San Francisco, California, is a large and bustling city. However, it is also known for its thick fog. Unfortunately, the fog is so dense that it can impact visibility, particularly late at night or early in the morning. Here at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc., we have seen many accidents caused by thick fog. We want to help you stay safe while on our roadways, so we’ve compiled a few tips to help you see better and drive safely on foggy mornings.

Use Low-Beam Lights

Turn on your low-beam headlights in the fog. High beams bounce off the fog, making it harder to see, while low beams better illuminate the road.

Drive Slower

Drive slower than usual, even if you know the road well. Fog makes it hard to see far ahead, so you need more time to stop or turn.

Keep the Windshield Clear

Ensure your windshield is clean. Use the defroster to remove any mist inside the car. A clear windshield helps you see better.

Turn on Fog Lights

If your car has fog lights, use them. They point low to the ground and help you see the road more clearly.

Follow the Road Lines

Watch the painted lines on the road to stay in your lane. This keeps you from drifting into other lanes or off the road.

Need Auto Insurance in San Francisco, CA? Contact Us Now

Unfortunately, not every accident is preventable. This is why it’s so important to have auto insurance to cover and protect you fully. The Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. team, serving the greater San Francisco, CA region, is here to help you. Contact us now to get the coverage you need.

The language of auto insurance, with deductibles, premiums, liability limits, comprehensive coverage, and more, can initially seem overwhelming. Armed with this knowledge, you can navigate conversations with insurance providers and select policies tailored to your needs. At Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. in San Francisco, CA, we can help you fully understand your auto policy.

What are Auto Insurance Terms I Should Know?

Understanding auto insurance can feel like deciphering a foreign language, with terms like comprehensive coverage, deductible, and underinsured motorist protection. Comprehensive coverage extends beyond accidents and covers damage from incidents like theft or natural disasters. You must pay your deductible before your insurance covers the remainder of the cost. Underinsured motorist protection shields you if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your expenses.

Another crucial term is premium – the ongoing amount you pay for your insurance coverage. You must balance cost considerations and adequate coverage based on your needs and circumstances. Collision coverage protects against accidents involving your vehicle, while liability coverage covers costs if you’re responsible for any injuries or damages to others. Familiarity with these key terms empowers you when navigating the world of auto insurance policies.

Contact Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. in San Francisco, CA for Auto Insurance

You don’t have to navigate auto insurance alone. By choosing Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc., you can trust that your coverage is in expert hands, giving you peace of mind on the road. Contact us today to start your auto policy.

Owning a car in the San Francisco, CA area can be helpful. This can make it easier to get around the city and surrounding areas. If you want to get a car, you should also carefully assess your insurance options. This can include getting both collision and comprehensive insurance. Knowing what these coverage options cover is important to determine if they are right for you. 

Collision Coverage

One type of insurance you can get with an auto insurance plan is collision coverage. In a crowded city like San Francisco with a lot of motorists, collisions do occur on occasion. Because of this, you have the right insurance, which is important. When you get a collision insurance plan, it will offer you support so you can make repairs to your vehicle. This can include replacing the vehicle entirely in some situations. 

Comprehensive Coverage

Another important type of insurance to obtain is comprehensive insurance. Many risks could result in damage or other forms of loss to your vehicle. These can include damage from an accident with an animal, theft, or even vandalism. If you are not insured, you will need to replace your vehicle on your own. However, if you carry a comprehensive plan, you will have all the coverage you need to ensure you can replace or repair your vehicle. 

When you own a car in the San Francisco, CA, area, you need to make sure you get the right insurance. Selecting the right plan can be complicated, and our team with Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. will help. Our team will give you any help you need to build a new plan with all the necessary insurance support. 

When you choose an auto insurance policy, we’re here to answer any questions you have at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. Enjoy peace of mind when you hit the road in San Francisco, CA by finding the right auto insurance solution.

You’ll have to make a few important decisions when you buy a policy. Here are four of the most significant decisions you’ll make when you purchase auto insurance. 

The length of the policy term

In many cases, motorists can choose how long they want their policy to be in effect. Most insurance providers offer policies that must be renewed either once every six months or once per year. 

The insurance company 

Motorists need to find a reliable insurance provider with good customer service and advantageous policy terms. Do your research on insurance companies offering auto coverage in your area to find an insurance provider that meets your needs and offers quality coverage.

