Home Insurance updates for Massachusetts Residents - Massachusetts Insurance Agent - Home, Auto, Business

How to Take Control Behind the Wheel

10/20/2020

What did we do before we had backup cameras?

The driver-assist features found in newer cars and trucks often make driving safer, and most of us rely on them every day. But it’s worth remembering: Technology can’t always perform better than your own quick reflexes.

Find out how to make the most of your vehicle’s safety features without letting them lull you into a false sense of security.

Benefits and Limitations

Here are a few features you may be familiar with (along with their limitations):

Lane departure and change sensors can help you avoid a collision, but they won’t necessarily alert you to ice on the road or a sharp curve ahead.
Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe following distance, but it may not be able to change your speed quickly enough if someone cuts you off.
Safety cameras give you more information while driving, backing up and parking — but you should still keep your eyes on your surroundings.

Smart Habits

Regardless of how smart your car seems to be, don’t let go of these essential habits:

Check your mirrors before backing up
Check your blind spot before changing lanes
Stay aware of weather conditions
Always drive defensively (watch out for other drivers who may not be paying attention)

Common Distractions

While texting may get the most attention, it’s not the only dangerous distraction on the road. Here are other behaviors to avoid:

Checking or posting to social media
Scrolling through your phone to find a song or podcast
Tending to children and other passengers
Eating or grooming

Check Safety Ratings

When car shopping, search for the year, make and model you’re interested in to review safety ratings. You can use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s 5-Star Safety Ratings or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s vehicle ratings.
Have questions about your coverage? Reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
.

save on your car insurance

How to Choose a Reliable Mechanic

9/10/2020

Have you ever looked over a vehicle repair estimate and felt a sinking feeling in your stomach?

Maybe you have reason to believe that something isn’t right, but due to a lack of knowledge, there’s not much you can do about it.
Is it possible to avoid this moment altogether?

There are lots of trustworthy mechanics out there, so you just have to find one. Here are a few tips for connecting with someone reliable.

Ask for Recommendations

While online reviews can be helpful to your decision-making process, they shouldn’t be the only factor. Ask friends, family, co-workers and neighbors if they’re happy with their current mechanic.

Check for Certifications

Many reputable mechanics have been certified by particular vehicle manufacturers or the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Ask the shop if they have any certified mechanics on staff and check the website or waiting area for any other licenses or certifications.

Be an Active Participant

Show up informed about the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle as well as any major repairs you’ve already completed. This will help your mechanic be the best possible partner to you. It will also alert you to any red flags, such as a recommendation for a repair that you just had done.
Review Everything
You also want a mechanic who is willing to answer your questions and explain why a repair is needed. The best technicians can also tell you when the repair isn’t urgent but should be completed within a specific timeframe.

Have questions about your insurance coverage? Reach out anytime.

10 Tips to Reduce Distracted Driving

6/23/2020

More than 40,000 Americans died on the roads in 2016, the most significant increase in deaths over a two-year period in more than 50 years.1 Whether someone you love has been known to text and drive, or you have found yourself distracted behind the wheel, these tips can help avoid dangerous activity on the road.

Stow your phone. Turning off the phone and putting it in “do not disturb” mode can help remove the temptation to browse online at a red light or respond right away to a text message.
Vow not to multi-task. Anything that occupies your mind or vision can be a distraction behind the wheel. Make time at home to eat meals or put on makeup, so you can focus on the road.
Don’t be a distraction. Avoid calling or texting family members and friends when you know they are driving to avoid distracting them.
Talk to your employer. Responding to texts or taking calls for work while driving can be dangerous. Encourage your employer to have a distracted driving policy that includes waiting to talk with employees until they are safely parked.
Keep kids and pets safe. Make sure kids are in proper car seats and that pets stay secured in their zone in the back of your vehicle. It can also help reduce distractions if pets are not roaming about the car.
Set a good example. Parents can model good behavior for their children by demonstrating attentive driving. Avoid texting, eating, grooming or calling someone while behind the wheel.
Plan your route before you go. Programming your navigation system while you drive can take your eyes off the road. It’s better to ask a passenger to do it or to enter your destination before you leave home.
Speak up. If you see someone texting or otherwise driving while distracted, say something and let them know that you are not comfortable with that behavior. Encourage your children to do the same when they are passengers in a friend’s car. It could save a life.
Set rules of the road. Consider restricting the number of passengers until your teen or new driver gains experience behind the wheel.
Avoiding reaching. Resist the urge to reach for items if they fall while driving.

