arlington

How Vehicle Ownership Timelines Affect Auto Insurance Reviews

Posted on by admin

Most auto insurance reviews happen when a new vehicle is purchased. After that, things often tend to be quiet. But in reality, ownership timelines matter just as much as buying decisions. At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, serving Arlington, TX, we too often see coverage fall out of sync because time passed and no one revisited the details.

Why ‘Paid Off’ Is a Missed Insurance Moment

We know the feeling. When a car is paid off, many drivers feel a sense of completion. No more payments. Nothing else to think about. Freedom. But from an insurance perspective, this is one of the most overlooked review points.

It’s true that financing often drives early insurance decisions. Once that obligation ends, the original assumptions usually no longer reflect how the vehicle fits into daily life. Usage patterns shift. Priorities change. But insurance coverage frequently stays the same, even though the ownership stage has changed.

Secondary Vehicles Become Invisible Over Time

But there’s even a bigger blind spot with secondary vehicles. Cars kept for backup, occasional errands, or seasonal use often fade into the background. They’re still insured, but rarely discussed.

Over time, these vehicles may:

  • Be driven less, or by different household members with a very different risk profile
  • Spend more time parked than on the road
  • Shift from “primary” to “just in case” without anyone noticing

And those quiet changes matter. Insurance reviews that only focus on the main vehicle often miss secondary vehicles.

The Bigger Issue Behind Both Situations

Here’s the common thread: Auto insurance is usually only reviewed at purchase, not across ownership milestones. And that means you may be leaving money on the table.

That’s why Rickey McGill Insurance Agency encourages drivers in Arlington, TX, to view auto insurance as an ongoing conversation, not a one-time setup. Contact one of our expert advisors for a quick review of your auto insurance to ensure it still matches how your vehicles fit into your life.
 

Boat and RV Readiness Before March

Posted on by admin

Everybody loves spring, but March doesn’t ease in gently around Arlington, TX. A warm weekend shows up early, and suddenly, everybody is rushing to catch the first adventure. That rush to get a boat back on the lake or an RV out on the road has excitement of its own, but it often skips over the part that matters most: making sure you’re protected.

How Early-Season Use Shapes Risk

There’s one thing RV owners need to realize: The boat or RV that’s been sitting through winter isn’t the same machine you parked months ago. It feels stiff, unfamiliar, and maybe a little dependent on how well it survived the downtime. Even the most confident owners feel the doubt creeping up during those first minutes: the hesitation before turning the key, the quiet worry about what the months of idle time have done under the surface.

But that isn’t even the biggest story. The real story is not mechanical; it’s behavioral. Spring breaks behavioral patterns. More towing. More miles in unpredictable weather. Let’s face it, you’re putting your boat in the water before other people even realize winter is over. Worse, everyone you share ramps, fuel docks, and narrow roads with is just as rusty as you are. And that’s how your exposure changes: Everyone else is warming up at the same time.

Rickey McGill Insurance Agency helps boat and watercraft owners connect their seasonal habits with the harsh realities of recreational insurance. 

Why a Boat Insurance Review Makes Sense

Recreational insurance can be complicated to understand. Rickey McGill Insurance Agency offers guidance grounded in our local experience. We know how owners navigate the early spring season. If you’re looking for a practical conversation about your recreational insurance, we are here to help. We’re currently serving Arlington, TX. 

Roommates, Shared Bills, and Insurance: What Arlington Renters Often Overlook

Posted on by admin

Housing costs have increased drastically nationwide. This has led many renters in Arlington, TX, to consider roommates to make renting more affordable. That’s great, but it also introduces some additional risks when it comes to protecting your belongings and home. Many renters assume their policy automatically covers everyone living in the household, but more often than not, that’s not the case. Our experts at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency can help you understand when roommates are covered, or not covered, by your renters insurance.

