What’s the Difference Between Liability Insurance and Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

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Auto insurance comes in many types, and sometimes it’s hard to tell what kind of insurance is right for you. Knowing what the different types of insurance are and what they cover is important. The professionals at Thompson Insurance Services servicing Highland Village, TX can help you find the answers to these questions. What is liability insurance? What is comprehensive insurance? How are these two insurance types different?

We have the answers to help you navigate the insurance shopping process. To learn more about auto insurance, contact one of our insurance experts. To learn more about the different types of insurance, see the information below. 

What Is Liability Auto Insurance?

Liability auto insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for the other driver’s vehicle if you are at fault in an accident. Liability does not provide coverage for your vehicle. For some people, liability coverage is enough because they plan to replace their own vehicle if they’re in an accident. For others, liability doesn’t provide enough coverage on its own. Your insurance agent can help you decide whether this is enough for you. 

What Is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Comprehensive auto insurance may provide coverage for your vehicle in non-collision events, like theft or vandalism. If your vehicle is struck by a deer or another animal, comprehensive may provide coverage in that instance as well. 

How Much Auto Insurance Do You Need?

There are other types of coverage in addition to comprehensive and liability auto insurance. Deciding how much coverage is right for you, and which types of insurance are right for you, can help you choose the best auto insurance policy for your needs. 

Call Today to Get An Auto Insurance Policy

If you need an auto insurance policy, call the professionals at Thompson Insurance Services servicing Highland Village, TX. We’re here to help. 

Will Umbrella Insurance Cover Property Damage?

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Umbrella insurance is designed to make sure residents of Highland Village, TX don’t have to pay out of pocket when there’s an accident. These policies can help business owners keep their doors open or ensure individuals don’t have to liquidate their assets. There are a few things you need to know about how your coverage will work when it comes to property damage, though. 

Does Umbrella Insurance Cover Property Damage?

In most cases, yes, umbrella policies will cover property damage. This includes damage to another person’s car or property if there’s an accident. Typically, it works as a secondary policy. Your auto or home policy will kick in first to cover damages up to the maximum amount, and then your umbrella policy will kick in to help cover any remaining balance. 

It’s Liability Coverage

Always remember that these policies work as personal liability coverage. They will cover the other person’s property damage, but not your own. That means if you’re in a car accident and both vehicles are damaged, your policy will only help pay for the damage to the other person’s property. You’ll have to use your auto policy or personal funds to pay for damages to your property. 

Exclusions Apply

Every type of insurance has a list of exclusions, including these policies. The main exclusion is coverage for intentional or malicious acts. That means if the accident is caused intentionally by you, your company will likely deny the claim. An agent here at Thompson Insurance Services can help you learn more about exclusions listed on your policy. 

Here at Thompson Insurance Services, our agents pride themselves on working with customers. We’ll take the time to explain your policy to you, ensuring you know how it works and what it will cover. Contact us today to learn more. We’re currently serving the Highland Village, TX area. 

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Why You Should Review Your Home Insurance Policy Once a Year

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Having a home comes with a lot of responsibilities, and one of the most important is ensuring that it’s properly protected. If you’re in the Highland Village, TX, area and looking for home insurance, our agents at Thompson Insurance Services can help. We’ll help you review your coverage and make any needed updates, so you can enjoy more peace of mind. Here’s why you should be reviewing your policy with us at least once per year.

Circumstances Change Over Time

Among the biggest reasons for reviewing your home coverage every year is that your circumstances can change. Maybe you purchased a high-end piece of jewelry, got a grand piano, had a pool installed, or renovated your kitchen. Those kinds of changes should be communicated to your agent, but not every homeowner knows which changes are important to talk about. A yearly review catches those changes that might have been otherwise missed.

There May Be a Better Option

Another big reason to review your policy with an agent is that it might not be the right policy for you any longer. There may be another insurer or different policy limits that are a better fit, and working with an agent can help you make that adjustment.

Work With a Trusted Agent Today

Reach out to us today at Thompson Insurance Services for a home insurance review. If you’re in the Highland Village, TX, area, our dedicated insurance agents are here to you help you find the policy that meets your needs. We can review the one you have, suggest any updates, or look for one that’s going to be a better overall fit. Either way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your policy is the right choice for your current insurance needs.

Will Renters Insurance Deny Claims If Your Roommate Caused The Damage?

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Renters insurance in Highland Village, TX can help you replace damaged or stolen items to make sure you don’t have to suffer as much after a crisis. Things can get a little tricky when your roommate is the one who puts you in that situation, though. 

Specific Exclusions

Some companies have a specific exclusion stating they will not provide coverage if the damage was caused by someone else who lived in the home. This is to help prevent insurance fraud. It does vary by company, so it’s a good idea to speak with an agent here at Thompson Insurance Services to learn about your policy. 

File a Police Report

Companies that will provide coverage often require that you file a police report against the person who caused the damage. You may have to press charges for vandalism or theft. Then, the company may sue them to get their money back. Make sure you’re prepared to do this. If it’s too late to file a police report because the incident happened weeks ago, you may be out of luck. 

