What to Do Immediately After a Boating Accident: Insurance and Safety Steps

A day out on the water can take an unexpected turn in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a minor collision or something more serious, knowing what to do immediately after a boating accident can make a significant difference. At Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS, we want you to feel confident and prepared if the unexpected ever happens during your time on the water.

Prioritize Safety First

Your first priority should always be safety. Check on everyone aboard your vessel and any others involved. If anyone is injured, call for emergency assistance immediately. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to report it to the appropriate authorities, especially if there’s significant damage or injuries. Staying calm and collected will help you think clearly in a stressful situation.

Exchange Information and Document the Scene

Just like in a car accident, you’ll need to exchange contact and insurance information with all involved parties. Take photos of the damage, the location, and any visible injuries. These images can be crucial when filing your insurance claim. If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information as well—neutral accounts can help clarify what happened.

Notify Your Insurance Provider

Once everyone is safe and you’ve gathered the necessary information, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Starting the claims process promptly can make it smoother and more efficient. Be honest and detailed when sharing your account of the incident.

Boating accidents can be stressful, but having the right coverage helps ease the burden. To ensure you’re fully protected before your next outing, contact Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS. We’ll help you navigate boat insurance with confidence and peace of mind.

What is a health insurance deductible, and how does it work?

Have you ever gone to the doctor and gave them your insurance information? In many cases, you gave them your health insurance card and didn’t have to pay a dime while you were in the office. However, out of nowhere, weeks later, you received a letter stating you owe money to your doctor’s office for services rendered while you were in their office.

Have you ever wondered why you are required to pay anything when you pay a premium for health insurance? At Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS, we understand that it can be a bit confusing, so we are here to help you understand your health insurance policy.

What is a health insurance deductible?

You may have received a bill from your doctor’s office weeks after your visit because your medical provider sent your information and the details of your visit to your insurance company to request payment for their services. However, it is possible that you have not met your health insurance deductible yet.

Your health insurance deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket for medical expenses before your policy will pay out for any of your medical claims. For example, you have a health insurance policy on yourself, and the deductible is $2000. Your insurance company will not pay for claims until you have been billed the first $2000 of medical expenses from doctor visits or hospital stays. In some cases, your prescription costs are included in that deductible amount.

Once you have met your deductible, your insurance will pay a co-insurance amount for your visits for the remainder of the policy period (usually until the end of the year). That co-insurance amount could be 80% of your expenses, up to 100%.

For more information about Health Insurance

To learn more about health insurance, deductibles, co-insurance, and other details, call Fortress Insurance Agency in Overland Park, KS, at (402) 201-6931 today.

Buying a New Boat or Watercraft? Here’s What to Know About Insurance

It can be exciting to purchase a new boat or watercraft. Whether you’re upgrading, choosing something different, or have never had one before, you want to make sure you protect it properly. That’s where a quality boat/watercraft insurance policy comes in. If you’re in the Overland Park KS area, Fortress Insurance Agency can help you find the right coverage for your needs. Here’s what to consider when you’re deciding on a new insurance policy.

First, make sure you’re working with a dedicated agent who can help you get the right type and level of coverage. You want to protect your boat or other watercraft the best way you can, and that starts with having all the information you need to make a knowledgeable choice. When you work with one of our agents you’ll get your questions answered and have access to quotes from multiple insurers. That helps you feel confident that you have the right policy for your specific needs.

Second, don’t hesitate to reach out to your agent anytime something changes. Whether it has been a while since you bought your new watercraft or you had a change in circumstances that might affect your boat, it’s important to know who to talk to. Your coverage should be right for your situation and lifestyle, so it protects you in all the ways you use and store your boat or watercraft. We want you to feel fully confident in your policy for as long as you have it.

Contact us today at Fortress Insurance Agency if you’re in the Overland Park KS area and looking for boat/watercraft insurance. We’re happy to help you find the coverage you need so you can fully enjoy your new boat or watercraft to the fullest, and with plenty of peace of mind.

Driving Mistakes That Can Affect Your Insurance

We all want the best deals on our products and services, but clipping a coupon isn’t the only way to get the best deal. A service like auto insurance is affected more by behavior than bargain hunting. Here at Fortress Insurance Agency, serving Overland Park, KS, and the surrounding areas, we are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your auto insurance coverage, and that means avoiding these driving mistakes that can cost you. 

Speeding

Speeding will impact your auto insurance quicker than just about anything else. If you want to keep your auto insurance premiums at a reasonable rate, you’ll always want to ensure you’re observing the speed limit. If you start thinking in terms of speeding in the same way you think of turning off lights that are unnecessary in your home, you quickly change your mindset and start new habits and behaviors that will save you money. 

