Collision and comprehensive auto insurance coverage pays for the replacement of your vehicle if it is deemed a “total loss”—up to your policy limit and the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV). The ACV is calculated by taking the cost of the vehicle when it was new and deducting the cost equivalent of depreciation factors [...]

As we discussed in our last blog, 5 Ways To Cut Costs Or Make Money While Social Distancing, there are many people who have picked up the mantle of side hustles and second or event third jobs in order to make ends meet amidst the furloughs and closures of the coronavirus pandemic. One such [...]

Typically, if you are using your vehicle to make money, it is considered a business or commercial use of your vehicle. In order to file a claim for an accident that occurs while behind the wheel and making money would require commercial auto insurance. Commercial and personal auto insurance policies are kept separate because [...]

As unemployment rises due to coronavirus closures and social distancing measures, the need for delivery and specialty services has increased. Individuals who find themselves in need of a side job or a new full-time job are getting creative. The following types of alternate career options may provide you with a means to supplement or [...]

As the cases for coronavirus continue, businesses (especially those in hospitality) should begin to look to their insurance policies to review the extent of their liability coverage. Why? There is a potential risk of liability by business owners who hold a level of responsibility for their guests, customers, vendors, and employees. This can include their [...]

Amid the rising concerns and awareness of the coronavirus pandemic, many businesses in Florida may be anxious to reopen their doors in order to keep their business afloat, especially those in particular who did not have the right, or enough, coverage to cover their losses during this time. Now, more than ever, is an [...]

As technology advances and our lives change, there are some instances where notifying your insurance agent can be highly beneficial—either saving you on the cost of your insurance or modifying your coverage in order to ensure you are properly covered for potential claims. The rule of thumb to know when and why you should [...]

You may have seen some posts on social media about how others are seeing up to a 20% discount on their monthly premiums—and are wondering, “Will I get a COVID-19 discount on my car insurance?” The short answer? Maybe! It is important to first understand why these discounts are being offered by car insurance [...]

Key Points The COVID-19 Coronavirus will not affect your homeowners insurance coverage. You may want to increase your liability and/or business property coverage with the family at home more often during the pandemic. Other policies may need to be added or paused. Don’t take offense to a more “remote” approach [...]

Magruder Insurance Agency puts the health and wellness of our clients at the forefront of conducting business. With the concerns of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the rise and the risk of spreading or contracting the virus, we are taking extra precautions to serve our clients with the best possible customer service while keeping our employees [...]

Buying a home is an important purchase that comes with a long list of things to do before you can officially buy your home—submit financial documents to your lender, secure your mortgage, get an appraisal and a home inspection. If you are financing your home purchase, you’ll likely be required to also show proof [...]

Homeowners insurance is a means of financial protection against major damage to your home, property, and/or belongings. A standard homeowners insurance policy extends this protection under specified events, typically those that are unexpected and out of your control. There are also 4 main types of coverage options offered on a standard policy: Dwelling, Other [...]

Driving is a right of passage for most 15- to 16-year olds. An opportunity to explore the world around themselves, eventually without a required adult passenger, and take on a new level of responsibility. As a parent, you are likely feeling the bulk of the stress and anxiety of your teen getting behind the [...]

It is surprising how quickly the time for your child to start driving arrives. From infant to teenager in what feels like a blink of an eye. And just how you have been protecting them all their life, you also want to do the same as they start to make trips on their own. [...]

What used car should I not buy? How many miles should I buy a used car with? Should I buy a used car from a dealer or from a private owner? There are many questions that may come up when you are making plans to buy a used vehicle but the process of buying [...]

In 2019, full-sized pickup trucks accounted for 2 million of the new vehicle sales. While gas prices are no longer at their record highs, nor are they remotely near where they were just 10 short years ago. Cost of fueling up was a major deciding factor for many to turn their trucks in for [...]

Moding out your Jeep is one of the first things new—and current—Jeep owners look forward to. It is common for Jeep owners to purchase a stock Jeep in order to add the mods themselves so that it is fully customized to their personality and needs. Here is a list complied of the most common [...]

Mid- and full-sized SUVs and crossovers have become a popular vehicle of choice. Even with gas prices higher than they were 10 years ago, the auto industry has come a long way in that time. Gas mileages for these types of vehicles has mad significant improvements, helping them to compete with the higher cost [...]

