September 30, 2025
millerinsHow does insurance fraud affect my insurance premiums?
Insurance fraud raises costs for insurers, and those costs get passed on to honest customers through higher premiums, stricter underwriting, and fewer discounts — plus if you are found to have committed fraud, your rates will go up a lot (and you can also face denial of claims, cancellation, fines, or criminal charges). How fraud […]
September 26, 2025
millerinsWhy do I need umbrella insurance coverage?
Umbrella insurance is essentially extra liability coverage that kicks in after you’ve exhausted the limits of your auto, homeowners, or other primary liability policies. Here’s why many people choose to carry it: 1. Protects Against Large Lawsuits If you’re ever sued for causing injury, property damage, or personal harm (like libel or slander), judgments can […]
September 22, 2025
millerinsPreparing Your Home or Business for Winter
Winterize your home or business now to avoid costly damage and insurance claims Freezing temperatures, ice, snow, and wind can wreak havoc on homes and businesses that aren’t properly prepared. Fall is the ideal time to take simple, preventative steps that can save thousands of dollars in repairs when winter storms hit the Pacific Northwest. […]
September 17, 2025
millerinsClimate change and natural catastrophes affect on auto and home insurance
Climate change and natural catastrophes are having a significant and growing impact on both auto and home insurance. These changes are reshaping how insurance companies assess risk, set premiums, and offer coverage. Here’s a breakdown: 1. Impact on Home Insurance A. Increased Frequency & Severity of Claims Wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and hailstorms are becoming more […]
August 7, 2025
millerinsThe Pitfalls of “Cheap” Auto Insurance: What You Need to Know
The problem with “cheap” auto insurance often comes down to the fact that you get what you pay for. While low premiums can be attractive, there are several downsides and risks associated with going for the cheapest option available. Here are the main issues: 1. Minimal Coverage Cheap insurance often means bare minimum liability coverage—just […]
August 5, 2025
millerinsWhat does it take for an independent insurance agent to provide insurance quotes versus getting a quote in 5 minutes or less?
The difference between an independent insurance agent providing quotes and getting a quote in “5 minutes or less” (like you see advertised by online insurance companies) comes down to a few key factors: technology, data access, carrier relationships, and process automation. Here’s a breakdown of what it really takes for an independent insurance agent to […]
August 1, 2025
millerinsHow Wildfires are affecting insurance premiums on the west coast
Wildfires along the U.S. West Coast—particularly the devastating Los Angeles-area fires in January 2025—are significantly reshaping the insurance landscape, especially in California, Oregon, and Washington. Here’s how those disasters are affecting insurance premiums and policy access: 🔥 1. Rising Premiums in High-Risk Areas In California, insurers such as State Farm and Travelers raised homeowners policy […]
July 30, 2025
millerinsHow to Help Prepare for a Wildfire
Wildfires can pose particular dangers to both lives and property because they often begin unnoticed and can spread quickly. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS),1 windborne embers present a significant threat from wildfires and are the primary cause of most building ignitions. Other wildfire threats include radiant heat and direct flame […]
July 22, 2025
millerinsWhy are vehicle repair costs getting more expensive?
Vehicle repair costs are rising for several interconnected reasons, including advances in technology, supply chain issues, labor shortages, and inflation. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors: 1. Advanced Technology in Vehicles More sensors and electronics: Modern cars have advanced safety and convenience features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), backup cameras, radar, and lane-keeping […]
June 16, 2025
millerinsWhat is driving insurance rates in 2025?
In 2025, there are several key factors driving the fluctuations in driving insurance rates, both on an individual and national level. These factors are often tied to broader economic, technological, and societal shifts. Here’s a breakdown of what’s influencing insurance rates in 2025: 1. Inflation and Economic Factors Increased Costs of Repair and Replacement: The […]