Is It Too Late to Get Commercial Insurance for My Business?

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Have you been operating your small business for a while now? If so, you might wonder if it’s too late to get the commercial insurance you need to protect your business. But is that really the case? When is the right time to get commercial insurance? Here’s what you need to know about commercial insurance and timing. If you’re shopping around but need support finding the right commercial insurance for your unique business needs, you can reach out to us here at Rising Star Insurance, serving Saint Paul, MN.

When Is the Right Time to Get Commercial Insurance for Your Business?

Ideally, you should have commercial insurance in place the moment you launch your business. This ensures that, should anything happen after you begin operating and offering your products or services, you have coverage to protect against costs related to lawsuits, property damage, or other expenses that could otherwise jeopardize your business. But what if you didn’t get commercial insurance when you started your business and haven’t needed it so far? Is it too late to get coverage now? Absolutely not. While the best time to get commercial insurance is when you start your business, the second-best time is now. It’s far better to secure coverage in case something happens than to assume you won’t need it simply because you haven’t encountered any issues yet.

Get Covered With Rising Star Insurance

At Rising Star Insurance, serving Saint Paul, MN, we help you find the right commercial insurance coverage so you can operate your business confidently without the fear of costly damages. Get started today by getting in touch with us!

Common Gaps in Homeowners’ Insurance Coverage

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When you purchase a home, it’s important to buy homeowners insurance to protect your investment. Some homeowners may have questions about their coverage. If your home is in the Saint Paul, MN, area, our team at Rising Star Insurance can answer your questions and guide your insurance choices. We’ve been working with homeowners like you since 2009.

Common Gaps in Homeowners’ Insurance Coverage

Not all homeowners’ insurance policies are alike. When preparing to purchase a policy, it’s important to ensure it adequately covers your needs. According to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, it’s essential to be aware of common gaps in standard homeowners insurance policies. If coverage for certain items or circumstances is relevant to you, be sure to ask your agent about adding protection for them.

For example, it’s essential to know whether your policy covers sheds or detached structures on your property, as well as whether you need additional protection for a pool or trampoline. Some policies don’t cover wells or sump pumps. Clients who own antiques or jewelry may need to consider a separate policy to cover these valuable items. Additionally, if you operate a business from your home, consider purchasing a commercial policy to cover your business activities.

Call Us Today for Your Appointment

At Rising Star Insurance, we take pride in being a locally owned and operated agency. Each member of our team is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and support. Homeowners in the Saint Paul, MN, area have come to rely on us for trustworthy insurance services. Call us today to schedule an appointment, and let’s work together to protect your investment in your home.

Navigating Auto Insurance in Saint Paul: What You Need to Know “Before” You Drive

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Planning to hit the open roads in and around Saint Paul this summer? Before you drive, it’s crucial to understand local auto insurance requirements. Learn what every driver should know from the professionals at Rising Star Insurance.

What You Need to Know Before You Drive in Saint Paul, MN

#1. Auto Insurance Is Legally Required for All Drivers in Minnesota

In Minnesota, all drivers must carry adequate auto insurance. This includes liability coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), or comprehensive collision coverage to protect yourself and other drivers from financial damages associated with collision or non-collision-related incidents on local roads.

#2. Minnesota Is a No-Fault Insurance State

As a no-fault insurance state, Minnesota requires individual insurance holders to cover their own medical costs, legal liability claims, and related damages resulting from automobile accidents. While PIP coverage can simplify the claims process and reduce legal complications, trusted local insurance agencies often recommend adding comprehensive and collision coverage to your policy. These options provide a total coverage solution, helping offset costs associated with accidents, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.

#3. Consider Adding Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Although most drivers in the area comply with local laws, some may not have adequate insurance coverage. To protect your vehicle and financial interests from potential fallout, it’s wise to include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage in your policy. This ensures you’re covered in the event of an accident involving a driver without sufficient insurance.

Don’t risk driving without adequate auto insurance in Saint Paul, MN. Contact Rising Star Insurance today to request an auto insurance quote and secure the coverage you need!

Seasonal Maintenance That Lowers Insurance Risk

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If you’re a homeowner in the Saint Paul, MN area, keeping up with seasonal maintenance tasks is not just about enhancing curb appeal. It can also reduce your insurance risk. At Rising Star Insurance, we assist homeowners in Minnesota in protecting their properties throughout the year. Here’s how a few seasonal maintenance steps can make a significant difference.

Guard Against Water Damage in Spring

While April showers may bring flowers in the spring, they can also lead to serious problems. Inspect your roof and gutters. Remove debris from gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Water damage is one of the most common and expensive issues homeowners face.

