Exciting News!!

We have some exciting news at Podmaska Insurance Agency!

We've recently added several new companies allowing us the opportunity to save YOU money. That's right! Our investment in these companies allows YOU to invest in your home, auto and business most affordably.

We've received a tremendous response from our current clients and can't wait to get YOU involved! Susan in Cranston saved $500 on her auto policy! Dolores in North Providence saved over $700 by packaging her home and auto together! That's just an example of two of our satisfied clients. YOU can be one of the many!

During these difficult economic times, there's still a company out there trying to save YOU money- It's Podmaska Insurance Agency!

The Many Benefits of Riding Your Bike to Work

If you're lucky enough to be within bike-riding distance of your workplace, you should consider riding a bike to work. There are many benefits: you'll save on gas; help the environment by cutting down on greenhouse gases, and get exercise as well. You'll also get to enjoy good weather and view your town in a whole new way.

One more benefit: it helps get you a discount on your auto insurance. How? By putting fewer miles on your vehicle. The fewer miles you have on your car, the lower your auto insurance rate.
More good news - most bikes are insured under your homeowners insurance (or renters), so any damage done to it while you're at work will be covered.

With all these great benefits, why wouldn't you ride your bike to work? Exercise, saving money, fresh air - perfect!

For more information on auto insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island. Feel free to stop by our website for a free auto quote to see how much we could be saving you!

What determines my Commercial Auto Insurance Rate?

Any business that depends on a vehicle needs a good solid commercial auto policy. This will cover medical expenses for you or your employees and the vehicle in the event of an accident. Most commercial auto insurance policies have greater liability limits that personal auto insurance coverage.

But what exactly factors into your commercial auto policy? Here are a few things:

Your location

What your commercial auto(s) is/are carrying, and if hazardous materials are being transported

Ownership of vehicles

What safety devices are installed, such as anti-lock brakes, air bags, seat belts, etc.

Features such as alarm systems, GPS, professional locks, etc.

Maintenance of the commercial vehicles

Where the commercial vehicle is kept parked

The regular weather conditions of where you are located

Previous insurance claims

The extent of coverage you're looking for

The added safety features, good maintenance, and parking indoors will lower your premium, as will raising your deductible. You can also get a discount by combining your commercial auto policy with your other business policies - it pays to use the same insurer for everything.

For more information on commercial auto insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island. You can also visit our website for a free commercial auto insurance quote!

Honda Shows Their Warm & Fuzzy Side

Does your furry little friend ride everywhere with you? If so, you may want to consider Honda's new dog-friendly version of the Element SUV, unveiled at New York's auto show last week.

The new Honda comes complete with a doggie bed and a spill-resistant water bowl, and includes a rear ventilation fan, rubber floor mats with bone patterns, and dog-friendly exterior emblems.

The vehicle also includes restraints designed to protect both the dog and people in a collision.

Will this be the end of dogs sticking their heads of car windows? Maybe, if they're too busy relaxing in their doggie beds.

If you love to bring your dog everywhere with you in style, then this may just be the car for you. Keep in mind that Hondas typically cost more to insure when it comes to auto coverage, but for those who know that nothing's too good for their pups, that won't be a bother.

For more information on auto insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island. You can also visit our website for a free auto insurance quote!

What Determines My Commercial Auto Insurance Rate?

Any business that depends on a vehicle needs a good solid commercial auto policy. This will cover medical expenses for you or your employees and the vehicle in the event of an accident. Most commercial auto insurance policies have greater liability limits that personal auto insurance coverage.

But what exactly factors into your commercial auto policy? Here are a few things:

Your location

What your commercial auto(s) is/are carrying, and if hazardous materials are being transported

Ownership of vehicles

What safety devices are installed, such as anti-lock brakes, air bags, seat belts, etc.

Features such as alarm systems, GPS, professional locks, etc.

Maintenance of the commercial vehicles

Where the commercial vehicle is kept parked

The regular weather conditions of where you are located

Previous insurance claims

The extent of coverage you're looking for

The added safety features, good maintenance, and parking indoors will lower your premium, as will raising your deductible. You can also get a discount by combining your commercial auto policy with your other business policies - it pays to use the same insurer for everything.
For more information on commercial auto insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island. You can also visit our website for a free commercial auto insurance quote!

Motorcycle Awareness

While spring as arrived and summer is approaching, you may notice the increase of motorcycles on the road. May is a month "Motorcycle Awareness", not only to protect your life, but also the lives of others surrounding you on side roads and highways.

