Driving in Michigan winters is an adventure, and can be a scary one. The best winter driving tip for Muskegon, MI drivers is to stay home when the roads are bad. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we know that isn’t always realistic.

Use these winter driving tips to stay safe and avoid collisions during winter driving conditions this year.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Keep emergency supplies in your cars such as a blanket, non-perishable food items, a flashlight, scrapers and brushes, and even warm clothing in the event of an emergency.

Make sure that your car has at least half a tank of gas in the car during the winter. You will go through more fuel in tougher conditions.

Have your fluids topped up weekly, and your oil changed regularly, and make sure your tires are always inflated and in good condition. Winter tires in Michigan are also a great idea.

Drive Slowly and Carefully

It’s common sense to drive slowly and carefully in winter, but too often, we don’t do it. We don’t want to be out there and want to get home or to our destination as quickly as possible. Be slow and careful.

Don’t use your cruise control in winter driving, as this could lead to skids.

Don’t brake when you are in bad weather. Instead, accelerate and decelerate as slowly as possible. Braking on ice could cause a problem you can’t undo. Keep your heel on the floor if you do need to brake sharply.

Keep Your Distance

Keeping a safe distance is an excellent habit to get into for winter driving. You will likely see other drivers on the roads in winter doing the same. Follow suit, and keep your distance. When you need to brake or exit, you will have plenty of room to do so.

Update Your Michigan Auto Insurance

When you are driving in the winter in Muskegon MI, you want to take every precaution. Go slow, keep your distance, and keep your car maintained. You can also update your auto insurance and add on elements such as Roadside Assistance to stay confident on the roads. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we want you to have every coverage you need. Call us for a quote today.

Some road hazards can jump out of nowhere and are completely unavoidable. Unfortunately, when Muskegon, MI roads have those unexpected hazards, accidents can occur with vehicle damage and injuries. Determining if your auto insurance covers damage to your vehicle from a road hazard depends significantly upon your insurance coverage, what the object was, where it came from, and the damage caused. 

Learn more about insurance coverage options by calling the agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance. 

Comprehensive and Collision coverage

Those who carry comprehensive and collision coverage in their auto insurance policy have coverage should their vehicle get damaged. However, all expenses get paid out after the applicable deductible is subtracted from repair and replacement costs. 

Objects Lying on the Road

Sometimes objects fall off trucks or blow into the road. When this happens, they can cause unavoidable accidents with drivers who cannot swerve out of the way or do not see the object in time to stop. When striking an object lying on the road, the driver that struck the object is responsible for paying for the damages and filing an insurance claim. However, if the owner of the fallen thing is identifiable, they may be responsible for the damage caused to the vehicle. 

Flying Objects

An object moving at the time of the accident is considered a flying object. Therefore, the damage is covered under your comprehensive car coverage in your auto insurance policy. Flying objects can include falling rocks or kicked-up debris. As with objects lying in the road, if the person responsible for the flying object is identified, they would be accountable for the damage. If they cannot be identified, the driver would be responsible for the damage to their vehicle. 

Muskegon, MI drivers know there is a risk of encountering road hazards while out driving. To learn more about road hazards and insurance coverage, call the experts at Janis-Shunta Insurance today. 

As a resident of Muskegon, MI, you already know that have auto insurance coverage is very important. However, reports by Janis-Shunta Insurance show that most of the auto owners in this region do not know whether they have sufficient auto insurance coverage. So, what makes your auto insurance complete, and where can you get such policies?

Should Cover State Requirements

As a Michigander, you should make sure that your auto insurance policy covers all the state requirements so that you can avoid the unnecessary pull-over by the state patrols. There are very many individuals who have auto insurance policies that only cover the basics, but they do not meet the state requirements, which, in this case, they are not sufficient.

Should Meet Lender Requirements

If your car has been financed by a lending institution, you should have auto insurance that meets their requirements. Lenders are very sensitive when it comes to the insurance policy that you will be using. Most of lenders will always insist on comprehensive insurance cover because they own a stake in the car. They want the asset to be replaced in case of severe damages, and this can only be done through comprehensive policies. 

Should Meet Your Driving Needs

As a new driver, your insurance policy should have a provision for an amateur so that you can be exempt from some of the tough penalties that you might experience during the claim process. If you do not often drive, your insurance provider should offer some discounts on the premiums you’ll be paying every month. 

Getting a sufficient auto insurance cover in Muskegon, MI, is not easy. Most auto insurance companies will always look for an opportunity to get the better of you. However, Janis-Shunta Insurance has been focusing on ensuring that customers get sufficient coverage so that they can drive with confidence. 

