a common time to review your policy. Do you have enough liability coverage? If your assets have increased since you first got the policy, this is covered carefully. Think about the reality of having an accident where you are at fault and the injuries that could result. Is your coverage adequate?

When you make your last auto payment, you may want to review your auto policy. How old is your vehicle? How much value does it have? Is keeping collision and comprehensive coverage the right thing to do?

When you need to remove a car, add a driver, or make any change to your auto policy, it is a good opportunity to take the time to review your policy.

When you notice an increase in your auto insurance premium, you may want to review your auto policy with your agent. Are you taking advantage of all the discounts available to you? Are you getting a multi-policy discount? Do you need to keep additional coverages you may have? Can you get a better deal with a different carrier? An agent like those at Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD can help you find a perfect policy for you.

Store Your Motorcycle Safely During The Cooler Months

Posted on December 28, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

When the cooler months start to set in in South Dakota, you find yourself riding your motorcycle less and less until it becomes too cold to travel by bike alone. Even decked out in leather, it is not enough to keep the icy temperatures from shooting straight to the bone in your body. It is important to safely store your motorcycle during the cooler months when you are not going to be riding it.

Keeping It Out Of The Elements

One of the most important things you can do for your bike when you are storing it away for winter is to keep it out of the elements by storing it inside a garage or storage facility. Keeping the ice and snow off of your bike will prevent rust and corrosion, which can damage your bike.

Cover Your Bike

Even if you have your bike back into a corner in your garage, you still want to cover it with a large tarp to protect the bike’s exterior. These covers are meant to insulate the bike, keeping dirt and debris off of it as well as moisture.

Lubricate Your Bike

Before you put your bike up for storage, make sure that all of the moving parts on your bike have been well lubricated so that they are safe from the dry air that comes when it cools off.

Remove Weight Off Of The Tires

Once you decide it is time to put your bike up, it is essential to take all of the tires’ weight when you store the bike. This protects the tires and prevents flat spots when you ride your bike again in the spring.

Do you need motorcycle insurance coverage in or around Sioux Falls, SD? If so, give our agents at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. a call today for more information.

3 Tips for Buy Homeowner’s Insurance in South Dakota

Posted on November 30, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Sioux Falls, SD is a beautiful place to live. If you own a home here or are currently purchasing one, having a homeowner’s policy is a smart idea. In fact, it’s mandatory to have a policy if you mortgage your home. This is how the bank protects their investment. Even if you own your home outright, it’s still a good idea to secure a homeowner’s policy. You never know when something might happen, such as a fire, theft, or a liability accident. Are you ready to get started? Then read on to learn how to easily and affordably secure a homeowner’s insurance policy.

1. Compare Quotes

You’ll want to compare several quotes before choosing the right one. This is a good time to ask questions, take notes, and compare coverage vs. cost. A reputable agent from Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. can help you with this task. We recommend comparing three to five quotes to really understand the differences in coverage and cost. Remember that flood insurance is not included in a standard homeowner’s policy, so you may want to ask your insurance agent about this.

2. Bundle Policies

One way to save on your premiums is to bundle your homeowner’s policy with your other insurance policies. Consider bundling your auto, life, and any other policies you have. Then take that savings and add umbrella insurance to be protected to the maximum.

3. Work with a Reputable Agent

The reputable agents at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. are standing by to answer all your questions about homeowner’s insurance. They will help you compare quotes and bundle your policies. To learn more, contact one of our friendly agents serving Sioux Falls, SD today.

Why do I need renters insurance in South Dakota?

Posted on October 27, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Sioux Falls, SD is a great place to live whether you are a homeowner or a renter. As a renter, you may feel safe thinking that your landlord or management company has your back and your insurance. That is only partially correct. Your personal belongings are not covered by any insurance on the apartment, condo, or house you are renting. At Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we are a locally owned independent agency that provides personalized service to our customers.

The insurance covering the building you rent only covers the things that come with the rental like the actual structure, the cabinets, doors, and appliances if they are included. Everything you bring in with you, your furniture, decor, and clothing will not be covered. If you don’t have renters insurance, you will have to replace everything yourself. That could be a real hardship.

Imagine your furry friend gave someone a little nip, or one of your visitors slipped in your bathroom and got hurt. Renters insurance provides liability coverage to protect you from a legal judgment against you, medical bills, and legal costs.