Taking your eyes off the road to search for an item can make you more likely to have an accident.

SAVE MORE ON YOUR CAR INSURANCE

Tips for Handling a Tire Blowout

5/26/2020

For many drivers, there is nothing more frightening or potentially dangerous than a tire blowout at almost any speed. While the number of tire-related crashes has dropped dramatically since 2008, when all new vehicles were required to have automatic tire pressure monitoring systems, these numbers still remain high. The stats do not lie, as tire blowouts and flats contribute to nearly 11,000 collisions and 700 fatalities each year.

With all the advances in safety standards and technology, why are tire blowouts still such a significant safety issue? One reason may be that since blowouts are now a rarer occurrence, when they do happen, drivers are less prepared to handle them and react properly. When a tire blows out, it can only take about ¼ second before your ride suddenly becomes a struggle to control. How you react can make all the difference in how the situation resolves itself. The first step is staying calm and remembering some tips that can help you maintain control of your vehicle.

What Does a Tire Blowout Sound Like?

Expect to hear three key sounds that may vary depending on your specific situation. First, you may hear a loud boom or bang of the tire popping reverberating through your car. You may then hear a whooshing sound or the sound of the air quickly escaping from the tire, and finally, a repeated flapping or flopping of the deflated tire hitting the road.
What Does a Tire Blowout Feel Like? When a tire explodes while you’re driving, first you will feel the vehicle slow down, then it will pull strongly to the left or right depending on which tire burst.2 If a front tire burst, you should feel the force mostly within the steering of your vehicle. With a rear tire, you should feel it more in the seat or body of the car. Whether the blowout occurred in the front or back, your response should be the same in either situation.

How to Drive Through a Tire Blowout

According to the National Safety Council and other safety experts, there are some important tips and best practices to remember if you experience a tire blowout.

Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel.
Do not slam on the brakes.
Let your car slow down gradually.
Pull to the side of the road once you have slowed to a safe speed.
Activate your emergency flashers.3

What to Do After a Tire Blowout

After a blowout, only exit your vehicle if you are certain you are safely off the road and out of harm’s way. Turn your emergency flashers on to alert other drivers, and if safe to do so, put out reflective cones or triangles if you have them. If it is not safe to change the tire where you are, or you are unsure how, call for roadside assistance.

Also keep in mind that a spare is only recommended for emergencies and should not be driven for long distances or at high speeds. Take the time now to read your owner’s manual to learn where your spare tire and necessary tools are located. Your manual may also provide instructions on how to change a flat tire. It is a good idea to be familiar with these procedures before you get stuck on the side of the road.

How to Prevent a Tire Blowout

The good news is that many tire blowouts are preventable with the proper effort and attention. Most occur from May through October when the road surface is the hottest, resulting from an underinflated tire, excessively worn treads, or an overloaded vehicle. A routine inspection of your tires to check for slow leaks, wear and tear, and proper pressure is important. Keeping your load light, within your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations (found in the same spot as the recommended tire pressure), can help too.
Learn more about what to do if your car breaks down and other steps to take to help stay safe on the roads.

click to save on your car insurance

A Timeline for Getting Your Teen Driver on the Road Safely

5/26/2020

Teens eager to drive often have parents equally concerned about keeping their new drivers safe. In fact, the rate of fatal crashes per mile driven for teen drivers is 3X that of drivers over age 20.1 The reality is that novice drivers can take years to develop real-world experience behind the wheel.

