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Altoona, PA 16602

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Category: Auto Insurance

Have You Switched Auto Insurance Companies?

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If you are a Pennsylvania driver, you are required to carry auto insurance. Our team at H. Dean Allison Insurance is happy to review all your auto insurance options. Drivers near Altoona, PA, are welcome to visit our office and select the best policy for their needs. We’ve been providing service to Pennsylvania drivers like you since 1979.

Have You Switched Auto Insurance Companies?

There are many reasons why you might decide to switch auto insurance companies. Some drivers may feel they aren’t receiving good customer service, while others may find a better price with another company. Because maintaining an active auto insurance policy is mandated by law, there are steps you must take to ensure the Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles has your up-to-date insurance information. The first step is asking your new insurance company to send you proof of your new policy.

When you request proof from your new insurance company, most agents today will email you a copy of the new policy details. Once you have proof of your new policy, you should cancel your previous auto insurance policy and keep documentation confirming that the old policy was canceled. If your car is financed, be sure to notify your lender of the change in insurance companies.

Contact Us for Your Appointment Today

Our team at H. Dean Allison Insurance knows that finding the right auto insurance is an important task. Each of our experienced agents is dedicated to finding you the right policy for your needs. Drivers near Altoona, PA, have relied on us for auto insurance guidance for over 46 years. Call us for your appointment today, and stay safe on the road.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Damage From Fallen Trees?

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A tree falling on your car can create an instant crisis. Drivers in Altoona, PA, may suddenly have no way to get to work or take their kids to school, and the damage costs can be significant. Fortunately, your auto insurance may help cover the situation, depending on the type of coverage you carry.

Liability Coverage

Pennsylvania requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage. However, liability insurance only pays for the other person’s injuries or property damage when you are at fault in an accident. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle if a tree falls on it. To be protected from this type of loss, you need additional coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage can help pay for damage caused by falling objects, including trees. This coverage may apply even if the tree came from a neighbor’s yard or if the tree fell because it was not removed despite leaning or showing visible signs of damage. An agent at H. Dean Allison Insurance can help explain how comprehensive coverage works and what other options may be available to you.

Deductible

Even if your insurance company pays for repairs or determines your vehicle is a total loss, you are still responsible for paying your deductible. This is the amount listed in your policy that must be paid out of pocket before insurance covers the remaining damage. For example, if your deductible is $500, you must pay the first $500 of repair costs before your insurer contributes.

Understanding how your coverage works is important, especially if there is a chance your vehicle may be totaled. The team at H. Dean Allison Insurance can help you review your policy and answer questions. Contact us today. We proudly serve drivers in the Altoona, PA, area.

Driving Infractions You May Be Unaware Of

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When most of us think about driving infractions, we picture the obvious ones: speeding, running red lights, or texting while driving. However, at H. Dean Allison Insurance, serving Altoona, PA, we are aware of several lesser-known violations that can still affect your driving record and, consequently, your auto insurance rates.

Rolling Through Stop Signs

You might not think twice about slowing down at a stop sign without coming to a complete stop, especially when no one else is around. However, "rolling stops" are a common infraction and can lead to a ticket. Pennsylvania law requires a full stop at every stop sign, even in quiet neighborhoods.

Driving With Snow on Your Car

It might be tempting to brush off just enough snow to see out of your windshield on a frosty morning, but did you know that failing to clear snow or ice from your car can result in a fine? If flying debris causes an accident or obstructs another driver’s view, you could be held responsible.

Obstructing Your License Plate

That custom license plate frame might look sharp, but if it blocks any part of the plate, especially the state name or registration stickers, you could be cited for an infraction. Law enforcement needs to be able to see your license plate clearly, and any obstruction is considered a violation.

Keep Your Record and Your Rates Clean

These infractions might seem minor, but they can add up quickly and affect your driving record. As your record changes, so can your insurance premiums. The good news is that staying informed can help you avoid unnecessary surprises.

If you have questions about how your driving record might be affecting your insurance, contact H. Dean Allison Insurance, serving Altoona, PA, today. We’re here to help you stay protected and informed.

Should You Get the Minimal Car Insurance? No. Here’s Why!

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H. Dean Allison Insurance provides Altoona, PA residents with easy access to robust insurance policies, particularly for cars and other vehicles. If you’re in the market for protection, it’s crucial to go beyond basic coverage and truly invest in your vehicle’s safety and security.