We know, you know how to drive! But there are a few things you could be implementing while driving in order to make yourself a better defensive driver, and therefore a safer driver. You can’t account for other’s actions on the road, but you can account for your own—so here are a few tips [...]

Jeep owners are a unique group of people—adventurous, stylish, and (often) all about after-market parts to enhance the look or function of their Jeep. Even first time Jeep owners quickly catch the “mod bug”; lifting their jeep, getting bigger tires, adding a winch, or installing bright LED's for after-dark off-road exploration. There are many [...]

Before you hit the road on your new motorcycle (or new to you), there are some important things you should do beforehand. These things will not only improve your safety while on your bike but also help to protect you from financial repercussions should you find yourself in an accident. Have the bike inspected. [...]

Bringing home a new pet is an exciting decision and process, but it is important to remember that doing should shouldn’t be done on a whim. There are a few thoughts and considerations that should be made in advance before taking on the responsibility of a pet. Do Your Homework. Before heading to the [...]

Just like any individual, businesses are also interested in ways of reducing their taxes—and there are several tax deductions that businesses can qualify for. Equipment and Software Businesses can qualify for a tax deduction for select equipment and software purchases made throughout the year according to Section 179 Deduction publication from the Internal Revenue [...]

Small business owners put their heart, soul, and tears into building up their company; investing time, energy, money, and more into making sure their business makes it day after day, month after month, year after year. What should happen to the business you worked so hard grow and cultivate should you decide to retire—or [...]

People move for a number of reasons: to downsize, upgrade, make more room for family, to accommodate travel for a new job, or for a change in scenery. Whatever drive you to moving, be sure you are prepared for all of the related expenses: Truck rental Moving supplies (boxes, tape, packing paper, etc.) Professional [...]

Shopping for an apartment or home to rent can be stressful—where to start, what to budget for, and of course, packing and moving! Add these things in with a competitive rental market and renters may find themselves more stressed than necessary. Take a step back, breathe, and follow these tips. Search Within Your Budget [...]

If real estate has seasons for better times to buy, are there times of the year where renters are able to take advantage of a better lease agreement? Rentals can have variable pricing and available just as often as the housing market—the best times to find a rental often have more to do with [...]

Living with a roommate is carries its own benefits and pitfalls, but there are things to do to make having a roommate easier. Like having a clear and well-defined method for splitting bills. Often, unfair share of the finances is what drives roommates to look for a new place—that and eating their clearly labeled [...]

House hunting can be stressful, sometimes more so if you aren’t ready to buy and are only looking to rent. Not only to you have to find something affordable, in a convenient location, and the right size, but you also have to be weary of any rental scams. Unfortunatetly, there are people who are [...]

It may not seem like fall in Florida most days of late, but the season is officially here. It may not mean as much to homeowners as it does to Northerners who have to begin winterizing their homes but there is plenty of Fall maintenance for Floridians to start working on around their house. [...]

Car insurance is a necessity, especially if you want to avoid getting a ticket or fine for not having it. However, many complain about how high their car insurance is—and the likely culprit is your driving history and current driving habits. When you drive safely, you avoid accidents that could result in bodily injury [...]

Homeowners insurance is known to provide coverage for your home in the event of a covered event—does this include house fires? It can. Every home insurance policy is different—it is very important you review yours in detail or ask your home insurance agent any questions you may have about coverage and qualifying events. Potential [...]

It is important to Know Your Homeowner’s Policy and understand what is and is not covered. Many homeowner’s insurance policies have limited water damage coverage; usually, coverage of damage depends on the source of the water. Typically, you can expect coverage when an internal water source, such as a pipe, washer, water heater, or [...]

THE SHORT ANSWER: It Depends... All it takes is one good storm to bring down a weakening branch or even knock over a well-rooted tree. Once the storm clears and the damage is assessed—your first though is likely: “Will my homeowner’s insurance cover this?” Coverage for fallen tree damage to a home [...]

Liability is the “casualty” aspect of Property and Casualty Insurance coverage. Liability insurance helps to protect you financially if you are found liable for someone else’s injuries or property damage. Liability coverage is often a part of most policies; however, the coverage limit and application may vary from policy to policy, so it is [...]

P&C Insurance is an abbreviated form of Property and Casualty Insurance. This term is more frequently used as jargon and occasionally among business owners; however, it can apply to all individuals who need insurance. What is Property and Casualty Insurance? Property and Casualty Insurance is a “genre” of insurance types that essentially [...]

