Tips for Keeping Your Car Clean

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Because you’re so busy, it can be hard to keep your car clean. In Astoria, OR, the agents at Linda Dugan Insurance understand that keeping your vehicle clean can be manageable with a few quick tips.

Keep Microfiber Cloths Handy

Microfiber cloths are great for picking up dust. Keep one or two in the glove compartment or storage area in your vehicle. Wipe down the dashboard, steering column, radio controls, and the speedometer glass. Water isn’t necessary unless the layer of dust is extremely thick. This should be done at least once a week to avoid buildup.

Microfiber cloths can also be used to clean the inside of the windshield. After a time, the inner side of the windshield harbors a thin layer of film. This film should be cleaned every two weeks or sooner. Spray a small amount of either water or window cleaner on the cloth and clean the surface. This is also a good time to clean the review mirror.

Wet Wipes and Cotton Swabs

Keeping a small container of wet wipes can help you clean a liquid spill quickly. Of course, this is a temporary measure. If you spill coffee, the wipes can absorb some of the moisture immediately. You may need to go back later and catch some of the spillage that seeped into an area that is hard to reach.

You can purchase a travel size package of cotton swabs for your vehicle. They are useful when you need to clean out tiny hard-to-reach crevices, such as the corners of the cup holders or beneath the parking brake. Soak the tip with cleaning fluid and rub the stained areas.

At Linda Dugan Insurance, the independent agents in Astoria, OR can help adjust your current auto policy or start a new one.

 

Switching Home Insurnace Companies

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There comes a time in the course of every homeowner’s life that they consider switching their home insurance coverage. There are some tips that can help you determine if it is time for a switch or just time to change your policy. If you are thinking of a switch and you live in the Astoria, OR area, the agents with Linda Dugan Insurance can help you change your policy to fit your specific needs.

So what might prompt a homeowner to change their insurance policy or their insurance company? The first thing is often going to be the cost of premiums each year. High premiums are almost always the deciding factor when it comes to changing companies. The real issue is figuring out if the change in premiums is worth the change in coverage.

In many cases, companies will offer lower premiums to newer customers. This means that changing your company might save you some money here and there. This, however, might not be the best thing to do as these lower costs nearly always fall off after you have been with the company for a long period. You also have to consider that being with a company for a longer period increases loyalty and also helps to increase the likelihood that you have a dedicated agent or that the insurance agency knows about your policy.

You also need to consider the fact that switching often to save a few dollars here and there on your policy might hurt your chances of a smooth transaction if you do have a claim. For all your questions if you live in the Astoria, OR area, the agents with Linda Dugan Insurance can better explain and help you make a switch if you so choose.  

3 Benefits of Auto Insurance

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Purchasing auto insurance is a matter that affects all motorists universally. No matter what type of vehicle you have or how skilled of a drive you may be, auto insurance will still play a major factor in your ability to drive and maintain a vehicle. That said, the following is a closer look at three benefits of purchasing auto insurance. 

Lawsuit Avoidance

Firstly, one of the top benefits of having auto insurance is that it helps you avoid very costly lawsuits. If you are involved in an accident without coverage, you could be on the hook for thousands or maybe even millions! Purchase a high-quality lawsuit to avoid such things. 

Peace of Mind

In addition to that, maintaining an auto policy provides us with peace of mind. The road can be a scary place. This fear will only be magnified if you are driving without coverage. However, by purchasing an auto insurance policy, you will feel that much more confident while on the road. 

Protect your Health

Lastly, another top benefit of auto insurance is protecting your health. Given that there is always the potential of a serious accident occurring, auto insurance policies help by providing monies for medical bills and other things necessary for recovery.

Overall, if you need auto insurance in Astoria, OR, Linda Dugan Insurance is the way to go. No matter how much or how little coverage you want to purchase, Linda Dugan Insurance can create a custom package perfect to suit your insurance-related needs! Never get caught without insurance in Astoria, OR, call Linda Dugan today to start your policy and hopefully save some money! 

Will Auto Insurance Cover Vandalism?

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Some Oregon motorists mistakenly believe all auto insurance plans pay for repairs to any kind of damage. The truth is that many policies only cover traffic accidents. If you want an insurer to pay for vandalism-related losses, you’ll need to buy extra coverage. You may be required to purchase it in some situations.

Comprehensive policies cover a variety of non-collision damage. In addition to vandalism, they often compensate drivers for losses linked to fires, hail, flooding or theft. Motorists usually buy this type of coverage in combination with collision insurance. It frequently appeals to owners of fairly recent or high-value vehicles. As with any insurance plan, actual compensation varies depending on the policy terms and the results of an insurer’s investigation.