Until then, parents can set expectations for safe driving behaviors, provide opportunities to practice in a safe environment and stay involved, even after their teen earns a driver’s license. Help teen drivers stay safe behind the wheel by preparing them for risks on the road with this teen driver timeline.
One Year in Advance: Set a Good ExampleStarting long before your teen receives his or her driver’s license, demonstrate the kind of safe driving behaviors you will expect from your teen, including never driving while distracted by technology. It should be an easier conversation when it comes to setting expectations when your teen gets behind the wheel if those expectations reflect your own behavior.

While distracted driving is dangerous for all drivers, Dr. Charlie Klauer, who studies teen risk and injury prevention at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, has found that the risks are much higher for novice drivers who engage in manual-visual tasks, such as texting while driving.2
Less Than a Year in Advance: Discuss Dangerous BehaviorsParents can help teens understand how certain behaviors behind the wheel may increase the risk of a crash. These behaviors include speeding, tailgating, drowsy driving or driving under the influence of alcohol or while distracted. Engaging in two or more of these behaviors at the same time may greatly increase the risk of crashes, according to Dr. Klauer.3 Parents should discuss the importance of safe speeds, a safe following distance and being aware of potentially dangerous conditions.

Six Months in Advance: Set Specific ExpectationsTalk with your teen about his or her plans for driving. If your teen plans to drive, does he or she plan to drive every day? Does he or she plan on owning a car? Discuss the potential risks of driving, including legal and financial responsibilities, which can include insurance premiums, repair costs and fines for unsafe driving.
Establish the rules of the house, including when and where your teen is allowed to drive, so he or she knows your expectations. For example:

Do you want them to turn off their smartphone so they will not be distracted while driving?
Do you want them to reach a certain number of hours or miles driven before they can have passengers other than adult family members?
Do you want to set specific rules about driving at night or during inclement weather?

There are also teen driver apps that can monitor driving behavior, including speeding.
Four Months in Advance: Know the Rules of the RoadMany states have extensive learner’s permits and graduated driver’s license laws. It is important to learn the rules and guidelines for your state. Strive not to just meet the minimum requirements, such as hours driven with supervision, but to exceed them. Most state departments of motor vehicles (DMVs) offer a driver's handbook, which may also be available online.

Take any necessary classroom instruction to prepare your teen for getting a license.
Practice, practice, practice. It takes a long time to learn how to drive well. The more a new driver gains experience, the better. New drivers can practice in empty parking lots and other low-traffic areas to develop their skills.
Know the car. Have your teen get familiar with the vehicle and all of the controls, such as how to turn on the windshield wipers, headlamps, hazard lights and set the emergency brake.

Three Months in Advance: Plan for the UnexpectedTalk with teens about what to do if they are in a car accident. Do not assume new drivers instinctively know the basics, such as getting the other driver’s insurance and contact information, calling the police, taking pictures, completing an accident report and notifying your insurance company as soon as possible.
Help them pack an emergency kit for the car and discuss what they will do if their car breaks down on the road, including getting the car to a safe place before they get out. Make sure they have the number for roadside assistance, if you have a service that they can call.

Road Test Day and Beyond: Continue the ConversationStay involved with your teen driver even after he or she gets a driver’s license. Let him or her know it’s okay to ask you for help or for more practice. Encourage your teen to only drive in conditions where he or she feels safe. Continually review the safety guidelines, including prohibition of use of portable electronic devices while driving, which you discussed before they earned their license, so it remains top-of-mind.
Remember, even after a new driver takes the keys, continuing to talk about your expectations for safe behavior can help reinforce good decisions.

Best car insurance quotes

13 things you should do to keep your car in good running condition while coronavirus lockdowns park it indefinitely, according to experts

5/19/2020

Letting a car sit while under coronavirus lockdown — or any other time — can potentially cause hefty repair bills, but you can keep your vehicle in good condition by following a few key steps.
The main concern with letting a car sit in the short term is a dead battery — the best way to prevent that is to drive your car at least once every two weeks.
Driving regularly also prevents your tires from degrading, and it keeps all the moving parts in your car lubricated.
Getting your car moving at regular intervals helps in the short term, but some additional precautions may be in order if you'll be driving rarely for an extended period of time.
Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.Given the fact that there's a pandemic going on, you'd be forgiven if car maintenance isn't top of mind these days. However, since most of the US is on some form of lockdown — and most people's daily drivers are sitting for longer than usual — proper vehicle upkeep is far more important than it might seem.

