Auto Insurance

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Auto Insurance Rates Are Rising in 2023: Here’s What You Need to Know

Robert Prokop · May 22, 2023 ·

Auto insurance rates are expected to rise in 2023. This is due to several factors, including inflation, higher vehicle repair and replacement costs, and increased car accidents. An independent agent can shop multiple insurance companies to help you find the best coverage and rate based on your vehicle, situation, and needs.

To learn more about how we can help you save money on auto insurance in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Wayzata, and the surrounding Twin Cities area, contact Prokop Insurance today.

Inflation

The cost of goods and services has been rising in recent months, which also impacts the cost of auto insurance. Insurance companies need to raise rates to cover their rising costs.

Higher Vehicle Repair and Replacement Costs

The cost of repairing and replacing vehicles has been rising in recent years due to factors such as the increasing complexity of cars/trucks and the rising cost of parts. This is driving up the cost of auto insurance claims, forcing insurance companies to raise rates.

Increase in the Number of Car Accidents

The number of car accidents has been rising in recent years due to factors such as distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding. This is also driving up the cost of auto insurance claims, forcing insurance companies to raise rates.

How to Save Money on Auto Insurance

If you are looking to save money on auto insurance, there are a few things you can do:

Shop around for quotes from different insurance companies. This is the best way to find the best deal on auto insurance. Prokop has access to many different insurance companies, including Progressive, Nationwide, Travelers, Safeco, and many more.
Increase your deductible. A higher deductible will lower your monthly premiums, but you will be responsible for paying more out of pocket in the event of a claim.
Take a defensive driving course. This can reduce your risk of being in an accident, which can lower your rates. If you are at high risk to insure because you have a DWI, several accidents, speeding ticket, or other, we can still insure you. Contact us today.
Install safety features in your car. Features such as anti-lock brakes and airbags can also reduce your risk of being in an accident, which can lower your rates.
Bundle your auto insurance with other policies, such as homeowners or renters insurance. This can often save you money on both policies for up to 30% savings.
Usage based insurance. Gives you discounts of up to 40% based on how you drive and/or how many miles you drive.
Major and minor accident forgiveness. Add this to your policy on the chance you have an accident and protect your rates from going up by an average 25%.
Ticket forgiveness. This is a 10% average increase.

By taking these steps, you can potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your auto insurance premiums.

Additional Tips for Saving Money on Auto Insurance

Be a safe driver. The best way to save money on auto insurance is to be a safe driver. This means avoiding accidents, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Maintain your car. Keeping your car in good condition can also help you save money on auto insurance. This means getting regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake repairs.
Drive less. The less you drive, the less likely you are to be in an accident. If you can, try to walk, bike, or take public transportation whenever possible.

By following these tips, you can save money on auto insurance and protect yourself from financial loss in the event of an accident.

Here are some additional tips for saving money on auto insurance:

Consider your driving record. If you have a clean driving record, you may be eligible for a discount on your auto insurance.
Ask about discounts. Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like good student status, anti-lock brakes, and safety features.
Pay your bill on time. Many insurance companies offer discounts for paying your bill on time.
Bundle your policies. If you have multiple policies with the same insurance company, you may be able to save money by bundling them together. The more policies you add the bigger the discount. Add your motorcycle, boat, life, umbrella, health, pet, commercial, and anything add with do. with the same company.

By following these tips, you can save money on auto insurance and protect yourself from financial loss in the event of an accident.

We can help you compare policies from multiple providers to find the most competitive insurance rates, lowest deductibles, and comprehensive coverage for your needs. Prokop Insurance is proactive and reviews your insurance annually for rates and coverage, features, and benefits. We have access to many top insurance providers, allowing us to offer our clients the best options for policies and prices.

If you are looking for the best auto insurance rates in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, contact Prokop Insurance today.

How To Prevent Car Theft

Prokop Team · May 11, 2023 ·

How to prevent car theft? According to estimates from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, there were more than 745,000 motor vehicle thefts in the first nine months of 2022 in the U.S. [1] [2] And when citizens are targeted in the most potentially dangerous of these crimes – carjacking – the attacker succeeds in roughly half of all attempts, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

To find out how to prevent carjacking and car theft, read on.

1. Don’t leave valuables in your car

You don’t display your cash, financial statements, and jewelry in your home’s windows, do you? So why would you do the same in your car? Instead, hide any valuables, including purses, computer bags, and the ignition key. You’d be surprised how often people don’t.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, between 2019 and 2022, more than 100,000 reported vehicle thefts were facilitated by keys, including situations where keys were left inside the vehicle. [3] One-fourth left a purse or wallet inside, and one-third have left bank statements. In addition, one-third say they’ve kept their vehicle running while unoccupied.

