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Top 10 Insurance Myths Busted (by Yours Truly, Your Local Insurance Agent) Hey folks! Ready to debunk some myths that are floating around out there like rogue shopping carts in a hurricane. I hear it all the time – whispers in the grocery store, hushed tones at the PTA meeting. "Did you know…?" Nine times out of ten, "Did you know…?" is followed by something wildly inaccurate about insurance. So, let's grab our myth-busting ray guns and get to work! 1. Red Cars = Higher Insurance Rates: Seriously? Do you think insurance companies employ colorblind squirrels to set rates? The color of your car has absolutely nothing to do with your premiums. It's all about your driving record, the type of car (sports car vs. sensible sedan), and where you live. So, go ahead, rock that cherry red convertible. Just drive safely, okay? 2. "Full Coverage" Means I'm Covered for EVERYTHING: Ah, "full coverage." It's a catchy phrase, isn't it? But it's also a bit of a misnomer. "Full coverage" usually refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. It doesn't mean you're covered if your pet hamster spontaneously combusts in your car (yes, I've heard it all). Read your policy, people! Know what you're actually paying for. 3. My Home Insurance Covers EVERYTHING in My Home: See Myth #2 but replace "car" with "home." Your standard homeowner's policy is great for things like fire, theft, and some weather-related damage. But it probably won't cover your prized collection of antique thimbles if they're damaged by a rogue poltergeist. (Again, I've heard it all.) There are specific riders and endorsements for certain valuables, so chat with your agent. 4. Filing a Claim Will Automatically Jack Up My Rates: Not necessarily. One small claim might not affect your rates too much. It's the frequency of claims that raises red flags. Think of it like this: one fender bender is a "whoops," three fender benders are a "pattern." Insurance companies don't like patterns. 5. Renters Don't Need Insurance: Oh, renters, renters, renters. This one makes me cringe. Just because you don't own the building doesn't mean you don't own stuff. Your landlord's insurance covers the structure, but it doesn't cover your personal belongings. A good renter's policy is surprisingly affordable and can save you from financial ruin if your apartment catches fire, gets burgled, or, you know, invaded by those thimble-loving poltergeists. 6. Older Homes Are Always More Expensive to Insure: Not always! Sure, some older homes might have outdated wiring or plumbing, but many have been renovated and are perfectly safe. Insurance companies look at the condition of the home, not just its age. 7. I Don't Need Flood Insurance - I Don't Live Near Water: Newsflash: floods can happen anywhere. Even if you live miles from the coast, heavy rain can cause flash flooding. Standard homeowner's insurance doesn't cover flood damage. You'll need a separate flood insurance policy. 8. My Credit Score Doesn't Affect My Insurance Rates: Wrong! In most states, insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help predict the likelihood of you filing a claim. So, keep those credit scores high, folks! 9. If I Total My Car, I'll Get What I Paid For It: Nope. You'll get the current market value of your car, which might be less than what you paid for it, especially if it's been owned a few years. Also, if your loan amount is more than the value of your car this is where "gap insurance" comes in. It covers the difference between what you owe on your loan and what the insurance company pays out. 10. Insurance Agents Are All Sleazy and Just Want Your Money: Okay, okay, some of us might be a little… enthusiastic. But most of us genuinely care about protecting our clients. We want you to have the right coverage at the right price. So, don't be afraid to ask questions. That's what we're here for! So, there you have it – ten insurance myths, thoroughly busted. Now go forth and be informed! And as always, if you have any questions, give your friendly neighborhood insurance agent a call. (That's me!)