The types of coverage

Auto insurance policies always include liability coverage. However, motorists have the option of including collision and comprehensive coverage. That’s why motorists need to understand these types of coverage when deciding if they want them included in their policy. 

The deductible amount

Auto insurance providers also typically give consumers a few different deductible options to consider. The deductible is the amount you have to pay when you file a claim using your collision or comprehensive coverage. 

Choosing a policy with a lower deductible amount could mean you’ll have to pay more for your monthly premiums. 

Do you have questions about auto insurance in San Francisco, CA? We have the information you’re looking for at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. Get a quote on an auto insurance policy by contacting us now!

Motorists need to be accurately informed about auto insurance. Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. is an insurance provider offering auto insurance policies in San Francisco, CA.

Unfortunately, misinformation regarding auto insurance is fairly common. The following are four critical pieces of misinformation you need to know about when you buy auto insurance. 

You’ll pay more on premiums if you’re insuring a new car.

While more valuable vehicles are often more expensive to secure, this doesn’t mean that a new car will always be more costly to insure than an old car.

Many new cars have safety and security features that help bring down insurance premium costs. This can make new cars less expensive to insure. 

It’s no big deal to go uninsured for a brief period. 

You should never drive without insurance. Going even for a short period without insurance could lead to severe consequences.

Auto insurance is required by law, and you could be cited for driving without insurance if you get pulled over while uninsured. 

Your driving record is the only factor that impacts your auto insurance costs.

While your driving record is an important factor that impacts your insurance costs, it is not the only factor that insurance providers consider.

Insurance providers also look at your vehicle’s value, credit score, and numerous additional factors when calculating your auto insurance premiums. 

You can use your personal auto insurance when driving for commercial purposes.

If you drive your vehicle for commercial purposes, you need to have a commercial auto insurance policy. You shouldn’t use your personal auto insurance while you’re driving for business purposes.  

Call Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. today to get a quote on an auto insurance policy in San Francisco, CA. 

As the weather starts to turn here in the San Francisco, CA area, it’s essential to take steps to make sure your car is ready for any storms that may come its way. Here are some tips from us at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. to help you prepare your car for a storm: 

1. Check your tires: Make sure your tires have adequate tread and air pressure. This will help you maintain control of the vehicle in wet or icy conditions. 

2. Change your windshield wipers: Having good visibility during a storm is essential, so replace your windshield wipers at least once a year. 

3. Inspect the exterior: Check for any rust spots or cracks in the body of the vehicle. Make sure to repair these before they become more significant problems down the road. 

4. Fill up your fluids: Ensure all your car’s fluids are topped off, including oil and antifreeze, wiper fluid, and brake fluid. 

5. Stock up on supplies: In case you get stuck during a storm, it’s essential to have an emergency kit with items like blankets, snacks, a flashlight, and jumper cables in the trunk of your car. 

By taking these steps now, you can feel confident knowing that your car is prepared for whatever weather comes its way this season! For more tips or to explore an auto insurance policy, give us at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. today. We are proud to serve the San Francisco, CA area and would be happy to help you find a policy that meets your needs and budget. So don’t delay! Give us a call today!

Whether on a road trip or just commuting around San Francisco, CA, it’s essential to have a well-maintained car. Even if you don’t know much about car maintenance, you can take some easy steps to keep your vehicle in good shape.

Here are three expert car maintenance tips from Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. that will help you get ready for the road and keep your car running smoothly.

Change Your Oil Regularly:

Changing your vehicle’s oil is essential for several reasons:

1. It ensures that the oil in your engine is clean and free of contaminants. This helps to prevent wear and tear on engine components, and it also helps to keep your engine running smoothly.

2. Regular oil changes help to improve fuel economy and extend the life of your machine.

3. Regularly changing your oil helps to prevent significant damage from occurring later.

Monitor Tire Pressure and Tire Wear:

Proper tire inflation helps to ensure that your vehicle is operating at maximum efficiency and safety. Underinflated tires can increase fuel consumption, reduce handling and braking ability, and increase the risk of a tire blowout. Monitoring tire wear helps to identify when it is time to replace the tires. Worn-out tires can cause a loss of control while driving and make it more difficult to stop in time to avoid an accident.

