Skip to content
Click to Call
Larry Burkman Agency

4820 University Dr., Ste. 7
Huntsville, AL 35816

Get Directions

Tag: Larry Burkman Agency

Is the Minimum Liability of 25/50/25 Enough?

Posted on by admin

Alabama is one of the states that requires only minimum liability when you purchase auto insurance. The insurance is split into three types, usually referred to as 25/50/25, which means $25,000 for bodily injury per person, a maximum of $50,000 for total bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. While this may seem like a substantial amount, with rising costs, it’s worth considering whether it’s truly sufficient. Even if you purchase comprehensive and collision coverages, it’s important to scrutinize the amount of liability you buy. You may want to speak with an insurance agent at the Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL about increasing it.

There’s Coverage, and Then There’s Better Coverage

You may be able to meet the legal requirements to drive with only the minimum liability insurance coverage. You may also decide to buy additional coverage, such as comprehensive, to ensure you’re covered in other types of accidents and events involving your car. But it’s not just the type of coverage that will help protect you; it’s the amount. And that minimum 25/50/25 may not be enough.

Costs are rising, including those for car repair, car rental, medical expenses, and more. If you really want to be sure you’re covered, you need to ensure the amounts you buy are enough. It’s difficult to predict precisely what you may encounter in terms of bills, so arranging for coverage that’s as high as you can afford is better than going with the legal minimum. You may be a careful driver, but ensuring you have coverage for the unthinkable will give you more assurance.

The Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL can help you customize your auto insurance coverage so that your premiums are affordable while your coverage is also as high as it can be. Contact us to arrange for an appointment.

Do One-Person Businesses Need Commercial Insurance?

Posted on by admin

Larry Burkman Agency has assisted many Huntsville, AL companies in finding commercial insurance that keeps them secure. But what if you run a one-person business? Will you need protection? Absolutely! Here’s what you need to know about the insurance type that makes sense for you.

Yes, One-Person Companies Need Insurance: Sole Proprietorship Policies

While it might seem odd to insure a business when you’re the only employee, sole proprietorship protection is critical! It’s available to exactly who the name suggests: firms with only one employee! How do you know if you qualify? Did you file organization articles with Alabama? If not, you count!

Note: Sole proprietor companies and self-employed individuals are different! Typically, self-employed individuals include freelancers and independent contractors who work and get paid by other businesses. Sole proprietors literally own a business and control assets, debts, etc.

Insurance Types You’ll Need

When drafting your sole proprietorship business insurance policy, it’s critical to add a variety of protection types! After all, if you’re the only person liable for your business financially, protecting yourself is critical! Just a few types of insurance you should add to your company include:

  • Liability protection to keep you safe from third-party claims (bodily injury lawsuits, etc.)
  • Professional liability support to pay for negligence or mistakes in your business
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP) that combines liability and property coverage
  • Cyber insurance (if you handle sensitive information for your customers)
  • Commercial auto (especially if you make deliveries, haul tools, transport passengers, etc.)

We’re Ready to Support You!

Do you run a one-person business and need commercial insurance you can trust? Call us at Larry Burkman Agency to get started! We’ll support your Huntsville, AL company by finding reliable commercial protection that keeps you safe and minimizes unnecessary and costly expenses.

Does Home Insurance Cover the Septic?

Posted on by admin

Not every home in and around Huntsville is on a town sewer system. If you aren’t, you may be delighted to have your septic system, as it gives you more control, and you don’t have the bills associated with town sewer. The downside is when something goes sideways with the septic, and a lot can go wrong, believe us. From tree roots cracking the pipes to overflows that wreck your lawn (think "Meet the Parents" movie), you may hope that your home insurance covers the septic. Does it?

When Home Insurance Covers Septic Damage

Standard home insurance policies, like the ones available through Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL, may cover septic system damage in certain situations. If a covered event occurs, such as fire, vandalism, or something else, the insurance company might be responsible for paying for repairs or replacement.

What Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Home insurance generally doesn’t cover damage caused by wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or gradual deterioration. If the septic system fails due to age, rust, or tree root infiltration, homeowners will likely have to pay for repairs out of pocket, which won’t be cheap.

Additional Coverage Options

Some insurance companies offer optional riders or endorsements that can provide extra protection. You should look into these. One common add-on is sewer backup coverage, which may help cover the cost of cleaning up if the septic system overflows into the home.

Understanding what is and isn’t covered under a home insurance policy is essential for homeowners who rely on a septic system. Reviewing the policy details and speaking with an insurance representative at Larry Burkman Agency serving Huntsville, AL can help ensure the right coverage is in place to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Why It’s Essential

Posted on by admin

Imagine driving home after a long day, only to be hit by another driver who has no insurance or a policy that doesn’t entirely cover the damages. Instantly, you could be stuck with mounting medical bills, vehicle repairs, and financial stress. This scenario is more common than you might think, but there is a solution. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage acts as a financial safety net, stepping in to protect you when the at-fault party fails to do so. Without it, you could be paying the price for someone else’s lack of preparation.