Examine Indoor Areas in Summer

Inspect decks, porches, and walkways. Repair loose boards or cracked concrete to avoid liability risks. A quick summer safety check can help reduce the likelihood of accidents on your property.

Prepare for Cold Weather in Fall

Cleaning a chimney and inspecting the furnace are essential tasks as you prepare for cooler weather. You might also need to drain exterior faucets. These simple yet crucial home maintenance tips can reduce the risk of fires and frozen pipes, a common issue in Minnesota.

Keep an Eye on Ice Dams in Winter

Ice dams can cause severe roof damage in the cold Saint Paul winters. Use a roof rake to remove snow buildup and ensure your attic is properly insulated to prevent heat from escaping.

Secure Your Home in Saint Paul, MN Year-Round

We believe that prevention is key to maintaining reliable coverage. A well-maintained home is safer and provides the assurance you need to withstand Minnesota’s elements. Ready for a home insurance check-up? Contact Rising Star Insurance today to ensure that your policy meets your home’s needs.

I Am Starting a Family Soon. Should I Get Life Insurance?

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Protecting a family from potential financial difficulties is crucial when starting a family. At Rising Star Insurance, servicing Saint Paul, MN, we assist individuals and families in finding a life insurance policy that can help.

Life insurance comes in various forms, allowing you to choose the right kind of life insurance policy for your needs. Below are the reasons for getting life insurance and what to consider as you purchase your life insurance.

Understanding Life Insurance

Life insurance is a policy that pays a benefit upon your death. Life insurance comes in different types. Term life insurance policies only last for a specific duration. If you die while the policy is active, it will pay a benefit.

Whole life insurance is a policy that lasts as long as you pay the premium. When you die, the policy pays your beneficiaries. Universal life insurance has variable premiums. This type of life insurance remains effective as long as you pay premiums.

The Importance of Life Insurance When Starting a Family

Obtaining life insurance when you’re starting a family is a way of protecting your family in the event of your death. If you earn a salary, life insurance can help replace that salary while your family recovers from your loss.

Life insurance can also be used to pay off significant debts, like your mortgage or credit card bills. This protects your family from potential financial problems they could face if they lost your contributions to the family due to your death.

When is the Right Time to Get Life Insurance?

If you’re contemplating starting a family, now is the perfect time to get life insurance. Rising Star Insurance, servicing Saint Paul, MN, can assist you.

Should You Take a Boating Safety Course?

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If you own a boat or watercraft in Minnesota, it’s your responsibility to secure boating insurance. New boat owners may have questions about their need for boating insurance. If you are in the Saint Paul, MN, area, our team at Rising Star Insurance is ready to answer your insurance queries. We’ve been serving boat owners in your area since 2009.

Should You Take a Boating Safety Course?

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, completing a boating safety course may lead to a discount on your boat insurance premiums. The course costs approximately $20 and is available online or through the local branch of the Coast Guard. Completion of an 8-hour boating safety course will result in a boating certificate.

During the boating safety course, students will learn about boating law and the types of safety equipment available for boating. You’ll learn the necessary actions to take in case of a boating emergency, such as hypothermia, capsizing, or carbon monoxide issues. Navigation rules and the use of navigation aids are also taught during the course. Boat owners who use a trailer can learn safe ways to attach and use a trailer.

Contact Us Today for Your Appointment

Responsible boat ownership involves taking care of your boat and adhering to safe boating rules. Residents of Saint Paul, MN, who want to learn about boat and watercraft insurance options can rely on us for reliable insurance information. Our team at Rising Star Insurance is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and a quick response to any claims. Call us for an appointment today to explore your insurance options.

Cover All Your Doubts with Umbrella Insurance Solutions

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If you have any insurance, you’ve likely asked a common question shared by policyholders everywhere – do I have enough? Whether you phrase it as "Am I covered," "Will my insurance pay for this," or "Do I have the protection I need," it all boils down to having the insurance coverage you need if you ever need it. That’s why so many people from the Saint Paul, MN area rely on the friendly and professional team at Rising Star Insurance for all their insurance needs, like umbrella insurance solutions for all your coverage doubts.

Cover All Your Doubts with Umbrella Insurance Solutions

While many people have questions about their coverage limits or are curious about gaps in their coverage, the good news is umbrella insurance provides a practical and smart solution to help cover those questions and doubts. That’s why working with an experienced and knowledgeable agent who can help with your coverage questions and provide you with the umbrella insurance solutions you need and deserve is important. If you have doubts or questions about your insurance coverage, umbrella insurance could be the answer.

