Omaha, NE 68102, United States of America

Discovering the right insurance agency involves recognizing the qualities that truly matter – people, personality, expertise, and professionalism. At Eastern Insuring Agency, we stand out by excelling in these essential elements. We transcend the traditional agency model; we are a devoted team of professionals committed to delivering an unforgettable, positive experience for you.
We specialize in Personal (Auto, Home, RV, Cycle, Boat, Renters, Condo), Commerical, Agricultural, and Life Insurance.
Personal Lines Insurance Commercial Lines Insurance Life Insurance

Making Insurance Easy:

Clear Solutions for You

Local staff in Amsterdam, Debbie C.. is a great asset to your company. Always accommodating and knowledgeable when I have questions.

Customer since 2008

David R., customer since 2024

What have you folks done right ? Everything I guess, so far ! We've been with Eastern Insuring for quite some time, (over 25 years ?) and we recently combined our Home Owner's, Vehicle and ATV coverage from you, as you know! Easy Payment Plans, and very prompt service when we call for anything. Always letting us know where we need to upgrade our Coverage, and always selecting a company that fits our insurance needs the best, at a reasonable cost! You watch out for your Clients, and it shows!

Timothy B., customer since 2010

You staff is always willing and available to help! They are courteous and efficient!

Customer since 2017

Very helpful and professional people willing to take the time to find the best policy for their customers

Customer since 2023

I appreciate the knowledge that you have dealing with seasonal properties. It makes things much easier for me. Thanks!

Customer since 2023

You company is not so big that you forget that each person has different needs and you conform to what is best for each person!

Randy R., customer since 2023

Price is obviously a factor in choosing insurance, but beyond that the overall friendliness and professionalism of your staff were remarkable. It made our decision to switch carriers easy.

Michael W., customer since 2022

A professional atmosphere while maintaining a friendly sort of family way. Very knowledgeable of the insurance business.

Ricky C., customer since 2022

Kylie is amazing and has worked with me on a very complicated insurance plan.

Customer since 2022

Our agent, Kylie is really helpful, often going out of her way to save us money and to navigate the sometimes complicated world of insurance.

Robert D., customer since 2022

We've been with company for a long time. The few times I've had to speak with anyone, they have always been very polite and I really like that.

Customer since 2009

Prompt and helpful with our questions. Good at getting us the right coverage.

Customer since 2021

You tried to get me commercial hazmat insurance, Thank you.

Rene P., customer since 2009

Prompt service and great price.

Customer since 2024

You guys went above and beyond. Thank you.

Joshua P., customer since 2024

You found me a lower rate without me even asking.

Tonia R., customer since 2017

Returns calls and emails quickly and is always very pleasant. Ready with the right answer and if not known will research it and call back.

Mark S., customer since 2017

Fast, friendly service!

Nancy R., customer since 2004

Saved me money when I switched insurance companies. Discounts for multi policies for home and car.

Customer since 2014

Always trying to get me the best insurance rate.

Customer since 2010

Good service!

Customer since 2014

There was a kitchen fire in one of my apartments. The claim was taken care of quickly. Repairs were made to my complete satisfaction.

Bruce M., customer since 2008

Friendly customer service. Lets you know the best insurance that will fit your needs.

Customer since 2016

Always a helpful staff who are ready to answer questions. Very courteous. But most importantly, they are very knowledgeable about insurance.

Terence M., customer since 2018

Always there to answer questions and help. Greatly appreciated!

Dolan L., customer since 2021

Kylie was great at explaining in detail when I had questions.

Heather K., customer since 2014

Your always there to answer any questions I may have, and very quick to respond. Pricing has always been great also!

Beckie H., customer since 2013

Very helpful!

Manson G., customer since 2015

Very quick to resolve an issue i was having.

Jean M., customer since 2017

Very easy to deal with.

Customer since 2024

They were very helpful, above and beyond.

Arthur P., customer since 2024

Eastern Insuring is a trusting insurance company you can count on! Fast, efficient and courteous.

Ellen M., customer since 2009

Eastern Insurance Agency is great to work with! The staff is always courteous and very helpful I would certainly recommend them for all your insurance policies!