10 Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain (Because Hydroplaning is So Last Season) Alright, listen up, lead foots and Sunday drivers alike. It's raining. Again. And unless you've recently sprouted gills or your car is amphibious (in which case, please send pics), you're gonna have to navigate this liquid apocalypse like the rest of us mere mortals. So, ditch the daydreaming about that tropical vacation and pay attention, because hydroplaning isn't a personality trait, and ending up in a ditch is a terrible way to spend a Tuesday. Remember, safe driving keeps you from injury and doesn't give your insurance rates another reason to go up. 1. Slow Your Roll (Like, Seriously, Chill): This isn't a Fast & Furious movie, Vin Diesel isn't waiting for you at the finish line, and your pizza will still be lukewarm even if you arrive five minutes later (tip: even warmer if you turned on your heated seats). The faster you go, the more likely you are to become intimately acquainted with a guardrail. Think of it this way: slow and steady wins the race... and avoids the tow truck. 2. Lights On (Even if it's Not "Dark"): Yes, Captain Obvious, it's the law. But beyond that, it makes you less likely to be mistaken for a rogue wave by other drivers. Plus, it gives you that cool, mysterious vibe. You know, the kind that says, "I'm a responsible adult who also happens to be an awe-inspiring driver." 3. Check Your Tires (Are They Bald? You're Gonna Have a Bad Time): Think of your tires as the shoes of your car. Would you wear flip-flops to climb Mount Everest? No. (Unless you're insane. And also, please send pics.) Check your tread depth. If your tires are balder than a cue ball, you're basically driving on ice, even if it's 70 degrees out. 4. Double the Following Distance (Seriously, Double It): Tailgating is a bad idea on a sunny day. In the rain? It's a recipe for disaster. Give the car in front of you enough space so you have time to react if they suddenly decide to audition for "America's Next Top Emergency Brake." 5. Avoid Cruise Control (Unless You Want to Lose Control): Cruise control is great for long, straight highways. Rainy, slippery roads? Not so much. You want to be in full control of your vehicle, not letting some robot make decisions for you when things get dicey. 6. Brake Gently (Don't Slam On the Brakes Like You're Trying to Stop a Runaway Train): Slamming on the brakes in the rain is a surefire way to initiate a spin cycle that would make your washing machine jealous. Apply the brakes smoothly and gradually. Think of it as a delicate dance with your car, not a wrestling match. 7. Steer Smoothly (No Jerking Allowed): Just like braking, steering should be a gentle art. Jerky movements are more likely to cause your car to lose traction and send you sliding sideways. Imagine you're carrying a tray of hot coffee. Smooth and steady wins the day (and prevents third-degree burns). 8. Be Wary of Puddles (They Could Be Deeper Than You Think): Puddles can hide all sorts of dangers: potholes and debris. Avoid them if you can. If you can't, drive through them slowly and steadily. And for the love of all that is holy, don't try to splash pedestrians. Karma is a real thing. 9. Visibility is Key (Wipers On, Fog Lights If Needed): Make sure your wipers are in good working order. If they're streaking or squeaking, replace them. They're cheap, and they make a world of difference. Most auto parts stores will install them free of charge if purchased in their store. And if visibility is really bad, use your fog lights (but remember to turn them off when the fog clears, or you'll blind oncoming drivers). 10. Stay Calm (Panic is Your Enemy): If you do start to hydroplane, don't panic. Take your foot off the gas, steer gently in the direction you want to go, and avoid slamming on the brakes. Remember, smooth and steady. Think of it as a test of your driving skills. You got this. (Probably.) So, there you have it. Ten tips to help you survive the next downpour. Now go forth and conquer the roads, my friends. And try not to wreck.

Gap Insurance: Because Life Gives You Lemons (and Your Car Gets Totaled) Life throws curveballs. Sometimes those curveballs involve deer, rogue shopping carts, and the dreaded "your vehicle is totaled" verdict from your insurance company. And while your insurance might cover the cost of your car... well, let's just say it might not be enough to cover your loan debt (or that Hawaiian vacation you were planning). Enter: Gap Insurance, the mysterious force field that promises to save you from financial ruin (or at least a serious case of ramen noodles). Think of it this way: You buy a brand-new car. You're cruising down the highway, top down, singing along to your favorite tunes. Life is good. Then BAM! Disaster strikes. Your car is totaled. Your insurance company cuts you a check... but it's not enough to cover the car loan. You're still on the hook for a hefty chunk of change, leaving you feeling more "gaping hole in my wallet" than "gap year in Europe." Gap Insurance is basically your financial superhero. It swoops in, cape flowing, to cover the difference between what your insurance pays out and what you still owe on your loan. It's like having a secret weapon against the cruelties of car ownership. But is it worth the extra cash? That, my friend, is the million-dollar question. Pros: Peace of Mind (Kinda): Knowing you're covered if disaster strikes can offer a fleeting sense of tranquility. Avoid Ramen Noodle Ramen: Let's be honest, nobody wants to live on ramen noodles for the next five years. Flex on Your Friends: "Oh, my car got totaled? No biggie, I have Gap Insurance." (Okay, maybe don't actually flex on your friends.) Cons: It Costs Money: And let's be real, money doesn't grow on trees (unless you live in a magical forest, in which case, please share your location). Might Be a Waste of Cash: If you make a significant down payment and have a shorter loan term, you might be perfectly fine without it. Fine Print Nightmare: Deciphering the fine print can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube while blindfolded. The Verdict? Ultimately, the decision to get Gap Insurance is a personal one. If the thought of being "underwater" on your car loan gives you night terrors, then it might be worth the extra cost. Many insurance companies offer Gap Insurance for a fraction of the cost at the dealership or bank. And remember, even with Gap Insurance, always drive defensively. Because let's face it, life is unpredictable, and sometimes, the only way to survive is with a healthy dose of sarcasm and a really good insurance plan. Disclaimer: This blog post is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Consult with a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance. P.S. If your car does get totaled, take solace in the fact that you now have an excellent excuse to buy that electric scooter you've always wanted.

