Prepping Your Motorcycle for the Winter

The winter chill is beginning to set in, and it’s crucial that you prepare your motorcycle to withstand the cold temperatures ahead. Thankfully, taking a few steps to ensure your bike is in tip-top shape can help ensure you’ll be ready to hit the road when winter begins to thaw. A solid motorcycle insurance policy is a vital part of keeping your bike safe, and at Compass Insurance, serving Centennial, CO, our team is here to help. 

Clean It Up

Your motorcycle must be clean before you put it into storage for the winter. If you don’t have the time to detail your bike independently, it’s best to set up an appointment with a professional to ensure your bike is ready for storage. 

Inflate Your Tires

When your bike sits in one spot for an extended period, your tires can develop flat spots. Elevating your bike is a smart move to stop this from happening. If you can lift your bike off the ground, you’ll want to reduce the pressure in your tires by about 20%. If you don’t have a place where you’re able to lift your bike, you may want to set a reminder to move your bike every few weeks to stop your tires from developing flat spots.

Compass Insurance: Serving Centennial, CO Motorcyclists

At Compass Insurance, our team is here to help you get the protection you need for your bike. We’re proud to serve the Centennial, CO area, and we’re excited to get to know you and help you find the right policy for your needs. Reach out or stop by our office today to learn more. 

Preparing Your Toys for Winter to Reduce Insurance Claims

Compass Insurance tries to help its Centennial, CO, customers reduce the number of claims they need to file on their toy insurance. Regular maintenance offers one of the best ways to do that.

Like winterizing your car, your toys need winterizing, too. Let’s consider how to do that.

Motorized Toys Need Fall to Winter Maintenance

Your boat, ATV, snowmobile, etc., require regularly scheduled maintenance similar to the type your auto does, including antifreeze, an oil change, and, like a lawnmower, emptying the gas tank.

Consult Your Ownership Manual

Most vehicles come with an owner’s manual that provides directions on winterizing the vehicle. Suppose yours did not, visit the manufacturer’s website to download it. Most websites offer these in .pdf format.

Get Cold Weather Toys Ready for Action

The toys you will store for the winter need different maintenance than those you plan to use during the winter, like a snow plow or a snowmobile. Treat these vehicles like you would your automobile when the seasons change.

Instead of storing them, you must prepare them for cold winter use. This may mean adding a petroleum additive to the gas tank in a full tank of gas if the toy can handle that. Conducting this preparatory maintenance ensures your toy can handle the cold weather, snow, and icy conditions, reducing the likelihood of an accident.

Contact Compass Insurance Today

Contact us at Compass Insurance, serving Centennial, CO, for a toy insurance review or to update your policy with new toys. Have you just purchased your first motorized toy? Call or email us to obtain coverage for it today.

Boat Insurance Claims: What to Expect and How to File Them

Boat insurance is vital when mishaps occur on the water. However, chances are, you have never had to file a boat claim before. Here at Compass Insurance, providing boat insurance to residents in the greater Centennial, CO area, we want to help you understand what you should expect when filing a boat insurance claim for the first time.

Here are the steps to take after a boat accident.

  1. Safety First: In any boating incident, prioritize safety and contact emergency services if needed.

  2. Document the Incident: Collect information about the incident, take photos, gather witness statements and document injuries.

  3. Notify Your Insurer: Contact your boat insurance provider promptly with incident details, adhering to reporting timeframes.

  4. Work with an Adjuster: Your insurer will assign an adjuster to assess and estimate repair costs and provide them with documentation.

  5. Review Your Policy: Understand what your boat insurance policy covers to manage expectations.

  6. File a Police Report: For theft, vandalism, or accidents with others, file a police report and keep a copy.

  7. Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of communications with your insurer.

  8. Choose a Repair Shop: Select a reputable repair shop if your policy allows; get repair estimates.

  9. Review the Settlement: After assessment, review the settlement offer. If agreeable, your insurer will process the claim.

  10. Dispute Resolution: Engage in dispute resolution with your insurer if you disagree with the settlement.

Navigating boat insurance claims may seem complex, but being informed and prepared can ease the process. Safety is paramount, followed by prompt reporting. Boat insurance ensures peace of mind during your water adventures, providing protection when needed. If you’re looking for a new boat insurance policy in the greater Centennial, CO region, contact Compass Insurance to get started.

Who needs to have toy insurance in Colorado?

Investing in a recreational toy can be an excellent idea for those in the Centennial, CO area. When you own one of these assets, you can enjoy all that the local area offers for outdoor enthusiasts. There are various situations when a recreational toy owner will want to get insurance for this asset. 

Those Looking for Protection

A situation when you want a toy insurance plan will come when you are looking to protect yourself and your recreational toy. When you purchase one of these toys, you are going to be making a significant investment that you will want to secure with insurance. If you get a proper toy insurance plan, it will offer coverage to ensure you have support if it is damaged or stolen. The toy insurance plan will also offer liability coverage, providing financial protection if you are at fault in an accident that results in damage. 