Reckless Driving 

Reckless driving is driving that is considered to be inattentive and dangerous. This can include using cell phones while driving, eating while driving, or doing anything other than driving. It also includes taking risks while driving. The more reckless you are, the more likely you are to have an accident. Each time you have an accident, your insurance premiums will be affected. Depending on the magnitude of the accident, those impacts could be high.

If you’d like to learn more about auto insurance and how you can save money, please contact us at Fortress Insurance Agency serving Overland Park, KS, and the surrounding areas. We’ll be happy to answer your questions today.

Buying a Supplementary Health Policy

In today’s age, whether your employer offers health insurance or you have a policy through your educational institution, opting for a second health insurance policy can be beneficial. In this blog, we at Fortress Insurance Agency discuss why you should consider this.

Covering Unmet Healthcare Needs

Many employers in Overland Park, KS, offer their employees health insurance. However, these policies may not encompass all healthcare necessities. Individuals might need a secondary policy if their existing coverage does not support certain essential healthcare procedures.

Student healthcare plans often only cater to basic healthcare requirements, with campus healthcare being the primary treatment resource. These centers may employ competent doctors but could lack other critical facilities like advanced testing or even a hospital. A secondary health policy can provide assurance for a full year, addressing the issue of academic-year-only health coverage.

Lacking Wellness Programs in Your Primary Health Policy

Health insurance purchased through the U.S. Healthcare Marketplace often includes a wellness program. However, several policies may provide limited benefits. Procuring a secondary policy can offer the wellness program coverage you desire. This might include sessions with nutritionists, tailor-made programs for diabetes or high blood pressure management, and even yoga classes.

Adding to Medicare Coverage

Retirees might also find additional health coverage beneficial. The government-issued standard Medicare plan mainly covers hospital stays and in-hospital medical tests. An individual seeking coverage for doctor visits requires Plan B coverage, while prescription coverage needs Plan D. Instead of buying a government-issued Medicare plan, purchasing a private medical care policy can offer a comprehensive solution.

Engage with Fortress Insurance Agency

At Fortress Insurance Agency, we strive to provide healthcare insurance that meets a variety of needs. We’re here to assist the residents of Overland Park, KS, in securing the health coverage they need to stay safely insured. Contact us today.

What Types of Boats Have to Be Covered By Boat Insurance?

Boat ownership brings excitement and adventure but comes with responsibilities, including protecting your investment with the right insurance coverage. At Fortress Insurance Agency, serving the greater Overland Park, KS area, we’re here to help you understand which types of boats require insurance coverage.

Motorized Boats

Motorized boats, including powerboats, motor yachts, and personal watercraft such as jet skis and wave runners, are typically required to be covered by boat insurance. Whether cruising on a lake, river, or ocean, insurance helps protect you, your passengers, and your vessel from unexpected accidents, damage, or liability claims.

Sailboats

Sailboats, whether small recreational vessels or larger sailing yachts, should also be covered by boat insurance. Even if a motor does not power your sailboat, it’s still susceptible to risks such as collisions, storms, theft, and liability claims. Sailboat insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind while you navigate the open waters.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats, including bass boats, center consoles, and offshore fishing vessels, should be insured to safeguard against potential risks on the water. Whether you’re casting lines in freshwater lakes or deep-sea fishing in the ocean, fishing boat insurance offers coverage for property damage, equipment theft, and liability concerns.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners, are popular recreational vehicles that require specialized insurance coverage. PWC insurance protects you and your watercraft from accidents, injuries, and property damage while you enjoy thrilling rides on the water.

At Fortress Insurance Agency, we understand the unique insurance needs of boat owners in the greater Overland Park, KS area. Our experienced agents will work closely with you to assess your boating activities and coverage requirements. Call us to get started.

Easy ways to eat healthier

Eating healthier can seem like a daunting task here in the Overland Park, KS area, but it doesn’t have to be. There are easy and delicious ways to make small changes that will help you get on the path to better health.

Here are some simple tips from us at Fortress Insurance Agency for eating healthier: 

1. Start your day with a healthy breakfast.

Eat a healthy breakfast to kick-start your metabolism and have adequate energy for the rest of the day. Choose breakfast foods that are full of fiber and protein, such as oatmeal, eggs, whole grain toast, and fruit. 

2. Pack your own lunch or snacks.

Making your own lunch or snacks prevents you from making unhealthy choices when dining out. Pack nutritious options such as fruits, nuts, and vegetables paired with lean proteins like tuna or peanut butter. 

3. Eat more plant-based meals.

Incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet is an easy way to get more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into your body without having to sacrifice taste or nutrition quality. Try adding extra fruits and vegetables into dishes whenever possible, or start with one meatless meal a week. 

4. Cut back on processed foods.

Processed food usually contains unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars which can be detrimental to our health if consumed in large amounts over time. Try swapping out processed snack options for healthier alternatives such as fresh fruit or trail mix made with nuts and dried fruit instead! 

