Tag Archives: pa

Explaining Pennsylvania’s “No Touch” Law

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Distracted driving is a major cause of auto accidents these days. According to the CDC, 9 people die every day in distracted driving accidents. Any activity that diverts the driver’s attention from their primary task of keeping their eyes on the road can result in distracted driving. It is particularly high in teen drivers, who are more likely to be on their phones while driving. According to a national survey, 39% of high school students admit to texting while driving and 60.2% of drivers report talking on the phone while driving. The state of Pennsylvania plans to drastically lower those stats with a "No Touch" law. 

What the "No Touch" Law Is

In Pennsylvania, it’s known as Paul Miller’s law after the tragic victim of a distracted driving accident. The law, which became effective in 2025, prohibits the use of any handheld device by the driver of a vehicle, even if the vehicle is stopped. This prohibits drivers from scrolling, tapping, holding or otherwise manipulating a cell phone or PED with their hands. This applies even in traffic jams or at stop signs or stop lights. Exceptions will be made if the call was to 911 or the car was parked off the roadway. Also allowed is the use of a securely mounted device for GPS or music that requires only a single tap or voice command. In any case, the "No Touch" law is a primary enforcement law. This means a police officer can pull you over just if they see you with a phone in hand without any other violation. 

Saucon Insurance Agency Serving Bethlehem PA

We at the Saucon Insurance Agency, serving the Bethlehem, PA area, advise you to drive safely this year. Give us a call with any questions you have about auto insurance.

Are You Required To Have Home Insurance?

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If you’re buying a home, then it’s not unusual to wonder if you’re required to have home insurance. Knowing the answer to this question can help you through the home buying process.

The professionals at Saucon Insurance Agency, servicing Bethlehem, PA, are here to help you find an insurance policy that’s right for your needs. We work with many insurance carriers to make shopping around easier and to help you find an insurance for a good price. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Is Home Insurance?

Home insurance covers your home and property if it is damaged in events such as fire, vandalism, and theft. Different policies cover different types of events. As you shop around for home insurance, talk to your insurance agent to find out what types of events are covered under each policy. 

Is Home Insurance Required?

For most people, home insurance is only required if you are buying a house with a mortgage. Your mortgage lender may require you to carry insurance as long as you are paying off your mortgage.

Some people may be required to carry insurance by their homeowners association as well. If the home you’re buying is in an area with a homeowners association, ask the HOA if they require proof of home insurance. 

Why Should You Consider Home Insurance Even If It Isn’t Required?

Home insurance can provide peace of mind while also making it easier to recover from a disaster. If your home is damaged in a covered event, your home insurance company will pay to repair or replace damaged parts of your house, minus the cost of the deductible. Most people don’t have enough money to replace their home if it is fully damaged in a disaster. This is when home insurance is most valuable. 

To learn more about home insurance, contact us here at Saucon Insurance Agency. We serve the Bethlehem, PA area. 

Things Personal Umbrella Insurance Covers That Traditional Insurance Might Not

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Personal umbrella insurance is a great investment because it gives you the additional financial coverage you might need that your traditional insurance policy might not be able to pay out (i.e., when damages exceed what your policy is willing to pay out). The concept of personal umbrella insurance is easy to understand, but what you may not know is that personal umbrella insurance can help you get coverage for things that your other personal insurance policies might not cover you for. But what are these things, and are they useful? Here are a few of the things that personal umbrella insurance covers that traditional insurance might not. Once you’re ready to begin shopping for a personal umbrella insurance policy, we’ll be here at Saucon Insurance Agency to support you, serving Bethlehem, PA, and beyond!

Unique Things That Umbrella Insurance Covers

For the most part, personal umbrella insurance covers exactly what you’d expect it to. This includes various scenarios, like any lawsuits that you may have to pay for to defend yourself, personal injuries and liability, and dealing with uninsured motorists who have hit your car and are unable to have their insurance cover the damages. However, personal umbrella insurance goes beyond just offering coverage for these essentials. With your personal umbrella insurance, you can also cover scenarios like libel, defamation, and slander. Are these useful? If you do find yourself on the receiving end of such cases, your personal umbrella insurance will prove an invaluable addition. More than that, it doesn’t cost much to get personal umbrella insurance, so you’re not paying a ton to get additional protection you might need in the future. 

Start Shopping for Personal Umbrella Insurance With Saucon Insurance Agency

Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, is here to help you with your insurance needs. We make it easier to find the right insurance policy so that you don’t have to spend more time than necessary getting the coverage you deserve. Call us today for a quote.

Additional Insurance Solutions for Motorcycle Riders in Bethlehem, PA

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Riding your motorcycle may feel freeing and exhilarating, but it’s important to properly protect yourself from accidents, theft, and property damage. At Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, we help our clients the right add-on coverage for their needs. Whether you ride seasonally or you’re sharing a bike year-round, understanding which add-on coverage you require is key to enjoyimg your time on the road.

