Can I Get Auto Insurance in Florida with a Suspended License?

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auto insurance

A suspended license creates complications for car insurance, but the bottom line is: Yes, you can be insured in Florida, but know it will probably be more expensive. Yes, you still need insurance coverage. And yes, you definitely want to find an experienced insurance agent. Get expert help so you can navigate this difficult time smoothly while getting the right insurance coverage for you at the best possible price.

Florida Auto Insurance Laws 

From reckless driving to unpaid tickets, from driving under the influence to a lapse in auto coverage, there are many ways to get a suspension on your driver’s license.

Florida insurance providers usually extend car insurance to a driver with a suspended license, but only under certain terms and conditions. The exact coverage is determined by the severity of the infraction and the rules of the insurance provider.

You will need to file an SR-22 in order to drive again. If you received a suspension for driving under the influence, you will be required to carry FR-44 insurance for three years following your suspension.

Must I Keep Auto Insurance Even if I Can’t Drive My Car?

All vehicles with a valid Florida license plate must be insured at all times even if it is in storage or if the driver has a suspended license. Failure to maintain insurance on your vehicle will result in expensive fees as well as further penalties and driving suspensions.

Check Your Auto Insurance Requirements 

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will let you know exactly what you need to do to get your license back. This knowledge will inform your car insurance decisions.

To reinstate your license, you may be required to: complete traffic school, pay fees, or simply wait for the probation period to pass. As a side note, traffic school can shave points off your license, helping you avoid another suspension and improving your chances for better coverage options.

If the process sounds complicated, that’s because it is. But with the help of an expert insurance agent you can feel confident you’re meeting all Florida requirements to get your license back.

auto insuranceIf you need help getting back behind the wheel, give Synergy Insurance a try. We’ve helped countless Florida drivers stay protected and insured at the best rates, regardless of past mistakes. Get a free auto insurance quote for your car today to see what we mean. And feel free to give us a call if you need more information on how to handle a license suspension. We’ll help you stay legal and minimize hassles.

Safety behind the wheel is crucial for a clean record. In case of emergency, always have the right documents on hand. Our Auto Accident Workbook has all the important information needed to file a claim, so you can take the guesswork out of your coverage. Click the image to get your copy today, and keep it on file in your vehicle!

Should Your Imaging Center Have Additional Business Insurance?

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business insurance

If you run a medical business, you already know that hazards run high and it is critical to take precautions and adhere to procedure. From unexpected chemical reactions to result mix-ups, lab work and liability go hand-in-hand. You’re doing everything you can to keep everyone else safe, but are you doing enough to keep your business safe? Without the proper business insurance, imaging center owners can’t ensure their business won’t collapse in the event of an unexpected liability issue. Here are a few reasons why better commercial insurance can help protect your laboratory.

People and Property

It is crucial to protect your medical business from medical malpractice. We’re certain you take a variety of precautions when it comes to your specimens, but mistakes still happen. Improper disposal, mislabeling, and breakage are common and specimens are especially vulnerable to damage or mix-ups during transportation.

You’re also responsible for your employees’ safety. This includes anything from providing the proper equipment to safeguarding against chronic back injuries that arise from standing on one’s feet all day.

Additional Peace of Mind

More or better insurance coverage means less fear. Do more in your imaging center with less anxiety and additional peace of mind. A refrigeration system could break down or your property might need to be decontaminated, these are real emergencies in the lab world. They can be fixed if you have someone trusted to call and a customized insurance plan in place, but if not, then these emergencies become disasters that threaten your business. So, whether it’s a freak spill or a nasty lawsuit, make sure your business has the means to right the situation and get back on its feet.

business insuranceSynergy Insurance helps business owners conduct their operations in peace by helping them choose a commercial insurance plan that fits their needs. We provide honest advice about minimum requirements in the state of Florida as well as practical, knowledgeable advice for protecting your specific business. Contact us today to request a quote, and to learn how Synergy Insurance helps medical businesses run more efficiently.

 

3 Spooky Halloween Home Insurance Nightmares

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halloween safety

It’s not the undead homeowners need to fear when Halloween rolls around. It’s gaps in your homeowner’s insurance that don’t cover hazardous Halloween mishaps! But that’s not to say you should turn the lights out, hole up inside, and forego the festivities. Here are three common household liability issues that arise on Halloween and how you can avoid them.

