Car Insurance

If you have recently been involved in an accident it could, unfortunately, translate to financial liabilities on your vehicle, depending on how badly it was damaged. If you have insurance, congrats! However, navigating the car insurance claim process can be tricky. There is a lot of emphasis placed on buying insurance, but not many people know what to do during the claims process. In this guide, we will break down the car insurance claim and what to do if you ever get in an accident.

Talk to Your Claims Representative

The first step of the claims process is talking with a claims representative after your accident. This claims representative will discuss damage to your vehicle, estimate of repairs, your policy coverage, and other relevant information to ensure you’re on the same page with your insurer. It is often easy to monitor the progression of your claim by logging into your account on your insurer’s website.

Use a Rental Car

While the claim validation is ongoing, you will need to make arrangements for a rental or another car you can use while the process continues. Most auto insurance policies have a rental reimbursement allowance which will cover the daily charge of your vehicle, eliminating additional out-of-pocket costs.

Await the Investigation

When there is more than one vehicle involved in the accident, you will need to wait for the insurance representative to conduct an investigation. This investigation will cover all parties involved and ensure that all areas are covered. The representative will determine liability, cost of repair and parties to be settled.

Repair Your Vehicle

Once the investigation is complete, your vehicle can then be repaired at any auto repair shop of your choosing. Some insurers have partner shops they will recommend for you but the decision rests in your hands, especially if you have a repair shop you already trust.

Give Feedback

Although it may not seem important, feedback is crucial to help you improve the processes of your insurer. This will help them to fix any problems they may have with their processes and offer better service to you and other customers the next time around. Giving honest feedback is a critical procedure that will help your insurer fine-tune their process and make your next claims experience faster and better.

If you have never gone through the claims process, this is a guide that will help you get through smoothly. If you are having problems during your claims process, contact your insurer for immediate resolution. If you are looking for a reliable insurer for your vehicle, you can check us out at Abatelli. We will help you to find a suitable insurer for your vehicle in no time. Contact us today!

One of the largest problems with driving is that we are unable to predict the actions of others sharing the roads. No matter how good of a driver you are, there’s no guarantee that you won’t be involved in an accident at some point. Because of this, it’s essential to drive defensively. Driving defensively can help you identify threats on the road in order to respond in a way that ensures your safety. 

What is defensive driving?

Defensive driving is a way of driving that makes use of various techniques and tactics to help you stay safe and keep away from problems caused by other road users. Safety is the key element in defensive driving, as you are likely to react to hazards that can protect you from accidents and injuries. By adopting a few simple defensive driving habits, you can enjoy safer drives. 

Defensive driving techniques

• Avoid distractions

Driving whilst distracted is a leading cause of car accidents across the U.S. Your attention needs to be on the road at all times when behind the wheel. Losing focus on what’s happening around you increases your chances of being involved in a car accident. Before driving away, put your phone out of reach, set the radio on a station and leave it, finish any food or drink, and ensure passengers are entertained. All of these actions can help prevent distractions – and, therefore, keep you safer.

• Keep a safe distance from other motorists

Ensure there is adequate space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Ideally, this should be three seconds in normal driving conditions. When it’s raining, the road is wet or covered with leaves, there is fog, or the driving conditions are poor, it is advisable to leave extra space so that you have plenty of time to stop if needed. 

• Check your blink spot

Even if you have a vehicle with the latest tech that lets you know someone is in your blind spot, it’s good practice to check for yourself before merging and moving. Sometimes, technology fails to recognize a pedestrian or motorcyclist. It takes a fraction of a second to check, and it could be the difference between a safe journey and a disastrous one.

• If in doubt, yield

Some impatient drivers may not be as willing to wait for other road users. Even if you have the right of way or another vehicle is intent on driving off first even though you were the first one to approach the stop sign, do not get angry or move into their space. If you are in doubt of which vehicle’s turn it is, yield until safe to move.

• Anticipate dangers

Be aware of everything that is happening in front of you. Are you near a car weaving through lanes at a high speed? Is the driver in front of you on their phone? Is the car behind you too close? Becoming more aware can help you to spot hazards and respond to them before the worst happens.

These defensive driving tips can help you to keep safe on the road. For all of your auto insurance needs, visit Abatelli Group, Inc. We are ready to help you find reliable insurance today.

Auto insurance is there to help protect our pockets and vehicles when we need it the most. While many of us have this reliable coverage, not all of us understand what it does and does not cover. Lawsuits are a common part of getting into a car accident, with many drivers suing others for damages and injury. To understand if your auto insurance can help you with these fees, read on.

Most drivers have liability insurance. This coverage consists of two basic components, including:

• Bodily injury liability coverage – This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses of anybody injured as a result of an at-fault driver’s actions. It can also help to cover legal fees if the injured party files a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
• Property damage liability coverage – This covers damages resulting from a covered accident in which you were at fault, including the other party’s vehicle repair or replacement costs or any other damage to someone else’s property.

