Month: November 2025

Why You Need Umbrella Insurance

Posted on by agentinsure

If you live near Austin, TX, our team at Southwest Insurance Center invites you to review whether you have all the necessary insurance. One of those types of insurance is an umbrella policy.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

If you’ve never heard of umbrella insurance, it is an additional policy that covers claims exceeding your home or auto policy’s current limits. Umbrella policies are typically used in liability claims or when property losses exceed your policy limits. For example, say you host a party and a guest becomes inebriated. They get behind the wheel and cause an accident, and you’re sued for negligence as the party host. In this case, your umbrella policy may help cover the damage after the limits on your homeowners policy have been reached. 

Another scenario to consider is if you have a swimming pool, trampoline or outdoor play set. If a guest becomes injured on your property, you could face large medical bills exceeding the liability limits on your homeowners policy. In this case, your umbrella would kick in.

Or, if any of your valuables, such as art, musical instruments, or jewelry, are stolen or damaged, your umbrella policy can help compensate you for those losses. 

Finally, if you are active on social media, you may want to consider umbrella insurance in case your posted comments result in someone else taking offense and suing you.

Call Us for an Appointment

Our team at Southwest Insurance Center, serving Austin, TX, can explain more about how umbrella insurance works. Call us for an appointment and a quote.

Can Anyone Drive an RV?

Posted on by agentinsure

Owning or renting an RV opens up endless opportunities for travel and adventure. But before you take the wheel, it’s important to understand the driving requirements. While most RVs don’t need a special license, there are key differences depending on the size, weight, and type of vehicle you’re driving.

Driver’s License Requirements

In most U.S. states, a standard Class D driver’s license is enough to operate smaller RVs, such as Class B camper vans and many Class C motorhomes. However, larger Class A motorhomes or RVs exceeding certain weight limits (often 26,000 pounds) may require a commercial or special noncommercial Class B license. Check your state’s department of motor vehicles regulations to confirm the exact requirements.

Weight and Length Limits

Some states restrict the overall length and weight of RVs, especially if you’re towing a trailer or fifth wheel. Exceeding these limits without proper licensing can lead to fines or voided insurance coverage if you’re in an accident.

Experience and Training

Even if no special license is required, driving an RV safely takes practice. These vehicles are longer, wider, and heavier than regular cars, which means slower stopping times and wider turns. Many insurance companies and rental services recommend taking an RV driving course to learn proper handling, parking, and road awareness.

Insurance Considerations

Check with your insurer before your trip. Some policies require drivers to meet specific age or experience requirements to maintain coverage.

Call Southwest Insurance Center, Serving Austin, TX

We’re proud to serve Austin, TX, and we’re here to help you with all of your RV insurance needs. Contact the Southwest Insurance Center team to talk with one of our agents and learn more.