Category: Auto Insurance

At Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, we are an independent insurance agency offering you the benefit of our years of experience. We provide personalized service and help you find the right policy at the right price. 

Registration

You need to carry your vehicle registration with you at all times when you are driving. It doesn’t have to be in your glove box, but that is a convenient place to store it. You need to be able to produce it if requested by a police officer. 

Insurance card

Your auto insurance company will provide you with a card with your vehicle details and your policy information on it. It would be best if you placed it in your vehicle posthaste. If you get your policy digitally, you will need to print off a copy to place in your glove box. Be sure to change it when the insurance renews. 

Vehicle manual

You never know when you will need to look at your vehicle manual. If you have a question about how much air needs to be in your tires, how to operate the rear window washer, how many gallons of gas it takes to fill your tank, or any number of other things that are included in the manual. 

Window breaking tool

They have a tool that you should have in your glove box that can break glass. It can also cut your seat belt if the need ever arises. If your vehicle goes into the water and begins to sink, you will be glad you have it. 

Flashlight

A flashlight is a handy tool with many uses and should be in your glove box. 

Call us at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, if you want to review your auto policy or need new auto insurance. 

The state of Maryland requires that you carry liability insurance to protect other drivers from you. The amount that you must have is 30/60/15 which means $30,000 for the first person injured in an accident with a total of $60,000 per accident and $15,000 for property. At Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, we make sure all of our customers comply with the law, and we also offer them all the add-ons that can give them additional protection.

If you need to protect your own vehicle in the event that you are the responsible party in an accident, or your vehicle is damaged by another event, you need to consider getting collision, comprehensive, and full glass coverage. 

Auto Insurance Add-ons

Collision coverage covers your vehicle if you collide with another vehicle or a stationary item. It will also cover you if you are the victim of a hit-and-run. There is a deductible that must be paid first, but the vehicle can then be repaired or replaced. 

Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from other things that can damage it such as weather events, high winds, hail, and flooding. It also covers theft and vandalism. It covers the glass on your vehicle but with a deductible. 

Total glass coverage will replace your windshield without any deductible. You should be able to have them come to you to do the replacement too. 

Gap insurance is a necessity if you have a new car and an auto loan. It will cover the gap between what you owe and what the insurance company values your vehicle at. 

Rental vehicle insurance provides you with a rental vehicle in the event your car is damaged in an accident. 

Schedule A Consultation Today

Call Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD to take advantage of our experience and the many choices we can offer you as independent agents. 

Winter is infamous for its sloppy, icy roadways. While driving in these conditions is unavoidable, drivers must be aware of how to drive in poor conditions in order to stay safe and avoid accidents. Here at Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we’re no strangers to winters in Cumberland, MD – we can help!

Here are some tips t to help keep you safe on the road:

Employ Extra Caution: 

Drivers should slow down and leave a big following space when driving on snow and ice since reduced visibility might hide hazards.

Slow down for curves:

Slick road conditions will increase stopping distance. Drivers should steer clear of situations that can compel them to skid.

Drive Sober:

Drivers should never operate a motor vehicle if inebriated, distracted, exhausted, or otherwise unfit.

Avoid Black Ice:

Black ice forms when melted snow on highways freezes. Bridges are the most common location for black ice to form because they are surrounded on all sides by cold air. Because the roadway receives little sunlight and gathers runoff when the snow melts, underpasses are also popular locations for black ice. When driving, drivers should be aware of these places.

Be Wary of Plows:

Plows have extensive blind spots and may leave lanes to avoid road dangers or to prevent impact with packed snow. Passing snowplows should be avoided unless there is enough space and visibility.

Prepare for the Unexpected:

Drivers should be prepared for vehicle problems, accidents, or other unexpected concerns.

Make Sure Your Auto Insurance Policy Is Right For You!

Here at Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we can help create a specialized car insurance policy that best meets your needs. We are proudly serving the greater Cumberland, MD area and can help you get started on your new policy today!

Did you know it is against the law to drive without car insurance in 48 states? If you live in New Hampshire or Virginia, you’re in the clear. But all other states require it. If you live in or near the Cumberland, MD area, see Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

Auto insurance helps protect drivers involved in accidents that are not their fault. Insurance helps to ensure that each driver who could cause an accident has enough insurance to cover a minimum level of costs for damage and injury.