One of the best ways to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus is, of course, to stay at home and practice proper social distancing. But the longer your car sits, the more risk there is of causing permanent damage or an unwelcome repair bill. Fortunately, drivers can take a few simple steps to ensure their car stays in good running condition over the next weeks and months of coronavirus quarantine.

Business Insider spoke with experts to learn what drivers should watch out for when parking their cars for longer than usual — but, keep in mind, there's a whole host of additional precautions to take if you're planning to tuck a car away in long-term storage.

Larry Kosilla, the founder of car detailing company Ammo NYC, Ronald Montoya, senior consumer advice editor at Edmunds, and Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council, a nonprofit that educates drivers on automotive maintenance, all shared some tips and tricks for keeping a sitting car well maintained in the near term and in the long haul.

save more on your car insurance

Preparing Your Property for Severe Weather

5/13/2020

Regardless of what’s going on in the world, storm season will continue right on schedule. That means now is the time to prepare your property for potentially severe weather.
You may have already completed a few of these tasks while spending time at home during the last few weeks.

But if you’re still getting ready, here are a few actions that can help keep your home and car safe from damage this spring, summer and beyond.

Check the Roof

Even a small leak can cause mold growth and structural damage. A leak could also potentially start a fire if water were to come in contact with electrical wiring. You can help prevent these problems by regularly checking for loose or missing shingles and exposed flashing.

Reinforce the Exterior

Regular maintenance, like clearing out your gutters and making sure they’re functioning properly, will also be key when it comes to protecting your siding and foundation. Fresh caulk around the doors and windows will help insulate your home from damage no matter what type of bad weather hits.

Inspect and Trim Trees

A weak tree may topple over in a storm, damaging anything that happens to be in its path. If you can, have your property inspected to identify and remove any potential problems. Healthy trees should be trimmed back to prevent damage from falling branches.

Park Your Car in a Safe Location
If you don’t have a garage, you’ll need to look for a safe place to park your vehicle. Covering the car with a tarp and parking it near one side of your home can be a good option. Or, you may need to consider a safer location, such as a friend’s home, public parking lot or even an underground store parking lot.
Do you have the coverage you need? Do you have any questions we can help with? Reach out anytime.

safety insurance personal auto policyholder 15% credit

4/14/2020

As a result of the financial impact that the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic is having on policyholders, we are announcing the Safety Personal Auto Relief Credit. Any Safety Insurance personal auto policyholder that has a policy in effect as of April 1st will receive a 15% credit off their premium for the months of April and May.

Details of the program include:

Insureds must have made at least one payment on their policy and maintain continuous coverage to be eligible
The credits will be applied automatically, and insureds do not need to take any action
Policyholders that have paid in full will receive a refund
New business policies are eligible
Agent commissions will not be affected
This credit is pending regulatory approval

In addition to this credit, Safety’s previously announced initiatives remain ongoing:

Cancellation notices issued on or after March 23, 2020 have been rescinded and we have placed a hold on all non -payment policy cancellations until further notice. We have also waived all late and NSF fees.

Safety continues to provide auto coverage for customers who are now using their personal vehicles to make food deliveries as a result of changes to their business operations. As always, our staff is available to provide help and work through flexible solutions to the challenges our policyholders face.

We are making relief efforts through our Charitable Foundation to help support the communities in which we do business. We are providing financial support to the following local charities.

Massachusetts COVID -19 Relief Fund
Boston Resiliency Fund
Project Bread
Healthcare Heroes to benefit the Massachusetts General Emergency Response Fund

Safety’s thoughts remain with everyone during these difficult times and we will continue to make decisions that have the best interest of our agents, policyholders, and employees in mind. Thank you for your continued partnership and please stay safe.

