HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

Click to Call
CO Insurance Specialist

6990 W. 38th Ave. #200
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

Get Directions

Four Tips For Traveling With Your Classic Car to Summer Shows

As the warmer months swiftly approach, ample car shows will occur in Colorado and the surrounding states. Here are the best ways to transport your classic car to these events.

1. Perform a Maintenance Check

Before hitting the road with your classic car, make sure to check the vehicle’s fluids and the battery. Doing this will allow you to avoid running into maintenance problems at the car show, which could easily have been prevented.

2. Transport It in a Trailer

Consider using a trailer for transport to prevent unnecessary mileage and wear and tear on your classic car. More importantly, this could be crucial for older cars that are not considered to be street-legal. You could use a flatbed trailer that attaches to your vehicle or an enclosed trailer that protects the car from potential sun damage.

3. Ensure Your Trailer is Secure

If you’re utilizing an enclosed trailer to transport a rare classic car, you should consider installing additional locks on the trailer and the vehicle. This is particularly important for extended trips that might require overnight stays. This will help prevent others from damaging or stealing the car.

4. Limit the Number of Passengers in the Car

A frequent question from car owners at car shows relates to whether spectators can sit in the car or even take a ride. Although it might sound fun, you should avoid letting spectators ride or drive your classic car. They won’t be insured in the event of an accident, leaving you potentially financially liable for any resulting damage.

If you are a classic car owner residing in or around Wheat Ridge, CO, and need classic car insurance, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our team at CO Insurance Specialist is ready to help with your personalized quote needs.

Commercial Insurance Risks in Colorado

If you are the owner or manager of a business, you know how important it is to protect your business assets with commercial insurance. If you live in the Wheat Ridge, CO area and are seeking an insurance agency with commercial experience, we invite you to meet with one of our agents at CO Insurance Specialist. Our name lets you know what we’re all about. Our agents have been serving area clients since 1996. 

Commercial Insurance Risks in Colorado 

Colorado offers many business opportunities but also presents unique challenges that Colorado businesses must prepare for. Colorado residents know about natural disasters, such as wildfires, hail, and floods, so companies must ensure their property insurance considers those risks. Cyber threats have become an increased threat to offices around the country. The risks to our customers from these threats should be part of any modern commercial insurance policy. 

Businesses nationwide, including Colorado companies, must carry Worker’s Compensation insurance. These policies will cover medical expenses for employees injured on the job. Many companies consider their liability insurance policies to be their most essential coverage. Liability coverage protects the company’s assets if they are sued for a slip-and-fall accident, a product-related injury, or a marketing dispute.

Call Us Today for an Appointment 

When you want to protect your business from commercial risks, you must talk to an experienced commercial insurance agent. If you’re in the Wheat Ridge, CO area and need commercial insurance coverage, we encourage you to meet with us as a CO Insurance Specialist to discuss your insurance options. Our agents understand your business’s risks and want to help protect you against those risks. Call us for an appointment today, and we’ll help you find the insurance solutions you need.

Types of Storm Damage Home Insurance Discovers

Severe storms can wreak havoc on your home in Wheat Ridge, CO. Your homeowner’s insurance will cover most types of risks associated with severe storms. However, you must read your policy to ensure which risks receive coverage. CO Insurance Specialist can help you determine what storm risks your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover.

Typical Storm Damage Coverage

Most home insurance policies typically cover water and ice damage under specific circumstances. For example, if a thunderstorm breaches your roof and rain soaks the interior, that incident is covered. Frozen pipes that burst due to excessive cold are another covered risk. Lightning strikes are typically covered, as is smoke damage and fire from such events. Some policies may even cover damaging power surges. Damage from high winds, such as tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, is also covered. However, some policies may have restrictions on the type or amount of compensation for wind damage. Large hail produced by severe thunderstorms can significantly damage your roof and some types of siding. Homeowner’s policies typically pay for full replacement minus a deductible.

What If My Home Floods?

If you experience a flood because of excessive rain, chances are a standard homeowner’s policy will not cover the damage. You may end up footing the entire bill if you don’t have a specific provision in your policy for flood damage. Even then, you may have to endure significant exclusions. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider getting a separate policy to cover flooding. By doing so, you’ll cover all the bases of storm damage.

You can customize your homeowner’s insurance coverage through various policy add-ons. If you have questions or want to strengthen coverage to protect yourself from all storm perils, contact the CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO. We will gladly help you find the right coverage.

What Upgrades and Conversions Are Covered By Auto Insurance?

If you have customized your car with modified or aftermarket parts, you will need to update your auto insurance policy to reflect these changes. Upgraded gear can add value to your vehicle, so altering your policy is necessary to ensure that you are compensated adequately should your car be involved in an accident or stolen. Our agents at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO explain more about what car conversions and modifications entail.

