Author: AgentInsure

Reasons Why a Life Insurance Claim May be Denied

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Life insurance provides essential financial protection, but what happens if a claim is unexpectedly denied? For grieving families, a denied claim can add unnecessary stress during an already challenging time. While denials are uncommon with properly maintained policies, they can occur, often for preventable reasons. Your life insurance agent at Cross Creek Insurance, serving Hope Mills, NC, explains how to avoid these situations.

1. Misstatements on the Application

One of the most common reasons for a denied claim is inaccurate information provided during the application process. Whether it’s omitting a medical condition or misstating tobacco use, even minor discrepancies can raise major red flags. Insurance companies may rescind a policy if they discover inconsistencies, especially within the first two years of coverage. Honesty is crucial when completing your application.

2. Policy Lapse Due to Missed Payments

Missing premium payments can lead to a policy lapse, leaving the insurer no longer obligated to pay out a claim. While many policies include a grace period for late payments, coverage ends once that window closes without payment. To avoid this, monitor your payment status regularly and ensure your contact information is up to date to receive reminders.

3. Cause of Death Isn’t Covered

Some policies have exclusions for specific causes of death, such as suicide within the first two years of coverage or deaths occurring during illegal activities. These clauses vary by policy and state, making it essential to understand the fine print of your coverage.

How to Prevent a Denial

To minimize the risk of a denied claim, be truthful on your application, make timely payments, and keep your policy and beneficiary information current. If you have questions about your coverage, consult a licensed life insurance agent at Cross Creek Insurance, serving Hope Mills, NC. They can help you understand your policy and address any concerns before issues arise.

The Role of Insurance in Vendor and Contractor Agreements

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When your business works with outside vendors or contractors, having the right agreements in place is essential, but equally important is ensuring that insurance requirements are clearly defined. At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Mills, NC, we help business owners understand how insurance plays a key role in protecting both parties in these types of arrangements.

Why Insurance Requirements Are Crucial

Whether you’re hiring a contractor for a construction project or partnering with a vendor to supply goods, insurance helps manage risk on both sides. If something goes wrong—such as property damage, an injury, or a delay—insurance can help cover the costs and prevent disputes. Without proper coverage, your business could be held financially responsible for issues that weren’t your fault.

What Should Be Included in Agreements?

A well-written vendor or contractor agreement should clearly outline specific insurance requirements. This often includes general liability insurance, workers’ compensation, and, depending on the type of work, professional liability or commercial auto coverage. Requesting a certificate of insurance from the contractor or vendor is a smart move—it serves as proof that coverage is active and in place.

Shared Risk Requires Shared Responsibility

Entering into a business relationship means sharing some level of risk. By making insurance a required part of your vendor or contractor agreements, you’re ensuring that everyone involved is prepared for unexpected events. It’s not about being overly cautious—it’s about being smart and responsible.

At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Mills, NC, we can help review your current agreements and guide you on the insurance protections you should have in place. Contact us today to ensure your contracts are backed by the coverage your business needs to stay protected.

Does Home Insurance Cover Trampoline Injuries?

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Trampolines are a popular backyard attraction. They provide hours of fun for kids, and everyone in the neighborhood will want a turn. However, they are also known for causing occasional injuries. So, does home insurance cover trampoline injuries in Hope Mills, NC? The answer isn’t straightforward.

Who Was Injured?

The person injured on the trampoline plays a key role in determining which insurance company is responsible for covering expenses like medical bills. Personal medical insurance typically covers injuries if the person lives in the house. However, homeowners’ insurance may cover medical expenses and other costs if the person injured doesn’t live in the home.

Type Of Insurance Coverage

Home insurance may or may not cover injuries and liability expenses, depending on your level of coverage. Homeowners with the bare minimum coverage may have opted out of things like liability and personal injury coverage, and won’t have insurance coverage for the incident. Homeowners should always take the time to speak with a professional insurance agent at Cross Creek Insurance to understand what coverage they have.

Coverage Limitations

Home insurance has limitations, just like car insurance. Many insurance policies will only pay out so much for bodily injury or liability, including liability lawsuits. Homeowners will be responsible for expenses that exceed their policy limits. Many insurance companies offer additional coverage options if you’re worried about trampoline injuries.

Minimize Liability

Preventing lawsuits and injuries is the best way to protect your finances. Notify insurance agents in Hope Mills, NC, that you have a trampoline and ask for their advice. Have adults, including parents of children, sign a liability waiver before letting them play on the trampoline. Ensure you follow standard safety precautions, like having a safety net and spring covers, to minimize the risk of injury.

Many insurance policies specifically exclude trampolines. Others may provide coverage if specific safety conditions are met or require additional liability insurance. Contact an agent at Cross Creek Insurance to learn whether your policy will cover injuries.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Accidents Caused by AI Assistance?