Darwin L., customer since 2008

Everybody in your office is vary professional . Vary informative, and they keep in contact with clients.. Thank You..

Francis L., customer since 2018

Quick, friendly and professional staff!

Terry D., customer since 2014

Answered all my questions even though I don’t come from Plattsburgh

Mario M., customer since 2023

The Franklin County Land Bank (FCLB) is a new non-profit entity that acquires and improves tax-delinquent properties so that they can provide affordable housing for Franklin County (FC) residents. A portion of the FCLB funding is provided by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). FCLB required several different types of insurance to meet the requirements of FC, HCR, and other coverage. Frank Shambo solicited proposals from multiple insurance companies to provide the required coverage and negotiated the best pricing for FCLB. Since FCLB is a new entity without a track record, some companies would not provide any quote, making the effort more challenging. Frank provided excellent advice and service.

Customer since 2023

I appreciate that my insurance needs are taken seriously. From the first telephone conversation with Kylie I was confident our business was in good and capable hands. I have always received great service with our insurance needs.

Kathleen G., customer since 2023

Penny knew I was in a pinch and did not hesitate to find and secure coverage for me immediately. I called her approximately an hour before they closed on the day before Thanksgiving and she had me set and squared away before closing.

Customer since 2023

FRIENDLY, COURTEOUS, HELPFUL, HELPED ME UNDERSTAND CERTAIN THINGS, HAD THE ANSWERS TO MY QUESTIONS,.............AND SAVED ME MONEY WITH MORE COVERAGE !

Timothy B., customer since 2010

Your office assisted us in clearing up several issues. We really appreciate you taking your time to assist us. It's good to know that there's someone available locally. Thank you.

Customer since 2003

You were all very friendly and made me feel like I mattered as a person.

Customer since 2023

Your staff is always friendly and kind. You are always willing to help your customers in a timely manner. Hope this helps. Merry Christmas!

Lisa D., customer since 2023

Very friendly and are quick to help thank u all for the great customer service and happy holidays

Erin B., customer since 2023

Very responsive and helpful service at every step!

Customer since 2023

I feel that Kylie works quickly to answer my questions.

Customer since 2023

Friendly service and easy to do business with.

Micheal M., customer since 2023

Very good at getting back to you with any questions updates etc. The team works together and there's always someone to answer the phone Monday through Friday. Everyone is always friendly and professional

Customer since 2023

Everyone there has been very helpful when changing over.

Customer since 2023

Good communication and very helpful with all questions

Customer since 2016

Very helpful, understood exactly what I needed, very courteous.

Jeffrey R., customer since 2023

Responsive communication in a timely way

Customer since 2021

Kylie is very helpful. Great proactive agent!!!

Robert D., customer since 2022

Always look out for customers

Customer since 2021

Great service and fast

Gregory C., customer since 2021

Always friendly service willing to answer all questions. Jeff I do all our Fire District in Cadyville Insurance here too. And the Commissioners are very happy with Frank and Penny

Jeffrey F., customer since 2021

Great service! Great prices!

Christopher B., customer since 2021

Kylie was very helpful and quick to respond. I really appreciate her personal service.

Customer since 2021

Your policies are clearly written , so it is easy to understand what is covered. The agents are helpful when questions are asked.

Customer since 2021

I'm not good at texting or using internet but I appreciated the reminder to check my policy before renewal date came. Saved us both time. Don Pageau

Customer since 2020

As a beginner to insurance EIA was able to help me find the best fit for car insurance. They also helped me bundle with renters insurance. I have been with them for a few years now!

Emily G., customer since 2019

As a former customer of the LaBarge Agency, we have experienced the same high level of customer service as we have transitioned to Eastern Insuring.

Brian T., customer since 2016

You have always answered any of my questions and willing to explain anything that I didn't understand. Have had nothing but good experience with you. Thank you.

Tonia R., customer since 2017

Great customer service! Thank you.

Customer since 2012

When we call with a problem or a question, you are so prompt with answers.

