How to Get Insurance When Moving to Port Angeles, Washington

Matt Elwood, Agency Owner

You have finally decided to leave the rat race and move to the beautiful Olympic Peninsula. One of the many things on your to-do list may be to get new home and auto insurance, especially if you are coming from out of state. How do you go about doing that?

When changing insurance agents, there are some important things to remember. These apply if you are moving from a different state, a different insurance company, or you just want to go through a different agent in the company you are currently with. If you follow these tips, it will make the process of changing agents much easier.

First of all, contact your new agent before your current policy expires. A lapse of even one day can drastically impact your new rates and might even prevent you from being able to have a new policy. This is especially true for car insurance.

It is also helpful to have your current insurance in front of you so you know what coverages you have. It makes it easier to get an accurate quote if you know what you want.

Keep in mind that if you’re moving from one state to another, your insurance will probably be different. Even if you stay with the same company. Every state is different regarding premiums and discounts. There are also certain coverages that differ from state to state. And required state minimums also vary.

If you are relocating to the Olympic Peninsula area and need a new insurance agent, please contact Matt Elwood of Elwood Benefits at 360-452-9200.

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8 Things To Do If You Are In A Car Accident

Summer is more than half over and the dreaded 1st day of school is coming for kids. Mom and Dad may be rejoicing, but with school comes the taxi service from Mom and Dad.

Imagine that you are taking your kids to school and you get in an accident along the way. Many thoughts may be running through your head like:

• Are my kids ok?
• Did I pay the insurance bill this month?
• Do I have collision coverage on my policy?

Keeping these 8 things in mind will help make a bad situation go a little better.

1. Remain calm

By remaining calm, not only will you think more clearly, but you will calm your kids.

2. Check to see if you are OK

Your safety and health is most important. If you or your passengers are injured, call 911 immediately. The same goes for the people in the other car.

3. Move to the side

If it is feasible, move your car to the side of the road for your safety. If you don’t want to end up with two accidents

4. Get information

Exchange names, cell phone numbers, emails and addresses of everyone involved.

5. Insurance

Get the other drivers’ license plate number and insurance information. Make sure you write down the insuring company, policy number, address and phone number.

6. Take Photos

If you have a camera, take photos to document the accident. If you don't have a camera on your cellphone, think about keeping a cheap disposable camera in your glove box.

7. Call the police

Call the police to report an accident.

8. Call your Agent!

Call your insurance agent! They are there to help and assist you with your claim.

These are just a few tips to make an unfortunate experience run as smoothly as possible. Is there anything you would add?

Knowledge is power - Sign up for Matt's monthly insurance newsletter and he will share with you how to better protect your family, save more money and achieve financial security.

Or for more information, please visit my official Allstate Agency Website to get more information on the Allstate products and services I can offer in Port Angeles, Sequim or anywhere Washington State.