It’s a great feeling when you make your last car payment. Lenders require that the vehicle they give a loan on be fully insured. Now that you are free of the loan, it may seem like a great idea to be free of your car insurance payment as well. Talking to a trusted independent insurance agent is the way to get the insurance information you need. At Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI insuring what is important to you is important to us.  

In the state of Michigan, you are required to have insurance coverage. It is against the law to drive your vehicle without no-fault insurance or to let someone else drive your vehicle. You must have basic coverage to register a vehicle. If you are caught without insurance you can be fined up to $500 or put into jail for up to a year. Since Michigan is a no-fault state you must have mandatory no-fault insurance which comes in three parts. PIP (Personal Injury Protection) this protects you in the event you are injured in an auto accident. PPI (Property Protection Insurance) pays for damage your vehicle does to someone else’s property ( a parked car or a home) and Residual Liability Insurance 20/4010 which is $20,000 accident injury per each person in an accident and $40,000total for each accident and $10,000 in property damage to the other driver’s vehicle. 

This is what you have to have but maybe not what you need or want to have. Collision and comprehensive auto insurance protect your vehicle and if you have assets you may want to add additional liability coverage. 

In Muskegon, MI, and the surrounding area at Janis-Shunta Insurance, we can offer outstanding service at an affordable price. We have 13 plus carriers we write for and that gives you access to a policy that is perfect for you. We are here to help, call our office or stop by for a no-obligation quote. 

Any Michigan driver needs to find adequate auto insurance coverage to drive legally in Muskegon, MI. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we can help you to take all the key considerations into account before you purchase an auto insurance policy.

The following are three things to do before you select an auto insurance policy.

Determine what your coverage needs are

There are various types of auto insurance coverage available to you. It’s important to be aware of your options and to determine which types of coverage you should invest in.

You must purchase liability coverage in Michigan. However, you also probably want to purchase collision coverage. Collision coverage will cover the costs of damages to your own vehicle in an accident.

You also might want to purchase comprehensive coverage. This will cover you for additional expenses such as damages resulting from theft.

Get different quotes

Various auto insurance providers will give you quotes on their policies on request. These quotes tell you how much they will charge you for the coverage you request. It’s a good idea to get numerous quotes. You can then evaluate the different options. 

Select the best option for your needs and budget

Once you have quotes on the policies you’re interested in, it’s important to evaluate them carefully. You don’t just want to go with the least expensive quote you’re offered.

Think about the value that each insurance company you get a quote from provides you with. Some auto insurance policies come along with perks like roadside assistance and rental vehicle coverage that you should be aware of. 

Before you select a particular quote to follow through with, make sure you understand what you’re getting and you’ve carefully evaluated your options. 

Are you on the market for auto insurance in Muskegon, MI? We can help at Janis-Shunta Insurance. Visit our website to learn more about our insurance offerings. 

Being involved in an accident can be frightening. It’s important for residents in Muskegon, MI to know what steps they need to take if an accident occurs. The agents of Janis-Shunta Insurance can offer the guidance you need during a difficult time.

Move to the Side of the Road

The first thing you should do is move all vehicles to the side of the road. This will help to keep you safe until the police arrive.

Check for Injuries

Secure the scene and make sure to check for injuries. Even if there are no visible injuries, everyone should get medical attention. This is extremely important because many injuries don’t present themselves for several hours after the accident occurs.

Call 9-1-1

Someone needs to call 9-1-1 immediately after the accident. The sooner the police arrive, the sooner those who are injured will get the medical attention they need. 

Exchange Information and Take Pictures

While the police are filling out their reports, the drivers should exchange their personal information. This includes any insurance information as well. It’s also a good idea for you to take as many pictures as possible to document the scene at the time of the accident. This will be beneficial for you if the insurance company has any questions.

At Janis-Shunta Insurance, the agents can assist Muskegon, MI residents after an accident occurs. Making sure that you have everything you need after an accident occurs is very important when processing your claim. Knowing what to do after an accident will help your agent not only process your claim but protect you if a lawsuit is filed. Talk to your agent now!

Understanding auto insurance policies can be daunting. Learning the basics can make it easier to go through when you start searching for policies. Once you know the basics, you’ll be able to sift through your policy with a better perspective. In Muskegon, MI, Janis-Shunta Insurance is equipped with expert agents that are ready to help you navigate your way through an auto insurance policy.

What is Auto Insurance?

Auto insurance gives you protection for just-in-case situations. You may never need it, but you’ll be glad the insurance is there if you ever find yourself involved in an accident. There is certain insurance coverage that is required based on your state, and if you live in Michigan, you must have a no-fault insurance policy that protects you from being sued in certain circumstances.

What is No-Fault Insurance?

No-fault insurance is mandatory in Michigan and it is required by law. This type of coverage includes three basic sections.

1. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) — is coverage that pays for medical expenses. This policy has no limits. 
2. Personal Property Insurance (PPI) — will pay up to $1 million if you damage someone’s vehicle or other property.
3. Residual Liability Insurance (RLI), also known as Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability — acts as insurance that starts when you are sued. There are several ways that you can be sued where you will need an RLI: You have an accident that results in someone’s death, your accident was with someone who is not from Michigan, or you’re in an accident out of the state.

Whether you are in Muskegon, MI or in the surrounding area around Norton Shores, you should visit Janis-Shunta Insurance. There are expert agents that can offer you advice and information regarding auto insurance policies. You can also ask about home, commercial, life, and boat insurance. Contact our office for more information.

If you don’t properly maintain your car, a minor issue can turn into a huge problem that can affect your ability to commute back and forth to work. You may not have realized it, but not servicing your car and addressing issues as needed can affect your car insurance as well. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, serving Muskegon, MI and the surrounding region, we can help get the insurance required by law and protect you from incidents, whether caused by you not maintaining your car,  negligence, or various other problems.  

Accidents Caused by Car Malfunctions

Let’s say you didn’t maintain your car properly. You end up getting into an accident because your car stopped in the middle of the highway. This could lead to an accident that’s deemed your fault. Once you have an accident, it’s possible for your insurance to go up. This is just one example of an issue that could occur and lead to an accident if you don’t properly maintain your vehicle. 

Laws Regarding Car Maintenance

Although laws vary from state to state, you often have to take care of certain issues on your vehicle or you’re at risk for getting in trouble with the law. You could find yourself having to pay a higher insurance premium if you get caught, especially multiple times, for not taking care of your vehicle. 

Moving to Another State 

If you move to another state, you may need to get your car inspected. If you can’t afford to make the necessary repairs, you could find yourself in legal trouble if you continue driving your car without an up-to-date inspection, which could end up raising your insurance. 

Get a quote by contacting Janis-Shunta Insurance, serving Muskegon, MI and the nearby region, by calling us at 231-737-0000 or 231-744-0400. 

Buying a new car can be exciting. However, making sure that your new car is properly insured can help expand that enjoyment in the future. Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI would like to help you with your insurance needs.

Before You Buy Your Car

If you are carrying a loan on your new car, most lenders will require that you have insurance on your car before leaving the dealership or car lot. It is a good idea to have your insurance representative aware that you are purchasing a new vehicle so that you can get insurance set up quickly the day of the purchase.

What Type of Insurance?

If you will be making payments on your vehicle, it is usually required that you carry full coverage insurance. Full coverage insurance is always the best option because it protects the driver in every way possible. If you are at fault in an accident, or even if you are not at fault, full coverage will protect you from expensive vehicle repair costs and liability from other drivers.

Is Liability an Option?

Liability coverage is an option if you are not making payments on the car through a lender. However, this type of insurance does not cover repairs or replacement of your car in the event of an accident. This will only cover liability if you are the cause of an accident which causes damage or injury to another person.

Amounts of Insurance

Before settling on a plan, make sure you are comfortable with the coverage amounts. Many people are under the impression that because they have insurance, they are covered for an unlimited amount. This is not the case. Your coverage is limited to the coverage amounts you choose.

If you would like to learn more about insuring your new car, call Janis-Shunta Insurance today serving Muskegon, MI and surrounding areas.

Keeping your Vehicle Safe in Winter

Snow, sleet, and ice are common occurrences in Michigan during winter. That’s why it’s important to winterize your vehicle. Winterizing your car will protect it from harsh winter weather and make it much safer for you to drive. Here are some winterizing tips to get you started.

• Check Battery: Check your battery to make sure it has the juice to withstand the cold. Your battery will need to work harder in cold weather to hold its charge. If it’s 4-5 years old, you may want to replace it with a new one before winter comes.
• Top off Fluids: Top off your fluids to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly in cold weather. This includes engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check antifreeze to ensure it’s at the right ratio with water, 50/50, to prevent freezing during winter months.
• Inspect Windshield Wipers: Inspect your wipers to make sure they’re capable of clearing your windshield of snow and ice. Poor blades will reduce your visibility on the road.
• Examine Tires: Make sure your tires have ample tread to keep you safe when traveling on sleet, ice, and snow. If you plan to travel extensively around Muskegon, MI during winter, consider getting winter tires to enhance safety on the road.
• Test Heater and Defroster: Make sure your vehicle’s heater and defroster are working properly as they are essential to surviving winter travels in Michigan.

Winterizing your vehicle protects your car from hazardous winter weather and helps it perform better so you can enjoy safer travels during this time of year. Auto insurance coverage from Janis-Shunta Insurance will also protect you and your family during your winter holiday travels. To learn more about auto insurance options and costs, contact an agent from Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI today.