Nancy R., customer since 2004

Every time I call which was every month, all representatives were pleasant, knowledgeable, and helpful. Which means a lot to me especially when I always forget the name of my insurance company. They have taken care of me and auto insurance for years now and I recommend them to everyone. ❤️

Lisa M., customer since 2014

I always get good and quick results when I ask for comp binders. I was helped through the claims process

Customer since 2020

Always prompt with answers to any question I may have. Very friendly service. Knowledgeable employees.

Terence M., customer since 2018

You are always available and more than accommodating to help us with our insurance needs!

Darwin L., customer since 2013

Kylie listened to me about our needs and answered all my questions. Excellent customer service.

Heather K., customer since 2014

Amazing attentive service and staff

Floyd I., customer since 2016

Your whole staff if very pleasant when I call, when I have they give me answers, and if they don't know they find out and back to me in a reasonable amount of time.

Gene G., customer since 2010

We have worked with Eastern Insuring (formerly LaBarge Agency) for many years. You are professional and always ready to help us out with finding the most appropriate insurance for our business.

Customer since 2009

Great communication from Kylie in describing all the options.

Customer since 2023

You were very kind and professionally . I liked your low rates it impressed me .

Brian B., customer since 2023

INSURANCE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS

We Specialize in Personal, Commercial & Life Insurance Solutions in New York State.

PERSONAL LINES INSURANCE

Home, Renters, Mobile Home, Auto, Motorcycle, ATV, Boat, Marine, Umbrella, High-Value Assets, Pet & More

COMMERCIAL (BUSINESS) INSURANCE

Business Owners Package, Auto, General Liability, Workers Comp, Cyber, Builders Risk, Business Interruption & More

LIFE INSURANCE

Life, Final Expenses, 

Fixed Annuities, 

& Mortgage Protection


Find Out More Today!


QUOTES FROM MULTIPLE CARRIERS

Hand Selected to Offer Your More Coverage Options.
Chris A. LaBarge

Live Confidently with Our Comprehensive Insurance Services.


We take pride in hand-selecting the finest insurance carriers in the industry. As independent agents, we've cultivated enduring partnerships with leading national and regional providers. With our seasoned team at your service, you can expect nothing short of comprehensive and expert insurance solutions.


What does this mean for you, our valued client? It means access to competitive pricing, diverse coverage options, and the assurance that your insurance needs are in the hands of reputable companies that meet our rigorous standards.

 

Your peace of mind is our priority.

LIVE LIFE. WE'VE GOT THIS!


CUSTOMER SERVICE

Empowering Clients With 24/7 Service Through Our Customer Service Platform!

DOWNLOAD OUR AGENCY MOBILE APP

Accidents Happen

Be prepared with our mobile app and online portal!

No matter where you find yourself or what situations you encounter, our mobile app is your trusted companion, ready to assist you every step of the way. Whether you need to create a home inventory, navigate a claim situation, access policy services, find contact information, or simply pay a bill, our app has got you covered. With easy access to essential features and support right at your fingertips, managing your insurance needs has never been more convenient.


Download our app today and experience the peace of mind that comes with having reliable assistance whenever you need it.

You can also use our Online Client Portal for service needs

on the go, or in your office!

Why download our mobile app?

There are several important reasons why downloading our agency app is a no brainer!


REPORT CLAIMS

Our app allows you to store multiple vehicles and ISDCards, and has a mobile claims kit with on-tap access, tow truck and geo locator. 


ASSET INVENTORY

Quickly ensure proper coverage and manage home, auto, and business assets in minutes. Capture property details and values right from your smartphone

DOCUMENTS

Do you need an ID Card, or other policy documentation the go? Our make makes accessing your policy data instant, all you need to do is tap!

CHANGE REQUESTS

Easily update us on any changes you need: new car purchase, address update, policy queries, or new phone number—all with just a simple tap!