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In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) driving features have become increasingly prevalent in vehicles driven in Hope Mills, NC. One of the most common features is semi-autonomous driving, which allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel on certain designated highways. Manufacturers like Ford, Volvo, and others have included such features in their higher-end models. Cross Creek Insurance can help you understand the coverage implications for accidents involving AI driving technology.

Who is Liable for an AI Accident?

Fully or partially autonomous vehicles have been involved in high-profile accidents across the United States. However, legal experts indicate that the liability in these incidents is unclear. Typically, the driver of a vehicle that causes an accident is deemed liable due to negligence. When a car accident occurs due to human error, the liability portion of your policy will cover damages. But if the vehicle was in autonomous or semi-autonomous mode, the driver may not be negligent. This situation could shift the responsibility for the accident to the vehicle’s manufacturer.

How AI Cars Will Impact Insurance

Currently, the liability portion of your auto insurance policy will pay for damages incurred in an accident involving a semi-autonomous or autonomous vehicle. This scenario could change as more accident claims pass through the courts and insurance companies. Cars with AI driving technology may eventually require specialized policies or product liability clauses that cover damages from AI mishaps. When this happens, you may see a corresponding decrease in comprehensive coverage. In the meantime, ensure you have sufficient liability coverage for your vehicle if it has AI technology.

Cross Creek Insurance, serving drivers and residents of Hope Mills, NC, can help find an auto insurance policy that fits your needs. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.

Could My Home-Based Business Benefit From Commercial Insurance?

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Most individuals running businesses from home understand the importance of separating their home and business finances. They also recognize the need for adequate home insurance, yet many fail to insure their home-based businesses properly. If you live in or near Hope Mills, NC, and need an insurance plan for your home and business, consider working with the team at Cross Creek Insurance.

Work-from-Home and Insurance

Home-based businesses come in many forms, but almost all possess office electronics and possibly furniture. Some keep tools and equipment or maintain inventories and supplies at home. As these businesses grow, the value of these assets increases, as does the need for proper insurance. Additionally, growing businesses often have many other insurance requirements.

If you have a home-based business, it’s important to note that home policies typically cover only $2,500 in business assets. Business assets kept at home that are worth more than $2,500 require additional insurance, often in the form of a commercial insurance policy.

If your home-based business is small, a rider on your home policy may suffice, though these generally cap at $5,000. When your business assets exceed $5,000, or your business requires professional, liability, or other commercial insurance, you should consider commercial insurance.

Companies with revenues of $250,000 or less can obtain simple in-home business insurance that provides property, liability, and other commercial insurance elements. Alternatively, businesses with revenues exceeding $250,000 may find a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) more suitable. Home-based businesses with employees can obtain a BOP that includes Workers’ Compensation coverage.

Working with Cross Creek Insurance

The team at Cross Creek Insurance serves homeowners and businesses in Hope Mills, NC. Contact us today at (910) 423-2900 to schedule an appointment so we can develop an insurance plan that meets all your needs.

What Type of Life Insurance is Right For Me?

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Life insurance comes in various forms. Understanding these different types can assist you in selecting the right policy for your needs. If you’re unfamiliar with the types of life insurance, your insurance agent at Cross Creek Insurance, servicing Hope Mills, NC, can help you identify the most suitable life insurance policy for you.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of life insurance. If you have any questions, we’re here to assist.

What Are the Different Types of Life Insurance?

There are four primary types of life insurance:

  • Term life insurance: This type of life insurance lasts for a specified period, typically up to 30 years. The death benefit is fixed.
  • Whole life insurance: Whole life insurance is a policy that lasts as long as you continue to pay your premiums, until your death. The death benefit is fixed.
  • Universal life insurance: This type of life insurance lasts as long as you pay the premiums. Premiums can vary, and the death benefit is not fixed.
  • Final expense insurance: This type of life insurance policy is designed to cover the costs of the funeral and associated end-of-life expenses.

How Can I Choose the Right Life Insurance?

Before you can select a type of life insurance that suits your needs, it’s crucial to understand your goals and options. The agents at Cross Creek Insurance, servicing Hope Mills, NC, can help you choose the right insurance policy for your needs. We can answer your questions and help you understand the various options. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and speak with our insurance professionals.

Accidents Happen: Auto Insurance can Help

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There are basically two types of people in the world: the insured and the uninsured. While this isn’t exactly like the have and have-nots that the world so callously speaks of, it is a distinction that could be the difference between being in the have or have-not classification. While those distinctions aren’t likely reasons why people from in and around the Hope Mills, NC area choose to work with the friendly and professional team at Cross Creek Insurance, the protection that insurance provides is why so many turn to the Cross Creek Insurance team for all their auto insurance needs.