10 Safety Tips When Driving with Your Tiny Humans (Because They're in Charge Now) Let's be honest, driving with kids is less "road trip" and more "survival mission." But fear not, weary parent, for I've compiled 10 safety tips to help you navigate the treacherous waters of car travel with your precious cargo. 1. The Car Seat: Your Child's Iron Throne (But Hopefully More Comfortable) Choosing and installing the right car seat is crucial. It's like picking a superhero suit – it needs to fit perfectly and offer maximum protection. So, do your research, follow the instructions (yes, even the tiny print), and make sure that seat is tighter than your jeans after Thanksgiving dinner. 2. Rear-Facing: The Unexpected Time Traveler Keep your little ones rear-facing for as long as possible. It's like a time machine that takes them back to a safer era – before they discovered the joys of throwing toys and screaming at high volumes. 3. The Five-Point Harness: Because Escaping is Not an Option Buckle up that five-point harness like you're securing a precious package (which you are!). It's the difference between a gentle hug and a wild rodeo ride. And remember, no bulky coats allowed – they'll just make the harness loose and your child look like a marshmallow. 4. Distraction-Free Driving: Because Squirrels Can Wait Put away your phone, snacks, and any other temptations that might take your eyes off the road. Remember, a squirrel sighting is not worth risking your family's safety. Unless it's a squirrel riding a unicycle – then maybe. 5. The Back Seat: The VIP Section (for Kids, Not You) Keep the kids in the back seat, even if your oldest insists they're old enough to ride shotgun. It's not about their ego; it's about their safety. Plus, it's easier to referee sibling squabbles from the front. 6. Window Locks: Because Fresh Air is Overrated Activate those window locks like you're sealing a submarine. You don't want any unexpected "fresh air" incidents or flying toys. Trust me, you'll thank me later. 7. Child Locks: The Ultimate Power Move Engage those child locks like you're locking down Fort Knox. It's the only way to prevent surprise door openings and dramatic exits at red lights. 8. Regular Breaks: Sanity Savers for Everyone Plan for regular breaks, even on short trips. It's a chance for everyone to stretch their legs, use the restroom, and maybe even enjoy a moment of peace and quiet. Just don't forget to buckle up again – even for a quick stop. 9. Emergency Kit: Because Life Happens Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, snacks, and water. You never know when you might need it, and it's better to be prepared than caught off guard (and hangry). 10. Patience: The Ultimate Superpower Remember, driving with kids is a marathon, not a sprint. Take deep breaths, be patient, and try to enjoy the ride (as much as possible). And if all else fails, bribe them with snacks. Just don't tell them I told you to. Bonus Tip: Remember, you're not just a driver; you're a role model. So, buckle up, follow the rules, and show your little passengers how to be safe and responsible drivers (someday).