What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage are two types of auto insurance that help protect drivers in accidents involving other drivers who lack sufficient coverage.

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage provides financial protection if you’re in an accident with a driver without auto insurance. On the other hand, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage steps in when the at-fault driver’s insurance is inadequate to cover your vehicle repairs, medical bills, and other related expenses.

What Does Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage Typically Cover?

While each policy is unique, a UM/UIM policy may cover:

  • Medical expenses for you and/or your passengers if injured
  • Lost wages due to an injury
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage (if applicable under certain auto insurance policies)

Get Coverage with Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a vital aspect of your auto insurance policy that offers financial security in the event of an accident. Serving Huntsville, AL and the surrounding areas, Larry Burkman Agency can get you the coverage you need to stay protected on the road. Contact us today to discuss your coverage needs.

Commercial insurance for food service businesses

Posted on by admin

Opening a food service business, such as a food truck, bakery, restaurant, or catering service, is often driven by a passion for cuisine. However, it’s crucial to understand the challenges and risks associated with such an establishment and to ensure you’re taking steps to protect yourself and your business from potential perils.

Commercial insurance for food service businesses in Huntsville, AL, can mitigate various liabilities commonly associated with these companies. Knowing you’re covered for many adverse events can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on growing your business.

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

Every food service company’s commercial policy should address the unique risks associated with that specific business. Here are some of the most common types of coverages included in many policies:

  • Property damage: This coverage can help offset the costs of repairing or replacing equipment, furniture, or the building when they’re damaged due to events like fires, natural disasters, water leaks, and other covered incidents.
  • Liability coverage is often one of the most crucial coverages for food service businesses. It offsets costs associated with medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements if a customer suffers an injury, foodborne illness, or allergic reaction.
  • Food and inventory loss: This coverage can help cover the costs of equipment malfunctions or power outages that lead to food spoilage or other inventory loss.

Some food service businesses may also need to consider liquor liability or commercial auto insurance coverage. Our team at Larry Burkman Agency can help individuals in Huntsville, AL, learn about the types of coverage they need for a food service business.

Does My Home Insurance Cover My College Student’s Apartment?

Posted on by admin

College students take valuable assets to school, including electronics, furniture, jewelry, and other items, so it is essential to understand whether and how your home insurance protects those assets. Generally, home insurance policies cover children’s assets if you claim them as dependents and they are 26 or younger. However, significant limitations exist that you should know before they leave for school. Contact our Larry Burkman Agency team, serving Huntsville, AL, if you need answers concerning your home or other insurance coverage.

Home Insurance Coverage Limits for College Students

Home insurance typically covers your dependent children’s personal belongings for theft, fire, or other covered perils, as well as their liability for injuring someone or damaging the property of others.

A key consideration is that many insurers do not cover students in fraternity, sorority, or off-campus housing. Many only cover university-controlled housing, so talk to your agent in advance.

In addition to the university-controlled housing issue:

  • Coverage generally applies only to full-time students.
  • Some insurers stop their coverage when your child reaches 24 or 25 years old.
  • Belongings like jewelry, bicycles, and electronics often have low claim limits.
  • Every claim is subject to your policy’s standard deductibles.
  • The loss of belongings at "off-premises" locations is commonly capped at 10% of your personal property limit.

Talk with your agent to confirm how your policy handles your college student’s property so you can adjust your housing or insurance decisions as needed. Many college students buy affordable renters insurance that covers their belongings, much like their parent’s home policy.

Insuring with Larry Burkman Agency

Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL, will help develop an insurance plan that meets your family’s needs. Visit our office or call us today at 256-830-1123 to protect your family and possessions.

How is Technology Transforming the Auto Insurance Industry?

Posted on by admin

Whether you’re aware of it or not, technology has always been involved in transforming the auto insurance industry. Most consumers are only concerned with getting the best rates and coverage and don’t pay much attention to these technological advancements. Here is an overview of how technology is transforming the auto insurance industry, whether you’re a Huntsville, AL resident or not.

The Convenience of Mobile Apps

One technological convenience that more and more auto insurance agencies are making available for their customers is the ability to manage their accounts via their cellular devices. Not only can customers use their cellular phones to access their accounts, but they can do so via their auto insurance provider’s mobile app. Mobile apps not only offer immense convenience to customers, but they also provide the ability to quickly file claims, customize your account, make payments, etc.

The Emergence of AI

Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly useful in all types of industries, including auto insurance. AI can assist customers when actual agents aren’t available. This can be useful, especially for those who require immediate assistance with an issue. AI can also assist with accurately analyzing damage via photos, which can provide payment estimates and more. Furthermore, AI can make predictions regarding possible fraud by carefully and thoroughly analyzing usage trends, etc. This valuable tool could potentially save consumers and insurance providers billions of dollars.

