Product-Related Issues and Commercial Insurance: What Business Owners Should Know

If you’re a Hope Hills, NC business owner, the right commercial insurance policy is an absolute must to protect yourself from potential liability. But if your company sells products, your policy really isn’t comprehensive enough until it includes product liability coverage.

We at Cross Creek Insurance will be happy to review your policy with you and ensure it’s thorough enough. But in the meantime, here’s a brief look at some of what business owners should know.

Why Do You Need Product-Specific Protection?

Naturally, you put a lot of care and effort into ensuring your products are right before releasing them to the general public. But mistakes, accidents, and chance mishaps can happen to anyone, so planning is essential.

Commercial insurance that includes product liability coverage protects you if one of your items is ever connected to an accident or other unfortunate incident. It’s essential if your company sells or manufactures products like:

  • Clothing
  • Food
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Motor vehicles
  • Electronic, industrial, or mechanical equipment

What Types of Claims Should Business Owners Watch Out For?

A product-related claim could materialize from anywhere and for a multitude of reasons. Savvy business owners need to be aware of them when considering their commercial insurance options. Examples include the following.

  • Manufacturing errors are usually isolated incidents but can cause injuries, side effects, and more, depending on the product.
  • Design flaws can cause similar problems. However, the issues involved are usually further reaching and may call for solutions like recalls.
  • Deficient operating instructions, disclaimers, and safety warnings can also open a business up to liability, so be as thorough as possible when packaging your products.

Ultimately, there’s no such thing as being too protected if you manufacture and sell products as part of your Hope Hills, NC livelihood. Cross Creek Insurance’s insurance experts can help you understand your options. Call us today and let us know how we can assist you!

Questions to Ask Your Agent Before Purchasing Home Insurance

At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC, we offer home insurance to help protect your investment. We recommend asking these four questions when you are ready to purchase a homeowner’s policy. 

Am I Required to Buy Home Insurance?

North Carolina law doesn’t require you to buy home insurance. However, most mortgage lenders do require it. If you have a mortgage or lean on your home, contact your lender to learn their requirements before purchasing a policy. 

What Perils are Covered by the Policy 

A peril is an event that can cause damage to your home. A standard homeowner’s policy covers many potential disasters, including fire, theft, vandalism, storm damage, smoke damage, and explosions. 

A standard homeowner’s policy does not cover earthquakes and flooding. You may need separate policies to cover these perils. 

What Property and Possessions are Covered

Your policy will cover the structure of your home and your possessions within the home, up to the coverage limit. If you have very valuable items, discuss your coverage limits. You may need a policy rider for expensive items. 

In addition, your policy covers other structures on your policy. This includes sheds, freestanding garages, and fences. 

What is Covered Under Liability

Most homeowners purchase a policy to protect their home’s structure and belongings. However, your homeowner’s policy also covers liability. 

If someone is injured on your property or their property is damaged, your homeowner’s policy will cover the costs of medical expenses or replacing damaged items. 

Home Insurance at Cross Creek Insurance

If you need a homeowner’s policy in Hope Hills, NC, contact us at Cross Creek Insurance. Our agents are ready to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have. 

Types of Auto Insurance Explained

North Carolina drivers are required to have auto insurance. At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC, we offer auto insurance policies. We keep you legal and help protect your assets. We believe it’s essential to understand your auto insurance options. 

Liability Auto Insurance

Liability auto insurance is required by North Carolina law. If you are at fault in an accident, liability coverage will cover the costs up to the coverage limit. 

Property damage liability covers damage to other drivers’ vehicles. Bodily injury liability covers physical injuries to other drivers and passengers. 

Liability coverage also includes uninsured motorist coverage. If you are not at fault in an accident, but the other driver has no insurance, this portion of the policy will cover damage to your vehicle and medical expenses you have up to the coverage limit. 

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage 

Comprehensive and collision coverage is also known as full coverage insurance. Collision coverage will pay to repair or replace your vehicle if the accident is your fault. 

Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle when it’s not in operation. This includes storm damage, vandalism, and theft.

This type of coverage isn’t required by law. However, if you have a lien on your vehicle, your lender will probably require you to have this coverage. 

Gap Coverage 

If you own a newer vehicle, you should also consider gap coverage. If you have a lien on your vehicle and it’s totaled, the car’s value may be less than your loan amount. 

Gap coverage will cover the difference, so you aren’t left with a loan balance. 

Auto Insurance at Cross Creek Insurance 

If you need auto insurance in Hope Hills, NC, contact us at Cross Creek Insurance. Our experienced agents will discuss your needs and help you select a great auto policy for your situation. 