Common Types of Modifications

Modifications are any changes in parts for your vehicle that aren’t done by the factory when you buy it. Drivers may add parts to change the auto’s performance or appearance. Some typical modifications include:

  • Turbocharge Engines
  • Custom Paint
  • Truck Bed Liner
  • Tire Rims
  • Bumpers
  • Raised or Lowered Suspension
  • Fuel System Upgrades
  • Specialized Sound Systems

Insurance providers may increase or decrease your policy’s cost depending on the upgrade and whether the parts were self or professionally installed. An example of a modification that can lower insurance premiums is installing an anti-theft system or rearview camera that improves the safety of your vehicle. Upgrading body parts or motors can result in higher insurance costs.

Benefits of Modified Car Insurance

By updating your policy, you can have the confidence of knowing that you’re financially covered should an incident occur. Not including modifications to your policy can deny your insurance claim. Another repercussion could deem your insurance coverage entirely voided.

Keep Your Policy Updated for Your Protection

Keeping your agent at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO apprised of any alterations you make to your car lets us adequately compensate you should an incident occur. Call today to get your questions answered or to update your policy with one of our specialists.

How to File a Home Insurance Claim: A Step-by-Step Guide

Facing home damage is never easy, but remember, you’re not navigating this alone. At CO Insurance Specialist, we’re dedicated to supporting our neighbors in Wheat Ridge, CO, and surrounding areas through every step of the insurance claim process. The first step in any such situation is ensuring the safety of everyone involved; once that’s established, documenting the extent of the damage thoroughly is crucial. Capturing detailed photos or videos can make all the difference in accurately presenting your claim.

Understanding Your Coverage

Before filing a claim, it’s worth reviewing your insurance policy. Understanding your coverage, deductible, and any specific details will give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Feeling ready to tackle the claim? Reach out to us. We’re here to make sense of the confusion, guiding you through each step. And remember, keeping a log of all your insurance-related communications can smooth out the process.

Adjustments and Repairs

An adjuster might assess the damage firsthand, ensuring your claim hits the mark. After the claim details are ironed out, it’s repair time. But our support doesn’t end there; we’ll stick with you, ensuring your insurance is pulling its weight and aiding in your home’s recovery.

Here When You Need Us!

Did you run into a rough patch with home damage? If you’re in Wheat Ridge, CO, or the surrounding neighborhood, don’t hesitate to contact us at CO Insurance Specialist. We’re on standby to assist you with your insurance claim, kickstart the repair process, and be there for you during this stressful time. Ready to start piecing things back together? Give us a call today. We’re in your corner, ready to help.

How Many Miles Can You Drive With Classic Car Insurance?

Colorado motorists with collectible vintage or antique vehicles may benefit from a special type of auto policy known as classic car insurance. It covers the vehicle in addition to providing liability protection. However, there is usually a limit on how many miles you can drive.

Mileage Limits

Every insurance carrier is different. Some classic car policies cap yearly travel at 2,500 or 5,000 miles, but certain insurers will allow you to drive up to 7,500 or even 10,000 miles. For example, you’ll travel 3,380 miles yearly if you drive an average of 65 miles weekly.

Driving Purposes

Many insurers also have rules about using a vintage vehicle. They probably won’t allow you to deliver pizza or commute to the office in this vehicle. Some carriers will expect you to own a second non-classic car and/or a garage for storage.

An Alternative

If you want to drive your antique vehicle daily or travel very long distances, you can still insure your car with a standard auto policy. However, it would be best if you took the time to carefully examine the pros and cons of this option.

Regular car insurance may not cover the full value of your automobile. It’s designed to protect cars that depreciate over time, such as new and used vehicles manufactured within the last 20 years. You might also have to use aftermarket parts rather than original units.

When you need to insure a classic auto, turn to the friendly, knowledgeable experts at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO. Our local, independent agency benefits from more than three decades of experience in this industry. We’ll help you find the right policy for your specific vehicle and driving habits. To get started, please call the CO Insurance Specialist at 720-638-0850.

Insurance Coverage Guidelines for Frequent Travelers

If you are using your vehicle to travel a lot this summer, review some insurance guidelines that will protect you. The guidelines will protect against unforeseen damage you could encounter while traveling.

Paperwork

First, make sure that your insurance paperwork is in order. Your paperwork should indicate the expiration date of your coverage. Place the paperwork in a spot where it can easily be retrieved if a law enforcement official pulls you over.

Coverage Terms

Familiarize yourself with your policy’s coverage. The insurance documents will indicate the proper protocol to follow if you are involved in an incident that requires you to file an insurance claim.

Documentation

If you are involved in an automobile accident, it will be in your best interest to acquire documentation supporting the insurance claim you will be filing. You should be prepared to obtain a copy of a police report if one has been filled out.

In addition, you should acquire pictures or footage that will help prove what happened during the incident. The acquired documentation will need to be submitted with your insurance claim.

Upgrades

If you ever decide to upgrade your vehicle, keep track of the modifications that have been made. Adding security devices or other automotive products that will keep your vehicle safe could influence the type of insurance coverage you need. 

Contact CO Insurance Specialist

Traveling frequently will require you to maintain legal insurance coverage at all times. Contact one of our agents who serve Wheat Ridge, CO. A CO Insurance Specialist will advise you about insurance coverage that will protect you during each road trip.