Get Umbrella Insurance Solutions in Saint Paul, MN

If you’re a resident of Saint Paul, MN, or live in the nearby area, and have questions about umbrella insurance, or would you like to learn more about your coverage options with umbrella insurance solutions, we can help. Contact us to find out more, schedule an appointment for the protection you need and deserve at Rising Star Insurance, and cover all your doubts today.

Are Friends or Family Covered by My Policy if They Borrow My Car?

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Understanding Insurance Coverage When Loaning Your Car to Friends or Family

Unexpected situations involving a vehicle, such as breakdowns or accidents, can often lead to a friend or family member asking to borrow your car. Whether you live in Saint Paul, MN or travel to other Minnesota cities, it’s important to understand if your insurance covers friends or family members who borrow your vehicle. At Rising Star Insurance, our agents can explain the nuances.

Considerations When Loaning Your Vehicle in Saint Paul, MN

Generally, if a friend or family member occasionally borrows your car and gets involved in an accident in Minnesota, your insurance policy provides coverage. However, there are instances when your policy may not cover damage incurred by the borrower.

For instance, if the person borrowing your car consumes alcohol and then drives, resulting in an accident and injury to another driver, you could be held responsible. This could mean paying for medical expenses, specialized care, rehabilitation, or other losses the injured party incurs.

Other factors to consider include:

  • The person borrowing the vehicle must have the owner’s permission for normal use.
  • If the borrower allows another person to drive the vehicle, your insurance does not apply.
  • The borrower should have their own insurance in case your coverage is insufficient to cover accident/injury costs.
  • Criminal or negligent use of the borrowed vehicle is not covered.
  • Personal auto coverage does not cover borrowed vehicles used for business purposes.

Contact Us for More Information

When deciding whether to allow a friend or family member to borrow your vehicle, contact us at Rising Star Insurance. We can provide you with the necessary information about policy coverage.

Seasonal Riding and Motorcycle Insurance

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At Rising Star Insurance, serving the greater Saint Paul, MN area, our team frequently encounters questions about seasonal motorcycle insurance. Many people only ride their bikes during certain seasons, avoiding the harsh winter weather. If you’re one of these seasonal riders, here’s what you need to know about motorcycle insurance.

Reducing Insurance in the Off-Season

If you only ride your motorcycle during specific months, you can decrease your insurance when it’s parked for the season. Some insurance companies allow you to reduce coverage or pause it when you’re not riding, helping you save money.

Maintaining Basic Protection Year-Round

Even when you’re not riding, it’s advisable to maintain some basic coverage, such as protection against theft or damage. This ensures you’re covered if something happens to your bike while it’s not in use.

Adjusting Your Insurance for Riding Season

When it’s time to hit the road again, you can modify your insurance to add more coverage for the season. You can obtain extra protection for things like accidents or medical costs while riding and then adjust it again when you’re not riding.

Looking for a New Motorcycle Insurance Policy? Contact Rising Star Insurance Today

If you’re seeking professional assistance to find the right motorcycle insurance for your riding needs in Saint Paul, MN, you’ve come to the right place. Rising Star Insurance is here to help. Contact us today to learn more or start finding the perfect policy for your seasonal riding needs.

Watercraft Coverage That Protects Against Natural Disasters

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Torrential downpours, high winds, and hail can cause serious damage to your boat. It’s important to explore insurance products that will protect your boat if exposed to inclement weather conditions.

Damage From a Natural Disaster

Damage from a natural disaster may render your boat inoperable or unsafe. Such damage could also affect its resale value.

Insurance products designed to protect against natural disasters provide financial relief. Coverage can be used to repair the damage your watercraft has endured during a natural disaster.

Consider the following disasters and their potential impact.

Torrential Downpours

Torrential downpours could cause water to pool on decking materials, furnishings, navigational aids, and other fixed items within your boat. The excessive moisture could weaken or permanently damage materials. Flood insurance will absorb the costs associated with rehabilitating your watercraft.

High Winds

High winds could cause severe damage to your boat’s exterior. They could also loosen or dent materials, compromising its integrity.

Specialized insurance designed to protect against high winds will help you rehabilitate your watercraft promptly. Insurance may cover the cost of having your boat inspected professionally. It may also handle some or all of the expenses necessary to restore your boat.

Hailstorms

A hailstorm could damage your boat’s interior and exterior. Hail pellets could dent exposed surfaces, greatly reducing their overall value. Hail protection will help pay for the cost of having your boat serviced by a professional.

Contact An Agent Who Serves Saint Paul, MN

Contact one of our insurance agents at Rising Star Insurance Agency. After consulting with the agent, you will receive insurance coverage recommendations to protect your watercraft against natural weather events.