Unfortunately, over two-thirds of accidents that involve both cars and motorcycles are caused by drivers, not by motorcyclists. Why? Well, often times, drivers tend to look for other cars, not motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see...often hiding in blind spots. It's harder for a driver to predict a motorcyclists reaction to certain things. For instance, as a driver, you may just drive over a piece of debris in the road, but a motorcyclist would have to swerve around it to avoid what could be a fatal situation.

As drivers, we could be more conscious during hazardous road conditions that may cause a motorcyclist to take a more evasive action than you. Be careful of your blind spots, especially if you are driving a bigger SUV or truck. And be careful when your view is obstructed by other large vehicles. Motorcycles have a way of "suddenly" appearing.

Always give motorcyclists the proper amount of travel space. They need all the same priveleges as all other vehicles on the road. Be clear with your signals. Look out at intersections. Try to anticipate responses by a motorcyclist by noticing possible obstructions. Allow plenty of space.
Although two-thirds of accidents involving cars and motorcyles are caused by the driver of the vehicle, that still implies that one-third of accidents are caused by motorcyclists and that there is still a need of safety on the behalf of the motorcyclist. What can you do as a motorcyclist?

Properly position yourself in the lane of traffice. Don't "hide" in the driver's blind spot...if you can see the driver in their side view mirror then the driver can also see you! Always use proper signals letting other drivers know exactly what you intend to do. Use your headlight and wear contrasting colors that make you more visible. Always wear a helmet just in case. Be aware of possible things that may obstruct a driver's view of you.

As always, make sure both your car and motorcyle is properly insured in case an accident does occur. Do you have the proper insurance limits that would cover you if the other driver isn't insured? Do you have insurance to cover Medical Expenses? Give us a call with questions regarding your policy....or for a free QUOTE!

Podmaska Insurance Agency, located in the Providence Area....your local one stop insurance shop for all of your insurance needs.

Keeping Up With Building Codes: An Unexpected Expense

Did you know that you should update your homeowners insurance policy every time your building code changes?

Building codes tend to change often, and if your house (or investment property, commercial office property, etc.) is ten years old, chances are it doesn't meet the current codes. And with today's "green" building code updates, it's likely that your home won't meet the code even if it's just five years old.

All of this means that if something were to happen to your home, you would be required to bring it up to code when you repair it. Would your homeowners insurance cover that? If not, you'll be expected to pay for any shortages out-of-pocket.

If you have more questions about keeping your homeowners policy up-to-date or for more information on homeowners insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island.

A Little About Fixed & Variable Annuities

An annuity allows you to earn tax-free interest that grows without penalty, so that you can plan and save for your retirement. The different types of annuities allow you a mixed bag of options so you can achieve your financial goals in the way you're most comfortable.

Each different type of annuity has separate features and meets individual needs. Because it can get very confusing and overwhelming, here's a crash course:

Annuities come in two basic types: fixed or variable. A fixed annuity offers a fixed rate of return over a period of years, while a variable annuity's rate of return changes, depending on how well sub accounts perform. Both fixed and variable annuities have their own pro's and con's...

Fixed annuities will give you a steady return and allow you to easily see how much you'll need to save for retirement. Variable annuities offer you the chance to earn a high percentage of return while carrying more risk to your principal.

There are also a few risks when choosing one type of annuity over another. If you decide to go the safe route with fixed rate annuities, you stand the risk of missing your chance for larger returns. If you choose variable annuities, you risk losing principal and missing out on the safety of at least earning some interest on your investment.

For more information on fixed or variable annuities, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island.

Never Underestimate the Danger of a Heater: Being Safe & Aware

Do you live in an older home or apartment with an older-fashioned type of heating system, such as a gas heater, water heater, oil heater, or even space heaters or kerosene heaters? If so, it's important to maintain safety for these older types of heating.

We all know the dangers of space heaters and kerosene heaters, and even small children know to keep a distance, not allow pets or babies nearby, and keep almost everything away from them.

With kerosene heaters, never use them in small rooms and always make sure to use the right type of fuel to prevent explosion.

With space heaters, just be sure to keep them away from furniture, drapes, etc. The same goes for gas heaters.

When it comes to water heaters, make sure you're not using them if your water is turned off or if the tank is empty. This could cause a fire.

Oil burners can also be dangerous if clothing if left to dry near them for too long. Once the clothing is dry, you should immediately move them.

