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Business Auto Insurance

12/15/2014

Four Questions To Get The Right Auto Insurance
Using the right tool for a job is key to success in any profession. Experts say the same principle applies when selecting an auto insurance policy. Having the right type of policy can help ensure that you, your employees and your business are all protected in the unfortunate event that one of your vehicles is involved in an accident.

If you’re a business owner and you or your employees use a vehicle for business-related deliveries or to carry certain materials to and from a job site, you may need a commercial auto insurance policy that’s tailored to more closely suit the needs—and risks—of a business vehicle operator.

Here are some questions that can help you determine if you might need a commercial auto policy instead of a personal auto policy, courtesy of Sandvik Insurance Agency:

Do you need more liability coverage than your personal auto policy provides? Generally, a commercial auto policy provides higher limits of liability, but less or no coverage in areas that are typically not associated with commercial auto risks.
Do you need special coverage for situations associated with con-ducting business? Commercial auto policies also usually offer certain coverage's — such as hired and non-owned auto coverage and coverage for towing a trailer for business use—that are not available with personal auto policies.
Do you need to list any employees as drivers? You can do this with a commercial auto insurance policy.
Do you use your vehicle for business purposes? If you use your vehicle for things like pizza or newspaper delivery, catering, door-to-door consulting service, landscaping or snowplowing service, logging business, day care/church retreat van service and/or farm-to-market delivery, you might need a commercial auto policy.

Sandvik Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agency – trained, licensed insurance professionals who offer personal service and advice. We can help match you with the type of policy that best suits your needs and those of your company.

To learn more about all an independent agency offers, e-mail us at contactus@sandvikagency.com or give us a call at (507) 226-8481.

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Car Insurance Savings

12/11/2014

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Shedding Light On Car Insurance Savings
It can be easier than you think to put the brakes on high auto insurance rates – as an independent agency, Sandvik Insurance Agency can help! We can review your policy and possibly help you find a variety of illuminating ways to save money. Here are some things you may want to consider:

• Ask us to check several companies’ rates. This is the single most important thing you can do to get the best possible rate—and we can do it for you quickly and easily. The difference between the highest and lowest rate available to you from different companies could vary by hundreds of dollars.

• Reduce or drop physical damage coverage on an older car. Depending on your car’s age and where you live, comprehensive and collision coverage may not be worth keeping. We can give you advice on whether it makes sense to reduce or drop this coverage altogether.

• Raise your deductible. According to the Insurance Information Institute, raising your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive cost by 15 to 30 percent. In addition, because the average driver files a collision claim only once every ten years, odds are that over the lifetime of your car, a higher deductible will save you money. We can show you how raising your deductible will lower your premium.

• Look for discounts. Many insurance companies reduce premiums for certain driver traits or car features. For example: being a homeowner for more than three years, nonsmoker, nondrinker, students with good grades, senior citizens who have taken an approved defensive driving course, people who only drive for pleasure, cars kept in garages, antilock brakes, antitheft devices, air bags, etc. Ask us to check.

• Don’t assume having your car and home insured by the same company is the best option. Because auto insurance rates vary so much from company to company, it may make sense for you to have your car and home insured by separate companies. Let’s talk about it.

To learn more about all an independent agency can offer you, call Sandvik Insurance Agency or email us at contactus@sandvikagency.com.

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Holiday Home Security

12/10/2014

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Make home safety a priority while you’re away for the holidays

The holidays can be a great time to get out of Rochester to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe while you’re gone.

A house left empty can be an opportunity for burglars, so before you pack your bags, prepare to protect the stuff that’s staying at home in Minnesota.

At Sandvik Insurance Agency, we want to make it a little easier for you to get out of town with peace of mind and return to everything you left behind, so here are some pointers for prepping your Minnesoata home before you travel.

Lock it up. Check and double-check that you have locked all the doors and windows.

Check under the mat. If you store an extra key outside your house, remove it. Instead, give the key to a trusted friend or neighbor in case someone needs to enter in an emergency.

Communicate. Inform a friend or neighbor that you will be away. Ask them to keep an eye on the house, and give them a way to reach you to report any suspicious activity. But don’t communicate your absence on social media!

Forego deliveries. Make sure to stop delivery of packages, mail, newspapers, and anything else that could pile up on your porch. Ask your trusted friend or neighbor to pick these items up every other day.

Remove temptations. Do not leave wrapped gifts or expensive electronics visible through windows and doors.

From Sandvik Insurance Agency, we wish you, your family (and your home and belongings) a very safe and joyous holiday!