Tips for Choosing the Right Condo Insurance

Living in a condo makes life simpler in many ways. Condo owners are less responsible for maintaining the grounds and building upkeep than those living in a separate home. However, that simplicity causes some complications since you and the condo association share responsibility for insuring the condo.

If you have questions about your condo insurance and live in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, our CO Insurance Specialist is ready to help.

Top Condo Insurance Tips

The first tip in selecting the right condo insurance coverage is to review your HOA’s master policy to determine if it is "bare walls-in" or "all-in." "Bare walls-in" policies do not cover anything inside the walls of your condo, while "all-in" covers your interior walls, appliances, flooring, and lighting. Your condo insurance should cover everything the HOA policy doesn’t handle.

Higher Deductibles

Like all insurance, you can save money by having higher deductibles. However, you should have the cash on hand to cover the deductibles if you make a claim.

Inventory Your Belongings

To avoid underestimating the value of your possessions, inventory your belongings and obtain appraisals for jewelry and other valuables so your insurance covers the property’s full value.

Landlord Rider

If you rent the condo during parts of the year, add a landlord rider to your policy to protect against damage caused by renters.

Umbrella Coverage

Your condo and other insurance policies have liability limits. If you are retired, consider obtaining an umbrella policy to protect your assets against liability claims.

Working with CO Insurance Specialist

CO Insurance Specialist proudly serves the Wheat Ridge, CO, area. We’ll help you structure an insurance plan that works for you, including your condo coverage. Visit the office or call us today at 720-638-0850 to ensure you are protected.

Should You Notify Your Home Insurance Company If You’ve Installed a Security System or Security Features?

Benefits of Enhancing Your Home’s Security System

Taking the initiative to enhance your home’s security with modern systems or features is a pragmatic move towards safeguarding your property and loved ones. But have you considered the potential impacts these upgrades can have on your home insurance? The CO Insurance Specialist, serving the greater Wheat Ridge, CO area, offers insights on this critical aspect.

Why You Should Alert Your Insurance Company About Security Upgrades

Commonly, insurance companies provide discounts for households equipped with robust security systems or additional security features. Notifying your insurer about your security improvements can lead to both premium discounts, resulting in savings on insurance costs, and more favorable coverage terms. With increased protection also comes decreased risk, which can positively influence your insurer’s risk assessment of your home.

When to Notify Your Home Insurance Company

Once your improved security system or features are installed and operational, it’s wise to contact your insurance company. Prompt notification allows your insurer to adjust your policy and consider any discounts or coverage enhancements tied to your security upgrades. If your home underwent security system improvements after your insurance policy’s last renewal, it’s essential to communicate these changes at the next renewal. Timely notification paves the way for policy and premium adjustments based on the improved security features.

While not mandatory, notifying your home insurance company about security enhancements holds numerous benefits. At CO Insurance Specialist, we dedicate ourselves to educating homeowners in the Wheat Ridge, CO area about intelligent insurance choices. Contact us today to learn how your security upgrades can benefit your home insurance policy.

Investing in Classic Cars: What You Need to Know

Understanding the Investment Value of Classic Cars

Taking an interest in collecting and restoring classic cars can be a rewarding pastime that transcends ordinary hobby status. Many classic cars accrue significant value over time with careful selection and maintenance. Fast forward a couple of decades and the classic car you currently hold dear may be worth a small fortune. Surrounding this financial potential, securing suitable classic car insurance is of utmost importance. If you’re seeking an insurance agency specializing in classic car insurance and catering to Wheat Ridge, CO, look no further than the CO Insurance Specialist.

Selecting Classic Cars with Potential Appreciation Value

How do you gauge which classic vehicles will likely realize the greatest financial appreciation? It’s beneficial to tip the scales in your favor by opting for cars that are both exclusive and have notable historical or pop-cultural significance. Consider the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, a well-loved classic that gained widespread recognition in significant media outlets, like the popular film franchise Smokey and the Bandit. The "Trans Am" aspect was an upgraded version of the standard model, adding to its rarity. Although initially sold for less than $6,000, these notable cars commonly command price tags exceeding $50,000 today. Their potential value is significant.

Safeguarding Your Classic Car Investment

If you’re leveraging classic cars as an investment strategy, proactively take steps to maintain their condition. An example would be preventing environmental damage from elements such as salt, which can expedite corrosion and rust. Consider indoor storage for your classic car in locales where winter road salting is a practice. But physical upkeep alone is not enough. Protect your investment with a classic car insurance policy, which is specifically formatted for these unique cars. Be sure to scrutinize the fine print of any such insurance plan to ascertain what’s covered and what’s not. If you need guidance in understanding the intricacies of the plan, consulting with an insurance agent like those at the CO Insurance Specialist would be beneficial.

For comprehensive classic car insurance services in Wheat Ridge, CO, the CO Insurance Specialist is ready to serve your needs. Reach out and let us help protect your classic car investment.

Insurance Partners
  • Allied
  • Auto Owners
  • Bristol West
  • CNA
  • Hagerty
  • Hartford
  • Infinity
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • Secura
  • State Auto
  • Travelers