Why should you get a workers compensation policy?

When providing financial protection for your employees, a worker’s compensation policy from Cross Creek Insurance is an absolute must. Not only does it protect you as a Hope Hills, NC area employer from costly legal fees and settlements in the event of an employee injury, but it also ensures that you’re providing your workers with the coverage they need should something happen. 

Workers’ compensation policies offer invaluable peace of mind for both employers and employees. For employers, these policies provide a guaranteed way to take care of their workers if they get injured on the job. They also protect them from any potential lawsuits arising from negligence claims or unsafe working conditions. And for employees, these policies ensure that they will be cared for financially should something happen while on the job. 

In addition to all these benefits, workers’ compensation policies can help you save money. By providing comprehensive coverage, you won’t have to worry about paying out hefty settlements in case of a workplace injury or accident; instead, the policy will cover any medical costs associated with treatment. Moreover, since most states require employers to have a worker’s compensation policy before hiring new employees, having one can give you a competitive advantage when recruiting talent. 

A worker’s compensation policy is essential for keeping your business safe and secure. It provides invaluable peace of mind for both employers and employees alike and offers vital financial protection in case anything were to go wrong. For more information, give us at Cross Creek Insurance a call today. We are proud to serve the Hope Hills, NC area.

Who should get life insurance?

Who should get life insurance? The simple answer is everyone should. Life insurance from Cross Creek Insurance is a significant investment that can provide financial security and stability for your family during your death. It can be used to cover unexpected expenses, pay off debt, or provide a source of income for your loved ones after you’re gone. While life insurance may seem unnecessary, it is a wise choice, especially if you have dependents in the Hope Hills, NC area who rely on your income to live. 

Life insurance policies vary greatly, and it can be challenging to determine which one fits your needs best. However, some basic guidelines can help you make the right decision. First and foremost, consider how much coverage you need and select a policy that meets those needs. You should also research to find out what kinds of riders or additional benefits certain policies provide so that you have all the protection you need in the event of your death or disability. 

Finally, remember to shop around for the best prices, compare quotes from different companies, and factor in any discounts or special offers available when selecting a policy. Ultimately, life insurance is an important investment that provides peace of mind and financial protection for you and your loved ones. Take time to research different options before committing to one so that you can find the policy that fits both your budget and lifestyle perfectly.

For more information, or to explore a life insurance policy that works for you and your family, give us a call at Cross Creek Insurance today. We are proud to serve the Hope Hills, NC area.

Does My Home Insurance Policy Cover My She Shed?

If you’re a Hope Hills, NC homeowner with a she shed, you may wonder if your home insurance policy covers it. After all, it extends your home, so you probably want it covered in case of any damage. The good news is that most home insurance policies will cover she sheds. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

What is a She Shed?

A she shed is basically a backyard shed that has been turned into a space for relaxation and creativity. They are becoming increasingly popular, especially among women who want a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. She sheds can be decorated however you want and can be used for anything from reading and writing to crafting and gardening. 

Do I Need Insurance for My She Shed?

A She shed is usually a separate dwelling on your property. While it may not require its own insurance policy, notify your provider of the structure’s existence so they can ensure it’s covered in your existing homeowner’s policy. Also, look into what kind of protection against theft or vandalism exists for a she shed. For questions about your policy in Hope Hills, NC, contact your Cross Creek Insurance agent.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Home insurance policies typically cover damage from events like fires, storms, theft, and vandalism. Your home insurance would most likely cover the repairs if one of these events damaged your she shed. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if something specifically excluded in your policy caused damage, like termites or wear and tear, most policies won’t cover it.

In short, most home insurance policies will cover she sheds. If you have questions about your policy or what it covers, contact Cross Creek Insurance. We’re always happy to help!

Adding Your Teenager to Your Auto Insurance Policy in Hope Hills, NC

It can be stressful for parents when their teenager is ready to drive. You want your teen to stay safe and make intelligent decisions, but you also need to factor in the cost of auto insurance. When should you add your teenager to your auto insurance policy? Do they need a learner’s permit or driver’s license first? Cross Creek Insurance is here to help.

When Should I Add My Teenager To My Auto Insurance Policy? 

Adding a teenager to an auto insurance policy can be tricky. In North Carolina, you are not required to add teen drivers until they have their driver’s licenses. However, it is usually recommended that you add them as soon as they have their learner’s permit to cover them if they get into an accident while practicing driving with supervision. Watching your teenager drive is stressful enough without worrying about how you’ll pay for anything that goes wrong.