INSURANCE SIDEBAR:

If you are the victim of a theft this holiday season, your homeowners and umbrella policies may offer protection. To know for sure, review your insurance policies with us at Sandvik Insurance Agency.

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The Live vs. Artifical Debate

12/9/2014

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The Christmas tree conundrum: real or fake?
The kind of tree that adorns a person’s home during the holidays can provoke debate as much as Coke vs. Pepsi or Chevy vs. Ford.

When it comes to Christmas trees, do you choose live or artificial? Do you cut your own at the local tree farm, or do you prefer the convenience of a tree bought at Home Depot that won’t shed its needles, doesn't need water and already has lights?

Both live and artificial trees have their advantages and disadvantages, and we here at Sandvik Insurance Agency certainly aren't going to try to convince you that one is “right.” But in the spirit of giving, we thought we’d provide some information to help you make the best decision for you and your family.

Artificial trees

According to the North Carolina Consumers Council, artificial trees pose fewer safety concerns than live trees, but that’s not to say they don’t have risks of their own. Even fake trees can catch fire when sockets are overloaded with Christmas lights, and it only takes seconds for any tree to become completely engulfed in flames. And yes, flame-resistant artificial trees will eventually succumb to a fire.

When using a pre-lit tree, always follow instructions, and place the tree in an open area where a fire won’t quickly spread to furniture or other things in close proximity.

The benefits of artificial trees, of course, are well-known. They’re convenient and often less messy than real trees. You can re-use them year after year, saving money and saving the environment. And there’s no need to spend time searching for the perfect tree, since it’s usually easy to adjust the “branches” to your liking.

Live trees

OK, so you want the real deal. That’s great! But you’re going to have to take a little more care than you would with an artificial tree. First of all, pick a tree that’s in good shape. If needles come off easily when you give it a shake or a quick pull on a branch, find another one.

When you get it home, cut off the bottom two inches of its trunk, and fill the tree stand with water regularly. This is the best way to prevent a fire. Remember not to overload it with lights and decorations. And the longer you keep your tree up, the drier— and the more dangerous – it will become.

Dispose of your tree properly as well. Don’t burn it or put it in your fireplace, as a burning Christmas tree can be harder to control than other types of fires.

If you’re a fan of real trees, you probably don’t need us to tell you the benefits. Just take in that smell and enjoy the season!

No matter what tree you choose, the important thing is to keep safety in mind as well. If you do that, your holiday enjoyment will be real, even if your tree isn't!

Contact Us!

At Sandvik Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 507-226-8481 or send us a note at contactus@sandvikagency.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

Content provided by Safeco Insurance

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Polar Bear Plunge

12/8/2014

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Polar-Bear Plunge: Crazy? Rejuvenating? Both?
You've seen these people on the news or in your local paper. Maybe you've seen them in person at a local park or beach in winter. Maybe you’re even one of them.

Who are they? And why are they jumping into a freezing body of water?

The origin of the polar bear plunge, as these events are often called, isn't entirely clear. What is clear is that it happens worldwide. Russians and Scandinavians were doing it before it even had a name.

In the U.S., there are events across the country, particularly on New Year’s Day. In Boston, members of the L Street Brownies have been dipping on New Year’s Day since the early 1900s. And the Coney Island Polar Bear Club in New York has been around about as long. But members don’t just swim in the Atlantic Ocean on the first day of the year. They swim every Sunday from November through April.

The largest American plunge is the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge, also known as “Plunge fest.” The event, which draws more than 10,000 annually and raises money for the Special Olympics, takes place in January, February or even March.

As for why they do it, some say taking a dip in frigid water is rejuvenating. In addition, participants say the plunge increases energy and decreases stress.

Experts in the medical community, however, aren't completely on board. While healthy people feel discomfort for about 30 seconds, the shock of the cold water is a real risk for others, particularly for those with heart disease or other health issues.

So, if you’re considering taking the plunge, just ask your doctor first. We here at Sandvik Insurance Agency will applaud you, even if we think you’re just a little bit, well, crazy!

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Pet Holiday Safety

12/4/2014

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Holiday Safety Tips for Minnesota Pets
The holidays have arrived in Minnesota! For those with one or more four-legged friends in the house, it’s time to go over some safety tips. After all, you want all of your family members to enjoy the festivities – even the furry ones.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which operates the 24-hour Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435, takes calls year round about pets being exposed to potentially hazardous yet common household items. With the house filled with guests, presents and decorations during the holidays, the risks multiply.