Basic Policies Don’t Provide Comprehensive Coverage

While buying the lowest-priced option for your car might be tempting, it’s not always the best choice. After all, unexpected damage, weather issues, and even vandalism can occur when you least expect it. As a result, it’s advisable to upgrade and pay a little more.

The extra protection gives your vehicle the safety it needs. Comprehensive policies, in particular, provide a significant upgrade that you can’t ignore. If you’re still on the fence, read on to learn more about how improved insurance minimizes your potential financial damage.

How Upgraded Policies Benefit You

Purchasing better insurance expands your coverage, reduces your risk, and offers many serious advantages. Even if it requires a larger investment, it’s more than worth it for serious drivers. For example, comprehensive policies can protect against:

  • Theft, even if you travel to different parts of the country
  • Glass breakage caused by flying stones, debris, and unexpected incidents
  • Fires that might spread to and impact your vehicle in your garage
  • Flood, hail, and other types of unexpected weather incidents
  • Hitting an animal with your car while driving (common in rural Altoona)

Finding a Policy That Suits You

H. Dean Allison Insurance is here to offer high-quality vehicle insurance upgrades! No matter how many you own (or who drives them), our team can help Altoona, PA residents get the protection that makes sense for their needs. Call us today and get started on your path toward better insurance.

How to Prepare for an Accident: Essential Steps to Take

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Accidents can happen anytime, and being prepared can make a challenging situation more manageable. At H. Dean Allison Insurance, we proudly provide auto insurance to residents in and around the greater Altoona, PA, region; we’re committed to helping you stay informed and ready for anything on the road.

Staying Calm and Assessing the Situation

The first step after an accident is to remain calm. Take a deep breath and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. If possible, ensure your vehicle is safely out of traffic, and turn on your hazard lights.

Gathering Important Information

Collecting accurate information is crucial. Exchange details with the other driver, including names, contact information, and insurance details. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, any damage, and the surroundings. This will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim.

Filing a Police Report

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s wise to contact the police. A formal report can provide an objective account of the incident, which can be helpful for insurance purposes. The officers will gather the necessary information and help mediate any immediate issues.

Notifying Your Insurance Company

As soon as possible, contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Provide them with all the gathered information and follow their guidance for the next steps. They will assist you in filing a claim and navigating the aftermath.

Staying Prepared with Proper Coverage

Having comprehensive insurance coverage ensures you’re protected in case of an accident. If you have questions or want to review your coverage, the H. Dean Allison Insurance team, serving the greater Altoona, PA region, is here to help. Reach out to us to ensure you’re fully prepared and protected on the road.

What Glass Damage Does My Auto Insurance Cover?

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H. Dean Allison Insurance Offers Auto Insurance With Glass Coverage

Your vehicle’s windshield and other glass can become damaged from various hazards, not only from an accident. When breakage occurs, you may wonder if your glass is covered or whether it is part of your average deductible amount. Auto glass coverage can vary, depending on where you live and the type of policy you have. At H. Dean Allison Insurance in Altoona, PA, we help clients find the right coverage for their auto insurance needs.

What Coverage Is Available For Auto Glass Damage?

Generally, windshield damage is covered under “comprehensive” insurance coverage that will replace the glass if it is damaged by “acts of God,” such as hail, tree damage, or falling debris. Vehicle glass that is damaged in a typical car accident is usually covered under the “collision” part of your insurance.

Some States May Include Full Auto Glass Replacement As Part of the Policy

Whether your auto glass is covered under your standard auto insurance policy can depend on the state in which you live. Some states require glass replacement under a standard policy. Other states do not. Pennsylvania does not require auto glass coverage as part of the policy. However, you can purchase auto glass replacement as an “add-on” to your policy if your state does not require it as part of your standard policy coverage.

Make H. Dean Allison Insurance Your Agent For Auto Insurance Coverage

Our experienced agents in Altoona, PA, can provide detailed information on the types of auto insurance available to suit your unique needs. We offer our clients a broad range of insurance products, including policies for life, home, boat, motorcycle, RV, and business. Contact H. Dean Allison Insurance today for a no-obligation quote on auto insurance to ensure you have coverage for unexpected glass damage to your vehicle.

Types of auto insurance coverage: Mandatory and optional

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Like all states, Pennsylvania has auto insurance coverage that is mandated by the law in order to legally drive. Knowing what these are is important when getting your insurance coverage. You can count on the team at H. Dean Allison Insurance in Altoona, PA to make sure that you have the required coverage and to discuss with you the optional coverage that is available for your vehicle. 