5. Monitor portion sizes.

Make sure you’re not overeating by monitoring portion sizes of food choices when cooking at home or dining out at restaurants – this will help you maintain a healthy diet without feeling deprived of flavor! 

Reach Out To Us

For more tips or to explore a health insurance policy, please give us at Fortress Insurance Agency a call today. We are proud to serve the Overland Park, KS area.

Tips to prepare your boat for a storm

Preparing your boat for a storm is an important part of marine safety here in the Overland Park, KS area. Knowing what to do and how to do it when a storm is on its way can help ensure the protection of your vessel, passengers, and crew. Here are some tips from us at Fortress Insurance Agency to help you prepare your boat for a storm.

Tips to prepare your boat for a storm

1. Move Your Boat:

If time permits, it’s best to move your boat away from the shoreline or dock onto deeper waters where waves won’t be as strong and destructive.

2. Secure Loose Gear:

Make sure all loose items are secured on board before the storm arrives. This includes tying down any canvas covers or sails, as well as securing anything that could become projectiles in high winds like oars, life jackets, anchors, and fishing gear.

3. Check Fuel & Fluid Levels:

Make sure your fuel and fluid levels are full before a storm strikes so you have enough gas on hand if you decide to take shelter or run from the storm. Also, check other systems such as electrical components and batteries – these should all be functioning properly so that you don’t get stranded in bad weather due to technical problems. 

4. Properly Anchor Your Boat:

Anchoring your boat correctly can make all the difference during a severe storm; make sure you employ proper anchoring techniques such as using multiple anchors at different angles or depths and ensuring they have enough rope attached for flexibility of movement in changing water depths or wind directions during the storm. 

Reach Out To Us

For more tips, give us at Fortress Insurance Agency a call today. We are proud to serve the Overland Park, KS area.

Safe boating tips

Safe boating is a fun activity enjoyed by many in the Overland Park, KS area, but it’s important to be aware of safety tips and regulations. Fortress Insurance Agency has long been providing boat insurance to our clients and can assist with related queries. 

Here are a few tips from us to keep your boating experience safe and enjoyable:

1. Wear a life jacket at all times

 It’s the law in most states that children must wear life jackets while on the water, but everyone should be wearing one regardless of age or swimming ability. It could save your life!

2. Avoid alcohol

Alcohol impairs judgment and can put yourself and others at risk of an accident. If you do plan on drinking, make sure someone else is designated as navigator who isn’t under the influence so you can make it back safely. 

3. Have an emergency plan

Make sure you know how to contact emergency services in case of an accident or distress signal, and know where your nearest hospital is located in case of medical emergencies. 

4. Be aware of weather conditions

Weather can change quickly, especially near the shoreline where wind speed can significantly increase with little warning. Make sure you check local forecasts before heading out each time, so you’re aware of any approaching storms or high-speed winds. 

5. Familiarize yourself with boat navigation rules

To ensure everyone has a safe experience on the water, make sure you understand navigation rules such as right-of-way when operating around other boats and buoys that mark special water zones for safe navigation near shorelines or fishing areas. 

Get Boat Insurance Today

Remember to stay safe out there! With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your time on the water without having to worry about any potential risks associated with boating activities. For more tips, call us at Fortress Insurance Agency today. We serve the Overland Park, KS area boat owners with vital insurance coverage.

Best places to go boating

Fortress Insurance Agency is located in Overland Park, KS and we serve clients all over Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Texas. 

If you’re looking for a great place to go boating in Texas, you’ll want to check out one of the state’s many beautiful lakes. Lake Buchanan, Lady Bird Lake, Canyon Lake, Inks Lake, LBJ Lake, and Lake Travis are all great options. Each offers its own unique set of activities and scenery. So no matter what kind of boating experience you’re looking for, you can find it in Texas.

Best places to go boating in Texas

Lake Buchanan is a great place to go boating in Texas. It’s well-known for its clear, calm waters, which make it perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, and ospreys. If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend a day on the water, Lake Buchanan is definitely worth checking out.

Lady Bird Lake is another great place to go boating in Texas. It’s located in the heart of Austin and offers stunning views of the cityscape. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are also a few restaurants and bars located on the lake’s shores, so you can enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the beautiful scenery. Lady Bird Lake is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Austin area.

If those scenic locales are not near you, you might want to try one of these instead:

– Canyon Lake

– Inks Lake

– Lake LBJ

– Lake Travis

Get Boat Insurance Today

Be sure to stay safe on the water, and to only go out on a boat that is insured in case anything goes wrong. If you have additional questions about places to visit or your boat’s insurance, call Fortress Insurance Agency. We proudly serve the greater Overland Park, KS area, and in multiple states, including Texas.