When Required

There are also situations when having insurance is required. If you have taken out a loan when buying the recreational toy, the lender will require you to carry toy insurance until the loan is paid off in full. The insurance plan will also be required if you want to use the toy on public roadways or specific trails, which may require you to carry liability coverage. 

Those looking to purchase a recreational toy in the Centennial, CO area will want to know that they are correctly securing and insuring their asset. When you are looking for coverage here, calling our team with Compass Insurance would be a great option. Our Compass Insurance professionals know this coverage’s value and can help you select an ideal plan. 

Choosing the Right Motorcycle Insurance: What Are the Coverage Options?

What can be more adventurous than riding a motorcycle along the road? This is a great and exciting feeling. However, as a responsible motorcycle owner, you should understand the importance of carrying proper motorcycle insurance. If you are searching for motorcycle insurance right now, here are the coverage options you may want to consider. 

What Are the Motorcycle Coverage Options? 

Here is a list of coverage options that insurance agencies usually offer to motorcycle owners:

  • Bodily injury liability coverage. It covers lost wages and medical expenses resulting from injuries or death of another person if you have caused an accident. It is crucial to note that it won’t cover your own medical bills. 
  • Property damage liability coverage. It pays for damage to another person’s property due to an accident. For example, it may pay for repairs of vehicles, storefronts, or other structures. It will not cover repairs to your bike, though. 
  • Medical payments coverage. The purpose of this coverage is to cover your medical expenses and passengers’ expenses in case of an accident and injuries.
  • Personal injury protection. If you are injured in an accident, this coverage will pay for your medical bills, lost income, child care, funeral costs, and other expenses. 
  • Collision coverage. It will cover damage to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another object. 
  • Comprehensive coverage. This coverage was created to cover any damages to your motorcycle if you are involved in a road accident with another vehicle. 

There are other coverage types; an insurance agent will gladly provide information about them. 

Compass Insurance – a Trustworthy and Experienced Insurance Agency in Centennial, CO

Are you looking for motorcycle insurance? Not sure what coverage you should get? Contact Compass Insurance serving clients in Centennial, CO, and other nearby towns in Colorado. Our insurance agents will gladly help you find the ideal coverage and answer all your questions. Please visit our website or give us a call today. 

Your Essential Boating Checklist

Preparing for a safe and smooth adventure on the water requires several essential considerations. If you are a boat lover/owner in and around the greater Centennial, CO area, the insurance professionals at Compass Insurance offer this basic boating checklist.

Check The Weather Forecast & Leave Written Notice of Your Float Plan

Know the weather conditions before heading out and avoid bad weather. Leave your float plan with someone for emergencies.

Inform Passengers About Safety Procedures & Ensure You Have Appropriate Safety Equipment

Before leaving, talk to all onboard about the use of life jackets, emergency protocols, and the location of the safety equipment. Onboard safety equipment that should be checked includes:

  • A throwable flotation device.
  • A whistle/horn.
  • A pump or bailer.
  • An anchor with sufficient line.
  • A fire extinguisher.

Review Safety Regulations & Requirements

Familiarize yourself with boating laws, safety requirements, and boating etiquette. The boat must be properly registered and equipped with the necessary safety gear, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals, and navigation lights – and you have kept up with recommended maintenance. Keep basic tools and spare parts on board for minor repairs.

Navigation Tools & Working Communication Devices

Have up-to-date navigation tools (i.e., GPS), compasses, or charts for proper navigation. Familiarize yourself with waterways and potential hazards. Carry a fully charged cell phone or marine radio for emergencies.

Personal Essentials & First Aid Kit

Don’t forget hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, appropriate clothing/rain gear, medications, and footwear. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit for minor injuries and emergencies.

Contact a Compass Insurance Today

For additional information on boating insurance, contact Compass Insurance online or at 303-996-9000.

Safe riding tips for motorcycle owners

As a motorcycle owner in the Centennial, CO area, you know how thrilling riding on the open road can be, but staying safe is paramount. Here are some important tips from us at Compass Insurance for ensuring you stay safe when you hop on your bike: 

  1. Wear the right gear – Wear a helmet that meets safety standards and wear bright colors so that other drivers can see you. Invest in leather protective gear, which will help absorb any shock should you have an accident. 
  2. Check your bike – Make sure that all elements of your motorcycle are adequately maintained before hitting the road. This includes checking your brakes, tires, lights, and mirrors and having an engine tune-up if required. 
  3. Follow the rules of the road – Obey speed limits and always look both ways when crossing intersections or merging onto highways. Be aware of other drivers who may not respect motorcycles and leave extra space around you at all times. 
  4. Refrain from drinking – Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time and makes it difficult to drive safely, regardless of the type of vehicle you are using. Do not drink before or during a ride; if necessary, arrange for a designated driver to get home safely afterward. 