Accessory/Custom Parts Coverage

In addition to standard motorcycle insurance, you may be curious about accessory and custom parts coverage if you’ve invested in custom paintwork, saddlebags, LED lighting, or even performance enhancements. In most cases, standard insurance policies will not cover add-ons you’ve made to your bike, which is where accessory coverage comes in.

Comprehensive and Collision Upgrades

If you store your bike outdoors and frequently ride it, expanded comprehensive insurance is highly advisable. This adds stronger protection against falling objects, fires, theft, and even weather damage from Bethlehem’s unpredictable climate. Increased collision insurance will also increase payout limits for riders if you’re involved in an accident with other riders or drivers.

Roadside Assistance

Both roadside assistance and towing can offer peace of mind during a breakdown or flat tire. Motorcycle-specific roadside assistance ensures access to towing, emergency mechanical help, and even fuel delivery in some instances. 

Choosing the right insurance add-ons for your existing motorcycle policy is essential. The right add-ons provide peace of mind and security, whether you’re riding alone or with someone else. To learn more about add-on insurance options for your bike in Bethlehem, PA, contact Saucon Insurance Agency. 

Winter Is Coming: Is Your Snowmobile Insured?

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As the snow begins to fall, snowmobile enthusiasts are getting ready for another exciting season on the trails. Before you take off, it’s worth checking whether your snowmobile is properly insured. Toy insurance, coverage designed for recreational vehicles, helps protect you and your investment when the unexpected happens.

Why Standard Coverage Isn’t Enough

Many owners assume their homeowners or auto insurance will cover their snowmobile, but that’s usually not the case. Most traditional policies exclude off-road vehicles, leaving you unprotected if your sled is stolen, damaged, or involved in an accident.

What Toy Insurance Covers

A specialized toy insurance policy can include collision coverage for crash damage, comprehensive coverage for theft, fire, or vandalism, and liability protection if you cause an injury or property damage. Some plans even cover accessories, trailers, or custom modifications.

Protect Your Fun and Your Finances

No matter how experienced you are, winter riding comes with risks, like icy conditions, hidden obstacles, and wildlife encounters. Having proper insurance can help you recover quickly without taking a financial hit.

Talk to Your Insurance Agent

Before the first ride of the season, review your policy with your insurance professional. They can help you find the right coverage for your sled, your habits, and your budget, so you can enjoy every snowy adventure with peace of mind.

Contact Saucon Insurance Agency, Serving Bethlehem, PA

If you’re looking for toy insurance, our team at Saucon Insurance Agency is here to help. We’re proud to serve the Bethlehem, PA, area. Contact usto schedule a time to chat with one of our agents.

Does Flood Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?

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Most insurance companies in Bethlehem, PA, exclude floods, making it crucial to purchase additional flood insurance. This policy can help cover damages, but what about mold? Mold and water damage go hand in hand, so it’s important to know the details. 

Common Coverage

It’s essential to note that these policies typically only cover damage caused by rising water levels. So, water damage from a burst pipe or equipment failure may not be covered. Instead, you may have to file a claim with your property insurance. An agent at Saucon Insurance Agency can help you learn more about your coverage. 

Mold Remediation

Flood insurance may cover mold remediation, but certain exclusions apply. Your flood policy won’t cover mold if mold is already present. It also depends on your situation. If the building has mold because the water wasn’t removed immediately, the policy may deny the claim. 

On the other hand, if you couldn’t remove the water because you couldn’t get into the home due to the disaster or safety issues, the policy may still cover it. It boils down to whether the mold was a result of your action or inaction. 

Mold Coverage

Some insurance companies offer add-on coverage for items such as mold, bacteria, and rot. This type of insurance can help cover the cost of mold removal, but it is only available at select insurance companies and can be hard to find. 

Preventing Mold

The best step is to prevent mold anytime you can. Remove water from the structure as soon as possible. Ensure everything is properly dried out, and consider using a dehumidifier. Remove all porous materials, and thoroughly clean nonporous materials with a solution that can kill mold. 

We understand how frustrating mold can be after a flood. Compassionate agents at Saucon Insurance Agency can help you learn more about whether your policy covers mold remediation. Contact us to learn more. We’re currently serving the Bethlehem, PA, area. 

Why Get Boat Insurance from An Independent Insurance Agent?

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If you own a boat, it’s crucial to have boat insurance. Boat insurance can shield you from financial liability when a covered event occurs. When shopping for boat insurance, choosing a policy from a trusted insurance agent is important.

Many people turn to Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, for their boat insurance needs. As an independent insurance agent, we can help you secure the best policy for your requirements.

Understanding an Independent Insurance Agent

An independent insurance agent is not tied to a single insurance company. They work with multiple carriers and offer a variety of options.

Benefits of Getting Boat Insurance from an Independent Insurance Agent

When you approach an independent insurance agent for boat insurance, they can obtain multiple quotes from different insurance companies. This helps you find an affordable policy that provides the coverage you need.

