Rideshare and Auto Insurance: What Drivers Need to Know

The gig economy in and around Pomona, CA has given rise to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, allowing individuals to earn income by providing transportation services. If you’re considering becoming a rideshare driver, it’s crucial to understand the implications for your auto insurance. 

Personal Auto Insurance vs. Rideshare Insurance

Most personal auto insurance policies do not provide coverage while you are driving for a rideshare service. This is because traditional auto insurance is designed for personal use, and engaging in commercial activities like ridesharing can lead to coverage gaps.

The Rideshare Insurance Gap

The rideshare insurance gap is a critical concern for drivers. It refers to when you actively use your vehicle for rideshare purposes but have not picked up a passenger or completed a ride. During this time, your auto insurance may not cover accidents or damage, potentially leaving you financially vulnerable.

Understanding Rideshare Company Insurance

Rideshare companies typically offer insurance coverage that varies depending on your status during the rideshare process:

  • Offline or Personal Mode: When your rideshare app is turned off, your auto insurance provides coverage.
  • Online, Awaiting a Ride Request: The rideshare company’s insurance often provides limited coverage for liability and collision.
  • En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During a Ride: At this stage, the rideshare company’s insurance generally offers more coverage.

Additional Coverage Options

Drivers have a few options for additional coverage:

  • Rideshare Endorsements: Some insurance companies offer rideshare endorsements that can be added to your policy.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: Consider commercial auto insurance if you plan to drive for rideshare services frequently. 

THINK Insurance & Financial Services Can Help You

At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we can answer all your questions concerning auto insurance. We assist the Pomona, CA area. Contact us today.

Auto Insurance for Rideshare Drivers: What You Need to Know

Providing rideshare services can be a great way to leverage your vehicle to earn a full-time or part-time income in Pomona, CA, and the surrounding areas. But before you sign on with Lyft or Uber and start taking customers, you’ll want to ensure your auto insurance policy is comprehensive enough.

We at THINK Insurance & Financial Services can help you assess your current insurance and determine whether you need an upgrade. But in the meantime, check out the following information for a quick look at what you should know.

Your Existing Policy Might Not Cover You

Many new rideshare drivers assume that since they’re using their car, their existing car insurance policy will be protection enough should they get into an accident. However, unless you happen to know your current policy also covers business use of your vehicle, you’re probably dealing with a coverage gap.

Failing to disclose the fact that you’re now using your car to earn money and update your policy accordingly can land you in hot water with your insurer. Not only will they likely not compensate you if you have an accident while driving your car for business purposes, but they may decide to drop you as a client altogether.

Your Rideshare Service Might Not Cover You, Either

Yes, services like Uber and Lyft provide some protection for their drivers while they’re on the job; but it’s not enough. You still need rideshare coverage to ensure you’re always protected – with or without passengers in the car and whether or not your rideshare app is on.

If you’re in or near Pomona, CA, drive for Uber or Lyft, and need help upgrading your auto insurance, call us at THINK Insurance & Financial Services. We’ll help you make sense of everything and settle on the perfect policy for you.

Seat belts save lives

Seat belts are one of a vehicle’s most important safety features, both here in the Pomona, CA area and anywhere you get into a vehicle. Wearing a seat belt can significantly reduce your risk of injury or death in the event of an accident. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belt use is estimated to have saved nearly 14,000 lives in 2017. At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we urge you to use one whenever you get into a car.

The benefits of wearing a seat belt far outweigh any potential discomfort it may cause. When worn correctly, a seat belt keeps you securely restrained against the back of your seat and prevents you from being thrown forward or off your seat in the event of an impact. This greatly reduces your risk for serious injuries that could be fatal if not adequately protected by a seat belt. 

In addition to saving lives, wearing a seat belt provides other safety benefits too. It helps keep drivers from being distracted while driving and keeps them aware of their surroundings at all times. Seat belts also reduce vehicle damage in crashes because occupants are less likely to fly around inside the vehicle and impact fragile components like windows and airbags. 

To ensure maximum protection and safety when driving, always remember to wear your seat belt every time you get behind the wheel or are a passenger in an automobile. For more safe driving tips, call us at THINK Insurance & Financial Services today. We proudly serve the Pomona, CA area and would be happy to help you find a policy that meets your needs and budget.

What Does Comprehensive Auto Insurance Cover?

Auto insurance coverage is essential for protecting you from financial losses related to a covered event. There are a few different types of auto coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, to name a few. Many insurance customers have a common question: What does comprehensive coverage protect? The insurance experts at THINK Insurance & Financial Services can help answer other questions for the residents of Pomona, CA.