2. Park in a well-lit area

Not everyone has a garage. But many have the option of parking on a well-lit street – another deterrent for crooks. Also, etch the vehicle identification number on windows to discourage thieves from stealing the vehicle and selling it to a chop shop.

3. Lock your vehicle doors

The minute you step into an automobile, you’re vulnerable. So lock up right away, before starting the ignition or setting up your music, GPS, etc. (Buckling up is the second “to do.”)

4. Don’t leave your keys in the car

“It’ll just be for a second, I’m only running into the store for a couple things.”

Unfortunately, “a second” is all a thief will need if you leave the keys in the car for them. So always take your keys with you no matter where or how briefly you’ll be out of your vehicle. It sounds obvious, but this is one of the most important ways to prevent car theft.

5. Stay alert

Staying alert is the best example of how to prevent carjacking. When stopped or slowing down, you increase the opportunity for a carjacker. So at traffic lights, exercise caution. “When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to move forward,” says Brent O’Bryan, vice president of learning and development for AlliedBarton Security Services, a physical security firm. [4]

6. Know where you’re going

Just as you want to stay in well-lit areas while parking, you don’t want to “hide” in the darkness while driving. “Don’t head into remote or unfamiliar areas,” O’Bryan says. “If you feel like you’re being followed, don’t drive home. Don’t park next to a vehicle such as a van which could be hiding a suspect.” [4]

7. Install an anti-theft system

If someone tries to break into your car, you’ll want to make it apparent to anyone in earshot that this has occurred. Anti-theft systems emit loud alarms when they detect forced entry into your vehicle, alerting anyone nearby and potentially scaring the would-be thief from sticking around. You can also install a GPS tracking system that will show the location of your vehicle if the thief successfully makes off with it.

Having an anti-theft device in your vehicle may earn you a discount on your car insurance.

8. Stay cool during a crisis

Even if you take every precaution, you could still get involved in a carjacking. If so, your and your passengers’ safety remains the top priority. Stay calm – if you panic, it’s more likely a criminal will too. “Never argue; give up your car,” O’Bryan says. “Get away from the area as quickly as possible. Note the suspect’s appearance, and immediately report it to the police.” [4]

Most commonly stolen cars

You might expect thieves to go for the glitziest, most expensive-looking cars they can find, but the trouble with those vehicles is that they stand out in a crowd. No car thief wants to be seen after they make their getaway, so the most commonly stolen cars are some of the most widely owned models. Ford F-series pickup trucks and Honda Civics have been US frequently targeted for this precise reason. In 2021, cars like Civics were also popular because they share parts with other Hondas, making them valuable for stripping and selling. [5]

More recently, in a 2022 HLDI study, 2019-2021 models of Dodge Chargers topped the charts for most stolen vehicles. [6]

What cars are targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Certain vehicles are also being singled out to steal their catalytic converters. Hybrid cars like the Toyota Prius use expensive metals to construct their catalytic converters, making them prime targets. [7] Thieves will steal the catalytic converter and sell it for the value of its metal.

Does insurance cover car theft?

So, you took all the precautions, but someone managed to make off with your car anyway. Are you covered? It depends on your policy. Comprehensive policies will typically cover theft. However, policies like liability insurance do not.

Contact us for a FREE review of your insurance, quotes and learn more about what your car insurance will cover in the event of car theft.

Cruising into Spring: Insure Your Car Collection

Prokop Team · April 4, 2023 · Leave a Comment

Cruising into Spring: Insure Your Car Collection with Prokop Insurance. Now is the time when Minnesota car enthusiasts take their beloved vehicles out of storage and get out and drive. As a car enthusiast, ensuring your vehicle is protected with the right insurance coverage is essential. Prokop Insurance insures classic cars, muscle cars, restomod cars, lowriders, race cars, custom cars, hot rods, microcars, and exotic cars.

As a local Twin Cities insurance agency, we provide coverage for a wide range of classic cars, including iconic models like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, Pontiac, Chevrolet Camaro, Chevy Bel Air, Ford Thunderbird, and Plymouth Barracuda. Our experienced agents understand that classic car owners have unique needs when it comes to insurance coverage, and we’re here to help you get the protection you need for your prized possession.

Our specialized coverage includes agreed value coverage, which ensures that you’ll receive the full insured value of your car in the event of a total loss. Hagerty Insurance, a trusted name in the classic car insurance industry, typically underwrites our insurance policies.

At Prokop Insurance, we work with Hagerty Insurance, a trusted name in the classic car insurance industry. With Hagerty, you can rest assured that you’re getting the coverage you need from a company that understands and appreciates classic cars.