Heaters are wonderful, as long as you're being safe with them. In some cases, the kind of heater you use can affect your homeowners insurance policy. For more information on homeowners insurance, contact us today. We're Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island.

Renter's/Condo Insurance

Getting a Rhode Island Renters or Condo Insurance Quote is as Easy as 1-2-3!

Why Should You Have Renters Insurance?

The answer is simple: you sleep better at night and feel better when you are away.

Often, renters don’t realize that the owner/landlord has insurance for the building but what is inside your walls is not covered unless you insure it yourself.

It doesn’t matter if you’re renting an apartment, a condo, or a home – most likely, your landlord’s policy is not going pay for that beautiful plasma TV or any other furniture or personal items in the event of theft or other common types of loss, such as fire or water damage.
If it’s inside your walls, it’s yours, and you need to protect it.

In today’s world we all tend to accumulate possessions, and the value of contents can add up very quickly. Making sure you have sufficient coverage can help you get back on track a whole lot easier than if you try to go it alone. You’ve worked too hard for what you have to lose it all in moment’s notice. Let us take the risk. Podmaska Insurance is just a click away. Don’t wait another minute – get a free renters insurance quote today!

Put Podmaska Insurance to work for you! Ask about our discounts and special programs. Many discounts are available on renters policies, especially for certain safety features such an interior and/or exterior sprinkler system.

Additional CoverageRenters policy coverage, sometimes called "apartment insurance," not only protects personal property like your TV, furniture, and clothing from a variety of losses, but can also include liability coverage which could help if someone is accidentally injured on the property due to negligence, such as slipping on a wet floor in the kitchen.

Auto Insurance in Pawtucket, RI Made Simple – Because It IS!

It’s unfortunate how many car owners find auto insurance premiums so complicated. They sit with an insurance agent, lost as the agent builds their policy. What is the agent doing? Are they trying to rope me into getting coverage I don’t need? I don’t understand what everything means…

But in actuality, auto insurance premiums are based on very simple principles. Your agent will basically determine what risk factors you have, and once you reach a place where you’re comfortable with your coverage, that’s really all that’s involved.

The risk factors will be based on things like your gender, age, occupation, driving record, type of vehicle, and where you live. As you can see, some of these risk factors are under your control and some aren’t.

However, the decision on what coverage to purchase will be up to you. The agent will make strong suggestions (see below), but you have to choose what makes you feel safe. Normally, the three main types are Liability Coverage, Comprehensive Coverage, and Collision Coverage, but there are other sub-options as well, such as Personal Injury Protection and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Insurance.

The types of coverage that are normally strongly recommended by agents are Liability Coverage, Comprehensive Coverage, and Collision Coverage, so don’t be surprised when those are suggested. Liability will cover the damages you’re responsible for when you’re involved in an accident. Collision covers damage to your own vehicle in the event of an accident, and Comprehensive covers damage to your vehicle that is not accident-related, such as damage caused by a natural disaster, vandalism, or theft.

It’s never a good idea to settle only for the minimum coverage required by law. The more auto insurance you buy, the cheaper it is, meaning you can get more coverage with just a slight increase in your policy. It comes down to you deciding what will make you feel safe when it comes to insuring the safety of your vehicle. The agent is there to help you – not confuse you!

Podmaska Insurance is an independent insurance agency in the Pawtucket, Rhode Island area. To learn more about Pawtucket, Cranston, Johnston, and Providence auto insurance, contact them today.

8 Ways to Protect your Home against Electrical Fires

One of the best and easiest ways to keep your home insurance policy cost down is to take safety precautions in your home. Here are 8 ways to protect your home against electrical fires:

• Use a power strip instead of an extension cord in an electric socket when you need to plug in a lot of things.

• Never run electrical cords under “areas of wear” such as rugs, over nails, or in traffic areas.

• Never use a standard extension cord for a major appliance or a heat-producing appliance; instead, use a heavy-duty extension cord.

• Choose only electrical devices that carry the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) rating.

• Don't yank plugs out of the electric socket – you could bend the prongs and up the chances of it becoming dangerous.

• Replace any cord or plug that is cracked, discolored, or feels hot to the touch when in use.

• If your lights flicker and/or appliances run slowly, or if you have a fuse that repeatedly blows, call an electrician. That means your system is overloaded.

• Don't use a bulb with more wattage than a lamp or fixture is rated to accommodate, or the unit will overheat.

Podmaska Insurance is an independent insurance agency in the Pawtucket, Rhode Island area. To learn more about Pawtucket, Cranston, Johnston, and Providence home insurance, contact them today.