Comprehensive Insurance Protection 

Comprehensive insurance offers protection against incidents in events aside from collisions and liability. For example, comprehensive coverage will protect you from financial losses if your vehicle is damaged in a natural disaster or is vandalized or stolen. If you finance your vehicle, many finance companies or banks will require you to carry comprehensive insurance coverage. 

If you need help with the level of insurance coverage, you need to suit your specific situation. Our insurance experts are here to help. We work one-on-one with our customers to ensure they get the insight and information they need to select the ideal policy. Once the agent has determined which coverage best suits your current needs, they will recommend policy options and assist with the purchase, any changes, and even submitting claims for a covered event.

Find Out More Today 

Individuals living in or around the Pomona, CA area should call or stop by the THINK Insurance & Financial Services office to consult with one of our knowledgeable agents. We are committed to providing customer service that helps individuals secure the right insurance policies to protect and offer them security. Don’t wait to get the auto insurance protection you need. Get started today.

Do I Need Full Coverage Auto Insurance for My Electric Car?

Congratulations! You’ve finally done it. You took the plunge and bought an electric car. Now that you’ve made this major purchase, you must protect your investment with full coverage auto insurance. This blog post will discuss three key benefits of full coverage auto insurance for electric car owners in Pomona, CA.

Security

When you have full auto insurance coverage, your car is fully protected in an accident or other covered incident. With comprehensive collision coverage, you won’t have to worry about footing the entire bill if your car is damaged or totaled in an accident. Instead, your insurance company will pick up the tab (up to your policy limits, of course). A THINK Insurance & Financial Services representative can help you select the proper coverage limits for your needs.

Lower Repair Costs

If you only have liability insurance, you’ll pay 100% of the repair costs if your car is damaged in an accident deemed to be your fault. However, if you have full coverage auto insurance, your insurance company will foot a portion of the repair bill (again, up to your policy limits). This can save you considerable money over time, especially if you’re involved in multiple accidents.

Coverage for Non-Accidents

Full coverage auto insurance also protects your car in the event of non-accident damages, such as hail damage, theft, and vandalism. If one of these perils damages your vehicle, you’ll be glad to have comprehensive and collision coverage to fall back on.

There are many benefits to having full coverage auto insurance for your electric car. To learn more about coverage in Pomona, CA, contact your THINK Insurance & Financial Services representative.

Tips to Help Prevent Accidents When the Roads Are Wet

At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we provide auto insurance to residents in the greater Pomona, CA area. We have seen our fair share of accidents caused by rain and slick roads, and we want to help our customers stay safe if they travel when the roads are wet. Here are a few tips that may help prevent accidents when the roads are wet. 

Ensure Your Tires Have Enough Tread on Them

One of the best tips to keep you safe when driving on slick terrain is ensuring your tires have enough treads. If your tires are worn down, they cannot grip the road either, leading to slipping and sliding. If your tires are nearing the end of their lifespan, replace them before the rainy season. 

Slow Down and Drive Properly For the Conditions

Another tip to help prevent accidents while driving when the roads are wet is to slow down and drive appropriately for the conditions. Never speed in the rain, as this can lead to an accident. If you have trouble seeing or navigating in the rain, drive slower than the suggested speed limits. 

Keep More Distance Between Cars and Avoid Heavy Braking

Lastly, when driving in the rain or on slick roads, ensure you keep enough distance between cars and avoid heavy braking. You need more space to brake on slick roads, and heavy braking can lead to your vehicle sliding on wet roads. 

One of the best ways to stay safe when the roads are wet is to avoid driving unless you have to. If you have to drive on slick roads, always follow the above tips to help you stay safe. If an accident does occur, having excellent auto insurance is important. The staff at THINK Insurance & Financial Services, serving the greater Pomona, CA area, can help you with the best auto insurance for your needs. Call or email us today to learn more. 

Things to do to get your vehicle ready for summer

With more than 24,000,000 licensed drivers in California, chances are you will have plenty of company when you decide to hit the road. Pamona, CA is located in densely populated Los Angeles County.

At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we are one of California’s largest independently owned insurance agencies. We are committed to providing our customers with the service and prices they are looking for. 

With summer just around the corner, it is time to start preparing for all the driving that comes with summer. You want your car to be at its best and, most of all, to be safe. 

Check your tires

If you plan on enjoying the road during the summer, it’s vital that you make sure that your tires have enough tread to get you safely through your trips. If your tires show signs of wear, make an appointment to get new ones installed. Make sure that you have a tire pressure gauge, a pump, and a can of Fix a Flat in your trunk. Check to make sure you have a spare tire and a jack. 