Is it Required?

Oregon state law only calls for motorists to obtain liability coverage. However, the terms of some auto loans require drivers to purchase comprehensive insurance. Banks, credit unions and other lenders want to fully protect the value of borrowers’ cars. They know that it can become difficult to recover the borrowed funds if a storm, fire or vandals heavily damage a vehicle without the right coverage.

Making a Claim

Astoria, OR motorists should report car vandalism to the local authorities as soon as possible. Insurers normally want to see police reports before they pay for repairs. It’s wise to take photos and contact the insurer before visiting a repair shop. Drivers ought to take steps to prevent additional damage, such as protecting broken windows with plastic.

If you need comprehensive auto coverage at affordable rates, turn to the friendly insurance experts at Linda Dugan Insurance in Astoria OR. This independent agency finds the best prices and most suitable policies for local motorists. To learn more and compare quotes, please call the Linda Dugan Insurance office at 503-440-3909.
 

Updating Your Home Insurance: Better Coverage, Better Lives

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Having more coverage when it comes to home insurance can sometimes just feel like you’re just having more money taken out of your wallet. Days go by and everything remains status quo, and you start thinking that there’s no reason to plan for the worst because it will never actually happen to you. But this mentality has left too many people in Astoria, OR feeling foolish. Linda Dugan Insurance wants you to have more information about how updating can be your true savior when it comes to emergencies. 

Understanding the Role of Home Insurance 

Your policy is in place to protect you against practically every even that may occur on your property. From a stray dog destroying your expensive shrubs and garden, to your own dog ruining an antique dresser. However, every policy is different, and may not reflect the same needs you have when you first moved into the house.The more you find out about what’s actually in the clauses of your policy, the better you’ll feel about the amount of threats out there. Your home isn’t just something that you bought without research, so it’s important that your home insurance be given the same careful consideration. 

Call Someone Who Knows 

To update your policy, you’ll want to talk to someone who understands the nuances of each event. There may be provisions that can help you more than you think. Home insurance keeps you ready both emotionally and financially, and Linda Dugan Insurance has proudly contributed to that peace of mind for the people of Astoria, OR. If you’re interested in updating your coverage, then now is the time to chat with us. The agents here are ready to answer your questions and get you a policy that protects everything that’s worth protecting, so call today! 

Tips for Packing to Make Moving a Breeze

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It would be difficult to find someone that actually enjoys the packing, moving, and unpacking process but with a bit of extra planning, you can make everything a bit easier on yourself. It may take some extra time in the beginning but it will definitely save you some time when you are moving and unpacking for your new home in Astoria, OR. Use these tips from Linda Dugan Insurance during your packing process:

  • Color code your boxes. When you are packing, you should use different colors for each room and put these colors on the boxes. Then, when you are moving, you can make sure the boxes that go in specific rooms are placed in there. When you go to unpack them, all of the boxes in that room will be there for you.
  • Keep a detailed inventory. You should also number the boxes and keep a detailed inventory list of everything that is in those boxes. When you are looking for a specific item, you can go to your list and quickly find the box it is in. 
  • Pack a box for the first night. You will be very tired after moving but you will still likely want to get clean and sleep in your bed. Make sure you pack everything you need for your first night in one box so you can get a good night of sleep.

Another step of moving that you need to complete is finding a great home insurance policy for your new home. Whether you have one in place or not, it is worth your time to contact Linda Dugan Insurance serving Astoria, OR. They can take a look at some different policy options as well as help you find something that fits within your budget. Contact them today to learn more. 

Water Safety Tips for Every Time of Year

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Astoria, OR, Linda Dugan Insurance wants you to make the most of life on the water. Throughout the year there are chances to have fun unique to the area, but it’s always important to keep safety in mind. Fun should never come at the cost of health, so keep a few simple tips on the brain when you plan for some watery adventure.

Weather

Oregon is a nice place to stay cool without freezing, but minding the weather is important for safe fun in the water. No matter what time of year it is, if you venture into the waters, keep an eye on storms and rainfall. While a heavy system can create stronger currents and raise water tables, dry spells can be equally dangerous when they expose shelves, rocks and other obstructions. It sounds obvious, but always double check weather reports before venturing into open water.

Gear

While many will shy from a dip in the colder months, there are always adventurous souls out there. Make sure you use a proper wet suit and anything else you need to stay warm. Even in the peak of summer hypothermia can be a threat if you swim long enough, so always prioritize warmth. Even if you’re just looking to wade or do a little fishing, make sure your feet are protected from rocks or submerged debris.