NEWS & POLICYHOLDER INSIGHTS FROM OUR BLOG

Questions, Answers, Education & Industry Insights
By Kylie McAuliffe September 17, 2025
The study also shows that long-term, loyal customers with multiple policies are especially impacted. These “high-value” clients—often those who bundle home and auto or carry umbrella coverage—are seeing rate hikes nearly as often as everyone else. Unfortunately, repeated increases can erode trust, causing some homeowners to shop around for alternatives. That’s why transparency and proactive planning are more important than ever. The Numbers at a Glance - Home insurance rates rose 40.4% from 2019–2024. - Average U.S. annual premium: $2,801. - Increases accelerated recently: +5.4% in 2022, +11% in 2023, and +11.4% in 2024. - States like Colorado, Nebraska, Utah, Montana, and Minnesota are seeing the steepest hikes—but New York homeowners are not immune. What You Can Do as a Homeowner Even though rates are rising, there are ways to protect both your home and your wallet: 1. Bundle Policies: Combine home, auto, and umbrella insurance to maximize discounts. 2. Update Home Safety Features: Install security systems, water leak sensors, and fire alarms—these can lower your risk profile. 3. Raise Your Deductible (if practical): A higher deductible can reduce your annual premium. 4. Review Coverage Annually: Make sure you’re not over- or under-insured. For example, updated appraisals or home renovations may affect replacement costs. 5. Ask About Discounts: Loyalty, claims-free, and smart-home discounts are available with many carriers. How We Help at Eastern Insuring Agency As an independent insurance agency, we’re not tied to just one company. That means: - We shop multiple insurers on your behalf. - We explain changes clearly, so you know exactly why your premium shifted. - We offer options—from adjusting deductibles to exploring different carriers—so you can make the choice that best fits your budget and lifestyle. - We look at the long game, helping you balance protection and affordability in 2025 and beyond. The Bottom Line Rising premiums are a national trend, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right guidance, you can keep your coverage strong while managing costs. 💬 If you’ve received a renewal notice or want a fresh look at your policy, contact Eastern Insuring Agency today. We’ll walk you through your options, explain the changes, and make sure you’re protected for whatever 2026 may bring.
By Penny Hendrie September 15, 2025
Yep — the grease from your ovens, fryers, and grills builds up in your hoods, vents, and ducts faster than you think. And in New York, it’s one of the leading causes of restaurant fires. The Fire Hazard You Don’t See Even if your kitchen looks spotless, your ductwork may be hiding a thick layer of grease and flour dust. It only takes one spark — from an oven, a fryer, or faulty wiring — to ignite it. Fires spread quickly through ducts, often reaching the roof. Suppression systems can’t do their job if ducts aren’t maintained. One fire can shut down your business for months — or for good. What New York Requires The FDNY and local fire inspectors are strict on hood and duct maintenance. Here’s what they expect: Professional cleaning every 3 months (or more frequently for heavy-use kitchens). Inspection logs available on site for inspectors. Documented contracts with licensed cleaning vendors. 👉 Translation: “We thought we cleaned it ourselves” isn’t going to cut it. DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: What’s the Difference? I hear it all the time: “My guys can clean it better than anyone I hire.” Here’s the problem: Staff cleaning: They can wipe down filters, hoods, and visible grease. Professional cleaning: Licensed contractors use high-powered equipment and degreasers to clean inside ducts and exhaust systems — the hidden areas where fires actually start. Inspectors (and your insurance company) don’t accept “we did it ourselves.” They want to see proof from a licensed vendor. Real-World Example One Brooklyn pizzeria thought they were covered. The staff wiped down the hoods every night, and everything looked clean. But grease inside the ducts ignited, spreading fire to the roof. Their insurance company denied the claim — no professional contract, no cleaning logs. The owner was left with over $300,000 in damages and a business closed for nearly a year. What Does It Cost? Most pizzerias can set up a professional hood & duct cleaning contract for around $1,000–$2,000 a year depending on size and frequency. That’s less than one month’s rent in most of New York… and a fraction of the cost of one fire claim, one fine, or one forced closure. Why a Maintenance Contract Matters Proof of compliance: Shows inspectors and insurers you’re doing it right. No forgetting: Automatic scheduling keeps you compliant year-round. Claim protection: If a fire does happen, you can prove you met your obligations. Insurance renewals: Many carriers look for contracts when deciding whether to renew food-service policies. Penny’s Pizzeria Insurance Pro Tip Bundle your hood and duct cleaning with fire suppression system maintenance. They work together, and often the same vendor can service both. Always keep logs handy — they’re worth their weight in mozzarella when inspectors or adjusters come calling. Frequently Asked Questions Can my employees just clean the hoods themselves? They can handle surface wipe-downs, but duct cleaning must be done by a licensed pro to meet code and insurance requirements. What if my pizza shop doesn’t fry food, just ovens? You still have exposure — ovens release oils, cheese vapor, and flour dust that stick to ducts. Will insurance cover fire damage if I don’t have a contract? Maybe. But carriers can reduce or deny claims if they find you weren’t compliant with fire safety standards. Final Slice You focus on perfecting your pies — let the professionals handle your ducts. The cost of a contract is small. The cost of skipping it? Potentially your entire business. Protect your ovens, your shop, and your people: get a hood and duct maintenance contract and keep your insurance strong. Schedule a pizza insurance review with me today. I’ll walk through your fire risks while you walk me through your best slice.
Pizza delivery insurance
By Penny Hendrie September 8, 2025
Pizzeria Owners learn about Delivery Dilemmas: Employees vs. Third-Party Services — What Every Pizzeria Owner Needs to Know
By Penny Hendrie August 28, 2025
Running a pizzeria in New York isn’t just about perfecting your dough or making sure the pepperoni curls just right in the oven. It’s also about managing risks that can sneak up on you faster than a hungry teenager at lunchtime. One of the biggest risks I see all the time? Delivery drivers. The Delivery Reality If your pizzeria offers delivery (and let’s face it, most do), chances are you rely on one of two setups: 1. Employees using their own cars to make deliveries, or 2. Third-party delivery services like UberEats, Grubhub, or DoorDash. Here’s the kicker : in either case, you may still be on the hook if something goes wrong. The Employee’s Car Trap Let’s say Joey, your weekend delivery guy, uses his old Honda Civic to bring pizzas across town. If Joey causes an accident, guess what? - Joey’s personal auto insurance may exclude business use. - The injured party’s attorney is going to look for deep pockets — and that means your pizzeria. I’ve personally seen one New York shop end up with a $150,000 legal bill after a delivery accident because they didn’t have the right coverage. No slice of pizza is worth that kind of money. But I Use Third-Party Apps! Am I Safe? Not so fast. Many shop owners assume that using Grubhub or UberEats means they’re off the hook. Unfortunately: - Third-party contracts often contain indemnification clauses that can pull you back into the lawsuit. - If a driver causes harm while carrying your food, your name can still end up in the claim. - Courts in New York have shown a willingness to involve the restaurant, even when the driver is a contractor. Bottom line: If your name is on the pizza box, you could be on the lawsuit. The HNOA Safety Net Here’s what Hired & Non-Owned Auto Liability (HNOA) does for you: - Covers your business if an employee or contractor causes an accident while driving a vehicle you don’t own. - Helps pay for medical costs, legal fees, and damages. - Gives you peace of mind knowing one accident won’t sink your shop. And here’s the good news: most pizzerias can add HNOA coverage for just a few hundred dollars a year — less than the cost of one big catering order. Penny’s Pizzeria Insurance Pro Tip If delivery makes up more than 25% of your sales, talk to me about additional auto or umbrella coverage. In New York, claim costs can escalate quickly, and one bad accident can knock a family business out of the oven for good. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need this if I only deliver on weekends? Yes — even one accident could result in a lawsuit against your business. Frequency doesn’t reduce liability. What if my drivers sign a waiver saying they’re responsible? Waivers won’t protect you in court. Attorneys will still go after the business. Does my General Liability cover delivery accidents? No. GL covers injuries at your shop, not accidents out on the road. HNOA fills that gap. Final Slice Running a pizzeria in New York is already a juggling act: fire codes, health inspections, rising food costs… the list goes on. Don’t let delivery liability be the thing that burns your business. Hired & Non-Owned Auto Liability isn’t just a coverage — it’s your delivery insurance lifeline. Schedule a pizza insurance review with me today. I’ll bring the coverage advice — you bring the garlic knots. Here is my Calendly Link: calendly.com/penny-hendrie