There is always advice and “life hacks” floating around the internet but they aren’t always accurate. As a car owner and car insurance policy holder, it is important to know which “facts” about your car are true or downright mythological so you can ensure the proper care and longevity of your vehicle. Here are [...]

Insurance of many kinds—car, home, boat, RV, and business—are sold one of three ways. Through an online questionnaire and quote process, by a captive agent, or an independent insurance agent. Surprising to many, independent insurance agents can be the most beneficial choice to purchase insurance through. Unlike an online form or a captive [...]

Its best to start planning early on where to store your boat for the coming winter months to ensure you have a spot at your desired boat storage facility or lot. When choosing between these storage options there are pros and cons to consider and weigh heavily when deciding where is best to keep [...]

While the weather is still ideal for Florida boaters and winter boat storage is far out of mind, it is important to plan ahead and understand how to properly store your boat to ensure its sea (or lake) worthiness. Change The Oil Since your boat will sitting unused for a few months of off-season [...]

It is important for homeowners to know that they are not obligated to remain with the same company they purchased their homeowner’s insurance through—even if they pay their home insurance premium through an escrow account that was established by their mortgage company. There are many reasons that may drive a policy holder to switch [...]

Buying homeowners insurance is part of the homebuying process, meaning most homebuyers rush into the purchase in order to move things along with the sale of the home, potentially paying more for coverage or not getting enough. Why Switch Homeowners Insurance? Homeowners should shop around to ensure they are getting the best coverage for their [...]

It is common for big name companies and organizations to host major employee appreciation events and to provide rewards for performance or length of time with the company. However, not all businesses can afford to show that much love—even though the appreciation is there. If you want to keep the talent you have, its [...]

Summertime usually means summer jobs, but this isn’t the only time your business may see a spike in revenue and customer attention. You can be sure that you are ready to take on the influx of traffic by hiring more employees—seasonal employees that is. Seasonal employees are the best answer to peak times that [...]

Disaster preparedness extends to more than homeowners and business owners—those who rent should also have a plan in order in the event of a major storm or need to evacuate. Not all disasters are associated with hurricanes; emergencies can strike at any time. Do you know what you need to do to exit your apartment [...]

Keeping your home, belongings, and most importantly, your family safe are constant concerns for homeowners. It is important to consider the safety aspects of your home and take action to improve areas where security may be lacking or even overlooked. Review Your Landscaping: You may love the buses out front that line along the [...]

June is National Safety Month. We’ve discussed the Stats And Effects Of Drowsy Driving and How To Be A Safe Driver plus Tips To Improve Your Garage’s Safety. Continuing our theme of safety and keeping in mind that we have also entered the summer months, we are going to share a few tips about fire [...]

Continuing with our theme of safety for the month of June, have you ever considered the potential of your garage—not for its potential to store or keep your car in but the hazards it can post to you and your family? It may seem like a reach but if your garage is over filling [...]

June is National Safety Month, and to kick off the month to a good start, we are going to discuss different aspects of roadway safety. No only does safe driving save lives and reduce car accidents, not having an accident and being a safe driver can save you on your car insurance costs. One [...]

Hurricane season is no stranger to Floridians; in fact, it lasts for most of the year. From June 1st to November 30th, the risk for hurricanes is possible and with tropical storms constantly forming in the Atlantic and Gulf, Floridians are on constant watch for when those storms grow a little strong. So, while [...]

Florida is an RV camper enthusiast’s dream—woods, beaches, and sunny skies nearly year-round. With attractive sites and RV ownership on the rise, it is important for Florida RV drivers to ensure they have the proper insurance coverage. Not only do you want to consider the minimum requirements for RV insurance in Florida, but you [...]

Fire is one of the most dangerous risks in any residential setting. This is particularly true when you live in an apartment with other families living in close proximity. The more people there are in one area, the greater the risk is for a fire starting. We’ve gathered 3 tips that will help you prevent fires and [...]

Burglaries can happen at any time, but they are much more likely to occur when you are away from home on vacation if you don't take certain steps to properly protect your home while you are away. While you may already lock all your doors and windows when you're not home, and arrange for [...]

With Spring in full swing and Summer right around the corner you are likely preparing to start cooking your favorite meats and veggies out on the BBQ.  The warmer temperatures and many national holidays such as Easter, the end of the school year, Memorial Day, and the 4th of July, the grill is often [...]

