Talking to Your Teen About Safe Driving

When teens begin to drive, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Safety Council, the sobering statistics start to pile up: Car crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens ages 14 through 18. A teen’s crash risk is three times that of more experienced drivers. Being in…

How to Create Your First Garden This Spring

From genetically modified crops to the environmental and health effects of pesticides, more and more California residents are questioning whether they should grow what they eat. Wherever you stand on the issues surrounding today’s food supply, however, there are several good reasons to start your own garden: You’ll know exactly where your food was grown,…

Spring Maintenance for Your Home

When springtime rolls around in the Bay Area, almost everyone thinks of cleaning. That’s fine (we probably all need to do a little more of that, after all), but there’s something even more important to keep in mind: home maintenance. So, when it’s time to set your clocks ahead for daylight-saving time and change the batteries…

Educate Yourself on Motorcycle Safety

As the weather gets warmer outside most motorcycle riders are beginning to ride more often. Now is the best time to review your motorcycle insurance to make sure you are properly covered! In addition, please take note of the below important safety tips to keep you safe on the road! Nine out of 10 motorcycle…

What to Know Before You Go Solar

Solar panels can be economically and environmentally sound, and they’re more accessible than ever. According to one research firm, U.S. homes and businesses installed a new system every four minutes in 2013. But, is solar power right for you here in the Tri-Valley? To help you address the question, here are five things to think…

6 Tips for Choosing an Independent Insurance Agent

1. Know the difference between independent agents and other insurance agents or carriers. An independent agent represents a number of different insurance companies. In contrast, agents who represent large national companies only sell products from that carrier. A direct insurance company sells to you directly without an agent, typically online. An independent agent has the…

Everyone Needs an Umbrella.

It has long been a myth that umbrella policies are only for high-net worth families and not necessary for most individuals. This notion is false as most people are at-first for claims and lawsuits that surpass their underlying insurance policy coverages. It is imperative that families with children, rental properties, watercraft, etc carry an umbrella…

5 Questions to Ask if You Keep Guns in Your Home

There are an estimated 300 million firearms in U.S. homes. And, with a lot of guns comes the potential for a lot of gun-related accidents. So, ask yourself these questions to help prevent your household in California from experiencing one. How secure are my guns? Nobody — especially kids — should be able to access your firearms…

Why Everyone Needs an Umbrella Policy

If you are ever involved in an accident or sued, your standard homeowners or auto policy will provide you with some liability coverage, paying for judgments against you and your attorney’s fees, up to a limit set in the policy. However, in our litigious society, you may want to have an extra layer of liability…