Winter Weather Can Be Hard on Windshields One of our valued vendors, 2020 Auto Glass in the Greenville, Spartanburg and surrounding areas sent this information about what to do and what not to do with freezing windshields and other auto safety glass. With cold weather, snow and ice upon us, now’s the time to protect your windshields. Cold weather can turn small chips into large cracks overnight, especially with the added stress of ice scraping and defrosting. Here are some tips: • Avoid Hot Water: Pouring hot water on a frosty windshield can cause cracks to spread. • Scrape Gently: Use a plastic scraper instead of metal to prevent damage. • Act Quickly on Chips: Even minor chips can worsen with freezing temperatures. 20/20 AUTO GLASS SUBMIT GLASS CLAIM More Detailed Cold Weather Information In winter months, cars take a beating from cold temperatures, snow, ice, and hail. Winter in Spartanburg is relatively mild, but even here there can be many freezing or snowy days. No matter where you live, it is important to be mindful of your car’s windshield in the winter. It isn’t so much the subzero temperatures, but rapid temperature change, that causes the most damage to your windshield. Be careful when heating up your car in cold temperatures. If your frozen windshield is blasted with hot air, the sudden change in temperature can cause it to crack. Similarly, you can severely damage your windshield by pouring hot water on a windshield covered with ice. If your windshield is covered in ice, use proper tools to remove the ice. Never use a knife or a shovel, use ice scrapers designed for ice removal. It is a good idea to always keep one in your car. Be sure to scrape horizontally across the glass of your windshield. Vertical stabbing or chopping motions can chip the glass under the ice. Washer fluid is used more often in the winter months, so make sure you always have your car stocked with washer fluid. A clean windshield is easier to see out of, especially when visibility is already bad due to the weather. Additionally, make sure your wiper blades are working properly to brush away snow and ice. You can even install wipers that are specifically designed for winter weather for optimal performance. If your windshield does become cracked or chipped, make sure to address the problem immediately. In cold weather, chips and cracks will only get more serious. Cold temperatures and temperature fluctuations almost always result in chips turning into cracks, and cracks becoming bigger and bigger cracks. Luckily, there is a great windshield repair service that can get you back on the road in no time. 24/7 mobile service can meet you at your location, saving you from having to drive with a broken windshield. 20/20 Auto Glass will make winter windshield worries a thing of the past. Whether it’s a quick repair or a full replacement, they'll get you back on the road safely and efficiently. If your auto policy includes comprehensive or other than collision coverage, in South Carolina, the deductible is waived for auto safety glass repair. Call or text them at (864) 641-3190 or clink the link below to schedule service today! 20/20 AUTO GLASS SUBMIT GLASS CLAIM

Understanding and complying with the regulations of the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) is crucial to avoid fines and suspensions. Below are detailed answers to some of the most common questions related to SCDMV regulations. Registration and License Plates How many days do you have to register a newly purchased vehicle in South Carolina? Answer: You must register a newly purchased vehicle within 45 days. Is there a grace period for registering a vehicle in South Carolina? Answer: Yes, residents have 30 days to renew their car tags after the expiration date. If an officer pulls you over after this period, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. Remember to cancel your insurance effective on the date you turn in the tag. Why did the SCDMV send me a new license plate/tag? Answer: New plates are issued after paying county taxes at the end of the year in which your individual plate is up for reissue. In South Carolina, license plates are up for reissue every 10 years. Can I use my old license plate on my new car in South Carolina? Answer: Yes, if you have a valid tag from a vehicle you sold, parked, or traded, you can transfer that tag to a new vehicle as long as the name on the new vehicle's title was also on the old vehicle's title. Driving Without Plates and Penalties Can I drive a car without plates if I just bought it in South Carolina? Answer: No. Every vehicle on South Carolina roads must have either a regular license plate or a temporary plate, which is valid for only 45 days. If you have a temporary plate, carry the bill of sale, rental contract, or title in the vehicle at all times. What is the penalty for not registering a vehicle in South Carolina? Answer: First 14 days - $10.00 15 to 30 days - $25.00 31 to 90 days - $50.00 91 days or more - $75.00 Note: The SCDMV considers the postmark date as the date of receipt when assessing penalties. License Plate Turn-In and Transfer How long do you have to turn in your license plate in South Carolina? Answer: You are required to surrender the license plate within 30 days of selling or disposing of a vehicle. You can request a refund from the Auditor's office for the unused months on the registration after you've surrendered the plate. Note: Do not cancel your insurance until you have turned in the tag to the SC DMV. How do I transfer my license plate to a new car in South Carolina? Answer: Take the registration of your previous vehicle and the bill of sale for your replacement vehicle to the DMV to register your new vehicle and perform the transfer. Be sure to contact your insurance company to make the policy change. It is the owner’s responsibility to request the change; do not rely on the dealership or lender to add your newly purchased vehicle. Can I throw away old license plates in South Carolina? Answer: If your license plate is expired, it does not need to be decommissioned. Only active plates require decommissioning. You may return the plate to any SCDMV branch. Tags/plates can also be turned in or decommissioned online via the Virtual SC DMV Tag Return or Decommission. Temporary Tags and Grace Period How long can you drive on a bill of sale in South Carolina? Answer: You have 30 days to drive with just a bill of sale until you are required to get a new tag. Ensure that you keep the bill of sale in the car and have informed your insurance company. Is there a grace period for tags in South Carolina? Answer: Yes, South Carolina residents have 30 days to renew their vehicle tags after expiration. If you move from out of state, you have 45 days to transfer your vehicle's title and registration. Registration can be applied for online or in person at your local DMV. Obtain South Carolina car insurance before registering your vehicle. We hope you find this helpful. For complete SC DMV information please click the link below: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles Online Website Virtual Tag Return or Decommission a Tag *Based on information from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles as of October 2024. Car owners should always use the most current information from the SC DMV.he body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