Getting boat insurance from an independent insurance agent is more advantageous than getting insurance from a captive insurance agent. Captive agents work for a single insurance company and can only provide quotes from that company, regardless of whether it’s the best policy for you.

Need Boat Insurance? Contact Us

If you’re in need of boat insurance, the professionals at Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, can assist you. As an independent insurance agency, we offer a range of insurance policies from various insurance partners.

We can help you find the right type of insurance policy for your needs. Call today to get started with a quote for boat insurance.

How Employee Benefits Insurance Builds Trust

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When it comes to employee benefits insurance, it’s crucial to create a policy that fosters trust within the workplace. The benefits package should reflect your commitment to the well-being of your employees. The Saucon Insurance Agency of Bethlehem, PA team can help you craft an employee benefits insurance policy that instills a sense of value and trust.

Building a Comprehensive Benefits Package

To build trust with your employees, you must understand their needs from a benefits insurance policy. A comprehensive benefits package that aligns with your business strategy is essential. However, retaining talent can be challenging, as competitors are offering competitive employee benefits insurance packages. Therefore, it’s important to evaluate your coverage options and ensure they keep employees engaged and help you reach your business goals. This can be achieved by tailoring a benefits package that meets your workforce’s specific needs and preferences.

Reducing Your Employees’ Financial Stress

Every employer’s goal is to alleviate their employees’ financial stress. However, many fail because their employee benefits insurance policy does not offer the right programs. Consider offering personal financial coaching workshops that educate your workforce on creating a home budget, managing debt, and planning for retirement. These personalized programs should include access to financial advisors who can advise on plans that are alternatives to traditional banking options. Your benefits insurance policy should foster open communication, making your workforce comfortable discussing financial stress.

All employers aim to create a work environment that their employees are proud to be a part of. Having a quality employee benefits insurance policy can help build trust with your workforce. The Saucon Insurance Agency of Bethlehem, PA team can create a package that protects everyone’s interests. Call and schedule an appointment today.

What to Watch Out for When Purchasing Auto Insurance

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When purchasing an auto insurance policy, there are a few things you should want to focus on looking out for. You likely already know some basic steps to take but you may not know what you should avoid doing. Use these tips from Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, when you are looking for your next auto insurance policy.

  • Always make sure minimum state requirements are met. In Pennsylvania, there are minimum requirements set that you must have if you own and operate a vehicle. For bodily injury liability, you must have at least $15,000 per person. There is a limit of $30,000. For property damage liability, you must have $5,000 worth of coverage. You must also have $5,000 worth of first party benefits (PIP).
  • Make sure the company has great customer service. When you are making a decision on an auto insurance policy, you should also be making a decision on the company. Customer service goes a long way and if your cost for the insurance is just a little bit more per month with a great company, then it will be well worth it. 
  • Make sure all of your coverage options are in the policy and there are no gaps. Before you sign up, you will need to ask for a copy of the policy coverage to ensure everything is there that you are wanting. 
  • Ask for discounts. It never hurts to ask for discounts for things such as affiliations, safe driver, good student, and more. Ask about these things before you sign up for a cost. You never know how much you can save with one or two discounts that you are eligible for. 

Contact us at Saucon Insurance Agency, serving Bethlehem, PA, today and we will be happy to help you get quotes for auto insurance or even take a look at your current policy to ensure there are no gaps in coverage.

Are Firearms Covered by Home Insurance?

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The people of Bethlehem, PA are proud of their right to bear arms. This has been an issue during the election year with the attention from the national media, but it isn’t an issue purely for political reasons. Firearms also play a role in home insurance. When homeowners are shopping for policies, it is important for prospective customers to ask how firearms will impact their home insurance premiums. Saucon Insurance has some key details below.

First of all, guns are expensive items. It is important for homeowners to insure the valuable items in their home under extra personal belongings protection. This includes furniture, jewelry, and firearms. In this respect, owning firearms will slightly increase home insurance rates because they must be insured by a personal belongings rider under the home insurance policy. This rider will also pay to replace the firearms should anything happen to them inside the home.

In addition, the home insurance policy should add liability protection. For example, if a criminal breaks into the home, steals the firearm, then injures someone using the firearm, that person could potentially file a lawsuit against the owner for not securing the weapon. Due to this additional risk, home insurance rates could increase with the presence of firearms. On the other hand, this policy will add liability protection if anything happens as a result of this firearm. Do not try to hide the presence of firearms from insurance companies because this extra liability protection is essential to protecting the owner of the home and firearm from a lawsuit. Make sure this liability protection is included in the home insurance policy.

People in Bethlehem, PA need to understand the intricacies of the home insurance policies, particularly when it comes to the presence of firearms because they are both valuable and dangerous. Don’t be surprised by home insurance rates. Ask how the policy changes with the presence of absence of firearms. Contact Saucon Insurance for information on a home insurance policy today.