With our world ever evolving, especially in the business sector, the traditional ways of operating are now dated and not being used in the mainstream world of business. Fifteen years ago, the majority of people were still getting newspaper delivery's, big box retailers were at all-time highs, and the technological age was just starting.  [...]

There is a growing trend within the business world – allowing employees to bring their pets with them to work. And there are many reasons this benefit is becoming so popular. Many employers have found that offering a bring your pet to work policy lowers their employees’ stress levels, make their employees more satisfied [...]

Having properly placed and functioning smoke detectors are without a doubt one of the most important safety measures you can take to protect your home and family in the event of a fire. However, it is very common for homeowners and renters to overlook the importance of maintaining their home’s smoke detectors and ensuring they [...]

While automobile theft has been decreasing over the past few decades, it is still a large problem that is occurring across the U.S. And while it may seem like newer vehicles are equipped with better technology that helps prevent automobile theft, the criminals taking the vehicles are also becoming savvier and have continued to [...]

Whether this is your very first car or an upgraded vehicle, it is always exciting when purchasing a new car. However, prices on cars have consistently risen over the years and deciding to purchase a new vehicle also includes making a huge financial commitment. Because of this, it is important to make sure you know [...]

From the time the sun sets until the time that it rises again in the morning, anyone who has to head out on the road will be driving in extreme darkness with very limited light available. Any time you have to drive without an adequate amount of lighting, there will be different difficulties you will [...]

If you have been driving anywhere in Florida recently, you are most likely very familiar with coming upon potholes in the road and trying to maneuver around them. Unfortunately, some potholes are larger than others and are more difficult to safely get around. We all know potholes create an annoying and bumpy ride, but they [...]

With the new year and tax season being in full swing, there is no better time to complete your annual review of your insurance coverage. We know that most people don’t enjoy thinking about insurance, but it is both necessary and important coverage; so, it is best to review your insurance policies at least [...]

While you probably already know the importance of having good home owners insurance coverage to protect your family from financial disaster in the event of an accident or natural desire, there are some personal belongings that simply cannot be replaced with a monetary value, like pictures of family and friends, and important documents. Assuming you [...]

A lot of people tend to get their car, home, business, or life insurance without much research or comparison, and in many cases, end up paying ridiculously high rates for very low protection. This is especially true when you enroll online without the help of an independent insurance agent Attempting to learn all about the [...]

Recreational Vehicle (RV) retailers are popping up in several locations along I-4 between Lakeland, Plant City, Brandon, Tampa, and all areas in between. In general, the RV industry as a whole is on a massive rebound as many people throughout Florida are redefining retirement, living arrangements, and how to camp or vacation. According to the [...]

Non-Owner Car Insurance Policy is the perfect solution for drivers that don't own their own vehicle.  One would think that in this day and age, most people will be familiar with non-owner car insurance, but that isn't the case as very few people are familiar with it. Non-owner car insurance as a subject on recently gained exposure in social media and general media outlets. But then again one [...]

Entrepreneurs commonly select the LLC or limited liability company as their business structure. There are various tax advantages you can get with an LLC and setting one up can be fairly easy. However, the common confusion that business owners have is what type of insurance they should select for their company to assure they can [...]

Are you concerned about loaning out your vehicle to your friend? How often have you lent your car to a relative and had the fear of damage to the vehicle haunt you? How many times did you sit behind the wheels of a friend’s car? By and large, the tendency of driving a friend’s, parent’s [...]

If you have been in a car accident and looking for a great way to lower down your rates, accident forgiveness might be your best solution. What is accident forgiveness and how does it work? How about the perks and pitfalls? Car accidents are cringe-worthy yet foreseeable in some case. Apart from dealing with the [...]

You’ve recently been in a car accident and now are considering aspects other than injuries and repairs – will my accident be forgiven? How long will the accident stay on my driving record? How will my car insurance be affected? A car accident could stay on your record for 3-5 years in the state of [...]

Getting into an accident is definitely stressful - and the last thing you want to deal with. But since we do not completely hold our fate, the best thing we can do is to know our rights and implement proper action. This is specifically important if you are hit by an uninsured driver since you [...]

It may be challenging to get cheap car insurance after an accident, most especially if your auto insurance company doesn't provide Accident Forgiveness. Fortunately, you no longer need to worry about the increased cost after a car accident - there are some things you can do to lower your car insurance rates. One of the [...]