Types of auto insurance coverage

Liability

In Pennsylvania, the required liability coverage is 15/30/5, which is $15,000 for one person injured in an accident, $30,000 for more than one person, and $5,000 for property coverage. 

Collision

Collision coverage protects your vehicle if you are responsible for an accident or are the victim of a hit-and-run. The coverage has a deductible that will have to be met. But then the insurance will pay for the repair of the value of the vehicle if it is not repairable. 

Comprehensive

Comprehensive coverage covers your vehicle for damage from things other than a collision. It also has a deductible, and it covers theft, vandalism, flooding, and other damage caused by high winds, ice, hail, and more. It also includes glass coverage. 

Full glass

With full glass coverage, there is no deductible to pay before coverage kicks in. 

Gap coverage

If you have a car loan and a new car, there is the potential that you may owe more to your vehicle than the insurance values of your vehicle. You could be left owing a balance on your loan with a vehicle that has been totally destroyed. Gap coverage will pay the difference between what you owe and what you receive in payment. 

Consult With Us

Contact our office to discuss your auto insurance needs. As independent insurance agents at H. Dean Allison Insurance in Altoona, PA, we can offer more choices and the best rates.

Four things not to do when it comes to your auto insurance policy

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Carrying auto insurance coverage is essential. Unfortunately, motorists sometimes make mistakes when it comes to their auto insurance policy. At H. Dean Allison Insurance, we can provide auto insurance coverage to vehicle owners in Altoona, PA. 

The following are four things not to do when it comes to your auto insurance policy:

Choosing the first auto insurance policy that you find

If you want to find the best available auto insurance policy, you need to explore your options. Getting quotes from a few auto insurance companies is one of the most important steps to go through before buying a policy. 

Neglecting to update your auto insurance policy

A motorist’s insurance needs can change as time goes on. If your financial situation changes or you buy a new vehicle, you’ll want to update your auto insurance coverage accordingly. 

Overlooking helpful auto insurance policy features

There are a lot of features that an auto insurance policy can include that will really make your life easier if you get in an accident. For example, rental vehicle coverage and roadside assistance are two policy features that you should definitely have. 

Failing to add comprehensive coverage to your policy

Liability and collision coverage are important types of coverage to include. However, you should also invest in comprehensive coverage. You’re missing out on important coverage you need if you don’t include comprehensive coverage in your policy.

Comprehensive coverage is important because it covers you if your vehicle becomes damaged due to theft or vandalism. Comprehensive coverage also includes coverage for damage caused by fire. 

Are you looking for auto insurance in Altoona, PA?

Call us at H. Dean Allison Insurance and we’ll answer your insurance questions and give you a quote on a policy. 

Making the Most of Your Auto Insurance Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

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Auto insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle, providing you with peace of mind and protection in the event of an accident or other unexpected events. At H. Dean Allison Insurance Agency serving Altoona, PA, we understand that navigating the world of auto insurance can be confusing and overwhelming, which is why we’re here to help.

Auto Insurance Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

First and foremost, it’s important to understand what your policy covers. Most auto insurance policies include liability coverage, which protects you in the event that you cause an accident and are found to be at fault. This coverage can include property damage, medical expenses, and more. Other types of coverage that you may consider include collision coverage, which pays for damage to your own vehicle, and comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your vehicle from non-collision events such as theft, natural disasters, and more.

When choosing an auto insurance policy, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. You may also want to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to ensure that you’re getting the best coverage at the most affordable price. At H. Dean Allison Insurance Agency, our knowledgeable agents are always here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your coverage.

In addition to choosing the right policy, there are a few other steps you can take to make the most of your auto insurance coverage. For example, it’s important to keep detailed records of your vehicle and its maintenance history, as this can help to prove your case in the event of an accident or other claim. It’s also a good idea to review your policy regularly to make sure that you have the right coverage for your needs, and to make any necessary updates or changes.

Contact Us Today

At H. Dean Allison Insurance Agency serving Altoona,PA, we’re committed to helping our clients get the coverage they need to protect themselves and their vehicles. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or a seasoned driver, our team is here to answer your questions and provide you with the support you need. So if you’re looking for comprehensive, affordable auto insurance coverage, get in touch with us today!

Our Partners

  • Agency Insurance Company
  • AllState
  • Bedford Grange
  • Encompass
  • Liberty Mutual
  • Markel
  • Nationwide
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • The Farmers Fire