In short, car insurance can help to cover some legal fees. If you are being sued, then your car insurance company should cover legal fees and be able to hire an attorney on your behalf. If you are suing someone, however, then you will need to find your own lawyer and pay your own associated legal expenses. However, if you win the lawsuit, then you may be able to collect these legal fees from the at-fault party.

For all of your auto insurance needs, visit Abatelli Group, Inc. We are ready to help you find reliable insurance today.

Simple steps to keep more money in your pocket.

Car insurance. Whether you hate it or love it, the expense is pretty much a must. While you may not have a choice in paying the monthly bill, there are ways you can reduce your cost to better fit your budget. Here are just a few easy ways to shave down your auto insurance expense.

Bundle policies

Are you and your spouse on the same insurance policy? Is your homeowners insurance from a different provider than your auto insurance? Whenever you combine coverage with one carrier, you’re guaranteed to save money. This can come in handy if you have multiple drivers in the household or have several policies to keep track of.

Switch up your commute

Insurance providers base your annual premium rate on how many miles you drive, among other factors. If you can, look for ways to lower your mileage, whether than means working from home a day or two or hopping on public transport. Reducing your annual mileage can help you save money on auto insurance and gas!

Become a defensive driver

Did you know that completing a traffic school course voluntarily could reduce your premium? Many insurance carriers have discount programs in place for drivers who elect to take a defensive driving course. Get in touch with your carrier to see if they offer a discount for completing a course.

Finding affordable auto insurance doesn’t have to be difficult. To get started on quality coverage, contact Abatelli Group, Inc., serving motorists in Whitestone and neighboring cities in New York.

Stress-free travel tips for the holidays.  

The holiday season is a time for traditions and family – and that usually means traveling over the festive period, which can be arduous and hazardous. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your family safe and protect your journey, too. Discover how to get around safely with our tips for traveling during the holiday season.

1. Plan journeys ahead of time and tell someone where you’re going. Map out a couple of different routes in case you encounter heavy traffic or roadworks.
2. If you are going to be driving, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Check the tires, brakes, lights, battery, fluids, and emergency kit.
3. The weather can change quickly during this time of year. Check weather conditions before setting off and avoid driving in poor conditions.
4. Avoid distractions behind the wheel. Make sure your GPS is set up, the kids are entertained, and your phone is out of reach before starting the vehicle.
5. Never drink and drive.
6. Don’t forget to leave your house secure by locking all the doors and windows and setting the alarm if you have one.
7. Make sure all insurance policies are up to date and the policy has the cover you need, especially if you are driving many miles or leaving your home unattended.

Make sure that you have an auto insurance policy that works for you. To get started on quality coverage, contact Abatelli Group, Inc., serving motorists in Whitestone and neighboring cities in New York.

Know how to stay safe while driving in the dark.  

The nights are starting to draw in and winter is rapidly approaching. Now, you may find yourself driving to and from work in poor weather and visibility conditions. To help, we’ve rounded up some essential tips for driving safely in the dark.

Pay attention to your lights

Your lights will prove to be your best friends while traveling in darkness. Before you set off, check that all of your lights are working correctly. Remember to check the signal lights and ask a friend to help you check the taillights. Remember to use dipped beams in urban areas. When there are no cars in front of you and there isn’t any oncoming traffic, feel free to use high beams. Remember to turn them back to low beams when other vehicles approach so that you don’t dazzle other drivers.

Keep the windows clean

Enhance your visibility by keeping your car’s windows clean and clear – both inside and out. Failing to do so will make them more prone to steaming up, and the glare from other vehicles on the road will also worsen.

Scan the road ahead

Read the road ahead for signs of oncoming drivers or wildlife activity. Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists, too, that become difficult to spot after dark.

Take breaks

It’s always recommended that you take regular breaks when driving long distances, but this is even more vital when you’re driving overnight.

We hope that these tips help you to drive safely in the dark this season! Make sure that you have an auto insurance policy that works for you. To get started on quality coverage, contact Abatelli Group, Inc., serving motorists in Whitestone and neighboring cities in New York.

Stay safe at the start of a new school year.

The summer break is drawing to a close and that means it’s back-to-school season. With college students packing up their cars to go back to campus and parents dropping off their kids at school, the roads undoubtedly get busier. When you’re out on the roads this season, be mindful of the increased congestion and possible distracted drivers. Take a look at these essential back-to-school driving tips.

• Always wear a seat belt

This should be obvious. Whether you’re heading to school, work or just running errands around town, drivers and passengers need to buckle up. Seat belt save lives and prevent injuries – only if you use them!

• Allow extra time

The roads will be busier in the mornings and afternoons thanks to school traffic. If you need to be somewhere for a certain time, account for the congestion and leave plenty of time for the journey. If you’re going to be driving somewhere unfamiliar, plan your route in advance.