The Limited Liability business structure is increasingly becoming very common among enterprises. One of the major reasons is that it offers the tax advantages of a partnership. Most often, the assets of the owners of LLC enterprises are off-limits and they can be held liable for the debts as well as obligations of the business. [...]

On the road motorcyclists are more susceptible to accidents as compared to people driving their cars or trucks. The chances of severe injury and death are higher in motorcycle riders. According to the report of the National Highway and Safety Authority, the American economy has to suffer from a loss of $16 annually to motorcycle [...]

Car insurance is a requirement for being on the road – at least a minimum amount of coverage is. Limiting yourself to only the state’s minimum coverage can leave you open to future costs if you are ever in an accident – even if the car accident wasn’t your fault. Carefully review your coverages to [...]

Homeowners insurance is something you hope you never need to rely on but is a relief to have if a disaster ever does strike.  In many cases, if you financed your home, then homeowner’s insurance is a requirement to have. But what if you have paid off your home, what then? Do you still need [...]

We revive several questions about Homeowner's Insurance and figure we would attempt to address the need by creating a blog to answer some of the most common questions we receive. If you have a question not listed here or would like additional information, then feel free to give us a call and we will be [...]

Halloween is just around the corner, and the spookiness in your house won't be just because of the decorations. Larger monsters, like premises liability and property damage, will be approaching your house for trick and treats and it is important to have adequate coverage to keep your home out of trouble from them. So, do [...]

Escaping in a Fire Situation Let’s say that even after taking fire prevention measures, you unfortunately find yourself in a fire situation. Below are some of the steps that you need to follow to get yourself and your loved ones out of this troublesome situation. Planning To deal with any adverse situation, you always [...]

Fires can be the most damaging and fatal of accidents when they occur. The smoke, the flames, and in fact, the temperature itself can cause serious problems to both life and property. In recent years there has been a considerable increase in these types of accidents – on average there is a fire every [...]

October is Fire Safety Month and we are starting this month’s blog off with some important fire safety tips and common causes of household fires to help you prevent fires in your home and keep your family safe. Fire in the home is a devastating event which may lead to loss of life, injuries, and [...]

When we think about life insurance everyone knows that it is important to cover the bread winning parent’s income in case of tragedy. But does the stay at home parent need life insurance coverage as well? Many people don’t think so because the value of the stay at home parent is not fully recognized until [...]

What You Need To Know About Insurable Interest And Consent There are several different reasons that you may want to purchase life insurance on someone else’s life, or that someone else may want to purchase life insurance on you. And most of the time a person’s reasons for wanting to buy a life insurance policy [...]

While we are calmly making our way through hurricane season right now, it is a great time to discuss one aspect of emergency and disaster preparedness that often goes unplanned until it is too late – communication. One of the most frightening aspects of being involved in a wide spread emergency or natural disaster is [...]

One of the most unsightly things homeowner’s deal with when trying to keep the outside of their homes looking its best are gas and transmission fluid stains that build up on their driveways, sidewalks, and garage flooring. What really makes gas and transmission fluid stains so frustrating is how difficult it can be to get [...]

Everything You Need To Know To Pack Your Own Emergency Roadside Kit The best type of driver is one that is prepared. Although vehicle technology has gotten better over the years, and cars do break down less frequently, you never know when or where you might be faced with an emergency roadside situation. Having a [...]

Once you have made the decision to make renovations to your home, whether they are major or small renovations, you then have to make the decision of whether or not you will live in your home during the remodeling process. For many people, moving out during the remodeling process simply is not a financially feasible [...]

Any entrepreneur or small business owner knows that getting your business up and running requires a lot of hard work and dedication. You want to make sure you do everything you can to protect yourself and your business, so you don’t lose everything you have worked so hard for. But when it comes to natural [...]

Riding a motorcycle can make you feel free and it can be exhilarating. It also helps save on gas on your long commute to work, so while your riding your bike every day, here are some important motorcycle safety tips to remember. Use Safety Gear By far the most important thing to do when riding [...]

When it comes to baby proofing your home there is a lot to be done. And overlooking something that should have been baby proofed can be dangerous or even deadly. Properly baby proofing your home can be even more challenging if your home is a rental or if you live in an apartment, as your [...]