What Are The Benefits Of Adding A Teenager To An Auto Insurance Policy Early? 

The main benefit of adding a teenager early is that it ensures that all drivers in the household are adequately insured and protected if an accident occurs. If you wait until after your teen has obtained their driver’s license and then add them, any accidents between the time of getting the license and being added will not be covered by your insurance policy—which could be very costly for you as the parent if an accident were to occur. For more information on adding teens to your Hope Hills, NC auto policy, contact Cross Creek Insurance today!

Commercial Insurance Protects From Liability

One significant risk for a business owner is a liability. To protect yourself and your business, you need reliable commercial insurance. The insurance experts at Cross Creek Insurance, proudly serving the residents of Hope Hills, NC, can count on us to help them get the right coverage to offer the proper protection. 

Commercial Insurance Protection 

If you own a business, you need insurance. Commercial insurance protects the covered business and owner from claims related to injury, damage to property, or losses associated with the fault of the owner or company and its employees. 

Selecting the right level of coverage is very important. To understand a business’s current and future needs, our agents take many points into consideration and work closely with the client to learn their needs and provide them with suggestions for coverage that meets those needs. 

When clients come to our office, we provide insight into the commercial insurance coverage and each policy’s terms and conditions. Then we offer options to them based on the client’s information. Once a policy is chosen, we submit the necessary documentation and communicate with the insurance underwriter on behalf of the client to complete the purchase. We can also work with clients to complete policy changes or submit documents related to claims. 

Reach Out Today

Anyone with a business in the Hope Hills, NC, area can count on Cross Creek Insurance to provide them with the insurance and customer service they need to get ideal protection from liability. Our agents are ready to provide insight and support to ensure you have peace of mind. Stop in or call today to learn more. 

What is Universal Life Insurance?

Universal life insurance is a type of product that falls under the category of permanent life insurance. Permanent life insurance is a category of coverage that lasts for the duration of the subscriber’s life, and this is typically reflected in the premiums paid. It provides a secure option, as it will not expire. 

You will choose a death benefit amount, which will also affect how much you pay monthly. Over time, you can accumulate a cash savings balance, and you may borrow against this if you encounter hardship. Money will typically be lent to you at an interest rate lower than most banks can offer. 

However, this must be paid back and subtracted from the death benefit if you pass away while a balance is outstanding. If you are young, this cash savings component can grow over time, giving you options should you face a difficult life circumstance.

It is not legally required in the Hope Hills, NC area to purchase life insurance, but it is voluntary. Your Cross Creek Insurance representative can discuss this product in greater detail. 

Universal life insurance allows you to adjust your premium if you need to increase or decrease it. You can also defer making payments if you have enough cash savings. The death benefit amount is also flexible and can be adjusted, and your account must be in good standing when you die to be valid. 

We Can Help You with Life Insurance

We at Cross Creek Insurance can help you obtain the life insurance package you need to suit your needs. Contact us for more information; we serve those in the Hope Hills, NC area. 

Don’t Risk Driving Uninsured – Protect Yourself with a Car Insurance Policy

Are you a licensed driver in the Hope Hills, NC area? If you need auto insurance, see the professionals at Cross Creek Insurance for the coverage you need.

Why is auto insurance important?

It is mandatory in 48 out of 50 states. Without proper insurance coverage, you would have to pay the penalty and risk losing your driving privileges.

Accidents can damage other vehicles or property belonging to a third party. An insurance policy can pay for the expenses that would otherwise need to be paid out of pocket.

Besides property and vehicle damage, an accident can cause personal injuries, which can be severe. A policy can cover personal injury, so you do not have to pay for the care of an individual who has suffered injuries you are responsible for.

There is also extra coverage available called riders. Some include zero depreciation, engine coverage, and roadside assistance. They expand the scope and benefits of your policy.

If your car is totaled or stolen, insurance will pay for the expense of a new car. An auto insurance policy has an IDV, an insured declared value, which is the amount that the insurance company will pay in case of a theft or total loss.

Several policies also offer coverage if your car is damaged due to a weather event or fire. If you live in an area with uncertain weather, a policy of this type is a must for the safety of your vehicle.

Car insurance covers not only the damage to your car, property, or others involved but also any legal fees if the case goes to court.

Make sure you are driving within the law. The Cross Creek Insurance company, serving the Hope Hills, NC area, can provide the coverage you need. Contact our office today. You will be glad you did.