1. Trip or Treat?

The most common home insurance nightmare is a trick-or-treater taking a tumble on your property, cracking their head open, breaking a wrist, or twisting an ankle. Keep kids and parents safe by minimizing hazards that lead up to your door. This includes trimming back shrubs, evening out the lawn, fixing loose tiles, and clearing wood piles or other debris away. Resist the urge to use low lighting for a more mysterious experience. Keep lights bright so everyone can see where they’re going. If you don’t plan to hand out candy, turn your porch light off. Most neighbors know to take that as a sign you’re closed for business.

2. To Haunt or Not to Haunt

Go ahead, make your home spooky and give it the effect of a haunted house. But when it comes to actually scaring people, don’t even think about it. No jump scares. No popping out from behind bushes. Or chasing people with fake chainsaws. We hate to be a buzzkill, but homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover the blood pumping risks that come with extreme shock and awe, or fear. Did you know Haunted House Insurance is a real thing? It’s true, but only amusement parks, corn mazes, zombies runs, and similar events carry it—homeowners don’t.

3. Decoration Danger

Jack-o-lanterns are a tried and true way to celebrate Halloween, but they also lead to home fires every year. If you want to line your sidewalk with lanterns and your porch with pumpkins, opt for little LED candles instead of real ones. Candlelit decorations are easily forgotten and left unattended during the festivities and can be a real nightmare. Don’t leave flames unattended and keep candles away from flammable objects like fake cobwebs and witches on straw brooms! Large lawn ornaments like inflatable pumpkins can also collapse unexpectedly, so keep them far away from sidewalks or anywhere people are walking.

homeowners insuranceWith a little precaution, you’ll have the safest Halloween yet! However, if you’re looking for more protection against the proverbial ghosts and ghouls, call Synergy Insurance Group to see how we can fill in the gaps and keep your property, home, and family safe.

It’s always a good idea to review your homeowners insurance policy to get a better idea of your coverage. The holidays are a great time to go over any questions you may have with your agent. In the meantime, our Home Insurance Claims eBook goes over the ins-and-outs of your coverage, answering your holiday-related coverage questions. Click the image to get started!

Is Your Business Protected with Commercial General Liability Coverage?

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general liability

Halloween is typically a happy and harmless holiday. Unfortunately, it does mark the beginning of a lengthy holiday season when businesses see an increase to property damage including theft and vandalism. It’s a good time of year to take a second look at your insurance policy and make sure it protects your small business with comprehensive coverage. The first line of defense against common damages is to invest in a strong offense with commercial general liability insurance.

Benefits of Commercial General Liability Coverage

Running a small business comes with inherent risks. It’s important to prepare for potential future damages to your business by getting the coverage you need now. General liability insurance is the easiest and smartest way to safeguard your business against property damage and lawsuits/claims.

Commercial general liability insurance covers a wide range of situations, so you won’t need to pay for damages out-of-pocket, or even worse—shut down operations until you come up with the funds. In addition to defending against the threat of Halloween pranksters, this insurance option also covers:

  • The cost of medical bills if someone is injured on your property.
  • Repair or replacement costs if property damage is caused by yourself or an employee.
  • Legal costs or settlement costs associated with a lawsuit where you or the company is sued for damages.
  • Damages caused to a rental property, for those who rent their buildings.

During the holidays, thefts and vandalism rise across the US. Crimes peak in December, but a fair share of pranksters come out in full force at Halloween too. With easy availability of masks and costumes during Halloween, it makes sense that petty criminals target local businesses. Investing in proper security not only protects your business, a comprehensive insurance policy will also give you peace of mind.

Keep Your Business Safe from the Ghouls This Halloween

storm prepDon’t let vandals get the best of you this Halloween. With better insurance protection you can guarantee this year’s celebrations are safe and happy. Interested in learning more about how commercial general liability coverage can help your business? Visit us at Synergy Insurance Group online today to get a free quote or to speak with an agent.

Is your business protected from a major storm? Download our Disaster Preparedness Plan today filled with tips, emergency hotlines and checklists to keep you safe. Click the image to get your copy!

3 Tips for Better Fall Clean Up

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fall clean up

When temperatures start to warm, spring cleaning is on everyone’s mind. But as temperatures start to drop, have you thought about fall clean up? Here are three key steps you need to take to prepare your home for whatever winter has in store.