Get Regularly Scheduled Maintenance Checks:

Regular professional maintenance checks on your vehicle can help you fix any problems with your car before they become significant issues. This will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Professional maintenance checks can also help you save money in the long run by improving your car’s fuel economy, reducing wear and tear, and extending its lifespan.

At Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc., in San Francisco, CA, we take pride in providing our customers with the highest quality service. Contact us today to get started!

Like most people, you probably have many questions about auto insurance. Do I need it? What kind of coverage do I need? How much will it cost me? Here’s the deal: All drivers must carry liability insurance in San Francisco, CA. But if you have a new car loan, your lender will probably require you to have full coverage insurance.

Liability Vs. Full Coverage

So, what’s the difference between liability and full coverage insurance? Liability insurance covers damage to other people and property if you cause an accident. Full coverage insurance also covers damage to your vehicle, no matter who is at fault.

If you’re financing a new car, your lender will require you to have full coverage insurance until the loan is paid off. That’s because the lender wants to ensure they protect their investment in case of an accident. Your Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. agent can help you find the right full coverage policy to fit your needs and budget.

What Does Full Coverage Include?

Full coverage insurance typically includes collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage pays for damage to your vehicle if you hit another car or object or another vehicle hit your car. Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your car caused by events other than a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

How Much Does Full Coverage Insurance Cost in San Francisco, CA?

Total coverage insurance costs vary depending on several factors, including your driving record, the type of car you drive, and the amount of coverage you choose. Full coverage insurance costs more than liability insurance. But the extra cost is often worth it, especially if you’re financing a new car.

A Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. representative can help you choose the right insurance coverage for your needs and budget. Call us today to get started.

At Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc., we serve many San Francisco, CA residents with fair and reasonable insurance rates. However, we also know that your history can affect your insurance and cause complications. Here’s what you need to know about this factor.

Yes, Your History Can Affect Your Insurance

Insurance companies always take a look at your history before providing you with a policy. For example, they may offer you a higher premium as a result of a poor driving record. Even worse, they’re likely to increase your premiums if you experience any problems after getting a policy.

That said, some issues are not as heavily weighted as others, meaning you might get a minor rate increase compared to a major one. Here are three of the most common concerns that impact your insurance, particularly if they become a recurring problem.

Issues That May Affect Your Rates 

• Traffic Tickets – Depending on the severity (and volume) of your traffic tickets, your rates will go up at varying levels. First-time offenders are not likely to see an increase in their rates, though. 
• DUI Tickets – If you get ticketed for a DWI or DUI, you can expect your rate to go up very heavily. This increase is likely even if you’re a first-time offender. It will take many years for this to come off your record, too. 
• Accidents – Getting into an accident will immediately increase your rates, even if you weren’t to blame. This fact likely seems unfair but is something that insurance companies take very seriously. 

Avoid These Problems

If you’re concerned about the potential damage your history may have due to your insurance, it is crucial to reach out to us at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. right away to learn more. Our team can help San Francisco, CA residents understand what they can do to minimize these problematic issues.

Gap insurance can be considered as additional insurance for your car loan. Gap insurance is not mandatory. It is an optional insurance benefit. It serves as a supplement to an auto insurance policy in case a car is totaled or stolen.

The value of a car decreases from the moment it leaves the lot, and it continues to decrease with each passing year. Car insurance pays out the value of the car at the time of an accident or theft. In the event that you still owe money on the car and the insurance paid out is less than the amount owed, gap insurance covers the gap between what is still owed on the car loan and what is paid out by the insurance company.

Is gap insurance worth it?

The term gap insurance stands for guaranteed asset protection. In the event that your debt on your vehicle is higher than the value of the vehicle, gap insurance is a good investment.

If your down payment on a car is less than 20% of the value of the vehicle, it’s best to get gap insurance. At least for the first few years, you own a car.

Gap insurance is usually only required for one to two years. This is because the insurance has served its purpose during this period.

Gap insurance is needed even if you have full auto coverage and you still owe money on a car loan or on a lease. Bear in mind, comprehensive and collision insurance only pays the value of the car at the time of an accident or when it is stolen. 

Speak to an expert at Biddle-Shaw Insurance Services Inc. serving San Francisco, CA, to see which insurance options best suit you.