We are excited to share some fantastic news with you. The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) now offers self-service electronic kiosks inside grocery stores. These kiosks, known as “SCDMV Express,” will allow customers to complete certain DMV transactions at any time the store is open, eliminating the need to visit an SCDMV branch office. The SCDMV Express kiosks launched last November (November, 2023) at three locations across South Carolina, with more sites to be added in the future to support customer demand. The first three locations are: Publix Grocery Store at Thornblade Village, 411 The Parkway in Greer Kroger Marketplace at Killian Crossing, 1028 Roberts Branch Parkway in Columbia Publix Grocery Store in The Market at Cane Bay, 1724 State Road in Summerville The goal of the project is to add another customer service platform, in addition to SCDMV’s 66 branch offices and the numerous online services available on the agency’s website, where they can complete SCDMV transactions. “We are really excited about providing the opportunity to allow customers to obtain DMV services without coming into the DMV,” said Kevin Shwedo, executive director of the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles. The SCDMV Express kiosks will be yellow and blue, and look similar to an ATM. The kiosks are fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Through an SCDMV Express kiosk, customers can obtain a replacement vehicle registration and obtain their license plate registration decal, assuming they have completed payment of required county personal property taxes on the vehicle. Those customers wishing to renew a vehicle registration can scan the barcode on the renewal notice, pay the fees with a credit or debit card, and print the registration and decal from the the kiosk. In addition to registrations, other types of DMV transactions are expected to be added to SCDMV Express in the future. Customers can learn more about the kiosks at https://SCDMVexpress.com . “The kiosks are just the first step to increasing customer convenience in a virtual world,” Shwedo said. The SCDMV is working with Intellectual Technology, Inc., a private vendor that provides similar services in more than a dozen states. ITI is the owner and operator of the equipment. No state tax dollars are being spent to provide this additional service. Adding SCDMV Express is the latest step in an effort to help South Carolinians get DMV business done without standing in line at agency branch locations. In addition to the SCDMV Express kiosks, a number of driver and vehicle services, including license renewals, are available on the agency’s website at https://SCDMVonline.com . The SCDMV website also provides live data about wait times for the 66 branch offices, so customers can know in advance of leaving their home about the anticipated wait time at their local branch.

With the rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, more homeowners are exploring the potential of earning extra income by renting out their homes. While this can be a lucrative opportunity, it’s crucial to understand how your homeowners insurance policy is impacted by home-sharing activities. At Select Source Insurance Group, we want to ensure you are fully informed and protected. Here's what you need to know. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Short-Term Rentals? Most standard homeowners insurance policies are designed to cover typical risks, such as damage from fire, windstorms, or personal liability if someone gets injured on your property. However, short-term rentals are usually excluded from this coverage. If a renter damages your property or gets injured while staying, your regular policy won’t cover the loss. Home-Sharing Considered a Business Activity When you rent out your home regularly, it’s generally considered a business activity. Business activities aren’t covered under a standard homeowners policy, meaning any damage or liability incurred during a rental could leave you financially vulnerable. To protect yourself, additional or specialized insurance is often required. Coverage Options for Home-Sharing: Insurance Riders: Some insurance companies allow you to extend your homeowners policy to cover short-term rentals. This is typically available for one-time events and must be arranged in advance. Keep in mind, coverage may be limited, and only certain items might be protected. Additional Liability Insurance: In certain states, such as Massachusetts, laws may require hosts to carry additional liability insurance for short-term rentals. Be sure to check whether your hosting platform, like Airbnb, offers sufficient coverage, or if you’ll need to purchase your own. Specialty Policies: Several insurers offer specialized policies tailored specifically for home-sharing, covering the unique risks associated with short-term rentals. These policies can provide peace of mind by covering both property damage and liability. What About Renters? If you’re renting a property and plan to sublet it through a home-sharing platform, review your renters insurance policy and consult with your landlord. Renters insurance typically does not cover subletting, and your sublessee will need to secure their own coverage to protect their belongings. Stay Informed and Protected Before listing your property for rent, it’s essential to review your current insurance coverage and explore any additional policies or endorsements you may need. Ensuring you have the right coverage can prevent significant financial and legal issues down the road. Follow us on social media for more tips and insights on keeping your home protected while maximizing the benefits of home-sharing!