Here are some things to remember and consider from Thanksgiving through New Year’s to help keep Fluffy or Fido healthy, happy and safe:

House guests

Make sure everyone keeps medicine bottles or pill cases safely tucked away – actually that applies to everyone in your household, both permanent residents and visitors. And, just in case a probing pet gets into some medications, always make sure the containers are labeled with the contents and potency so you know what was ingested.

Of course, the holidays wouldn't be complete without sharing in feasts and treats with family and friends. Just make sure that doesn't extend to your pets. After all, some things on the holiday dinner table, such as alcohol and chocolate, are toxic for pets.

And, because all of the seasonal commotion may become too much for your pets, be sure they have a quiet place to which they can retreat. Let others know your pets shouldn't be disturbed when they are in their quiet spot, whether it’s a bed, a cozy blanket or a kennel.

Presents

Those beautifully wrapped presents under the tree or covering the fireplace mantel can also be harmful to your oh-so-curious felines and canines – especially if a present contains treats for them or food for humans. Animals have a keen sense of smell and, once they sense that food is nearby, they’ll be more than happy to unwrap and eat both the outer and inner contents of the gift. Those ribbons and bows that you worked so hard on perfecting may end up wreaking havoc on your pet’s digestive tract.

Decorations

Besides the obvious of making sure electrical wires, batteries and poisonous/toxic plants (such as holly, mistletoe and poinsettias) are all out of paw’s reach, make sure that plastic and glass ornaments are far away as well. If chewed or eaten, these items can cause electrical shock, acid burns, dermatitis and mouth abrasions.

You should also remember that, as beautiful and fun as they are, snow globes contain ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance to all pets. Another substance that you may not think of as harmful to pets is salt, and homemade play dough is loaded with it. Watch pets while your children are playing with it or around ornaments made with it. The dough can cause life-threatening electrolyte imbalances.

Scented candles may also be a holiday staple, but they may be enticing to our pets, which are at risk for serious burns and other injuries. Best to keep those candles completely out of reach.

Finally, make sure you have the phone number for your local emergency veterinarian or the ASPCA hotline on hand for emergencies.

With these tips in mind, you can help keep your four-legged family member safe during the holidays – and all year round. We here at Sandvik Insurance Agency wish you a very happy holiday season!

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Giving During the Holidays without Getting Taken

12/3/2014

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Giving During the Holidays without Getting Taken
Every year during the holidays, people in Rochester, MN look for ways to give gifts, not just to family and friends but to those less fortunate. It’s the spirit of the season.

Unfortunately, some of the charities out there don’t help people as fully as they claim – or possibly not at all. As if that weren’t enough, bogus organizations take advantage of people’s goodwill by stealing credit card and bank account information, along with identities, from people who think they’re donating to a legitimate cause.

It doesn’t mean you can’t be generous this holiday season. It just means a little extra caution is in order. Here are four tips for making smart and safe holiday donations:

1.      Verify the charity is legitimate.
Sure, the name sounds official and you think your friend mentioned what good work they do. Or does the charity simply have a name similar to another well-known organization? Before you donate, do a little digging.

Enter the charity’s name at Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator or   GuideStar, and, if you feel comfortable after reading about the organization, go ahead and donate. If not, look for another charity that supports the same cause. A good rule of thumb is to look for organizations with 501(c) (3) status.

2.      Steer clear of pop-up charities.
A pop-up charity is anything but charitable. These groups spring into action at opportune times, namely when people are feeling generous, such as during the holidays or following a disaster. The so-called charity is actually a scam designed to steal money, credit card numbers, bank account information and identities from unsuspecting donors. If, during your research, you come across an organization that seemingly appeared out of the blue, do not share any of your personal information with it.

3.      Be careful with digital donations.
Now that you’ve researched the charity, how do you plan to donate? If it’s online, be sure to type in the website address correctly. Fraudsters put up realistic-looking sites using a URL similar to a well-known charity’s to trick people into donating. But, they’re not donating at all. They’re lining the pockets of thieves.

Once you know you’re on the correct site, check that it’s secure before submitting any credit card information. Simply look for “https” instead of “http” at the beginning of the URL.

Likewise, that email you received from a prominent charity may be a fake. Instead of clicking on a link in an email to donate, go directly to your Web browser and type in the address yourself.