Sincerely,

John Drago, Vice President of Marketing

4 Driving Mistakes to Watch Out For

3/5/2020

You’re driving to work when your favorite podcast suddenly stops playing. You know you shouldn’t look at your phone, but you hate sitting in silence during your commute. What do you do?

Do you glance around for cops, then tap around on your phone until the story starts up again? A lot of us do this — but it isn’t the safest choice.
Beyond breaking the bad habit of distracted driving, here are four more behind-the-wheel behaviors to leave behind.

1. Don’t rely too much on fancy technology. If we let ourselves become less engaged drivers because we’re expecting blind-spot notifications and attention assist to save us when we’re tired or preoccupied, we aren’t really any safer. Continue your same careful driving habits and let these innovations give you an extra boost.

2. Don’t assume other drivers are paying attention, well rested or sober. Learn to spot the signs of impairment: wandering out of their lane, swerving, erratic braking, inconsistent speed and getting too close to other cars or objects. Keep a safe distance from these potentially dangerous drivers.

3. Don’t let your insurance make you complacent. Even if your collision deductible is low, don’t let your guard down. Dealing with car repairs and the other driver after an accident — not to mention the injury risk — probably isn’t worth it.

4. Don’t neglect routine maintenance. Overheating, breaking down or blowing a tire can be terrifying and dangerous. Fortunately, these problems can often be prevented with regular maintenance. Check your tire pressure and fluids monthly and have a trusted mechanic inspect your car thoroughly once or twice a year.

Have questions about your auto coverage? Reach out today to discuss your policy.

Click here to find out how much you can save on auto insurance

Dog Car Safety: What Are the Safest Cars for Dogs?

2/11/2020

Dog Car Safety: What Are the Safest Cars for Dogs?

For dog owners, our furry friends are often considered members of the family. While many cars & trucks can be suitable for the needs of dog owners, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that driving with a dog goes safely and smoothly.

In general, dog owners should look for key features such as a spacious interior, seats that can handle the wear & tear, and ample cargo space to store not only your luggage but your pet's stuff in the event of a road trip. Here are some picks worth considering.

Dog Safety Considerations

Dangers of Distracted Driving

Many times when driving down the road you will see dogs running from the back seat to the front seat of a car while it is in motion. This practice is dangerous to both the pet and the car driver. A distracted driver is more likely to be involved in a vehicle accident than a driver who is not distracted. Having your pet running in the car while it is in motion is a recipe for disaster.
General Safety Precautions

A dog should always ride in the back of a car in a harness or specialized seatbelt for dogs. Like children, large dogs should be placed in the rear seat in order to prevent them from becoming a distraction while driving and reduce the risk of harm that may be caused from a discharged passenger side air bag deployed during a crash.

Dogs can also be distracting to the driver. Some want to jump into the driver's lap, hang their heads out of a window, or jump from the front seat to the back. There are many devices on the market that help to keep the dog secure in every make and model car. In some cases, these devices may work in concert with your existing seatbelts to minimize movement in the event of a crash.

Dogs that are allowed to ride unsecured in truck beds are a concern to lawmakers and actions have been taken in some municipalities to outlaw people and dogs riding in truck beds. Another dog car safety hazard is leaving a dog unattended for long periods of time in a hot car. Temperatures in direct sunlight can rise more rapidly than you might expect.
Pet Carriers

Small dogs under 30 pounds and cats can be placed in a travel-approved carrier. This equipment is designed to be strapped into the rear seat of the car and provide side and front crash protection in the event of an accident.

This type of device is a must for a car owner that travels a lot with their pet and would be concerned that the pet would be injured in the event of an accident. Taking the time to observe some basic pet safety techniques can make the difference between life and death.

A pet store or car dealer may be able to assist you with identifying special safety equipment specific for your pets. Your local pet store can help you pick out the appropriate device for your pet and install it properly in order for it to work properly.
Car Window Safety

There are times when dogs can be seen with their head out of the window on a nice summer day. However, as dog lovers can admire this sentiment, it is very unsafe for the dog and drivers alike.