Here are six common types of car insurance coverage:

• Liability coverage protects you if you cause damage or injury to someone else. It is basic car insurance that everyone is required to have. Requirements vary by state, but this coverage is broken down into two types: personal injury and property damage.
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you are hit by a motorist with no auto insurance or not enough insurance.
• Collision coverage will cover your car if you hit another vehicle, person, or non-moving object.
• Comprehensive coverage helps pay to repair or replace your car if it is stolen or damaged in an incident not involving another vehicle.
• Personal injury protection or PIP, also known as no-fault insurance, covers medical costs regardless of fault.
• Medical payment coverage is required in some states but optional in others. It covers the medical expenses of those in an accident while in your vehicle.

Give Us A Call

Don’t put yourself at risk by driving without car insurance! Your financial future could suffer, you could lose your license, or be fined a hefty sum. It is not worth it.

Contact the professionals at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD today for a no-obligation quote or answers to any questions you may have. You will be glad you did.

In the Cumberland, MD area, it would be a good idea to own a car as it will make life much more convenient as you will have an easier time getting around the community. Along with your car purchase choice, you also need to carefully select an insurance plan. There are various situations when someone in this part of Maryland should get an auto insurance plan to protect themselves and their vehicle.

Who Should Get Auto Insurance?

Those Driving on a Public Road

A common situation in which anyone will need to have an auto insurance plan is when they are going to drive on a public road. Any motorist that wants to use their car in Maryland is required to abide by the standard insurance laws. This includes requiring that all people carry liability insurance. If you are caught driving without this support, you will be in violation of state law. 

Those with a Loan Outstanding

You also should get an auto insurance plan if you have a loan outstanding. Taking out a loan to finance the purchase of a car is very common. If you choose to do so, it is important that you follow all the requirements. In many cases, this will include carrying auto insurance with full collision and comprehensive support. Without this coverage, you could be in violation of your loan agreement. 

Contact Us Today

People that live in the Cumberland, MD area need to ensure that they have proper auto insurance at all times. If you are looking for coverage here, it would be a good idea to call Knippenberg Insurance Inc. The professionals at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. understand the need and value of this coverage. They will help you choose a plan that keeps you in compliance with any insurance obligations you may have. 

Most of us understand that auto insurance is required in almost every state in order to legally operate a vehicle. However, state insurance requirements will vary from state to state. Regardless of where you live, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the minimum insurance requirements needed to legally drive. In addition, some situations may require you to purchase more coverage than the state minimum insurance requirements. Our team at Knippenberg Insurance Inc of Cumberland, MD is dedicated to educating Maryland drivers about the state’s minimum insurance requirements.

What are Maryland’s State Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements?

Maryland drivers are required to carry bodily injury, property damage, personal injury, and uninsured property/bodily injury liability insurance coverage. Each area of required coverage has certain minimum levels of coverage that must be met. 

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

Drivers must carry $30,000 minimum per person and  $60,000 minimum per accident in bodily injury liability coverage. 

Property Damage Liability Coverage

: There is a $15,000 minimum property damage liability requirement.

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage

: Drivers must carry $30,000 minimum per person and  $60,000 minimum per accident in uninsured motorist coverage.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

A minimum of $15,000  in uninsured motorists’ property damage coverage must be carried. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

There’s some flexibility when it comes to the personal injury protection coverage requirement. Drivers can opt to forego the $2500 minimum coverage requirement and instead choose a limited PIP option. 

Under What Circumstances Would You Need more than State Minimum Auto Coverage?

In short, if you don’t own your car and have an auto loan, you will likely be required to purchase comprehensive insurance. This is how the lender protects their investment in your car. If you damage/total the car before it’s paid for, the lender is protected and compensated, just as you are. If you have more questions about how much coverage you need as a Maryland driver, give us a call. We’d be happy to answer your questions. 

Whether you are on the road with your first car or you’ve been driving for years, auto insurance is a must-have investment. Auto insurance is a safety net that protects you financially when you are on the road. Don’t wait for the worst to happen, yet you purchase auto insurance at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. today. 

Having the right coverage can make a huge difference between being relieved after an accident and being in financial distress. Here are the common areas covered by auto insurance.

Liability coverage

When you are in an accident, and at fault, you will be glad you had liability coverage. Liability coverage covers third-party expenses like legal costs if you got sued, property damage, or bodily injuries to others. Without this coverage, you are responsible for paying for these expenses, putting you at financial risk if the accident was significant.

Uninsured motorist coverage

Since auto insurance is mandatory in Maryland, don’t make the mistake of assuming every car is insured. You will find uninsured or underinsured motorists on the road. If these people crash into your car, this policy steps in and pays for the expenses incurred from the accident.

Physical asset coverage

Collision coverage covers the damages caused to your car regardless of who is at the fault of the auto accident. It also covers collisions with objects like a fence or tree. On the other hand, comprehensive coverage covers non-collision perils like vandalism, fire, theft, and natural disasters.  