Compare the Deductible

The deductible is how much you have to pay before your renters insurance kicks in to help you out. Most people set a deductible with their agent when they purchase a policy. Consider how much your deductible is and how much the items are worth. If it’s cheaper to replace them, filing a claim usually isn’t worth it. 

Agents here at Thompson Insurance Services can help you learn more about what your policy covers and whether you should file a claim. Contact us today to learn more. We’re currently serving the Highland Village, TX area. 

What Happens if a Driver With No Auto Insurance Hits Me?

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Being involved in a collision can feel disruptive and confusing, especially when the at-fault driver does not carry auto insurance, which is still a situation that appears across Texas roadways more often than many expect. Your insurance agent at Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX explains what happens in this situation.

Insurance Coverage Paths That May Apply

From a coverage standpoint, the situation often turns on what protection the driver already carries on their own policy, particularly uninsured motorist coverage, which can be especially relevant in Texas due to the number of uninsured drivers still operating on the road. It may also extend to vehicle repair claims, rental considerations, and other property related losses depending on policy terms. Questions of fault and available documentation can noticeably influence how smoothly the claim moves forward.

A Less Obvious Factor in These Situations

An often overlooked angle is that the presence of no insurance on the other driver can sometimes slow down the administrative side of the process more than the physical damage assessment itself, since verification steps and cross checks become more common. At the same time, outcomes are not always uniform because each policy and accident scenario carries its own details.

Moving Forward After the Incident

Once the immediate reporting steps are complete, the driver typically works through the claims process with their insurer while also gathering any remaining records that may help clarify responsibility. Even small details such as photos, witness notes, and timestamped records can noticeably strengthen how a claim is interpreted, especially when the other driver lacks insurance coverage in practical terms.

If you find yourself in this situation, contact your insurance agent at Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX. You have options, and we can help.

Dog Bite Liability Lawsuits And Umbrella Insurance In Highland Village, TX

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We love our dogs in Highland Village. Backyard playtime near the trails. Morning walks along Brazos Boulevard. Our city is just a dog-friendly place. But if your furry BFF ever bites someone, things can get unfriendly super fast.

Texas law is pretty much zero tolerance when it comes to dog bites. Umbrella insurance can save you if you ever find yourself in this situation. Thompson Insurance Services can go over all your options with you.

Texas Has Zero Tolerance for Dog Bites

Texas follows the notorious "one-bite rule." This means that even if your dog bites one time, you can still be held strictly liable for someone’s injuries. You could be facing not just the medical costs of the other person, but also a negligence claim if it’s proven that you didn’t control your dog.

But it doesn’t even have to be an actual bite. In Texas, if your dog is documented for showing aggression, the state may require you to have insurance to cover any eventuality.

What Your Current Insurance Policy Might Not Cover

Most people have some liability coverage for dog bites in their homeowners insurance or renters insurance. But if a dog bite needs medical attention, you can find yourself blowing through your policy limits fast. An ER visit alone can be astronomical. But if it’s very serious? You can be looking at the costs for surgery, rehab, and even a lawsuit.

Without umbrella insurance, all of these remaining costs will come out of your pocket once the limits on your other policies are maxed out. This can affect you now, but also your future earnings could be at risk.

Umbrella Insurance in Highland Village, TX, Can Fill the Gap

Once your current policy is maxed to the base limits, umbrella insurance kicks in to cover the rest. It’s like a cushion on top of your standard policy. For dog owners, this kind of protection is worth it just for the peace of mind alone.

Talk to a Professional to Make Sure You’re Fully Covered

You don’t want to leave dog bite liability to chance. Even a tiny dog can give a bad enough bite to need medical care. Get in touch with our team at Thompson Insurance Services today so we can help you make sure you’ve got the coverage you need.

 

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Need Home Insurance? Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent Before Choosing a Policy

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Home insurance provides essential protection when unexpected disasters occur. As a homeowner, you rely on your home insurance policy to help you recover after events such as a fire or lightning strike. Choosing the right home insurance coverage matters, and taking time to compare options can help ensure your home and belongings are properly protected.

The professionals at Thompson Insurance Services servicing Highland Village, TX can help you shop for the right policy. As an independent insurance agency with access to multiple insurance carriers, we compare options from different companies to help you find coverage that fits your needs. Knowing the right questions to ask can make the shopping process more effective and less stressful.

1. How Much Home Insurance Coverage Do I Need?

Having the correct amount of coverage helps ensure your home and personal belongings can be repaired or replaced after a covered loss. If you are underinsured, you may face significant out-of-pocket costs during recovery. If you are overinsured, you may pay more than necessary for your policy. An experienced insurance agent can help you determine the appropriate coverage levels for your home, belongings, and liability needs.

