New Car, Now What?
Once you’ve signed the paperwork with the dealer, buckled in and pulled out of the lot, you’re likely covered if you have Erie Insurance. But a call to your Agent is still in order.
When you’re with ERIE, your current auto policy doesn’t just vanish when you trade in your old vehicle. As long as your new car is titled in your name, your coverage carries over. But be sure to notify your Agent—not ERIE—within seven days. Even if you’re buying an additional car—and all of your other cars are insured by ERIE— you’ll be covered with the broadest coverage purchased on any vehicle insured with ERIE.
There are exceptions, however, to coverage automatically rolling over. For instance, if you purchase a motorcycle or RV for the first time, or if another vehicle you own isn’t insured with ERIE, coverage will not take effect.
Be sure to bring your ID card to the dealership, and keep in mind that, as the owner, you must call your Agent to report a new car. The salesperson cannot update your policy, and skipping a call can result in gaps in your coverage.[1]
Better yet, it’s smart to keep your agent in the loop as you shop, as they can help you estimate what you’ll pay in premiums and suggest ways to save. Your agent can also advise you if you have any questions on how your insurance might change.
Learn more about insuring your new car.
Thwart a Spring Swarm
As the weather warms up, insects that lie dormant during the winter often make themselves at home. Your home. En masse.
While severe infestations might require professional intervention in the form of an exterminator, there are simple preventative measures homeowners and renters can take to keep these pests at bay.
With hundreds of odor receptors, ants are attuned to any trace of food or drink that’s left out, especially if it’s sweet. To prevent them from colonizing the kitchen, clean up any crumbs or spills immediately, and scrub down your counters, cabinets and floor. Next, wipe down inside the cabinets, remove old items, like flour, and replace drawer paper.
Silverfish and cockroaches are also attracted to moisture, which makes the bathroom a desirable destination. Check for leaks near the toilet, sink and bathtub, and clean or replace the shower curtain to leave no safe haven for these pests.
Homeowners can discourage visits from creatures such as spiders, centipedes and mice that like the dark, dank conditions of a basement by reducing clutter and sealing any cracks, even the smallest ones. Likewise, check the exterior of your home for any possible entry points in the foundation or sources of infestation, such as rotting wood.
Learn more about how you can protect your domicile from spring pest infestations.
Take a Seat
If it can feel overwhelming to decide which type of car seat is right for your child, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 46% of car and booster seats are used incorrectly.
The NHTSA recommends infants and toddlers sit in rear-facing car seats until they reach the device’s maximum weight or height limit. Once children graduate from facing backward, they can be turned around to face forward before finally moving on to a booster seat when they reach the proper size and age.
Consider the different types
Infant: Specifically designed for babies and can only be placed in a rear-facing position.
Convertible: Can change to fit your growing child and be positioned rear- or front-facing depending on the child’s age and size.
Booster: Are forward-facing and meant for older kids once they’ve outgrown their first car seats.
Combination: Offers forward-facing car seat and booster seat functions.
All-in-one: Designed to serve its user at every stage, whether they require a rear-facing, front-facing or booster seat.
While the NHTSA provides overall safety recommendations, each state also maintains its own car seat laws. Familiarize yourself with both before making your purchase and hitting the road with your little one in tow.
Visit A Parent's Guide to Car Seats to learn more.