By following these simple tips for safe riding, your motorcycle experience should be an enjoyable one! For more safe riding tips, or if you want to explore a motorcycle insurance policy that will keep you covered in case of an accident, give Compass Insurance a call today. We proudly serve the Centennial, CO area and would be happy to help you find a policy that meets your needs and budget.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Toy Insurance Policy with Compass Insurance Group

We take out insurance policies on many expensive purchases but often overlook recreational toys and outdoor motor vehicles. They play a crucial role in fun outdoor activities. Since people are accident-prone, they can get easily damaged, which is why a toy insurance policy can provide peace of mind, knowing your recreational toys are protected in case of damage or accidents. 

Ensure Your Policy Covers Your Needs

When choosing a plan, there are a few things to consider, beginning with coverage limits. It would be best if you had a policy that covers all the toys you want to ensure and that the limit is enough to cover the cost of repairs and replacements. Not all policies are alike, and some might have a cap on the number of items you can insure, while others may limit the coverage.

Deductibles and exclusions are considered when deciding premiums, which can range dramatically in price. The deductible is how much you’ll be expected to pay out of pocket before insurance takes over the claim. A higher deductible lowers the monthly premium but means a claim will cost you more upfront. Exclusions are the things not covered. For example, some policies won’t cover toys used outdoors or exclude specific types of toys, such as trampolines. 

Trust Compass Insurance Group 

You don’t need to navigate the process alone. Compass Insurance Group in Centennial, CO, offers a broad range of insurance products. We aim to prioritize your needs and help you find the best policy. 

Don’t wait to choose your toy insurance policy! Contact Compass Insurance Group in Centennial, CO, today at (303) 996-9000. 

How To Pack a First Aid Kit for Your Boat

If you are a boat owner, you must always stay aware of your safety responsibilities towards any guests on your boat, as well as for your own safety. Any good boat owner will have a properly packed first aid kit on hand for emergencies. At Compass Insurance, serving Centennial, CO, and the surrounding areas, we hope you never experience an emergency on your boat. Still, a properly put together first aid kit will be crucial if you do. Keep reading to learn about the items you need. 

What Type of Kit Do You Need?

You should understand that different types of boats and excursions require various emergency supplies. Boats that will only go out for day excursions with a small group of people may not need extensive first-aid supplies. However, if you are taking groups on extensive excursions, you will need more supplies. If you want to be prepared for any emergency, you will need a fully stocked first aid kit. 

 First Aid Kit Essentials

Basic first aid kits often come with what you need for minimal injuries. When you are out on a boat, especially if you are fishing as well, injuries could get a little more involved. Here are some first-aid essentials that are good to have on your boat.

  • Variety of bandages– Different types of injuries will need different types of bandages for proper coverage.
  • Gauze– Gauze will be needed to hold smaller bandages tightly in place for injuries that are a bit more serious.
  • Scissors– Scissors are needed to cut bandages, tape, or even clothing from a wound.
  • Tweezers– Tweezers are needed to remove splinters and metal shards of metal.
  • Syringe– Syringes are helpful to flush dirt from wounds or flush eyes.
  • Saline solution– Thisforsflushing to flush wounds.
  • Tape
  • Cold packs– This is needed to help swelling.
  • Foil blankets– This can be a valuable tool if someone falls into cold water. This item can help to prevent shock or hypothermia.
  • Gloves– These are necessary to reduce the chances of spreading germs or diseases when treating an injury.
  • Burn cream– A boat has several hot surfaces that could result in burns on board.
  • OTC medications– You should have a supply of OTC meds such as aspirin, Advil, allergy, motion sickness, and more.
  • Alcohol wipes– These are needed for disinfecting.
  • Antiseptic ointment or spray– This will be needed to clean wounds.
  • Eyewash

If you want to learn about boat insurance, please get in touch with us at Compass Insurance serving Centennial, CO, and the surrounding areas. 

Protecting Your Most Valuable Toys with Insurance

Toy insurance is an important investment for Centennial, CO residents who own recreational vehicles and other expensive toys. But the question remains—will one policy cover all your toys? Read on to learn more about toy insurance from Compass Insurance.

How Many Policies Do I Need? 

The first step in determining whether you need separate policies for each of your toys is to assess the value of each one. If you own a single vehicle or toy that is valued at $20,000 or less, then it’s likely that a single policy can cover it. However, if you have several vehicles or toys worth more than $20,000 combined, you will likely need separate policies for each item. 

This is because most policies will cap coverage at around $20,000 per item; anything over that amount would require additional coverage. Additionally, many policies limit the number of things they will cover—so if you have more than the maximum number of items listed on your policy (usually 3-5), multiple policies may be required to ensure complete coverage. 

What Does Toy Insurance Cover? 

Toy insurance covers many items, such as boats, RVs, snowmobiles, and ATVs. It also typically covers damage caused by theft, vandalism, or natural disasters such as floods and fires.

Whether you own just one toy or several high-value items, protecting them with proper insurance is essential for any Centennial, CO resident who wants peace of mind when enjoying their recreational activities. Contact Compass Insurance today for more details and to get the coverage you need to protect all your toys!