Caulk and Seal Windows 

Not only will caulking and sealing help your home feel cozier, but it will also improve your home’s energy efficiency and alleviate utility fees. If you’re like the average American, a third of your heated air is lost to poorly sealed windows and doors (that goes for A/C too!)

Winterize Your Lawn

Fertilize your lawn in early October to help it through the colder winter season without experiencing damage or disease. Depending on where you live in Florida, this is a good time to aerate your lawn and overseed the turf. If you’re in the panhandle, you might consider winterizing your irrigation system as well.

Clean Out Your Gutters 

As leaves and debris build up in gutters, you risk potential water damage to your home. Roofing problems and even foundation damage can occur if you don’t keep gutters clean. This task isn’t easy but it’s probably one of the most critical fall chores and should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. 

Synergy Insurance Group wants your home to be as safe as possible regardless of the time of year. Contact us today for a free quote if you’re looking for a home insurance policy that goes the extra mile to keep your home and family secure. 

Now that your home is cleaned up for fall, make sure it’s prepared for hurricane season! Download our Disaster Preparedness Plan, filled with tips, hotlines and evacuation information for you and your family. Click the image to get yours today!

storm prep

Fall Home Maintenance Tips

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fall home maintenance

Now’s the time to catch up on all your small home maintenance tasks before they turn into big, expensive problems. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, there are also extra safety precautions to take that you might not have considered. Take advantage of the fall weather to protect your home and business from professional liability issues that arise from small oversights and neglect.

1. Clean Out Gutters

Once the leaves stop falling, it’s time to clean those gutters! Be thorough. A debris clogged gutter with backed up water leads to roof damage, water leakage, and mold issues. 

2. Evaluate Tree Damage

Are your trees basically healthy even after storm damage from Hurricane Irma? For major issues, consult a professional to see if your trees can be saved. For minor damage, unleash your inner arborist and remove broken branches, jagged limbs, and prune smaller branches down to where they meet large limbs.

3. Prepare for a Polar Vortex

If a cold snap comes knocking, you’ll want to make sure your home remains energy efficient and protected from the wind and chill. Seal up cracks and reduce drafts by adding weather stripping or calking between gaps in windows and doors. If you have a furnace, have it inspected for leaks and change the filter.

4. Test Detector Batteries

Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and do a test by pressing the test button or holding a smoking candle near the unit. Now’s also a good time to make sure your fire evacuation plan is up-to-date and all fire extinguishers charged (as indicated by the pressure gauge).

At Synergy Insurance Group, we strive to meet the unique coverage needs of all our clients. We understand that friendly, professional know-how and dependability is the first step toward a great relationship. If you’re looking for the peace of mind that homeowners insurance, business insurance, or auto insurance can afford, please contact us at Synergy Insurance Group today to see how we can help.

Are you prepared if another hurricane were to hit Florida? Make sure your home, family and belongings are safe by downloading our Disaster Preparedness Plan! Just click the image below to get your copy.

storm prep

What is Business Interruption Insurance and Why You Need It

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business insurance

Florida is known for its glorious weather, beautiful beaches, and severe storms. Not every day in Florida is paradise, especially during the summer months. In fact, June 1st is the official start of hurricane season. If a hurricane hits your business, are you prepared? Do you have the necessary coverage to recoup losses from damaged or lost property? What happens if your business is forced to shut down for several days or weeks until the damage is cleared or your building is repaired or rebuilt? Can you afford to take a loss like that?

Most business owners can’t. So what do you do? Let’s take a look at business interruption insurance and how it can help your business.

What is Business Interruption Insurance?

What exactly is business interruption insurance? This type of insurance covers the loss of any income that a business may encounter after a hurricane or another type of natural disaster. This type of insurance will help business owners with the loss of profits or income that would have been generated during the time a business is being rebuilt or repaired.

It’s also important to note that this type of insurance is separate from hurricane insurance. This means that if a business owner chooses to purchase hurricane insurance, business interruption insurance is a separate add-on, which costs extra. Similar to hurricane insurance, the amount that is covered depends on the policy amount, which is determined by risks associated with a particular business.

In the state of Florida, business interruption insurance is incredibly important, particularly for businesses located along the coast who may be at a higher risk of shutting down for repairs. This type of insurance will protect a business from being stranded after a disaster.

