Hurricane Preparedness Week in Massachusetts

Governor Charlie Baker declared this week, July 11-17, to be Hurricane Preparedness Week here in Massachusetts.  It is never to early to get ready for a storm, as we can see with Tropical Storm Elsa.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an above normal Atlantic Ocean hurricane season for 2021.

Preparation 

Preparation is the best way to be ready for a dangerous storm such as a hurricane or tropical storm. Have a few flashlights with extra batteries, your cell phone fully charged, a battery powered radio. Keep all of your personal documents in a fire proof box in a readily accessible area. Make sure you have plenty of non-perishable food items, such as canned food, bread, peanut butter, crackers and lots of water. The American Red Cross suggests having 1 gallon of water per person per day. A first aid kit is essential. Find out exactly what to put in a first aid kit.

Evacuation Zones

Massachusetts coastal regions are labeled as Evacuation Zone A, B, or C. It is important to know your zone at home and at work, since many people commute to Boston which is part of all three Evacuation Zones. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency has created a map to help residents determine if they are in a hurricane Evacuation Zone.

Storm Surge

The most damaging element of a hurricane is the storm surge. A storm surge is when the winds from a hurricane force huge amounts of water from the ocean on to the land. If a hurricane hits at high tide the storm surge is most destructing. It is important to have an evacuation route and destination planned out in case your home or work is evacuated. Massachusetts Public Safety Administration has outlined how to make a plan.

If we have a hurricane this season make sure to call us with any damage that has occurred to your home or auto. Remember that flood and earthquake damage are not covered by your homeowners policy unless you add the respective endorsement/policy. Read our blog about what type of storm damage is covered by your policy, 

Classic Car Insurance – What You Need to Know

Whether you have a 1951 Ford Pick-up Truck or a 1957 Corvette, you want to make sure your classic car is properly insured for the best price.  Classic car insurance is a boutique type insurance that focuses on the unique features of classic cars.  Individuals who collect classic cars are passionate about their hobby.  We are able to protect their investments in a custom way.  Classic car insurance is different from standard car insurance in the following ways:

  • Classic cars are not covered for daily commuting, just leisurely rides.  The premium is considerably less than a standard auto policy.
  • Classic cars have a higher theft rate.  The older parts can be sold for a premium in the open market, so coverage takes this in to consideration.
  • Classic cars are insured at an agreed value rather than actual cash value for standard cars.  Agreed value is a value that you and the insurance company agree on as the value of the classic car.  In an accident the company guarantees the policy will pay the full insured amount without depreciation in cases of a covered total loss.
  • You must have a standard auto policy in order to get a classic car policy.
  • Driving mileage is restricted on a classic car policy.
  • Clean driving records are required for classic car coverage.

At Mancuso-Nowak we provide insurance through Hagerty Classic Car Insurance Program.  Their online system allows the insured to view coverages and options to choose from and the agency will tailor a policy for you.  Please contact us with any questions on your classic car insurance www.mancuso-nowak.com.