Your home is most likely the most important and most expensive investment you will ever make. And that is why it is important to make sure you are protecting it. You already know that it is important to make sure you have homeowner’s insurance and to make sure you keep up with the regular maintenance [...]

Living in Florida, most people have heard the saying “hide from wind, run from water”. This tells us that if there is any type of high wind storm coming our way, we can simply hide from it and we will be ok. But what does “hiding” mean? There are some things that you can and [...]

Financial matters are often complicated for most people to understand so most times they learn from mistakes, and one aspect that is continuously associated with these mistakes is auto insurance. Having a car is great, but it comes along with additional expenses, auto insurance occupying third place in that long list. Ensuring you get the [...]

It happens. We get distracted and think we are acting out of habit and suddenly we realize we’ve put the wrong type of fuel into our gas tank. You’re not alone. Or maybe you accidentally filled up with the wrong fuel because you didn’t know what type of fuel you were supposed to use – [...]

A natural disaster can cause a lot of damage to our homes, our communities, and our lives. For children the stress and anxiety brought on by the natural disaster itself, coupled with any damages left behind can be difficult to cope with. But there are some things you can do to help make the experience [...]

It is obvious that we should do anything we can to prevent ourselves from distracted driving. But what constitutes a distraction while on the road? You may think that distracted driving may only refer to use of technology like mobile phones and GPS devices, and while technology is one of the largest and most common [...]

There are many types of natural disasters and emergency situations that could cause us to have to leave our homes on short notice. Of course, in Florida the most common concerns are hurricanes and tornadoes, but we know that there are also other emergency situations that could make us leave on short notice such as [...]

One of the most dangerous things we all do almost every day, if not every day, is driving. Auto accidents are the leading cause of death for people in the first half of their life (from newborn up to age 44). Inclement weather makes driving conditions even more dangerous than they normally are, so here [...]

Making a move to your new apartment can be exciting. But in that excitement, it can be easy to miss important details that you should have caught on your apartment walkthrough. This can lead to problems with your apartment while you’re living in it or leave you without being able to get your deposit back [...]

If we have a driver’s license, then we know that there are specific laws and standard courtesies that are expected of us as a driver on the road. However, many new boating enthusiasts are unaware that there are very similar standard courtesies that are expected on the water. Knowing the basics of boating safety and [...]

Subcontractors and artisan contractors are professionals who are held to a very high and strict expectation of insurance requirements. These requirements are so strict because these types of professions are generally providing services which could put the client or their property at a risk for significant harm if the work is not completed properly and [...]

So, you’ve decided to join the crowd and purchase your first RV. No doubt owning an RV has many benefits to offer when traveling – no need to worry about hotel reservations, ability to make stops anywhere along your route, freedom to travel where you wish, ability to bring more of your belongings along with [...]

Boating is a very popular pastime for many individuals looking for a way to relax, spend time with family and friends, soak in the sun and good weather, cool off, and enjoy the water. However, even the most prepared and experienced boater knows to expect the unexpected as we never know what can happen once [...]

When you own a business and hire employees to help you get work done, you are often required by law to carry at least some sort of insurance to protect your business and/or employees. Worker’s Comp Insurance The most common insurance that is required by law to carry is Worker’s Compensation Coverage. This type of [...]

Any way you can save money is always a good thing, especially when you don’t have to sacrifice quality. There are a few tips and tricks of the trade that could save you a little bit of money on your homeowners’ insurance. Shop Around One of the best things about going through an independent insurance [...]

We may be an insurance agency, but we don’t want our clients to have to file a claim – especially if it can be avoided by giving some simple advice. Here are just a few of the many ways that your business can avoid the top most common insurance claims. Fire Make sure your business [...]

There may be a few reasons why you are considering renting out your home. Perhaps it was bought as an investment and its time to start making money off the purchase, or maybe its time for your family to expand and you are looking for some more space to make that happen. Whatever may be [...]

According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, there were over two million home burglaries in 2012 throughout the United States. In addition, there was a total of over $4.7 billion in property that was stolen during these burglaries. Hopefully these individuals had adequate homeowners’ or renters’ insurance to cover their financial loss. Although [...]

Everyone has heard “drive safe” at some point in their life – whether from a loved one, a driving instructor, or signs on the roadway. Driving safe means more than wearing your seat belt or not driving under the influence. As we spend more time on the roadways behind the wheel of our vehicles, often [...]