The auto insurance industry will continue to make astounding transformations. If you’re a Huntsville, AL resident and you’re seeking a new auto insurance company, you should consider Larry Burkman Agency. We at Larry Burkman Agency provide coverage for the Huntsville area and beyond, and we pride ourselves on providing the best coverage and customer service. Contact us today for a quote.

Find Out What Business Interruption Insurance Covers–and What It Doesn’t

Posted on by admin

Unforeseen events like a covered property claim can lead to the temporary closure of your business. During such times, Business Interruption (BI) insurance can be a lifesaver, providing coverage for daily expenses, lost revenue, and overhead, among other costs. Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL is here to help with this brief overview of what business interruption insurance covers and what it doesn’t.

Coverage Offered by Business Interruption Insurance

You can add coverage for unexpected interruptions to your existing business insurance to help continue paying your staff by reimbursing lost income. If your business is forced to close, serving clients or selling products becomes impossible. But, by providing your financial records to understand your coverage eligibility, your business can swiftly rebound.

If you rent a commercial space, BI insurance might pay your landlord (or mortgage company) until you’re ready to reopen. This policy might also cover the costs of setting up in a temporary location for all perils included under your policy. Most business interruption policies will cover your payroll for up to a year.

Business owners can check paying quarterly and annual taxes off their worry list with BI insurance. You might also receive help paying Small Business Administration (SBA) loans depending on your specific policy.

Limitations of Business Interruption Insurance

Business interruption insurance might not cover every situation during an interruption. You’ll still need separate property damage insurance for repairs during restoration. For instance, it doesn’t cover closures due to a cyberattack since separate policies address that. It usually doesn’t cover closures that last less than 72 hours so that it won’t reimburse for closures due to a brief power outage.

Contact Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL, to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable commercial insurance agents.

Are Personal Effects And Contents Covered Under a Homeowner’s Insurance Policy?

Posted on by admin

Understanding Home Insurance: What Does It Cover?

At Larry Burkman Agency of Huntsville, AL, we understand that the intricacies of home insurance can easily be forgotten over time. Many homeowners secure policies primarily because it’s required by their lenders, thus not paying adequate attention to the specifics. This can lead to misunderstandings about their coverage.

For instance, a common query we encounter is about the coverage of personal property and home contents under homeowners’ insurance. Let’s discuss this aspect and its implications.

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Personal Belongings and Contents of Your Home?

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies include provisions for coverage of contents and personal belongings. This coverage typically extends up to a certain percentage of the insured amount for the structure of your home. However, it’s worth noting that if you possess an extensive collection of high-value assets, standard coverage might not suffice.

If you own expensive items like antiques, jewelry, coins, or other such prized possessions, you may want to consider securing additional coverage for comprehensive protection. Also, keeping a detailed inventory of your belongings, supported by photographs or videos, can facilitate smoother claims processes in case of significant losses.

Get to Know Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

If you need clarity on your homeowner’s insurance policy’s limits and provisions, reach out to us at Larry Burkman Agency of Huntsville, AL. We’re more than ready to review your existing policy, irrespective of your insurer, and evaluate your coverage. Having a clear idea about your coverage can offer you considerable peace of mind and may even highlight areas of protection that need bolstering. We’re here to assist you in securing the best possible coverage for your home – contact us today for a no-obligation quote.

Are Personal Effects And Contents Covered Under a Homeowner’s Insurance Policy?

Posted on by admin

Understanding Home Insurance: What Does It Cover?

At Larry Burkman Agency of Huntsville, AL, we understand that the intricacies of home insurance can easily be forgotten over time. Many homeowners secure policies primarily because it’s required by their lenders, thus not paying adequate attention to the specifics. This can lead to misunderstandings about their coverage.

For instance, a common query we encounter is about the coverage of personal property and home contents under homeowners’ insurance. Let’s discuss this aspect and its implications.

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Personal Belongings and Contents of Your Home?

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies include provisions for coverage of contents and personal belongings. This coverage typically extends up to a certain percentage of the insured amount for the structure of your home. However, it’s worth noting that if you possess an extensive collection of high-value assets, standard coverage might not suffice.

If you own expensive items like antiques, jewelry, coins, or other such prized possessions, you may want to consider securing additional coverage for comprehensive protection. Also, keeping a detailed inventory of your belongings, supported by photographs or videos, can facilitate smoother claims processes in case of significant losses.

Get to Know Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

If you need clarity on your homeowner’s insurance policy’s limits and provisions, reach out to us at Larry Burkman Agency of Huntsville, AL. We’re more than ready to review your existing policy, irrespective of your insurer, and evaluate your coverage. Having a clear idea about your coverage can offer you considerable peace of mind and may even highlight areas of protection that need bolstering. We’re here to assist you in securing the best possible coverage for your home – contact us today for a no-obligation quote.

Partner Carriers

  • ASI
  • Foremost
  • National General
  • Orion
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • Safeway
  • The Hartford
  • Travelers
  • Universal