Is Home Insurance Reform on the Horizon?

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Homeowner’s insurance should provide various benefits for Michigan homeowners but is often heavily debated and under constant examination. That’s why we at Guy Hurley McNeil have taken a few moments to examine the potential for reforms and how, if they do come, they will help homeowners who feel like their policies are not good enough for the money that they pay for them.

Are Reforms on the Horizon?

In Rochester Hills, MI, home insurance is often dictated by many different factors. However, many in the state have struggled against options like no-fault (which is most commonly an auto insurance factor) and other unique problems that impact how insurance is priced and how policies are decided. As a result, the state’s lawmakers are often heavily debating different reforms that they may pass.

Unfortunately, the state’s uniquely balanced nature between Republicans and Democrats means that few laws ever get passed that benefit the average person. When the Republican-majority House or Senate passes a bill, a Democrat governor may veto it or vice versa. These issues impact homeowners and make it more difficult for them to get the insurance protection they deserve.

How Reforms Would Help

Home insurance reforms could help cut back on expensive costs and expand what these policies cover. Many lawmakers are pushing for such changes throughout the state, hoping to make it simpler for low-income homeowners to find policies that meet their needs without costing too much money.

So if you live in Rochester Hills, MI, and need high-quality home insurance, please contact us at Guy Hurley McNeil right away to learn more. We keep track of all of the different laws in the state and seek to ensure that you get the best policies. Our team is skilled at streamlining your insurance situation and ensuring that you are fully covered in a way that others may not provide for you.

What is auto insurance reform?

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Your auto insurance plan in Rochester Hills, MI may qualify for a discount, thanks to new auto reform policies. The state of Michigan has adopted new laws that now allow car owners to forgo purchasing personal injury protection (PIP) if they have a qualifying health insurance plan. The agents at Guy Hurley McNeil can provide a full explanation as to how auto insurance reform can positively impact your policy. 

Why is PIP coverage required?

Michigan is a no-fault state, which means that all drivers must have insurance that pays for personal medical bills. You cannot necessarily sue the driver who rear-ended you for personal injury in Rochester Hills, MI. 

Personal injury protection (PIP) provides the coverage needed to pay for your medical expenses regardless of whether you caused an accident. Generally speaking, Michigan drivers must furnish proof of PIP coverage that pays at least $25,000 for damages. 

Changes to the rules

Under the new auto insurance reform laws, drivers with health insurance through their employers may qualify for a waiver of the required PIP coverage. Those seniors with Medicare may also be able to forgo coverage. 

Not everyone with health insurance qualifies for a PIP waiver. Individuals with high deductibles, for instance, may still need to have a plan. It is not best to assume that your health plan qualifies you for a PIP waiver. You should speak with a professional in the auto insurance field before dropping your plan. 

Call Guy Hurley McNeil for help!

We are experienced in auto insurance and can thoroughly explain how the new auto insurance reform laws impact you and your indemnity policy. Call Guy Hurley today to see if you can save money on PIP coverage. 

How to deal with large home insurance claims

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How to deal with large home insurance claims

Large home insurance claims can be stressful, messy, and confusing. However, it’s imperative that you know what to do when dealing with a significant disaster claim. Remember how fast you act determines how soon you get back to your normal life. Here is what Guy Hurley McNeil recommends doing to get full compensation for your loss.

Review your policy

Every Rochester Hills, MI insurance company has its own way of dealing with insurance claims. Fortunately, everything is well outlined in your insurance policy document. First, you need to know whether the damage or loss is covered in your insurance policy. Next, you need to check the coverage limits to know the amount you will receive as compensation.

Salvage the situation

If you can still do something to prevent further loss without endangering your life, then do it.  As you do so, don’t throw anything away. Take photos if possible, close taps if any are open, and move items you think will get damaged either by fire or water.

Document the damage

The most important thing you can ever do after a big accident at home is document the damage or loss. Take photos and videos showing damage. This will act as evidence, and your insurance company’s adjuster may not interfere with the loss. Have a list of damaged items, year of purchase, and price.

Avoid making assumptions

Assumptions can be costly in large home insurance claims. Therefore, never assume something is covered or not covered. If your Rochester Hills, MI company rejects a claim, it doesn’t mean it’s not covered. Be wise and follow up to make sure you are not being downplayed.

Whether it is fire, theft, or natural disasters, they all touch your softest spot—your family and property. When under extreme personal stress, it’s easy to lose focus and mess up with the claim process. But with a well-organized claim, you can get back everything that belongs to you. For more guidance, contact Guy Hurley McNeil today!

What is auto insurance reform?

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Michigan’s new auto reform law went into effect on July 1, 2020. The new measure gives auto owners in Rochester Hills, MI more options in terms of personal injury protection (PIP). The agents at Huy Hurley McNeil can help you understand how the new auto reform law affects your budget and lifestyle. 

What does the new auto reform law change?