There’s more to purchasing life insurance than just picking a level of coverage and signing up. The amount of coverage you select is important – will it be enough? And we don’t just mean to provide your family with a continued source of income should you pass away unexpectedly, there are other reasons to consider [...]

This is the standard definition of insurance: “A practice or arrangement by which a company or government agency provides a guarantee of compensation for specified loss, damage, illness, or death in exchange for a premium.” And when most of us think of being insured we think of the basics: life, home, car, health, dental. But [...]

Whether you are a hugely successful business or just starting out on your business ventures, it is never a good idea to assume that you are exempt from disasters. In any type of business, there are dozens of things that could go wrong. Natural disasters, personal injuries, illnesses - these are just a few of [...]

Although we may be an independent insurance agency, the folks at Magruder also feel a responsibility towards our clients and community to provide them with important information - like tax scams that will be on the rise the next few months. Now that W-2's have been sent and everyone has started to file, you may [...]

If you are a business owner, Employee Practices Liability Insurance may be something you want to consider. Unfortunately, many people overlook this type of insurance because they already have Workers’ Comp. Confusing the two different types of insurance can be a big mistake and can end up costing you money. But what exactly is Employee [...]

Got a flat? Knowing how to change a flat tire can save you a lot of time and hassle. It is a skill that every man (and woman) should possess. Here’s a simple guide on how to do it: What you will need: -Jack -Lug wrench -Spare tire -Owner’s manual for the vehicle If you [...]

Photography or videography can be extremely expensive. Most photographers, professionals and hobbyists alike, are always upgrading their gear to keep up with the ever improving technology and looking for ways that will improve the quality of their images. This can lead to a vast collection of cameras, lenses, flashes, tripods, filters, camera bags, memory cards, and [...]

When you are paying for your life insurance company (or your spouse is), it doesn’t seem fair that there are some instances in which they may not pay out a claim. There are five common instances in which a life insurance policy will not pay out a death benefit: Suicide or Heath Related Deaths Homicide [...]

If a fire destroyed your home and belongings, would you be able to recall how many pots or pans you had? How many business shirts, movies, or jewelry? Do you remember where you purchased your furniture and how much it cost – or would cost to replace? Filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance carrier [...]

Nearly half of all American college graduates return to live at home after graduation. With the rising costs of living expenses and limited job opportunities, it is becoming more common for adult children to live at home. Although you may be living at home, it has a different feel to it than it did when [...]

From the moment you chose to start out on your own and to open your own business, you are exposing yourself to a particular set of risks, even before you hire your first employee. It is important when beginning your business, to get the right insurance coverage. A single lawsuit or catastrophic event can ruin [...]

While shopping around for car insurance you may have seen that insurance companies ask for your garaging address and may not ask for your home address or consider it two different things. You may be wondering what a garaging address is and why it is important. What is my garaging address? You garaging address is [...]

Getting married is exciting but also comes with a world of changes. Name changes, living arrangement changes, and even changes to your insurance policy. Should you keep your own separate policy, join on your spouses, or add them to yours? Will their driving history affect your good rates (or vice versa)? Before you go changing [...]

Why should I get Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage? Or why should I purchase any extra coverage when Florida only requires that I have $10,000 coverage for Personal Injury Protection and Property Damage Liability. Well… For Florida drivers, having enough auto insurance is a must – and not just because it is legally required in [...]

Do Uber or Lyft drivers need commercial auto insurance? What about UberEats or other food delivery drivers? Personal auto insurance will typically cover individuals while they commute to and from home but that is pretty much where work-related coverage ends. If you use your personal vehicle, or even have a separate vehicle, for transporting goods [...]

How to handle a damaged windshield can vary from state to state. Luckily, in the State of Florida, a damaged windshield is not the worst thing that could happen to a driver because there are affordable options to repair or replace your windshield. IS IT ILLEGAL TO DRIVE WITH A CRACKED WINDSHIELD? According to Florida [...]

We live in a litigious society with nearly 15 million lawsuits being filed every year – and it’s not just the big business or the rich who are sued. Everyday people are filing lawsuits or are being sued, and on average, 55% of the plaintiffs win their case. This can be a concerning issue for [...]

Life Insurance. It’s something every adult needs but many times, not something anyone wants to think about or consider. Commonly, this is because the benefits of life insurance are understated or misunderstood. Here are a few life insurance myths and the real truths behind them. There is no need for additional life insurance outside of [...]

