Are you planning on taking a trip to Mexico?  Are you planning on driving there?    If you answered yes to these questions, then you will likely need to purchase Mexico automobile insurance.

Many people make the mistake of thinking that their auto insurance covers them even if they are in Mexico.  Unfortunately, this is not the case.  Mexico does not recognize an auto insurance policy unless it is written by a carrier licensed under Mexican law.  If you are stopped by law enforcement and you don’t have Mexico automobile insurance, your vehicle can be impounded or in some instances you can even be jailed.

Also, the government of Mexico strictly regulates the importation of vehicles into the country. If you plan to drive further than the Border Zone or the Sonora Free Trade Zone (including the Baja California Peninsula), you will be expected to obtain a vehicle importation permit, in addition to having Mexico auto insurance.

Obtaining Mexico automobile insurance is easy and there are many options to meet your needs.  AIS offers a variety of polices to choose from.  You can purchase a policy for one day, or longer.  This is perfect for a day trip or a multiple-day vacation over the border.  Perhaps you travel to Mexico for business frequently.  If so, a 6 or 12 month policy may suit you better.  If this is the case, AIS has the coverage you need.  For more information, please see http://www.aisinsurance.com/california-mexico-vehicle-insurance.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

With spring and summer conditions being felt in some parts of the country, the temptation to get the bike out and ride is certainly there.  But if your bike has been stored over the winter months, you should perform some safety checks and routine maintenance before you hit the open road.  Here are a few things that you should do before you go.

•           Check tire pressure.  When not being used, tires can “leak” air making them soft and less responsive.  Fill your tires to the manufacturers recommended level for the best performance and safety.

•           Ensure all electronics and features are working properly.  Check brakes, clutch, lights and turning signals to be sure they are all in working order.

•           Warm up your bike. Before heading out, start your motorcycle and let it run for a few moments.  After it is warm, shut it off and check the oil.  If it is low, add more.

•           After the warm up, check for leaks around seals and hoses.

If you notice any problems, make sure they are addressed before you go for a ride.

The most important aspect of safety before you hit the road is making sure that your motorcycle insurance is up to date.  Many leave their bike uninsured while it is stored, so it is important to renew your policy to make sure you and those around you are protected while you ride.

If you are in need of motorcycle coverage, www.aisinsurance.com can provide you with a policy that fits your needs and budget. For more information please visit, www.aisinsurance.com/california-motorcycle-insurance.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Just as you should have an emergency kit prepared for a natural disaster, you should also carry an emergency kit with you in your vehicle at all times.  Car accidents occur suddenly without warning, and a lack of proper emergency supplies can lead to unnecessary struggles, injuries or even deaths.

Carrying an emergency kit with you in your car is something that used to be more commonly seen years ago.  Today, people rely heavily on cell phones and other communication devices to reach someone when in need of assistance.  However, these types of communication devices can’t be relied on all of the time.  If your car breaks down, you end up with a flat tire, or are involved in an accident, it may take a while for someone to get to your location depending on where the incident occurred.  Your phone may also end up damaged after an accident and become unusable. For your safety, protect yourself by carrying an appropriate car emergency kit.  Below are items that should be included:

•           Cell phone car charger

•           First-aid kit

•           Fire extinguisher

•           Warning lights, hazard triangles or flares

•           Tire gauge

•           Usable spare tire

•           Jumper cables

•           Flashlight

•           Disposable flash camera

•           Roadside-assistance number and other important family member phone numbers

•           Basic tool kit

•           Pen and paper

•           Ice scraper during winter months

•           Blanket to stay warm during winter months

•           Water and non-perishable food

While making sure that you have the above items in your car, review your insurance policy to be certain that you have the necessary coverage. Carry documentation of this with you as well.   If you have questions, contact your AIS representative today.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Homeowners insurance exists to protect your home and your possessions from events such as fires, hurricanes, severe storms and tornados. Homeowners insurance also exists to protect you as the homeowner in the event of an accident occurring on your property through what is known as liability coverage. Liability coverage protects a homeowner when someone is injured while on their property.

Why is liability coverage such an important component of a homeowners insurance policy?  Well, quite plainly because accidents happen.  Often an accident is not one person’s fault; however, if an accident does occur on your property, you may have to assume responsibility for it.  Consider, for example, if your neighbor slipped and fell on an uneven step entering your home and was injured.  Or, if your son is playing baseball in the backyard and hits the ball into a neighbor’s window?  These types of events are most likely where your liability coverage will come into play.  Liability may coverage also protects you when damage or injury is caused by your pet, such as your pet biting someone delivering a package to your door. This coverage can also travel with you, so if your dog bites someone away from your home, that may be covered as well.

For many, the liability coverage included in their homeowner insurance policy is sufficient, but others may choose to purchase additional coverage.  Below are some reasons why you may want to look into expanding your existing coverage:

-  You own a swimming pool

-  Social gatherings are held frequently at your home

-  You have lots of pets.  (If you have a dog that is considered to be an aggressive breed, you will want to pay close attention to whether or not you will be covered if your dog bites or injures someone.)

As with all types of insurance policies, there are exceptions to liability coverages.  All the limits and exclusions are specified in your policy and it is recommended you to review your policy to make sure that you have the coverage you need.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.