Accidents Happen: Auto Insurance Can Help

None of us ever expect to get into an accident, but that doesn’t mean that we won’t or can’t. The truth is, accidents are going to happen, regardless of how good a driver you may or may not be. The good news is that when accidents do happen, insurance can help. That’s why working with experienced and knowledgeable agents who can help you get the right auto insurance for you and your vehicle is important. No, none of us ever plan on being involved in an accident, but everyone should be prepared with the right auto insurance solutions.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Drivers in Hope Mills, NC

We can assist if you drive in or around the greater Hope Mills area and have questions or would like to learn more about auto insurance for you and your vehicle. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment with our friendly and proven team for the auto insurance solutions you need at Cross Creek Insurance today.

How Home Insurance Plays a Role in Protecting Your Personal Belongings

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Your home is more than just walls and a roof—it’s where you keep the things that matter most. From furniture and electronics to sentimental keepsakes, your personal belongings make your house feel like home. At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Mills, NC, we understand that protecting those belongings is just as important as safeguarding the structure itself. That’s where home insurance comes in.

Providing Coverage for Everyday Risks

Accidents and unexpected events can happen when we least expect them. A fire, storm, or even water damage can instantly destroy personal belongings. Home insurance helps cover the cost of replacing or repairing these items, ensuring you’re not left with the financial burden alone. Even if an incident feels unlikely, having coverage in place means you’re prepared for anything.

Guarding Against Theft and Vandalism

Unfortunately, break-ins and theft can happen anywhere. If someone were to steal your valuables or damage your property, home insurance can help compensate for the loss. This includes items taken from inside your home and, in some cases, even belongings stolen from your car or while traveling. Knowing that you have this protection in place can provide a sense of security, no matter where life takes you.

A Safety Net for Priceless Possessions

While some things can be replaced, others hold sentimental value that money can’t restore. Many policies allow you to add additional coverage for high-value items like jewelry, art, or antiques. This ensures that even your most treasured possessions receive the protection they deserve.

If you want to make sure your personal belongings are fully covered, Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Mills, NC is here to help. Contact us today to find the right home insurance policy for your needs.

Commercial Insurance: Excess Liability vs. Umbrella Coverage

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Today’s litigious environment has increased the importance of supplemental liability insurance. Should a business face an injury, property damage or defamation lawsuit, supplemental liability might be needed to cover the potentially expensive lawyer fees, court fees and settlement. There are two types of commercial liability insurance that businesses can get: excess liability coverage and umbrella coverage. Here’s a breakdown of these two different commercial insurance options.

What Is Excess Liability Insurance?

Excess liability insurance provides additional coverage for a specific underlying policy, such as general liability, commercial auto, or employee practices liability policy. The additional coverage only applies to the one policy that’s being supplemented, and it adopts the terms, conditions and exclusions of that policy.

This option is good if you have one liability policy that you’d like more coverage for. It’s more basic and limited in some ways, but could be a lower-cost option if that’s all your business needs.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance can extend the limits of multiple policies, and may also cover claims not included in your primary policies. The supplemental policy comes with its own terms, conditions and exclusions. Sometimes the different terms make it possible to fill in gaps that underlying policies have.

This option is good if your business needs broad supplemental liability coverage. We at Cross Creek Insurance see many businesses in Hope Mills, NC choose umbrella over excess liability. After all, many different types of incidents could lead to an expensive lawsuit.

Which One Is Right for Your Business?

Choosing between excess liability and umbrella insurance depends on your business’s risks. While many businesses in Hope Mills, NC choose umbrella coverage, it’s possible that excess liability is better for your particular business. To get help evaluating each of these options, contact us at Cross Creek Insurance.

Do My Children Need Life Insurance?

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Acquiring life insurance for children is not for everyone but can be a good investment in your child’s future, depending on your circumstances. The discussion below reviews the primary pros and cons, though having a conversation with your insurance agent is best before deciding. If you are considering life insurance for yourself or family members, the Cross Creek Insurance team in Hope Mills, NC, can guide you through the process.

Benefits of Life Insurance for Children

Buying life insurance for children has benefits that vary by family and child. Among the reasons it may be wise to acquire life insurance for your children are:

Low Cost

Children’s life insurance is relatively inexpensive. You can lock in low rates when they are young.

Insurability

Children or families with certain medical histories benefit from buying life insurance that may not be available based on their future medical status.

Cash Value

Children’s life insurance comes as whole-life policies, allowing them to build cash value.

Final Expenses

In the unlikely event of a child’s death, the policy can pay for money for the funeral arrangements.

Drawbacks of Life Insurance for Children

Long-Term Commitment

Life insurance is a long-term financial commitment, so you need confidence that your budget will handle the payments.

Low Rate of Return

Life insurance is a low-return investment. Ensuring that you and other breadwinners and caregivers have adequate life insurance is more important for most families.

Coverage Limits

Most life insurance policies for children are limited to $100,000 in value.

Working with Cross Creek Insurance

If you live in the Hope Mills, NC, area, the Cross Creek Insurance team will design an insurance plan that meets your needs. Call (910) 423-2900 or stop in today to ensure your family has the insurance protection it needs.