• Observe speed limits

Drivers should always abide by the posted signs for speeding and school zones no matter what time of day it is. Kids may be walking home from school in the early evening in the vicinity of the school.

• Avoid distracted driving

When you’re driving kids to and from school, the opportunity for distraction is multiplied. Remember to put your phone down (that important work email can wait) and avoid eating behind the wheel. Multitasking behind the wheel means that you’re not paying attention to what is on the road. If a child chases after a ball in the road, you want to be sure you are prepared to stop.

• Review your car insurance

Before hitting the road this season, make sure to replace any expired insurance identification cards in the event the driver needs to prove they have insurance during a traffic stop.

We hope that these back-to-school driving tips keep you and your family safe as another school year begins. For all of your insurance needs, visit Abatelli Group, Inc. We are ready to help you find reliable insurance today.

Understand how your auto damages are estimated after an accident.

If your vehicle is damaged in a car accident, it is natural to want to know how to get it repaired as soon as possible so that you can get back on the road. One of the first questions you’re likely to ask, “What will it cost to repair my vehicle?” This can be an intimidating question since most of us are not in the auto repair business and have no idea what it costs for parts, labor, or paint. When you file a claim, your insurer will often send out an appraiser who will investigate the damage. Keep in mind that this isn’t an instant solution, but it does take the necessary steps to get your vehicle back on the road.

Once you call your agent or insurance company and let them know about the accident, you will be able to talk to a claims adjuster. After you give your statement about the accident, and you have coverage for the damage, the adjuster will send out an appraiser to inspect your vehicle or you will need to take your vehicle to a certain body shop. The appraiser will take pictures of the entire vehicle as well as the damaged areas. The reason for this is so that the insurance company can be sure that they are only paying for damages from the accident, rather than wear and tear.

The auto estimate will break down what work needs to be done to restore the vehicle, as well as itemizing parts, repairs, paint time, labor, and tax. The appraiser will compare part prices to ensure they are in line with guidelines your insurance carrier uses for vehicle repairs. Once this estimate is generated, the work will commence. Keep in mind that the shop may find additional damages down the road when the repair work is being completed. If this happens, the shop will submit another estimate, which can slow down the process.

Make sure that you have an auto insurance policy that works for you. To get started on quality coverage, contact Abatelli Group, Inc., serving motorists in Whitestone and neighboring cities in New York.

Safe driving tips for parents.  

It’s a momentous occasion – Your teen just got their driver’s license! Although you’re incredibly proud of them for completing this milestone, it’s also a nerve-racking time as they take the wheel. After all, the statistics are concerning – motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death in the U.S. for 15 to 20-year olds. If your teen has recently received their driver’s license, take a look at these tips.

Set driving boundaries

Discuss driving guidelines and boundaries with your teen before letting them have the keys. Perhaps you don’t want them driving more than 30 minutes away from home, driving at night, or driving their friends – at least until they have built up their confidence behind the wheel.

Explain the consequences

As an adult, you are well aware of the driving risks that motorists face every day. However, your teenager may not understand the consequences of their driving actions. Talk to your teen about how even a moment of distraction can have damaging effects.

Lead by example

Practice safe driving when you’re behind the wheel. Follow the rules of the road, avoid distracted driving, and your teenager is more likely to follow suit.

To learn more about auto insurance, contact Abatelli Group, Inc. for a quote. We can help you secure reliable Whitestone, NY car insurance coverage!

Top tips for driving in bad winter weather.

Black ice is one of winter’s greatest driving hazards, and it can make New York roads a dangerous place. The thin sheet of ice can appear transparent, meaning that many drivers don’t spot it on the roads and end up skidding. Equip yourself with the knowledge to drive safe and smart so that slippery conditions won’t compromise your next journey.

• Black ice is more likely to occur at night and in the early mornings when temperatures are low. Keep in mind that the days are usually warmer, but that doesn’t mean the roads will be clear of black ice.
• Clear the windscreen and lights between setting off so that you can see the roads clearly.
• When moving off, only a light acceleration is needed. Anything more, you risk skidding and losing control.
• If you see black ice, move slowly and steadily over it. Keep a straight wheel as turning the wheel could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Leave as much space as possible between yourself and the vehicle in front. Your stopping distance will increase significantly in wet, snowy, and icy conditions.
• If you do hit a patch of ice, steer in the same direction as the rear of your car is sliding. Never stamp your foot on the brakes as this could cause your wheels to lock up.
• Remember that studded tires, snow chains, and a four-wheel drive won’t help. These features can be helpful in heavy snow, but they are virtually useless on black ice.
• Ensure you have a fully-stocked winter emergency kit in case an accident does occur and you need provisions until help arrives.

Now is the time to review your auto insurance and ensure you have optimum coverage for the winter ahead. To learn more about auto insurance, contact Abatelli Group, Inc. for a quote. We can help you secure reliable Whitestone, NY car insurance coverage!