car insurance
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The Connection Between Your Credit Score and Insurance Premiums
If you have ever wondered why an insurance agent asks for your Social Security number or permission to run a credit check, you aren’t alone. It can feel invasive and, frankly, a bit confusing. After all, what does your ability to pay off a credit card have to do with your ability to navigate a four-way stop? The reality is that in most of the United States, your credit history is one of the most influential factors in determining how much you pay for auto and homeowners insurance. While it may seem like an odd metric for measuring driving or property risk, insurance companies rely heavily on a specialized version…
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Understanding Hydroplaning: How to Stay Safe on Oregon Roads
Concerned about hydro planing? Driving in the Pacific Northwest means becoming well-acquainted with rain. Whether it’s a light Central Oregon mist or a heavy Cascade downpour, wet roads present unique challenges—the most dangerous of which is hydroplaning. For residents seeking car insurance in Bend, Oregon, understanding this phenomenon is key to staying safe and keeping your premiums low. What is Hydroplaning? Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your vehicle’s tires and the surface of the road. When this happens, the tires lose their grip, and the vehicle begins to slide on the water rather than roll on the asphalt. In essence, your car becomes a sled.…
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Beyond the Basics: 5 Overlooked Causes of Car Accidents
Most drivers know the big red flags: don’t text while driving, never get behind the wheel after a few drinks, and keep your speed in check. We see the billboards and hear the PSA announcements constantly. Yet, even the most “careful” drivers can find themselves in a fender bender—or worse—because of factors they didn’t even realize were dangerous. When it comes to car insurance, we often focus on what happens after the crash. But at the Howard Steel Agency, we believe the best insurance policy is the one you never have to use. To help keep you safe on the roads, here are five frequently overlooked causes of car accidents…
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Car Insurance Terms And Conditions Explained
Understanding car insurance can feel like learning a second language. Between the industry jargon and state-specific mandates, many drivers simply sign their policy without fully grasping what is covered. If you are looking for clarity, a Bend, Oregon car agent can be your best resource for navigating these complexities. Here is a breakdown of the most common car insurance terms and conditions you need to know. 1. Liability Coverage: The Legal Foundation In Oregon, liability insurance is mandatory. It is divided into two parts: +1 Bodily Injury (BI): If you are at fault in an accident, this pays for the medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the…
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tips for lowering your car insurance bill in 2026
As we move into 2026, the car insurance landscape continues to evolve. While technological advancements in vehicles have made driving safer, they have also made repairs more costly, leading to a steady rise in premiums nationwide. For drivers in Central Oregon, managing these costs requires a proactive approach. If you are looking to trim your expenses without sacrificing protection, here are the most effective strategies to lower your car insurance payments this year. 1. Leverage Modern Safety and Anti-Theft Tech By 2026, many insurance carriers will have expanded their discounts for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). If your vehicle is equipped with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warnings, or updated GPS-based anti-theft…
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Navigating Car Insurance in Central Oregon In 2026
Finding the right insurance in the high desert can be a challenge, especially with the unique driving conditions and outdoor lifestyle we enjoy here. Whether you’re commuting through the 3rd Street traffic or heading out for a weekend at Mt. Bachelor, having a dedicated bend oregon car insurance agent is the best way to ensure you’re protected. Navigating Car Insurance in Central Oregon Living in the tri-county area means dealing with everything from icy winter passes to summer tourism congestion. Finding affordable car insurance in Central Oregon requires a local perspective. A local agent understands that your needs change when the seasons do, and they can help you find discounts…
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What to Do When You Hit a Deer
Driving in Central Oregon offers beautiful scenery, but it also means sharing the road with wildlife. Hitting a deer is a terrifying, all-too-common event. Knowing the proper steps to take immediately afterward can protect your safety and simplify your insurance claim. 🛑 Safety First: Pull Over and Assess Immediately after the collision, try to pull your vehicle safely to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Your safety and the safety of any passengers are the priority. Check for injuries. Do not approach the animal; a wounded deer can be unpredictable and dangerous. Stay in your vehicle and call the police or local law enforcement to…
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How a Government Shutdown Could Affect Your Car Insurance Premiums
When the federal government shuts down, most drivers think about delayed paychecks or closed agencies — not their car insurance. But a prolonged shutdown can influence the financial environment that shapes what you pay for auto coverage, both nationally and locally. Why a Shutdown Impacts Insurance Costs Economic uncertainty from a government shutdown can ripple through insurance markets. Repair costs rise when supply chains slow, claims take longer to process, and insurer operating expenses increase. Analysts from AM Best note that extended shutdowns increase risk exposure and may prompt carriers to adjust rates to protect profit margins. Even though rates won’t spike overnight, insurers may gradually increase premiums as they…
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Mindful Driving Habits to Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents nationwide. Even brief distractions, such as texting, eating, or daydreaming, can have serious consequences. Adopting mindful driving habits helps protect everyone on the road and may help you save on car insurance. What Is Mindful Driving? Mindful driving is staying fully aware behind the wheel. Be conscious of your vehicle, surroundings, and yourself. Rather than operating on autopilot, make an effort to avoid distractions and maintain calm, alert attention. If you feel tired, upset, or distracted, stop driving. Take a break or pull over to stay safe. Common Causes of Distracted Driving Many everyday distractions are dangerous. The most common include: Texting…
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Why are car insurance premiums continuing to rise in 2025?
Car insurance rates are rising in autumn 2025. If you’re searching for “Bend, Oregon car insurance,” here’s why premiums cost more—and what that means locally. Several macro-trends are driving up costs. Insurers are facing higher claim costs from inflation, costlier repairs due to advanced vehicle technology, more frequent and severe accidents, and rising legal expenses. Investopedia+2Kiplinger+2 For someone in or near Bend, Oregon, “Bend Oregon car insurance” isn’t just a search phrase—local conditions like climate, traffic, and theft rates mean premiums depend strongly on where you live. NAIC+1 Here are a few specific reasons why your premium might be rising now: What’s Causing Car Insurance Premiums To Increase? Car parts…