By Karamarie Morton May 13, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
By Karamarie Morton May 9, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
By Karamarie Morton May 9, 2025
When it comes to protecting your biggest investment—your home—having the right insurance isn't just a good idea; it's essential. For homeowners in Plattsburgh, New York, the stakes are especially high. With increasingly severe weather patterns, rising rebuilding costs, and often overlooked coverage gaps, ensuring your policy meets your actual needs is more critical than ever. At Eastern Insuring Agency, we specialize in helping North Country homeowners find the best home insurance in Plattsburgh—tailored to your property, lifestyle, and risk factors. Here's why now is the time to review and potentially upgrade your homeowners insurance. 1. Lake-Effect Snow and Ice Storms: A Persistent North Country Risk While Plattsburgh doesn’t see lake-effect snow on the same scale as areas near the Great Lakes, Lake Champlain can still generate localized lake-effect snowstorms—especially when cold northerly winds are in play. These systems can bring sudden, heavy snowfall to specific neighborhoods while leaving nearby areas untouched. In addition to snow, ice storms are a major hazard in the region. Plattsburgh regularly experiences freezing rain and ice accumulation, which can: ✅ Weigh down tree limbs and power lines ✅ Create treacherous conditions for roofs and walkways ✅ Cause power outages lasting days ✅ Lead to ice damming that damages interior walls and ceilings Unfortunately, not all standard homeowners policies include adequate protection against these winter-specific threats, particularly water damage caused by ice dams or sump pump failure. At Eastern Insuring, we help you understand and fill these coverage gaps so you’re not left exposed when winter hits hard. 2. Rising Replacement Costs Are Leaving Homeowners Underinsured Between supply chain disruptions, inflation, and labor shortages, rebuilding costs in New York State have surged over 25% in the past few years. Yet, many homeowners haven’t updated their policy limits to reflect the current cost to rebuild. This means you might be underinsured—even if you’ve never changed your home. Ask yourself: ✅ Has your policy been reviewed in the last 2 years? ✅ Have you remodeled your kitchen or bathroom? ✅ Do you know your current “replacement cost” per square foot? At Eastern Insuring Agency, we conduct free annual home insurance reviews to ensure your coverage keeps up with market changes—so you won’t be blindsided after a disaster. 3. Common Coverage Gaps You Might Not Know About Many Plattsburgh homeowners are surprised to learn their policies don’t cover everything they assumed. Here are a few areas where we often spot gaps: ✅ Water backup & sump pump failure: This is not always standard but is critical for North Country basements. ✅ Detached structures (garages, sheds): Coverage limits may be too low. ✅ Personal property limits: Items like jewelry, art, and collectibles may need scheduled coverage. ✅ Service line protection: Underground utility lines can cost thousands to repair and are usually not covered without an endorsement. With Eastern Insuring Agency’s tailored approach, we walk you through these hidden gaps and help you fill them cost-effectively. 4. Real Estate Trends & Short-Term Rental Risks Plattsburgh’s housing market has seen a recent uptick in demand, driven by affordability and lifestyle appeal. With more homeowners renting out parts of their property via Airbnb or VRBO, standard home insurance may no longer be sufficient. Short-term rentals typically require a rider or commercial policy to cover liability and guest-related damages. If you’re planning to generate income through your home, we can help ensure you’re protected legally and financially. 5. Why Eastern Insuring Agency is the Local Choice for Peace of Mind At Eastern Insuring Agency, we’re not just insurance advisors—we’re part of the fabric of the communities we serve. We live, work, and play right here in Plattsburgh and across the North Country. From cheering at local high school games to navigating snowy sidewalks in winter, we understand what home truly means here. We know the unique challenges and joys that come with owning a home in this region—whether it’s prepping for the first snowfall, maintaining a camp by the lake, or making sure your furnace holds up through a March cold snap. We’ve lived those moments too. When you choose Eastern Insuring, you get: ✅ Friendly, local service from people who care about your neighborhood ✅ Access to top national and regional carriers, giving you flexibility and choice ✅ Smart, personalized guidance for finding the best homeowners insurance in Plattsburgh ✅ Ongoing support, including annual policy reviews and one-on-one consultations We’re here to help you protect what matters most—your home, your family, and your peace of mind—backed by people who genuinely understand your world. Ready for a Home Insurance Check-Up? Don’t wait until the next big wind, rain, snow or sleet storm to find out your policy comes up short. Contact Eastern Insuring Agency today to get started with a personalized homeowners insurance review. It's quick, it's free—and it could save you thousands. 