2. Can You Help Me Compare Home Insurance Options?

Working with an independent insurance agent, such as the professionals at Thompson Insurance Services, allows you to compare policies from multiple insurance companies. Unlike captive agents who represent only one carrier, independent agents can shop around on your behalf and help you find competitive rates and coverage options that match your priorities.

3. How Much Will My Home Insurance Cost?

Understanding the cost of your home insurance policy is an important part of the decision-making process. Premiums can vary based on factors such as your home’s location, age, construction, and coverage limits. An independent insurance agent can help you find a policy that balances comprehensive coverage with a price that fits your budget.

Have Questions About Home Insurance? Call Today

If you have questions about shopping for home insurance or want help comparing policies, contact Thompson Insurance Services servicing Highland Village, TX today. Our team is ready to help you find reliable coverage for your home.

Can My Roommate File A Renter’s Insurance Claim?

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Renters insurance in Highland Village, TX, helps you replace your belongings if they are stolen or damaged. But what happens when your roommate needs to replace their belongings?

Policyholders Can File a Claim

Whether your roommate can file a claim depends entirely on whether they are listed on your renters’ insurance policy. Some roommates choose to be listed as co-policyholders, while others may be added as additional insured individuals. Only the people named on the policy are allowed to file a claim.

Covered Events

If your roommate is listed on the policy, coverage applies only to events and belongings included in your renters insurance. Many policies offer protection for losses caused by theft, certain natural disasters, wind damage, and similar incidents. An agent at Thompson Insurance Services can help you understand exactly what your policy covers.

Keep in mind that many policies exclude certain high-value belongings unless you purchase extra protection. Items such as expensive jewelry, artwork, or high-end electronics often require scheduled personal property coverage to receive full reimbursement in the event of a loss.

Coverage Limits

Every renters’ insurance policy includes coverage limits, which represent the maximum amount the insurer will pay for any covered claim. For example, if you experience $10,000 in losses but your policy limit is $5,000, the insurer will only reimburse up to $5,000. Reviewing your limits regularly helps ensure they match the value of your belongings.

Agents at Thompson Insurance Services can help you understand your coverage in detail so there is no confusion during the claims process. Contact us today. We proudly serve the Highland Village, TX, area.

Does Your Insurance Cover Your Carpool in an Accident?

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If you are a Texas driver, you are required by law to purchase auto insurance. Many Texas drivers have found helpful assistance from experienced insurance agents when selecting an auto insurance policy. If you live near Highland Village, TX, our team at Thompson Insurance Services is a great resource for insurance information and client support. We’ve been working with Texas drivers like you since 2016.

Does Your Insurance Cover Your Carpool in an Accident?

Car accidents can raise many concerns, especially if you’re driving your car and transporting several people for a carpool. You may wonder if your auto insurance would cover injuries sustained by your carpool passengers. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, your policy will typically cover your passengers in the event of an accident, as well as anyone who drives your car with your permission.

However, if an accident involves multiple vehicles or results in injuries to several people, the coverage limits of your policy may be exceeded. In such cases, you would be responsible for paying the difference. If carpooling is a regular occurrence, you might consider adding personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage to your auto insurance policy. These options can provide additional financial protection. If you have further questions about this situation, one of our insurance agents can assist you.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Don’t take a chance by driving without auto insurance. Our team at Thompson Insurance Services is here to answer all your auto insurance questions. Drivers in DFW have discovered they can rely on us for excellent customer service. Call us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you find the right auto insurance policy to meet your needs.

How Umbrella Insurance Saves You From Bankruptcy

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Lawsuits happen to ordinary people every day, and the financial consequences can be devastating. A single accident or unfortunate incident could wipe out your savings, retirement accounts, and future earnings. Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX, wants to explain how umbrella insurance acts as your financial safety net when life takes an unexpected turn.

When Basic Coverage Isn’t Enough

Your auto and homeowners insurance provide liability coverage, but those limits might be inadequate when facing a serious lawsuit. If you cause a multi-car accident with severe injuries, medical bills and legal settlements can easily exceed your standard policy limits by hundreds of thousands of dollars. Once your primary insurance is exhausted, plaintiffs can pursue your personal assets, including your home, investments, and wages.

Real Protection for Real People

Umbrella insurance kicks in after your underlying policies reach their limits, providing an additional layer of coverage typically ranging from one to five million dollars. The cost remains surprisingly affordable because umbrella policies rarely pay out, but when they do, they prevent financial ruin. This coverage also extends beyond auto and home incidents to include personal liability situations like libel, slander, or accidents caused (or allegedly caused) by your children.

Who Needs Umbrella Coverage

Many people, not just the very rich, can benefit from umbrella insurance. If you own a home, have retirement savings, or earn a solid income, you have assets worth protecting. Young professionals with high earning potential face particular risk because future wages can be garnished. Parents with teenage drivers, homeowners with pools, or anyone who frequently entertains guests should seriously consider this coverage.

Don’t gamble with your financial future. Contact Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX, to learn how umbrella insurance can safeguard everything you’ve worked so hard to build.