Watercraft

One of the great benefits of living on the coast is the availability of water sports. If you dry dock your vehicles, be sure they are stored properly, and give them a thorough inspection before taking them back to the water. If you leave them docked, regular visits and inspections, especially during winter, will help identify any signs of wear or damage before they become a safety issue. When in use, make sure any craft are properly equipped with life jackets and general safety equipment.

Contact a friendly agent at Astoria, OR based Linda Dugan Insurance today!

 

Why does Location Impact my Car Insurance?

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When people in Astoria, OR look for car insurance, there are a few factors that everyone expects to impact their car insurance rates. For example, people with better driving records are likely to receive better rates on their car insurance; however, there are also a few factors that impact car insurance premiums that people aren’t expecting. One of these commonly overlooked factors is location. Location actually plays a big role when insurance companies calculate premiums for car insurance in Astoria, OR. Read below to figure out why!

Everyone understands that certain locations are safer than others. In fact, locations that are safer to live in will receive a lower car insurance rate. It makes sense that a car parked in a safe area has a lower chance of being broken into. This means that insurance companies are less likely to have to pay out claims for car theft and damage in this location. They will reward a car living in this location with a lower insurance rate. Consider the safety of an area before moving because it impacts the well-being of the family as well as car insurance rates.

In addition, some areas have significantly higher costs of living than others. When the cost of living drives up the cost of goods, the cost of car insurance will rise as well. If people are worried about their car insurance rates, they should avoid moving to an area with a high cost of living. Property taxes and real estate taxes will all impact car insurance rates.

People with questions on their car insurance policies should contact Linda Dugan Insurance. Linda Dugan Insurance has a reputation for finding an insurance policy that will meet the needs of everyone. Contact the office today for more information!

 

 

Is your car protected?

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Much like your home, your car is an important aspect of maintaining your livelihood. You need it to get from point A to point B and the last thing you want to worry about is your car being taken away because it is unprotected. Unfortunately, the truth is that even when you follow the rules of the road, drive carefully, and never drive when you are physically impaired; your car still may be on the bad end of an accident. Our independent agents at Linda Dugan Insurance understand how important it is to protect your car while it’s on the road. 

When it comes to auto insurance, it is just as important to make sure you have the right insurance according to the state of Oregon as it is to have auto insurance that fits your budget, needs, and car. Driving around without auto insurance is against the law and can ruin your piece of mind. Many times, when you are a 5 star driver, you can come in contact with an inebriated or simply irresponsible driver that can cause an accident and snatch your car right out of your grasp. The right auto insurance can protect your car from everything from fender benders to full blown accidents that result in a totaled car. 

Whether you are purchasing your first auto insurance or changing over your insurance for a more comprehensive plan, our independent agents at Linda Dugan Insurance will walk you through the process, step by step, to make sure you are leaving the office with all of your questions answered and the right insurance for your car and budget. 

Why wait? Come down to our offices today to talk to our agents about how we can help you purchase the right auto insurance for your car.

Downsizing Isn’t Always a Savings

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Every family reaches a time when the moment to live in a smaller place, more personal and more comfortable, arrives. Whether that change is due to the kids growing up and leaving home, or it’s because health requirements are making it impossible or impractical to live in a larger home, downsizing happens. Some folks even downsize just to live in a new place they always wanted to, leveraging the investment of the previous home for a better location. Whatever the reason, home insurance is affecting accordingly when living conditions change. However, that doesn’t mean folks should give up on home financial protection altogether.

Clearly, a new home or smaller home is going to be a change, but a new policy could actually have a higher cost, not necessarily lower one. Some of the big reasons that trigger changes include the location, the cost of reconstruction, and the type of home involved. Location can be a big variance, with some locations having a real estate value more than double that of others. While that doesn’t necessarily directly impact home protection, it can influence the overall cost of home repair for that area. That in turn can be a policy cost more to address such expenses if they occur. Secondly, home construction in some areas can also cost more due to proximity to construction resources. More remote areas obviously will trigger more expenses from contractors. Finally, if a smaller replacement home is unique and not a standard construction, a common situation with retirees, then these additional changes or unique factors will also add to home insurance costs for coverage of replacement if it occurs. So, again, just moving to a smaller downsizing home for later years doesn’t mean one will automatically have a cheaper home insurance policy as a result.

The best way for folks in Astoria, OR to know what a downsizing event may look like cost-wise is to sit down with Linda Dugan Insurance. Their independent agents can scan the market and provide the best picture for alternatives before a homeowner makes changes, saving folks from uncomfortable surprises.