The new auto reform law gives individuals in Michigan the choice to opt-out of personal injury protection. Michigan is a no-fault state, which typically means drivers are responsible for their own medical bills and wages lost regardless of who is at fault in an accident. 

In past times, Michigan as a no-fault state meant PIP coverage was required. The new auto reform law, however, makes it possible for those who have health insurance through an employer to opt-out of purchasing the additional protection. 

Who else qualifies to opt-out of PIP coverage?

Those who have Medicare insurance in Rochester Hills MI may also choose to opt-out of PIP coverage. All health insurance policies, regardless of whether or not they are provided by an employer, require deductibles of $6,000 or less to meet the PIP opt-out standards. 

How does the new auto reform law apply to your situation?

The new auto reform law may save money if you qualify to opt-out of PIP coverage in Rochester Hills, MI. It is best, however, to speak with an insurance agent at Guy Hurley McNeil before deciding to go without protection. 

Call Guy Hurley McNeil today to learn more about Michigan’s new auto reform law and to get started with a quote for auto insurance!

3 Tips for Buying Home Insurance in Rochester Hills, MI

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Insuring your home in Rochester Hills, MI should be a top priority. Your home is a valuable asset and one that you don’t want to lose due to a lack of insurance. Protect your home with a home insurance policy in the event something goes wrong. Not sure where to start? Read on to learn more about buying home insurance in Rochester Hills, MI.

1. Work with a Reputable Agent

The first order of business when shopping for a new home insurance policy is to contact a reputable insurance agent. He or she will ask you some questions to find the right quotes to compare. This is a great time to ask all your questions about coverage vs. cost. From here, you’ll compare quotes to find the right policy for your needs.

2. Compare Several Quotes

It is recommended to compare several home insurance quotes before making a decision. Your reputable agent from Guy Hurley McNeil will help you with this. Keep in mind that insurance policies differ when it comes to coverage and price so be sure to review as many quotes as necessary before finding the right one.

3. Bundle Your Policies

Another thing a reputable agent can help you with is bundling your new home insurance policy with your other policies. The carrier you choose to do this with might be one you’ve been working with for years, or you may happen upon a better opportunity and decide to switch carriers. 

To learn more about purchasing a home insurance policy, contact the team at Guy Hurley McNeil. Our reputable agents are standing by right now to take your call. 

3 Benefits of Taking a Defensive Driving Class

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Defensive driving courses are a great way to reduce the number of points you have on your license or to get a discount on your insurance premiums. There are also other benefits as well that make taking the class well worth the time and money. In Rochester Hills, MI, the agents at Guy Hurley McNeil are able to provide sound advice on how to be as safe as possible while driving.

Brings You Up to Date on New Laws

Taking a defensive driving class will bring you up to date about any new laws or driving regulations that you may have overlooked or not heard of. In some cases, new laws are passed or changes are made to existing laws, and very little is discussed about it. A defensive driving class will keep you up to speed.

Reinforces What You Already Know

A good defensive driving course will reinforce what you already know. People who have been driving for several years can sometimes forget certain driving techniques or strategies that can help prevent them from being involved in an accident. Taking a defensive driving course is just one way to be reminded of many of the things you may have forgotten about over the years.

Become a Better Driver

Another advantage is that a good defensive driving class will teach you new driving techniques that will make you a better driver. With today’s advanced technology, it is much easier to avoid being a victim of a reckless driver.

Residents who live in Rochester Hills, MI can call the office of Guy Hurley McNeil and get all of the answers they need when it comes to auto insurance and learning how to become a better driver. You can schedule a consultation with them at any time and get the answers you need.

Do I still need PIP coverage?

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Michigan passed its new auto insurance reform law that went into effect on July 1, 2020. Under the new terms, drivers can forgo personal injury protection (PIP) if they can provide proof of health insurance that has a deductible of $6,000 or less. Do you still need PIP coverage in Rochester Hills, MI, though? An agent at Guy Hurley McNeil can help you determine what auto insurance plan is best for your lifestyle. 

What substitutes for PIP coverage?

A health plan that includes auto injuries while also meeting the deductible requirements as stipulated by the new law is generally enough to substitute for PIP coverage. Such plans are better known as qualified health coverage (QHC). 

Who has QHC?

Those who are insured under their employer in Rochester Hills, MI generally have QHC. Such is especially true if you work for a large corporation that provides health insurance that does not require a deductible. 

Those who have Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B may also opt-out of PIP if a spouse or other relative living in the same household has health coverage with a deductible under $6,000. Medicare members living in the same household as a spouse or relative who currently has PIP may also opt-out of the protection plan. 

Unfortunately, those with Medigap and Medicaid coverage are not eligible for exemption from PIP. Those with insurance provided by the armed forces may also need to add PIP to their insurance plan. 

Call Guy Hurley McNeil for help!

The new auto insurance reform law can be confusing. An agent from Guy Hurley McNeil can help you understand the new terms. Call today to get a thorough explanation of who qualifies for exemption from PIP.