How Synergy Insurance Can Help

Synergy Insurance specializes in writing insurance policies for people and businesses throughout the state of Florida. In addition to serving their customers, the team at Synergy also wants to ensure that their customers and businesses are well informed and aware of how their policies work so that they can prepare for potential accidents and/ or disasters.

Do’s and Don’ts of Home Renovations

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homeowners insurance

Starting a home improvement project is exciting, but it can expensive. Home projects involve the cost of construction, labor and job materials. On top of that, improvements and additions can also cost homeowners even more in insurance.

Some examples of projects that may increase homeowners’ insurance premiums include installing a pool, hot tub or even a trampoline. While these home and property additions are fun, there are other home improvements that can actually save money and lower insurance premiums. These projects include a new roof and making plumbing, electrical, and heating or cool system updates.

Choosing a home improvement project that is enjoyable versus practical can be difficult. When it comes down to it, choose a home improvement project that increases the safety and efficiency of your home. It will pay for itself in the long run.

Here are some “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for home renovation projects.

Home Renovation Do’s

  • Do repair or install a new roof when needed. Never underestimate the importance of taking care of “the roof over your head.”
  • Do make upgrades, improvements, and regular maintenance to your heating/cooling system, such as your central air system.
  • Do upgrade the electrical in your home, including the electrical box that sits outside of your home. This is especially important for older homes. Upgrading your electrical can help you avoid fires.
  • Do upgrade the plumbing in your home. Pay close attention to areas that are prone to leaks, like sinks. Taking care of your plumbing can avoid leaks that can damage your home’s interior, your furniture, and other important belongings.
  • Do-It-Yourselfers, do wear safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and goggles are key when attempting a home renovation project.
  • Do ask for help. Seek advice from others who have done similar projects.
  • Do upgrade old appliances for new, higher efficiency models. Check your stove, fridge and washer/dryer.
  • Do enjoy it. Home improvement can be rewarding.
  • Do create a plan for your project.

Home Renovation Don’ts

  • Don’t attempt a project you’re not comfortable with.
  • Don’t start a home renovation project without a budget and a plan.
  • Don’t work with a contractor who is unlicensed.
  • Don’t begin a home renovation project without first discussing it with your insurance company. You will be surprised how much a project can impact your insurance premiums!
  • Don’t waste time and money. Create a plan and stick with it.

One of the best things you can do to save money while making home improvements is to choose the home renovation projects that make your home safe and more efficient. These can reduce your insurance premiums and increase your return on investment. Also, making sure you have the proper coverage can save you time and money down the road. Get a free quote on any of our products today!

If you have questions regarding a home renovation project and if you’re concerned about how this will impact your insurance premiums, call Synergy Insurance to speak with a licensed agent today. While you’re reviewing your current homeowners insurance, check out our Home Insurance Claims eBook, filled with real-life scenarios and whether or not they would be covered with a basic home insurance policy. Click the image to get started!

Homeowners Insurance - Home Insurance

Springtime A/C Maintenance For Your Home

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homeowners insurance

Floridians quickly turn on the A/C in their homes without giving it much thought. Warm weather is the norm in Florida so few homeowners may take the opportunity to have their A/C unit serviced before temperatures soar into the 90’s.

Although the spring might be a time for backyard barbecues or lazy afternoons on the beach, it’s also the best time to have your A/C unit serviced and also look for any needed repairs in preparation for the upcoming hot summer season. Taking the time now to make sure your A/C is working properly will ensure that your home is safe and comfortable all summer.

How do you know if you need to have your A/C unit serviced or repaired? Read on for some tell-tale signs that your A/C might need some work and also some tips on how to keep your unit running smoothly.

  • Keep your unit clear of bushes and shrubs. One of the easiest and money-saving things you can do to ensure that your A/C unit runs smoothly is to keep the area around your unit clear. Be sure to trim or cut back any bushes or shrubs growing near it. Sticks, branches, and leaves can find their way into your unit, which can cause a clog resulting in a malfunction.
  • Replace the filter. The most common reasons for A/C unit failure is due to a dirty filter. Replacing the air filter in your unit is easy and relatively inexpensive. By taking the time to check and replace your filter as needed, your A/C unit will not only run smoothly but also keep the air in your home clean.
  • Schedule an annual check up. Every A/C unit should be inspected by a pro at least once per year, even if you are good about checking it on a regular basis. The best time to get your A/C serviced is now – before the summer really heats up.