For those starting a business or looking for another insurance provider for your company, no matter what your business is for, you are going to need general liability insurance.  This article is designed to explain what types of coverage is available under general liability insurance and how to determine your business’s insurance needs. What is [...]

Think renter’s insurance is just for your stuff? Too often, we have clients that think that they don’t own enough personal property to justify getting renters insurance, or that it isn’t valuable enough to insure. Or they believe that they aren’t at risk for a disaster. Renter’s insurance provides benefits for more than just [...]

Cycling, biking, road biking, bicyclists. We have all seen them on the road and some drivers may even be annoyed by their presence on the road. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there has been an ever-growing population of cyclists on the road, nearly doubling in this time frame. There are a few important things [...]

Lending your car out may be a rare occurrence but when you do, you feel you are doing the right thing by helping someone in need out. Although, still a good deed, you could be putting yourself at risk without even knowing it. In most cases of car insurance, the insurance follows the car first [...]

As Hurricane Irma makes its approach towards Florida, Governor Rick Scott has declared a state of emergency for the entire State of Florida as a precaution. Hurricane Irma was declared a Category 5 hurricane Tuesday (Sept 5th) morning, which means Floridians should be taking this storm seriously especially with the chance of landfall at the [...]

Labor Day is coming and that means barbecues are going to be fired up during the extended weekend. With the increase in outdoor cooking and activities, the risk for accidental fires caused by grills or recreational fires will be on the rise. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) nearly 8,900 residential fires caused [...]

Will My Car Insurance Pay If I Am At Fault? If your insurance will pay for damages depends on the coverage and the amount of coverage you elected. Here is a breakdown of each coverage option available and how that coverage works. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Florida may be a no-fault state but fault [...]

There are several questions surround teenage drivers, when or how to get them insurance, and how your rates as a parent may be affected. So, to clarify any questions about teen driving and teen insurance, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions. Have a question that we haven’t listed? Fill out a contact form [...]

Buying a home is exciting but there are a few details that we don’t think about until the day to sign the loan approaches, such as purchasing homeowner’s insurance. When people first come to us looking to purchase homeowner’s insurance we’ve noticed there are a few misconceptions about Florida homeowner’s insurance, so we decided [...]

For many years people have assumed that the color red attracts an officer more than any other color, resulting in more tickets for those drivers. But interestingly, law enforcement agencies across the country agree that the color of a person’s car does not determine whether they will be stopped and ticketed. The driving habit of [...]

With most of your focus on your family and home, you may not think much about your car during a hurricane. But, it may just be your key to safety if you need to evacuate. Make sure your car is ready and that you understand how to drive safely in severe conditions. Well in advance: [...]

Moving into a new home or apartment can undoubtedly be stressful – rarely do we realize just how much stuff we’ve accumulated until tasked with packing it into a series of boxes, and it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin. But moving doesn’t have to induce a panic attack and, with these [...]

There are many parts or coverages on your homeowner policy.  You should be familiar with them and what they do cover in case of a loss.  Here is a description of some of them.  Property Property coverage helps pay for damage caused by covered perils to your home, the contents of your home and other [...]

Drone use has opened a whole new market for insurance carriers.  While many are using the drones for pleasure use (taking pictures for personal enjoyment)  others are using them commercially. Before you start flying your drone, be sure to know the rules especially if you plan on using it commercially. Drones are being used for [...]

We love our pets.  They provide us with security and comfort.  But did you know that on average a dog bite claim costs about $37,000? Dog bites can result in physical injury or death and also emotional trauma. And dog bites are just part of the risk! Injuries that occur if someone trips over your [...]

With most of your focus on your family and home, you may not think much about your car during a hurricane. But, it may just be your key to safety if you need to evacuate. Make sure your car is ready and that you understand how to drive in severe conditions. Well in advance: Prepare [...]

The following are some auto insurance tips you should consider. 1.When renting a vehicle it is a good idea to take pictures of all sides of the rental with your phone to eliminate any discrepancies when returning it.  It will show the condition of the vehicle at the time you rented it.  Take close ups [...]

I am Pat Magruder, the founder and owner of the Magruder Agency.  I started my little Brandon Insurance agency in 1989. Since then, I have grown it into a full featured insurance agency. As a family business, we are still devoted to the highest level of service possible with a friendly style. We are an [...]