Why Home Insurance Regulation Guidelines Are Something Michigan Homeowners Should Keep An Eye On

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Based in Rochester Hills, MI, Guy Hurley McNeil serves the community by offering different types of insurance policies. We strive to make sure that our clients are covered when life sends something unexpected their way.

Home Insurance Regulations

As a Michigan homeowner, home insurance is important. The policy allows you to cover your home in the event that your property is damaged. The policy also protects all of the items inside of your home in the event that they are vandalized. You can amend your policy to cover important valuables such as special artwork or jewelry.

 Home insurance allows you to protect your investment. While it’s true that Michigan homeowners do not have to deal with a lot of guidelines in regards to researching home insurance policies, recent news in the other parts of the country is something that may impact things in the future.

State regulatory agencies are monitoring different policies to ensure that homeowners receive the coverage that they deserve. Searching for home insurance can be an overwhelming experience. That is why regulatory agencies strive to help make the process of searching for home insurance a little easier for homeowners.

Consult With Guy Hurley McNeil

If you are a Rochester Hills, MI homeowner who needs some help navigating the process of searching for home insurance, we will assist you. We take pride in guiding our clients through the process and helping them find a unique policy that suits their individual needs.  We are committed to putting the needs of our clients first. For more information on how we can help you find the home insurance coverage that you need, visit our website today!

What Auto Insurance is Best for New Drivers?

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If you’ve just purchased a brand new car, the first thing you need to do before you take it out on the Rochester Hills, MI roads is to get insurance. However, with a brand new car, it can be hard to know what type of auto insurance is best for you. Learn about the different types of coverage and how you can get covered with Guy Hurley McNeil!

What Does Auto Insurance Cover?

In a nutshell, auto insurance provides you with financial support in the case that any damage is sustained to you, your vehicle, or someone else in an accident. Here are some of the different areas of auto insurance coverage: 

  • Liability
  • Damage to your vehicles
  • Damage to another person’s vehicle
  • Injury to you or others
  • Non-automotive property damage from a car accident

These are just some of the different areas of which auto insurance covers. To compare prices and amounts of different coverage types, get expert consultation from Guy Hurley McNeil. 

How Much Coverage Should You Have?

Usually, most states will require you to have liability coverage as a minimum for driving your car. Depending on how much you drive your car, you can get by on just liability coverage, which will cover you if you’re in an accident, and you are at fault. However, if you have a new car, it’s recommended that you get full coverage. Liability won’t cover you if a deer came out and hit your car on the road. With a new car, damage repairs can be expensive, so it might not hurt to get full coverage on your new car. 

Get the Coverage You Need with Guy Hurley McNeil

To find out what coverage type and amount is best for you, visit Guy Hurley McNeil in Rochester Hills, MI. You can contact them online to schedule an appointment. 

How is Home Insurance Reform Relevant to me as a Michigan Homeowner?

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Michigan residents aren’t required to carry homeowners insurance by law. However, many lenders may still require that homeowners purchase this insurance as a way of protecting their investment-your home. Michigan is also a state that has no regulation of rates when it comes to homeowner’s insurance. This means that insurance companies can set their rates without having to abide by any state regulations. Home insurance reform has impacted states like Florida and Colorado and created change in the way insurance companies can operate as well as how much homeowners pay for insurance. If anything, Michigan residents aren’t faced with a lot of guidelines and requirements when it comes to home insurance. Michigan doesn’t require homeowner’s insurance and home insurance companies aren’t regulated by the state. This is one of the reasons why home insurance reform may not impact Michigan residents as much as it has impacted others in other states.

Michigan Homeowners Insurance Laws

Guy Hurley McNeil is committed to providing understanding and guidance to Rochester Hills, MI residents when it comes to homeowner’s insurance. Because this type of insurance isn’t required in the state of Michigan by law, it’s intensely important that insurance agents guide and advice residents about the type of coverage and insurance that is truly best for their unique situation. If you’re a Michigan resident that’s purchasing a home, most lenders will require that you carry homeowner’s insurance. This is a smart way of protecting their investment int the event of some unforeseen circumstance. If you are financing your home or condo, many lenders will still require you to carry this type of insurance. 

If You Fail to Purchas Homeowners Insurance

If a lender requires you to carry homeowners insurance proof of insurance will be required. If you fail to purchase homeowner’s insurance As a homeowner who is financing their house or condo, the lender has the right to buy the insurance on your behalf and take payments for this insurance through an escrow account. Although this type of insurance isn’t a requirement, homeowners will more than likely still have to invest in it because most homeowners can’t pay for their home outright, they have to finance their home through a lender. Home insurance reform hasn’t impacted the way insurance companies do business in Michigan because this type of insurance isn’t regulated by state law and its not a legal requirement. This makes it necessary for homeowners to carefully compare insurance companies and choose the one that best suits their budget and their unique needs.