Although it may cost a little to have a service tech look at your unit or to perform an annual “tune up”, this can actually save you money. If your A/C unit goes down in the middle of the summer, then it can end up costing you more to get emergency repairs.

If the A/C unit in your home is acting or sounding a little funny or if it isn’t turning on at all, then it is time for maintenance and service. Even if your A/C unit sounds or seems to be running fine, there could be some issues you may not be aware of.

spring cleaning
If you’re going to be replacing your A/C unit, make sure and talk to your insurance agent first. They will be able to find you the best ways to keep your homeowner’s insurance premiums affordable.

Skip the dangerous this year, and stick to all-natural remedies for spring cleaning! Check out our Spring Cleaning eBook for some safe and effective ways to make your home spotless this year. Click the image to get your copy!

Spring is the Best Time for Routine Maintenance

homeowners insuranceSpring is by far the best time for scheduling routine maintenance, service, and making any necessary repairs to the A/C unit in your home before it gets too hot. Take the time now to schedule maintenance on your unit to ensure your home is safe and comfortable for the summer.

Here at Synergy Insurance Group, we’re dedicated to making sure you’re taken care of. Our insurance agents will help you find the best rates for your homeowner’s insurance. Contact us today to get a free quote on any type of coverage!

Is Workers’ Compensation Required?

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workers comp

If you run a business, you may have some small business insurance, such as a commercial auto policy or professional liability insurance. When it comes to workers compensation insurance, you may have some questions.

  • But what about “workers’ comp”?
  • Is it worth it?
  • Is it required?
  • Should you get it?

Many business owners are unsure if they are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Depending on the type of business you run, workers’ compensation may be required in the state of Florida.

So, what exactly is workers’ comp and do you need it?

Let’s find out.

What is “Workers’ Comp”?

Workers’ compensation is insurance that protects both the employee and employer in the event an employee is harmed on the job. Workers’ compensation will provide compensation to the employee for their lost wages, medical expenses, and even long-term care, in the event of severe injuries and/ or illnesses. If an employee collects workers’ comp, then by law they cannot sue the employer. It protects you, your employee, and your business.

Is Workers’ Compensation Required for My Business?

In the state of Florida, if you have four or more employees, you must provide workers’ compensation insurance. If a business operates in the construction industry or in any other special trade, then it’s required. Even if your business is “seasonal,” you still have to provide workers’ comp coverage to seasonal workers.

Workers’ compensation must be compliant with local and state regulations. This means that you must purchase it from a licensed insurance carrier. Even if it’s not required, it’s a good idea.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

The most basic workers’ compensation insurance policy typically covers any injuries, illnesses or even death to a worker as a result of an accident that occurred on the property of a business or a job site contracted by the business. If an employee is harmed or suffers an injury or death while on your company’s watch, then they’re entitled to workers’ compensation…which could fall on you.

Workers’ comp provides compensation to employees for lost wages, medical bills and expenses, short- and long-term care. There’s a lot it covers.

The Dangers of Not Having Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Even if it’s not required, there are still dangers to not carrying workers’ comp insurance that you should be aware of. For example:

  • If an employee gets cut on the shredder, you might be liable.
  • If they fall off a chair, you might be liable.
  • Asbestos in your ceiling, you might be liable.
  • Burned on the stove, you might be liable.
  • Car wreck in your parking lot, you might be liable.
  • Hernia while lifting a box, you might be liable.
  • Bad chair leads to a bad back, you might be liable.

As you know, a lot can happen. Protect your business. Protect yourself.

With workers’ compensation, not only are you protected in the event of an accident on the job but you’re also protecting the integrity and reputation of your business.  You will have an easier time hiring good people if they know you have it. They know about it and ask about it. Show them you care, get covered.

How We Can Help with Workers’ Compensation Insurance Quotes

If you’re interested in learning more about small business insurance, including workers’ compensation, call Synergy Insurance today for a quote. Synergy Insurance can help businesses with various types of small business insurance in addition to worhomeowners insurancekers’ compensation. Don’t take the risk.

Call Synergy Insurance today for business insurance quotes for workers’ compensation, or click the button to fill out a free quote form!