If your rental was hit by a covered hazard and was no longer habitable, where would you stay? With renters insurance, you would be able to stay in a hotel while you find a temporary rental to stay in until you can move back home. That would certainly give you peace of mind.

When you are ready to discuss renters insurance at Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD, we will be here to help you find a policy to fit your needs and your budget. Stop in and visit us at our office or give us a call to get answers to any questions you may have and a no-obligation quote.

Three ways to learn more about your auto insurance options

Posted on September 30, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Doing your research is vital for finding the best option for any insurance need. Auto insurance is no exception. Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. provides auto insurance policies for motorists in South Dakota.

If you’re looking for the right auto insurance solution, it’s essential to be aware of your options. The following are three great ways to learn about your auto insurance options in Sioux Falls, SD.

The Internet

There is plenty of information online about auto insurance. You can use the internet to get quotes on various policies. You can also use the internet to research important insurance terms you need to understand.

Auto insurance company representatives

Auto insurance companies have representatives available by phone and online to provide information about the policies they provide. If you have any questions about auto insurance, it’s a good idea to question a representative from an insurance provider that you are interested in purchasing coverage from.

It’s important to ask questions that you have before purchasing an auto insurance policy. Asking questions ensures that you fully understand the policy you’re getting. This helps you to make the right decision regarding your auto insurance coverage.

Your state DMV

When you purchase auto insurance, it’s important to know what requirements are enforced in your state.

Every state sets its own requirements about what types of liability coverage you need in your policy. You could face penalties if you don’t carry an auto insurance policy that meets these requirements.

Consult your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to familiarize yourself with what auto insurance requirements you need to meet in your state.

You can visit our Wilcoxon Insurance Inc. website to explore auto insurance options in Sioux Falls, SD. Get in touch with us to learn more about your policy options.

Why should I get motorcycle insurance in South Dakota?

Posted on August 27, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

When you are in the Sioux Falls, SD area, having a mode of transportation is vital. One type of vehicle that you should consider getting is a motorcycle. When you have a motorcycle, you will be able to enjoy the nice weather and can be quite efficient. If you do get a motorcycle here, it is imperative that you get insurance. There are several reasons why you should get a motorcycle insurance policy.

Comply with State Laws

One of the reasons why someone will want to get a motorcycle insurance policy is so they can comply with state law. Similar to when you are operating any other vehicle on a public road in this state, you need to make sure you have liability insurance for your motorcycle at all times. This way, the state will know that you are able to pay for damages if you cause an accident. Those that are caught driving without this coverage could face severe penalties.

Protects Assets

Another important reason to get motorcycle insurance here is that it will protect your asset. Anyone that purchases a motorcycle is going to be making a significant investment. When you have a full motorcycle insurance policy, you are going to receive coverage for a wide range of issues that could cause a loss, including accident damage or theft.

Ultimately, getting a motorcycle insurance policy is a good idea for anyone in the Sioux Falls, SD area. If you are searching for a new policy here, you should call Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. When you do call Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. for your insurance needs, you can learn a lot more about all of your options. Our team will be able to assess your situation and help guide you into an excellent policy.

Things that can go wrong with your home that insurance won’t cover

Posted on July 26, 2020July 19, 2023 by admin

Owning a home in Sioux Falls, SD is something people aspire to accomplish. Homeownership is part of the American dream. When you own a home, you will need to carry home insurance if you have a mortgage to protect the lender’s investment in your home. Your home insurance also offers you, as the homeowner, lots of protection in the form of personal property and liability. But many things can go wrong with your home and it may not be covered by home insurance. It is crucial you know what these things are. At Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc., we use our years of experience to make your insurance experience positive and productive and give you the facts you need to make an educated decision.

Many of the things that can go wrong with your home are the result of neglect. Mold, mildew, termites, and rodent infestations are all not covered. If you fail to replace your roof and it causes wood rot, this is not included. If your sewer backs up into your house or a sump pump fails, you are out of luck. If a sinkhole appears in your yard or under your home, it is not covered. Hurricane damage may be cover but always check, and floods and earthquakes are not included in your coverage.

Reading your policy is one of the most important things that you can do to make sure you have all the coverage you need. Just because something is excluded from your policy doesn’t mean that you can’t get an endorsement to give you the coverage you need. Talking to the team at Wilcoxon Insurance, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD can make all the difference when it comes to getting all the coverage you deserve. Give the office a call to make an appointment today.

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