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How Long Do Car Insurance Claims Take to Settle?
After ensuring everyone is safe following an accident, one of your first concerns is how long your car insurance claim will take to settle. Timelines vary based on the accident, claim type, and the cooperation of those involved. Knowing the usual process helps you set expectations. The Typical Timeline for Car Insurance Claims Most straightforward claims are settled within 30 days. Some resolve in weeks; others, with complications, can take months. State law generally requires insurers to resolve claims within a reasonable timeframe, which varies depending on the claim’s complexity. Factors That Affect Claim Settlement Time Several factors can speed up—or slow down—the claims process: Type of Claim Simple property…
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What to Do When Your Teen Is in a Car Crash: A Guide for Oregon Parents
Few calls are more unsettling for a parent than hearing that their teenager has been in a car accident. Even if the crash is minor, the stress, confusion, and concern that follow can feel overwhelming. Knowing how to respond in the moment—and how to handle the aftermath—can help protect your teen’s safety, reduce stress, and ensure your Oregon car insurance works effectively for you. Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe The first priority after a crash is safety. Encourage your teen to: Stay calm and take a deep breath. Check for injuries—both theirs and those of others involved. If safe, move the vehicle to the side of the road…
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What Happens If Your Car Insurance Lapses?
Car insurance is not only a legal requirement in Oregon but also an essential financial safety net. However, many drivers find themselves facing a lapse in coverage due to missed payments, oversight, or switching policies without proper timing. If you’re a driver in Central Oregon, understanding the consequences of a lapse in your Central Oregon car insurance can save you from costly mistakes and legal issues. What Is a Car Insurance Lapse? A lapse occurs when your auto insurance policy is no longer active due to non-payment or cancellation. Even a short period without insurance can have long-lasting effects, especially since Oregon law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability…
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8 Hands-Free Car Tips for a Safer Drive
Minimizing distractions is key to staying safe on the road. One of the biggest causes of accidents is driver inattention, often from fumbling with phones, adjusting gadgets, or taking their hands off the wheel. By adopting hands-free habits, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road. If you live in Central Oregon, pairing these habits with the right Bend, Oregon car insurance gives you even greater peace of mind. Here are eight hands-free car tips to make every drive safer Use Bluetooth or CarPlay Sync your phone with your vehicle’s Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. This lets you make calls, send texts by voice, and access navigation…
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Passenger Safety: Tips Every Driver and Rider Should Know
Passenger safety is just as important as driver safety, and taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference on the road. Whether you’re behind the wheel or riding along, understanding how to stay safe helps prevent accidents and injuries. For drivers and riders alike, safety should always come first—because one person’s decision can affect everyone in the vehicle. And while being cautious on the road is critical, having reliable protection, such as Bend, Oregon car insurance, ensures peace of mind in case the unexpected happens. Always Wear Your Seatbelt It may sound obvious, but seatbelts are a lifesaver. Both drivers and passengers should buckle up every time, regardless…
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Does Auto Insurance Cover Medical Expenses?
After an accident, drivers and passengers often wonder if car insurance will cover medical expenses. Coverage depends on your policy, state, and the situation. Knowing how insurance works with medical bills helps you avoid surprises. 1. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Many states require Personal Injury Protection (PIP), especially those with no-fault laws. PIP pays medical expenses for you and your passengers, no matter who caused the crash. It can also cover some lost wages and rehabilitation costs, providing broad medical coverage. If you live in a no-fault state and are injured, PIP pays your medical bills up to your policy’s limit before health insurance or other coverage applies. 2. Medical…
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Distracted Driving Awareness: The Importance of Driving Mindfully
Every April, Distracted Driving Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the dangers of losing focus on the road. Technology brings convenience but also constant distractions, from texting to eating. These actions, though seemingly minor, can have life-altering consequences. Mindful driving protects you, your passengers, and everyone on the road. The Scope of the Problem According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of lives are lost each year due to distracted driving. In fact, in the United States, distracted driving accounts for a significant percentage of all roadway crashes. This sobering reality underscores the importance of dedicating an entire month to raising awareness and promoting safer driving…
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Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving: Stay Safe Behind the Wheel
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Tips to Prevent Distracted Driving: Stay Safe Behind the Wheel
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to the numerous accidents on American roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands lose their lives each year because drivers lose focus. Whether it’s texting, adjusting the radio, or eating, just a few seconds of distraction can have serious consequences. Fortunately, every driver can take proactive steps to stay alert. Here are tips to help prevent distracted driving. How To Prevent Distracted Driving Cell phones are one of the biggest culprits of distracted driving. Texting, calling, or even glancing at notifications can take your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel. The easiest way to eliminate this…
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Is It Safe to Drive a Compact Car in 2025?
Imagine cruising through Central Oregon’s winding roads in a compact car—enjoying low costs and effortless parking—but is this convenience worth it when safety’s on the line? For local drivers, where harsh weather is a given, safety matters most. Let’s take a closer look at the real safety record of compact cars and how the right insurance can make all the difference, no matter what you drive. Modern Safety Features Improve Compact Car Safety Today’s compact cars are much safer than they were even a decade ago. Thanks to advances in automotive technology, most models now come standard with a suite of safety features, including: Electronic stability control Anti-lock braking systems…
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Tips for Avoiding Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a top cause of accidents. With smartphones and in-car tech, staying focused is more important than ever. Use these tips to avoid distractions and stay safe. 1. Put Your Phone Away The most common distraction for drivers is smartphone use. Texting, scrolling through social media, or even using GPS apps can take your attention off the road. To avoid this, put your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode or place it out of reach. If you must use GPS, input your destination before driving and rely on voice guidance. 2. Avoid Eating and Drinking While Driving Eating while driving divides your attention. Plan meals before or after…