📞 Call us at 1-800-698-1222 📧 Email: info@easterninsuring.com Your home deserves more than just standard coverage. With Eastern Insuring, you get protection designed for life in Plattsburgh, NY.
By Shauniece Prentiss April 22, 2025
When it comes to protecting your assets, your peace of mind, and even your future income, few policies offer more bang for your buck than a personal umbrella policy. Especially for residents of New York State—where property values, litigation costs, and personal liability risks are high—umbrella insurance is an essential yet often overlooked part of a sound insurance strategy. Let’s dive into what umbrella insurance really is, why it’s so affordable, and explore real claim stories that show just how valuable this coverage can be. What Is Umbrella Insurance? A personal umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability protection on top of your auto, homeowners, renters, or even boat insurance. It kicks in when your primary policy reaches its coverage limits. Example: Say your auto policy covers up to $300,000 in liability, but you're sued for $1 million. An umbrella policy can cover the remaining $700,000—preventing you from losing your home, investments, or future earnings. Real Case Studies: The Untold Stories Behind Big Claims Travelers Insurance has shared powerful real-life examples that illustrate the kinds of claims most people never think could happen to them. Here are just a few: 🧒 The Babysitter Incident A teenage babysitter left a 5-month-old unattended, resulting in a fall and severe brain injury. The court awarded the parents millions of dollars in damages. 🏊 The Backyard Pool Disaster An engineer dove into a friend’s above-ground pool, became a quadriplegic, and successfully sued for $5 million. The homeowner was held 60% responsible. 🚗 The Teen Driver Tragedy An 18-year-old son was driving his parent’s vehicle when he crashed. His girlfriend suffered long-term injuries. Both the auto and umbrella policy limits were used to cover the claim. 🔥 The Bonfire Explosion A beach bonfire party turned tragic when a propane tank exploded, injuring multiple guests. A multimillion-dollar claim was filed against the hosts. These are just a few of the ten sobering scenarios shared by Travelers that prove high-dollar liability risks don’t just happen to wealthy people—they happen to everyday families​ . Why New Yorkers Should Care In New York, lawsuits involving personal injury and property liability are common—and expensive. Medical bills, legal fees, and settlements can quickly exceed base policy limits. Whether you own a home in the Adirondacks, drive through Manhattan, or host a family barbecue in Buffalo, umbrella coverage is your shield against catastrophic financial loss. And don't forget: New York is a comparative negligence state, meaning you can be held partially responsible and still face substantial claims—even if you weren’t primarily at fault. Bundling Umbrella Insurance: Surprisingly Affordable One of the best-kept secrets in the insurance world? Umbrella insurance can often be bundled with your auto and home policies—sometimes costing as little as $150–$300 per year for $1 million in coverage. Carriers like Travelers and others often offer multi-policy discounts, which means your total premium increase may be negligible—or even offset by savings in your bundled package. In some cases, people add umbrella coverage and pay less overall because of the discount structure. Who Needs Umbrella Insurance? You don’t need to be a millionaire to be sued like one. Consider umbrella insurance if you: Own property or rent a home Drive a car, especially with teen drivers Host guests or parties Have a swimming pool, trampoline, or pets Engage in activities like volunteering, coaching, or social media posting Want to protect future earnings and retirement savings Final Thoughts: It's Not Just Extra—It's Essential Umbrella insurance isn’t just for the wealthy or paranoid—it’s for the practical and prepared. The minimal cost compared to the massive protection it offers makes it one of the best values in insurance today. With compelling stories from real claims, we see that the unexpected does happen. In New York State, where liability risks run high, umbrella coverage could be your financial life jacket. Talk to an Eastern Insuring Agency agent today to explore how umbrella coverage can be bundled into your insurance portfolio—and gain peace of mind for pennies a day. Want more resources or need help tailoring umbrella coverage for your lifestyle or New York property? Reach out—let’s make sure you're protected when it matters most. 🛡️