What Happens When You Can't Pay Life Insurance Premiums?

Have you ever thought about what would happen if you could no longer pay your life insurance premiums? With the economy the way it is at the moment, more and more people are now considering that possibility.

Of course, the best thing to do is to ask your insurance carrier to explain exactly what would happen, especially because each type of insurance has different consequences for not paying. However, here is the general idea for the most common types of coverage:

• Term Life – When you can no longer afford to pay term life premiums, your coverage will lapse.

• Permanent Life – This comes with a few options:

o You can stop paying the premium and receive the available cash savings. You’ll lose coverage, but you will have a little money.

o You can stop paying premiums completely in return for a reduced death benefit and no cash saving.

o Your policy can lapse. Ask if it can be reinstated.

It happens to more people than you think, but many times, insurance carriers will work with you or give you enough options so that you will be fine.

Want to know more about life insurance? Contact us today. We’re Podmaska Insurance, an independent agency in Providence, Rhode Island.

Does Your Landlord’s Insurance Cover Your Personal Property?

Usually, after someone purchases a home, their next step is to also purchase homeowners insurance to protect their new investment. Homeowners want to make sure their new house and everything under its roof are secure.

So why don’t apartment and condo renters feel the same? Statistics show that less than half of renters own renters insurance. Could it be because they believe the landlord has it covered? Or maybe they don’t really care what happens to the outside of the building, since it’s only theirs temporarily.

Well, the landlord has the outside of the building covered, and many apartments will require you to purchase a light form of renters insurance if you move in, but your personal possessions will not be covered unless you buy renters insurance yourself.

Your things must be valuable to you. Why not protect them? Your neighbor could cause a fire. A burglar could take your iPod, laptop, and flat screen TV while you’re out at dinner. A hurricane or earthquake could ravage your entire living room. It’s important to protect what you have.
Here are some of the misfortunes that your renters insurance will usually cover:

• Fire / lightning
• Windstorm / hail
• Explosion
• Riot / civil disturbance
• Aircraft
• Theft
• Broken glass
• Vehicles
• Smoke
• Falling objects
• Vandalism or malicious mischief
• Volcanic eruption
• Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
• Overflow of water
• Freezing
• Artificially generated electrical charge

Accidents can happen anywhere. Unexpected situations run rampant. Make sure your personal property is safe, sound, and secure.

For more information on renters or condo insurance, contact us today! We’re Podmaska Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Providence, Rhode Island.

Trees, Tubs, and Trampolines: When Do You Need Umbrella Insurance?

A few nights ago, my cousin called with an insurance question. Their neighbors are threatening to sue he and his wife because a tree on their property fell over during a big storm and damaged the neighbors' roof and upstairs window. My cousin called his insurance agent and asked if they were protected by their homeowners policy. The insurance agent said, "I'm sorry, you don't have umbrella insurance." needless to say, my cousin was frustrated and called me to confirm that he needed umbrella insurance.

All insurance carriers are different and their policies may cover different things when it comes to homeowners insurance. However, generally, things like fallen trees, accidents involving trampolines, swing sets, pools, and hot tubs require a little extra coverage. That's where umbrella insurance steps in.

Basically, if you see risks that you're not sure about, such as trees, pools, etc., ask your insurance agent. In most cases you will need that extra protection. Umbrella insurance will protect you from many bad situations and can save you thousands.

For more information on umbrella insurance, contact us today! We're Podmaska Insurance, based in Providence, Rhode Island.

Frozen Pipes

Did you know that every winter season, approximately 250,000 homes are disrupted or destroyed because of the disastrous effects of water pipes that freeze and burst?! That is a lot of homes!

Please take a quick minute to review some classic strategies to prevent this from occurring to you.

Keep your faucets slightly dripping so that the water stays moving and makes it much harder to freeze.

Keep your pipes warm...either by placing a space heater nearby or wrapping them in insulation.

Check frequently on your open pipes.

If your pipes have already frozen, do NOT try to thaw with an open flame or torch. A blow dryer on the pipes might work. Leave the faucets in the on position. If you suspect that your pipes have already burst, turn the main valve off in order to prevent any more serious flooding.

Now that we've briefly discussed some basic procedures to prevent this from ever happening to you and what to do if it does happen to you, let's discuss what to do before the winter season... Talk to your insurance agent and make sure that you are covered. At Podmaska Insurance Agency, we favor educating our clients on the details of their policy. It is so important to KNOW that if disaster is to strike your home, you are 100% covered.