Get the air conditioner checked

Making sure that your A/C is working well will keep you from having some very uncomfortable trips. You should get your unit checked yearly. 

Replace your windshield wipers

Nothing is worse than being caught in a rainstorm with faulty wipers. It can be hazardous. 

Check all your fluids.

Ensure that your radiator is filled and that your oil, transmission, and steering fluids are all topped off.  This should all be taken care of as part of a visit to your local oil-changing business or auto dealership. 

Contact THINK Insurance & Financial Services in Pamona, CA if you want the benefits that only an independent insurance agent can provide.

The Different Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

There are a few different types of coverage you can choose from when it comes to car insurance. Understanding the differences between these types is essential, as it can help you make the best decision for your needs. Below is an overview of each type of coverage.

1. Collision Coverage

This type of coverage helps pay for damages to your vehicle that a collision with another object has caused. This can include hitting a guardrail, another car, or even a tree. It’s essential to have this type of coverage if you want to be able to repair your vehicle after an accident.

2. Comprehensive Coverage

Are you worried about the damage to your car from things other than a collision? Then comprehensive coverage may be a good option for you. This type of coverage can help pay for repairs or replacement if your car is damaged by events such as fire, theft, or vandalism. If you have a loan on your vehicle, the lender often requires this type of coverage.

3. Liability Coverage

Liability coverage helps to protect you from financial damages if you are found liable for an accident. This can include things like medical expenses and property damage. It’s important to have this type of coverage if you don’t want to be responsible for paying these costs out of your own pocket.

4. Medical Payments Coverage

This coverage helps to pay for your medical expenses after an accident. This can include X-rays, hospital stays, surgery, and more. It’s a good idea to have this type of coverage if you want to be sure your medical expenses are covered.

5. Uninsured/Underinsured

The coverage protects you if you are hit by a driver who does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance to cover the damage. This can be a valuable type of coverage, as it can help protect you financially if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Need Auto Insurance in Pomona, CA?

Now that you know more about the different types of auto insurance coverage, it’s time to decide which one is right for you. THINK Insurance & Financial Services can help you choose and find the best policy for your needs. Contact us today to get started!

Types of Automobile Insurance You Should Consider

It can be quite confusing when you decide to get a car and then have to find the right insurance for your budget. There are so many different things to consider, that you may not even know where to start.

Here are some of the types of automobile insurance that you may want to consider. 

The basic insurance plan is liability only. This plan is usually not enough because it will only cover medical bills. It will not help you fix your vehicle or replace it if needed. 

For that reason, you may want to look into collision insurance. This will pay for damage to your car if you were in an accident. If it is totaled, they will give you money to help you find a replacement. 

Comprehensive coverage, though expensive, will cover a lot of damage.  It will help you fix your vehicle if it gets damaged due to the weather or a fire. It will also help you recoup your costs if it is broken into. Furthermore, it covers vandalism, floods, and even theft.  

You may also want to get uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This will cover your losses if you get into an accident with someone who doesn’t have enough insurance. 

Some people want rental reimbursement coverage in case they need to use a rental at any point. This is optional, but it may be something to consider. 

Though you may want to stick to the minimum amount of insurance, you have to remember that you will only have liability, which will cover medical bills, but that may be about it. If you want to make sure that you get enough insurance, contact us today at THINK Insurance & Financial Services in Pomona, CA. 

California Auto Insurance: Why Comprehensive Insurance is Important

When it comes to auto insurance in California, the minimum requirement is liability insurance. You need to have bodily injury per person and per accident insurance, and property damage liability coverage. You also need uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. 

There are other risks when you drive on California roads that you may want to consider additional insurance for. Comprehensive auto insurance is one of those additional coverages.

At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we want Pomona, CA drivers to be fully protected when they are driving.

What is Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance is coverage that protects you against your losses when something happens to your vehicle that is not collision-related.

When your vehicle is vandalized or broken into, comprehensive insurance will cover those losses. It will also cover some damages such as if something were to fall on your car. 

Benefits of Comprehensive Insurance

The benefits of comprehensive insurance are that it will repair or replace your vehicle for its actual cash value if something happens to it. If you only have the minimum requirements of auto insurance on your car, liability insurance will not cover you for theft, vandalism, or damages caused by other events such as falling or flying objects.

If you do not have an older car, then comprehensive insurance offers the benefit of covering you for the many risks of driving on California roads.

Get a Quote

The best auto insurance is insurance that covers you for many perils. If you want a more thorough coverage, consider adding comprehensive insurance to your policy. At THINK Insurance & Financial Services, we help Pomona, CA get the auto insurance policy that is best for their needs. Call us for a quote today.