4.      Avoid phone and door-to-door solicitors.
If people call or knock on your door out of the blue asking for a contribution to this or that organization, ask them for the charity’s website or mailing address instead of donating right then and there. Even if it’s a charity you've heard of, the operation may be a scam. It’s always safer for     you to initiate the donation by visiting the charity’s website or mailing in a check. Plus, fundraising over the phone requires a middleman – that agent calling you – who must be paid, reducing the amount of your donation that goes to the charity.

It feels good to be in a giving mood during the holidays. With a little legwork to look into the legitimacy and practices of the charity, your donation will help others feel good too.

Contact Us!

At Sandvik Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at (507)226-8481 or send us a note at contactus@sandvikagency.com. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

Content provided by Safeco Insurance

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Winter Tire Tips

12/2/2014

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Do You Need Winter Tires?
You know it’s coming. Snow and slush. Freezing rain. Maybe even black ice.

But do you know if your tires are ready for all of that?

When driving in Rochester, Minnesota in the wintertime, your tires just might be the most important safety feature on your car. The right ones can get you to your destination safely. The wrong ones? Well, just look over in the ditch during the next storm.

So how do you figure out what’s best for your vehicle? Here are five things to know about winter tires:

  1.     Winter tires really are different than regular tires.
Winter tires have deeper tread, along with siping (slits in the tread blocks). This increases the number of edges that touch the road, resulting in better traction and handling. They also stay softer than other tires do in cold weather, thanks to special rubber compounds designed specifically for winter use. That helps increase traction as well.

2. If your area regularly drops below 45 degrees, you probably need winter tires.
Winter tires don’t just perform better in snow and ice. They are better for cold weather in general. So if you get some chilly days where you live, consider a set – a full set. Installing just two winter tires can cause handling problems.

3.    There are two main categories.
Studless snow and ice tires are designed for extreme conditions. They are better in deep snow than performance winter tires, which are for light snow and ice. What about studded tires? Well, they give you great traction on ice but also damage roads. And some experts say chains do just as well.

4.    You still need to check the pressure — once a week.
If your tires are under inflated, they are at risk of failing. In winter, if    they’re over inflated, your traction will be significantly reduced.

5.    You still need to check the tread, too.
An inexpensive tool found at auto-parts stores can be used for this, or you can use a penny. Stick the coin into the groove of the tire, with Lincoln’s head down. Is some of his hair hidden? Good. Can you see all of Abe’s hair? It’s time for new tires. Right now.

We here at Sandvik Insurance Agency know that nobody wants to spend too much time thinking about tires. The good news is you don’t have to. Just a little bit of preparation, along with some routine maintenance, will keep you driving in Minnesota all winter long.

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Healthy Holiday Tips

12/1/2014

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Be the pinnacle of health and wellness this holiday season
It goes without saying that keeping yourself and your family healthy through the holiday season in Minnesota can be a challenge. When you combine chillier temps, housebound days, year-end deadlines and pre-holiday preparation - not to mention kids passing around colds at school like they’re playing “Hot Potato” - you can end up spending the holidays under the covers.

No matter how many inherent seasonal risk factors you face, there are ways to prepare for and get through the season virtually unscathed. At Sandvik Insurance Agency, we wish for you a happy and abundantly healthy holiday season, so here are a few tips to help you stay well and enjoy!

Consider ‘sticking it’ to The Flu. Flu shots seem to be available at practically every drug store or pharmacy in Rochester. Discuss with your doctor the pros and cons of flu shots for yourself and your family.

Get some Zzz's. The holiday hustle and bustle can interfere with normal sleep patterns, yet sleep is essential to health and healing. Prioritize getting enough sleep - or taking a quick nap - despite your busy schedule.

Fill the fridge. It’s easy to allow your pantry to start looking like a sweet shop as the holidays near. Take care to stock your refrigerator and cabinets with healthy snacks and ingredients for balanced meals. Think fruit, nuts, lower-calorie snacks, veggies and lean proteins.

Get real. Emotional health is important, too, so be realistic about what can be expected through the season. Just because it’s the holidays doesn't mean that Aunt Zoe and Uncle Andrew from Minnesota will finally mend their rocky relationship.

Keep moving. Despite the many holiday temptations to just relax, don’t give in to being a couch potato. Get to the gym or yoga studio, go for a walk in, jump on the treadmill or dance. The important thing is to just move!

From the Sandvik Insurance Agency to you, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!

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Sandvik Insurance Agency Blog

Business Auto Insurance

Car Insurance Savings

Holiday Home Security

The Live vs. Artifical Debate

Polar Bear Plunge

Pet Holiday Safety

Giving During the Holidays without Getting Taken

Winter Tire Tips

Healthy Holiday Tips

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