By Karamarie Morton March 26, 2025
Imagine this : You're hosting a casual backyard get-together. The fire pit is crackling, kids are laughing, and the night is going great. Then—BOOM. A discarded propane tank explodes in the bonfire. People are injured. Lawsuits follow. Your home insurance maxes out. What now? That’s where umbrella insurance comes in. Most people believe their auto or homeowners insurance is enough. But in today’s world, one accident, one lawsuit, or one online post can cost you millions. Once your base policy limits are exhausted, you're personally responsible for the rest. Here are real-life stories* that show exactly why umbrella insurance isn't just smart—it's essential. 👶 One Babysitter, One Life-Altering Mistake A teenage babysitter left a 5-month-old unattended in a walker. The infant toppled over and suffered severe brain damage. The parents were sued for millions. Could your homeowners policy cover that? Umbrella insurance can. 🏊 A Dive That Changed Everything A young engineer dove into a friend’s above-ground pool, struck his head, and became a quadriplegic. The homeowner was held 60% responsible. Total judgment: $5 million. Even a fun day at home can lead to life-altering lawsuits. 🚗 One Drive. One Crash. Lifelong Consequences. An 18-year-old crashed with his girlfriend in the car. She spent a month in the hospital, now walks with crutches, and has permanent injuries. Both the auto and umbrella policies were maxed out. Would your auto policy alone be enough? Probably not. 🧐 The Furnace That Nearly Killed a Friend A faulty furnace led to carbon monoxide poisoning. The guest claimed permanent brain damage and sued for $750,000. Something you didn't know was broken could cost you everything. 📱 The Online Comment That Cost $750K A student posted false remarks about her teacher online. The teacher sued the parents. The result? A $750,000 settlement. Yes—you can be sued for what your kids post online. 🏀 The Coach and the College Scholarship A teen athlete sued her coach for $700,000, claiming his training cost her a scholarship. Even unpaid volunteers can be held financially responsible. 🏡 Your Property. Your Problem. A concrete hillside installed before a home purchase collapsed onto a neighbor's property, knocking their home off its foundation. $970,000 in damages. You could be liable for things you didn’t even install. 🎯 Paintball and a $475K Injury A child removed her headgear while leaving a backyard paintball field and got hit in the eye. The injury led to a $475,000 claim. You followed the rules. It didn’t matter. 🔥 A Beach Bonfire Ends in a Courtroom At a casual beach party, a discarded propane tank thrown into the fire exploded. Multiple guests were injured. A multi-million-dollar lawsuit followed. You didn’t cause the explosion. You’re still responsible. 🎉 Teen Party, Real Consequences Teens brought alcohol to a house party. A guest drove drunk and crashed. The homeowners were held responsible, even though they didn’t supply the alcohol. In the court’s eyes, it happened on your property. That makes it your problem. ⛰️ Umbrella Insurance: The Safety Net You Didn’t Know You Needed Umbrella insurance provides $1 million or more in liability coverage that kicks in after your home, renters, or auto policy maxes out. It protects you from: - Bodily injury lawsuits - Property damage you’re liable for - Defamation, libel, and slander - Legal defense costs - And more 🚨 FAQs About Umbrella Coverage Q: Who needs umbrella insurance? A: Anyone with a home, a car, kids, savings, or a future to protect. Q: Is it expensive? A: Most policies cost less than $1 a day for $1 million in protection. Q: Does it cover legal fees? A: Yes—even if a lawsuit is groundless, your defense is covered. 📢 Don’t Wait for a Lawsuit to Learn the Hard Way Accidents happen fast. Lawsuits happen even faster. Umbrella insurance gives you financial breathing room when the unexpected happens. Let’s review your current coverage and see if umbrella protection is right for you. Request Your Free Umbrella Insurance Quote Today! 📅 #PeaceOfMind #UmbrellaInsurance #LiabilityProtection #RealStoriesRealCoverage *Case Studies provider by Travelers
By Karamarie Morton February 14, 2024
Decoding Life Insurance
More Posts