3 Risks of Driving Without Minnesota Auto Insurance

Considering how vital auto insurance is, it’s difficult to imagine that some motorists in Little Falls, MN, drive without auto insurance. But because humans will always be humans, it’s not uncommon to find uninsured motorists in Minnesota. In fact, recent statistics show that 9.9 percent of Minnesota drivers aren’t insured. 

Until you are involved in an accident, you might think failing to buy auto insurance is a wise saving. However, you are in for a rude shock when an accident or any other disaster occurs on your vehicle. Whether it’s intentional or not, failure to buy auto insurance from Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. exposes you to the below risks. 

Breaking the law

It’s an offense to drive without auto insurance in Minnesota. Penalties for first offenders include a fine of up to $1,000, community service, and suspension of driver’s license and car plates up to 30 days. Of course, the penalties can increase dramatically for repeat offenses. 

Uncovered losses

It’s usually a huge risk driving without auto insurance. Given the inherent risks like distracted, speeding, teenagers, and drunk drivers, the risk of an accident is extremely high on American roads. National Safety Council states that at least 1 in every 11 drivers is likely to be involved in an accident at some point. The result? The aftermath of accidents is injuries and property damage, at the very least.

Without insurance, you need to pay for your medical expenses from your pocket. Similarly, you have to fix your car and that of the other motorist out-of-pocket. 

Legal suits

While a court case can still follow even when you have car insurance, you are likely to incur out-of-pocket legal expenses when you don’t have auto insurance. Worse yet, your assets will be at stake if the case is ruled against you and the settlement claims are enormous. 

Are you feeling like driving without auto insurance in Little Falls, MN? The risk is not worth it. Instead, be a wise driver and purchase auto insurance from Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. Contact us today for an affordable quote.

How Often Should I Upgrade My Home Insurance Policy?

When you built or bought your Little Falls, MN home, you purchased home insurance. But since no catastrophe has hit, it’s easy to forget to update your home insurance plan. Reviewing your home insurance helps you avoid a nasty experience when filing a claim. According to Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc., you should at least update your home insurance every year. But if certain situations arise, you shouldn’t wait for a year to lapse because disaster can strike in between.

Why insurance review is important

Home insurance not only gives you peace of mind but also protects what you treasure in case the unexpected occurs. Having sufficient coverage cushions you financially when your valuables are damaged or lost through perils like fire, theft, hail, and many others. Besides, periodic insurance review helps your agent find whether you are eligible for discounts.

When should you upgrade your home insurance plan?

After buying home insurance, it shouldn’t be a “set and forget” purchase. When the below situations arise, you should talk to your insurance agent for a review.

  • You bought new valuables: During the year, you might buy things little by little that can accumulate to a significant value when added together. Leaving these additions out of your home insurance policy is a recipe for disaster when the unthinkable happens. Often, take an inventory count of your valuables from room to room and compare them with your insurance list. Any uncovered valuable item should be insured.
  • Changes in your family size: You got married? Did you become a foster parent? These changes should be reflected in your home insurance to cushion you against liabilities that may arise from your family members. 
  • Significant home improvements: Added an extra room? Remodeled your kitchen? Update your home insurance policy with these significant improvements for optimal coverage.

Are you unsure when you should update your home insurance in Little Falls, MN, and its environs? Please contact Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. for more information.