It does not take much force for the dog to lose balance on its two hind legs, which could send the dog out of the window. Some dogs might even try to climb out of the window. Rocks, dirt, and other debris can cause serious injury to sensitive areas like eyes and noses.

Click here to save on car insurance

Arthur D. Calfee Insurance Agency, Inc. is a friendly local insurance agency proudly offering Massachusetts, Cape Cod and the Islands. A-Excellent AM Best rating, A+ Excellent by the BBB
Using innovative thinking, cutting-edge tools and expert resources at national and local levels, we deliver the best possible outcome on every policy we manage. Need Home Insurance? Easy, Fast, & Secure Home Insurance. Get Free Quotes 100% Online Now! Available 24/7. Affordable Rates. Cover Your Biggest Investments. Get a homeowners insurance quote, find coverage options. We'll help you understand and customize the right home insurance coverage for you.

Home is where your heart is—along with a healthy chunk of your net worth. Get started today with a free homeowner's quote.

Compare home insurance quotes today and save on protection for your biggest investment. Build a Custom Policy & Make the Switch! Our local underwriting professionals focus exclusively on finding the best home insurance, homeowner's insurance, hazard insurance, investment property insurance, flood insurance, flood zone information, vacation home insurance, second home insurance, auto insurance, collector car insurance, business insurance, general liability insurance, property insurance, professional liability insurance, contractor's liability insurance, worker's comp insurance, key man insurance, whole life insurance, term life insurance, group or personal disability, & long-term care insurance policies to patrons in the following Cape Cod, Massachusetts towns, communities and villages: Barnstable, Bourne, Pocasset, Brewster, Buzzards Bay, Centerville, Chatham, Cotuit, Craigville, Dennis, East Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, East Falmouth, Hatchville, West Falmouth, North Falmouth, Woods Hole, Harwich, Hyannis, Hyannisport, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Marstons Mills, Mashpee, Orleans, Osterville, Provincetown, Sandwich, Sagamore, Sagamore Beach, Truro, Wellfleet, Yarmouth, and Yarmouthport. Real-Time Pricing. Insurance coverage: Wind Damage, Fire Loss, Water Damage. Protect your home and belongings. Low Rates For Your Best Options to Save Money On Great Coverage! Get a quote today. Home insurance helps protect your house and your family.

Testimonials & Endorsements for the Best Insurance Agent on Cape Cod, MA

CAPE COD MASSACHUSETTS HOME INSURANCE

Arthur D. Calfee Insurance Agency, Inc.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
CAR INSURANCE
RENTERS INSURANCE
CONDO INSURANCE
BOAT INSURANCE

COMMERCIAL AUTO INSURANCE
BUSINESS INSURANCE
LIFE INSURANCE
LOCAL CAR INSURANCE
LOCAL HOME INSURANCE

LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE
DISABILITY INSURANCE
TERM INSURANCE
WHOLE LIFE INSURANCE
MORTGAGE PROTECTION

FLOOD

CLIENT SERVICES

PHONE: (800) 479-2601 CUSTOMER SUPPORT & SERVICE

Falmouth Homeport Office - 336 Gifford Street Falmouth, MA 02540 * North Falmouth Village Office - 121 County Road North Falmouth, MA 02556

Please note: The above is meant as general information to help you understand the different aspects of insurance. This information is not an insurance policy, does not refer to any specific insurance policy, and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions expressly stated in any insurance policy. Descriptions of all coverages and other features on this page are necessarily brief; in order to fully understand the coverages and other features of a specific insurance policy, we encourage you to read the applicable policy and/or speak to an insurance representative. Coverages and other features vary between insurers, vary by state, and are not available in all states. Whether an accident or other loss is covered is subject to the terms and conditions of the actual insurance policy or policies involved in the claim. References to average or typical premiums, amounts of losses, deductibles, costs of coverages/repair, etc., are illustrative and may not apply to your situation. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites linked from this page.

© 2020 Copyright, Arthur D. Calfee Insurance Agency, Inc.
Calfee Cares.® Privacy Policy

Photos used under Creative Commons from Dru Bloomfield - At Home in Scottsdale, stepnout