Why Each Roommate Needs Their Own Policy

Living with a roommate complicates your insurance needs. Even if your roommate already has their own renters insurance, it won’t automatically protect your personal property. Their property is covered and only theirs. Each policy only covers the individuals named on it, meaning your furniture, clothes, and laptop are usually excluded. In shared spaces, this distinction is crucial, especially if theft, a fire, or water damage affects everyone’s property. Maintaining your own renters insurance guarantees:

  • Your possessions are covered, even if your roommates aren’t.
  • You’re covered if you cause damage or injure someone else. 
  • You have a place to stay if your unit becomes uninhabitable because your roommate started a BBQ in the living room.

How To Simplify Coverage With Shared Expenses

One benefit of living with a roommate is splitting certain bills. Renters insurance isn’t one of them. At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, serving Arlington, TX, we can help educate each tenant on how to protect their belongings with the right renters insurance. Our experts will make sure that the policy fits your and their budget while keeping the coverage clear and separate. It often even makes sense for all roommates to coordinate and compare their policies to ensure everyone has the protection they need.

Protect Your Space and Your Peace of Mind

The bottom line? Before signing a new lease or adding a roommate to your existing lease, make sure your renters insurance is built for shared living. Contact Rickey McGill Insurance Agency to discuss your options. We’re currently serving Arlington, TX. 

Seasonal Storage Implications for Motor Home Insurance

Posted on by admin

For most people, a motor home isn’t in constant use year-round. It’s driven in the warmer months, then parked once travel slows. Putting it into storage may seem like the end of responsibilities until next season, but insurance doesn’t go on pause. How coverage is handled during downtime can make a big difference if something unexpected happens. Your insurance representative at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency serving Arlington, TX, can help.

Coverage While Parked

It’s tempting to think insurance isn’t necessary once a motor home is off the road. The truth is, risks don’t disappear in storage. Fires, theft, vandalism, and even storm damage can occur when a vehicle is sitting still. Comprehensive coverage is what protects against these events, and dropping it during the off-season can leave you exposed to costly losses. Liability may not be as important while parked, but keeping broad protection in place is still the safer choice.

Tailoring Policies to the Season

Insurance companies recognize that motor homes are often used seasonally. Some offer storage-only coverage or adjustments that reduce liability while preserving comprehensive protection. These options can help lower your premiums without leaving gaps. Reviewing policies before storing a motor home makes it easier to find the balance between savings and security. One of our experienced agents can explain what works best for each situation.

Why Routine Checks Still Matter

Insurance helps, but prevention is always valuable. Checking on a stored motor home occasionally lowers your risk and can prevent claims altogether. For example, make sure your doors are locked, your covers are secure, and the facility is in good condition. Insurers take note when owners demonstrate good care, which may help with rates over time.

Seasonal storage is part of owning a motor home, but insurance should remain part of the plan. With the right coverage through Rickey McGill Insurance Agency serving Arlington, TX, and a little preparation, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and be ready to travel again when the season starts.

Insuring Your Home Away from Home: What You Need to Know About Condo Insurance

Posted on by admin

Owning a condominium can offer an exciting retreat from your primary residence, without the full responsibility of maintaining a standalone house. However, it’s crucial to ensure your condo is adequately protected. Here’s what you need to know about condo insurance.

What is Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance, typically known as HO-6, is different from homeowners’ insurance. It works in conjunction with your condo association’s policy.

Usually, your condo association’s policy covers the overall structure of the building, as well as common areas such as hallways, lobbies, and the building’s roof. Their policy typically does not cover what’s inside your unit, including structural components like walls and flooring, appliances, and personal belongings. Understanding the details of your building’s insurance policy can help ensure that your personal HO-6 policy fully covers your condo.

What Condo Insurance May Cover

Your individual coverage will depend on your policy. Typically, condo insurance covers the gaps left by your building’s policy. Condo insurance may offer dwelling coverage for interior repairs, liability protection in the event that someone is injured in your unit, personal property coverage to protect against stolen or damaged belongings, and loss of use coverage in the event that you’re temporarily unable to access or use your condo due to damage.

Rickey McGill Insurance Agency: Proudly Serving Arlington

At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, we’re proud to serve condo owners in Arlington, TX. Whether you’ve recently purchased your first condo or you’re looking for a new vacation home, we’re excited to get to know you and help you find the right policy for your needs. Reach out to us or stop by the office to chat and learn more about our coverage options.