What About the Other Guy in an Accident?

Auto accidents typically involve more than just the car you’re driving. Unless you become distracted on your own, most accidents involve a combination of human actions and two more drivers. Now if everyone follows the rules, that means all involved should have auto insurance to cover damages and their responsibilities. However, many folks only have the minimum coverage required by law. That can be a problem when their coverage doesn’t come close to covering all the costs for medical injuries and property damage you might have suffered. A serious hospital bill in Rochester Hills, MI alone can be well over $15,000 by the time all the medical charges are accounted for, and that doesn’t include loss of wages and property repair bills. For example, coverage on a motorcycle might be minimal, but it can trigger big costs if you run off the road to avoid one.

According to the cases that Guy Hurley McNeil have seen, insufficient coverage drivers can be just as much of a problem as those with no insurance whatsoever. However, the way to deal with this problem is to use prevention. Folks in Rochester Hills, MI can access the same comprehensive auto policies as elsewhere which means they retain coverage for the difference in care and repairs that a driver with a limited policy may not be able to address. That means covered drivers can get back to their lives and restore their vehicles without having to settle for less, being stuck with injuries that become permanent due to a lack of sufficient care, and lost wages are no longer lost. To find out more about how you can get an auto insurance policy that takes into account your needs as well as what the other guy didn’t cover for you, give Guy Hurley McNeil a call today. You’ll be glad you did if an accident does happen.

Auto Safety Reminders for Springtime

With an increase in road trips and warmer weather, it’s a good time to remember some key auto safety issues. Here they are, courtesy of Guy Hurley McNeil serving Rochester Hills, MI. 

Seatbelts
Seatbelts are not optional. They are there for a reason, so keep them on at all times, and make sure all your passengers also wear them when in your vehicle. Make sure babies and children are in properly installed car seats and boosters.

Lights on Autos
Be sure all headlights and tail lights work properly. Keep up to date on your vehicle inspections that will check for any malfunctioning lights or other vital issues.

Tires and Other Equipment
Check for proper tire inflation, or have your mechanic do so. Ensure that all other equipment is working as it should. Replace your windshield wiper blades as needed, and always have plenty of windshield cleaner fluid. Keep up with routine vehicle maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and tune-ups.

Driving Focus
When you are driving, keep your eyes on the road. Give your complete focus on your driving. Put away cellphones and other devices. Distracted driving is incredibly dangerous, so don’t do it. And never drive when you have been drinking any alcohol. Ask a designated driver to do the driving.

Rest and Relaxation
Make sure you are well rested when driving because driving when drowsy can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Make sure you’re relaxed and not tense while driving. Be proactive and stay safe not only during the spring but also all year long.

With these safety tips in mind, you are bound to have some great adventures this spring while keeping you, your passengers, and other people on the road safe. For information about auto insurance, please contact the agents of Guy Hurley McNeil, serving Rochester Hills, MI, to get a quote and have your questions answered.

What Can Happen if You Do Not Have Auto Insurance?

Owning a vehicle is something that many people want to do or are already doing. However, when you own a vehicle in Rochester Hills, MI, that is only part of what you need to do to make sure you are compliant with any laws. In Michigan, it is illegal to drive any vehicle without the minimum amount of auto insurance on the vehicle. If you want to stay out of trouble with the law, you need to get an auto insurance policy from Guy Hurley McNeil that meets these requirements. If you do not, you can face some serious penalties. 

What Can Happen if You Do Not Have Auto Insurance?

If you are ever caught driving without auto insurance in Michigan, you can face several different penalties. These include having your license suspended, not being able to renew, replace, or transfer your license plate and registration, a $50 fine or greater, and your license plate could even be canceled. You will also be blacklisted from any preferred insurance carriers for at least six months and can pretty much guarantee a higher insurance rate because you will be listed as a high-risk driver. If you are involved in an accident, you can get even higher penalties and will also be responsible for any repair costs if the accident is your fault. These fees and costs can add up.

You want to have auto insurance if you own and operate a vehicle in Rochester Hills, MI. If you do not have an auto insurance policy or if you would like to make sure that your policy meets the state minimum requirements, be sure to reach out to us today at Guy Hurley McNeil. We can take a look at your current policy, and we can also get a free quote for you so you can make sure you are covered and that you are getting the best price.