We understand that owning a classic car is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion and a lifestyle. That’s why we offer personalized service and coverage that meets the unique needs of classic car owners. Our coverage lets you enjoy peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected against damage, theft, and other risks.

In addition to our classic car insurance, we offer a wide range of other insurance products to meet your needs, including home insurance, auto insurance, and business insurance. As a local agency, we take pride in our personalized service and our commitment to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage at a price that fits their budget.

Contact us today to insure your car collection and learn more about our coverage options and get a quote for your vehicle. We look forward to helping you protect your investment and enjoy your car for as long as you own it.

6 Tips To Clean Up Your Driving Record

Prokop Team · January 21, 2023 ·

These are our 6 tips to clean up your driving record as auto insurance pros, essential for maintaining affordable insurance rates in Minnesota and avoiding legal consequences. A clean driving record means that you have not been involved in any accidents or received any traffic violations. However, if you have a less than perfect driving record, don’t worry; there are ways to improve it. Below are some tips for improving your driving record in Minnesota.

Follow Traffic Laws
The first step in improving your driving record is to follow traffic laws. This means obeying posted speed limits, stop signs, and other traffic signals. Avoid reckless driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and running red lights.
Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents on the road. To improve your driving record, keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving. It only takes a split second for an accident to occur, so it’s important to stay focused and alert.
Practice Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is a technique that involves staying alert and aware of your surroundings, anticipating potential hazards, and maintaining a safe following distance from other vehicles. By practicing defensive driving, you can avoid accidents and traffic violations that can negatively impact your driving record.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Regular vehicle maintenance can help prevent accidents and keep your driving record clean. This includes checking your brakes, tires, oil, and other parts the car that can fail. We also suggest making sure your brake lights, headlights, taillights, blinkers, and even license plate lights all work properly. Keeping your vehicle in good working condition can reduce your risk of accidents and traffic violations.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and dangerous. It puts yourself and others on the road at risk. If you want to improve your driving record, avoid alcohol and drugs when you are behind the wheel.

DWI or DUI How They Impact Your Car Insurance Rates
Another way to improve your driving record is to take a defensive driving course. These courses can help you learn safe driving techniques, reduce the number of points on your driving record, and potentially qualify for insurance discounts. In Minnesota, you can take a state-approved course either in-person or online.

Minnesota Safety Council, St. Paul
minnesotasafetycouncil.org

AARP Driver Safety Program
aarp.org/drive
click on “Find a class near you”

Improving your driving record takes time and effort, but it is well worth it in the long run. By following these tips and staying focused on safe driving, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. If you need help finding affordable car insurance, contact Prokop Insurance. We can help you find the right coverage at an affordable price.

DWI or DUI: How They Impact Your Car Insurance Rates

Prokop Team · November 14, 2022 ·

At Prokop Insurance we never like to explain DWI or DUI: How They Impact Your Car Insurance Rates. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can increase your car insurance rates. DWI and DUI are often used interchangeably but refer to different crimes. A DWI or DUI conviction can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and even jail time.

In Minnesota, DWI stands for “Driving While Intoxicated.” This offense occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

On the other hand, DUI stands for “Driving Under the Influence.” This offense typically refers to driving under the influence of drugs, illegal, prescription, and even over-the-counter medications that can impair driving.

What Types of Vehicles Can Result in a DWI or DUI Charge in Minnesota?

What are the consequences?

If you get a DWI, your car insurance company may think you are a high-risk driver. This means that you are more likely to get into an accident and make a claim. Because of this, you may have to buy high-risk car insurance. This kind of insurance is more expensive than regular car insurance. It’s for people who have a history of bad driving, like getting into accidents, getting traffic tickets, or getting a DWI. High-risk car insurance can be very expensive, so it’s important to try to avoid it if you can.
If you get a DWI, you may also lose your driver’s license. This means you won’t be able to drive your car for a while. It can be hard to get around without a car, and you may have to rely on other people to take you places. Your rates can go up by at least 50%, which is a lot of money.
If you get your license back after a DWI, you may need to get an SR-22 certificate of insurance. This is a document that proves you have car insurance. It’s used for people who have had problems with their driving record. Having an SR-22 can make your car insurance rates go up even more.

It’s important you think twice about getting intoxicated by alcohol or taking drugs anytime before driving. If you need to go somewhere, ask someone to drive you or use a taxi or ride-sharing service.

If you have questions about your car insurance rates after a DWI, contact the Pros at Prokop Insurance. We can help you understand what you need to do to get your rates back down.