Medical expenses coverage

PIP or MedPay coverage covers medical expenses for you and the passengers present at the time of the accident, regardless of who was at fault.

Auto insurance in Cumberland, MD

If you own a vehicle, be sure to get the right coverage that suits your needs. Ready to purchase your auto insurance policy? Contact us at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. for an affordable quote.

When it comes to auto insurance, how much you need depends on a few factors. Do you have a car loan or lease?  How much does the state require you to have? Do you have a lot of assets? How important is your vehicle to you?  Do you have access to a vehicle if yours is damaged or destroyed?  At Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD our trusted team of insurance professionals is here to help make sure you have the insurance you need at a price you can afford. 

Do you have a car loan or lease? 

If you do, your lender or lessor will require you to have collision and comprehensive coverage on your vehicle to protect their investment. 

How much does the state require you to have?

In the State of Maryland 30/60/15 are the state requirements of liability coverage. $30,000 is for medical builds and injuries for one person with the total accident at $60,000. The property damage is $15,000. 

Do you have a lot of assets?

If you have a lot of assets you need to protect them with the right amount of liability coverage. Basic required liability is not enough to offer that safety net. 

How important is your vehicle to you?

If you are like most people, you count on your vehicle every day. With this kind of need, having comprehensive and collision coverage will give you peace of mind that you can get your vehicle repaired or replaced in the event of an accident where you are at fault. 

Do you have access to a vehicle if yours is damaged or destroyed?

If you have a second car or a family member who will loan you one in the interim while your vehicle is damaged or destroyed you may be able to get away with less insurance.

Contact Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD when you are in the market for auto insurance. 

Maryland has its own laws regarding the auto insurance that its residents must-have. The state is considered an "at-fault" state, meaning that the person who is found to be at fault for an accident is the one who must pay for its associated costs. To ensure that you have enough coverage in Maryland, call us at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD. 

Bodily Injury Coverage

In Maryland, there is a specific amount of coverage that residents must-have for the death or bodily injury of a person who was in an accident caused by the driver of the insured vehicle. There is another mandatory minimum amount for all of the death or bodily injury caused by an accident that was the fault of the driver of the insured vehicle. The minimums in these coverages are fairly low, however, and many people get policies with more liability insurance to be safer in case of a major accident.

Property Damage

Maryland also requires drivers to have a specific minimum amount for the property damage to another person’s property that was the fault of the person driving the insured vehicle. This coverage does not, however, include any damage to your own vehicle. For coverage for your own vehicle, even if you are at fault for the accident, you need to have collision insurance. This type of policy is not required in the state, but your auto finance company may require it. 

Keep Your Vehicle Insured

If you don’t have enough auto insurance for your vehicle, call us at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, and make an appointment to talk to an agent about the coverage your vehicle needs. 

 

Teenage Driver About to Get Their License? Remember These Auto Insurance Tips

Is your teenager about to get their driver’s license for the first time? This can be a difficult time for some Cumberland, MD parents, but it doesn’t have to break the bank in terms of premiums. Here are a few auto insurance tips for parents of new drivers from our Knippenberg Insurance Inc. team.

1. Good Grades Are Important

You already want your teen to get good grades in school for all of the obvious reasons. Once they get their driver’s license, however, it is time to put all of that hard work to good use.

Most auto insurance companies offer a substantial discount for teen drivers who make good grades in school. All they have to do is bring in an official report card to their insurance agent’s office, and it will be applied. Pretty cool, huh?

2. Your Habits Matter

Parents of teenage drivers always need to be mindful of their driving habits. If you’re regularly putting on makeup or texting while behind the wheel, your teen sees this from the passenger seat and will likely take on the same dangerous activities.

Furthermore, your driving record has a lot to do with how much they will pay for the insurance once they start driving. If you already have numerous tickets or accidents, this could be a factor that affects premiums for the whole household.

3. Contact Your Auto Insurance Agent Immediately

You already know that you’re supposed to let your auto insurance agent know when your teen starts driving. But many people think they can get around a rate increase by simply not making that phone call, which often ends in disaster.

Why? If your teenager gets into an auto accident and they aren’t listed on the policy as a driver in the household, the claim might be denied. Instead, go ahead and have a conversation with your agent about the changes in your family. And, if necessary, exclude teen drivers from more expensive vehicles in the household to help save on costs.

Are you ready to discuss auto insurance? Give our Knippenberg Insurance Inc. team in Cumberland, MD a call today for a no-obligation price quote.