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Cloquet, MN 55720

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Winter Driving Hazards in the Cloquet, MN Area

Winter’s very much here in the Upper Midwest, and with the subfreezing temperatures and no shortage of frozen precipitation falling, it can certainly be a dicey season to take to the roads. Having the right auto insurance coverage is of paramount importance all year round, of course, but there’s no question winter brings some of the most hazardous driving conditions in the Cloquet area, so you definitely want to be adequately protected by your policy. That’s where we can help here at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC.

Winter Driving Hazards in the Cloquet, MN Area

We don’t have to tell you that Old Man Winter can be heavy-hitting in the Cloquet area. After all, the town lies on the southern fringe of the snowiest part of Minnesota: the far northeast, including the North Shore Highland. We see an average of just north of 70 inches of the white stuff every year. And, meanwhile, below-freezing average daily high temperatures are the norm December through February.

Winter driving hazards include the obvious traction nightmares of slippery snow and ice, including dreaded, near-invisible black ice as well as the glaze that freezing rain can produce. Thick-falling or even simply wind-blown snow can also bring visibility down to next to nothing, heightening the risk of collisions, getting stuck, or going off the road.

Winter Driving & Auto Insurance

From the bare-minimum liability insurance required by Minnesota state law to collision and comprehensive coverages, it’s important to protect yourself as fully as possible with a well-chosen auto insurance policy.

Remember, too, that a safe-driving record maximizes your probability of landing an optimal insurance policy. Be a cautious driver in wintertime, maintaining a greater stopping distance behind vehicles in front of you to account for the trickiness of icy, wet, or snow-covered road surfaces. Make sure your headlights are kept clear of snow to improve the visibility of your vehicle. And slow down when roads are slippery and/or snowfall is occurring.

Here at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, we’re proud to serve customers throughout the Cloquet, MN area with top-quality auto insurance. Get in touch with our team today to explore your options!

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Reasons Why You May Want to Acquire More Collision Insurance Coverage

A collision could result in serious damage to the body of your vehicle. Dent removal services and repainting services may be needed after an accident occurs. Consider how you may benefit from adding more collision insurance coverage to your automotive insurance policy. Learn more from the professionals at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, serving Cloquet, MN.

Driving Pattern Changes

If you change the route that you follow when you are driving, your chance of being involved in an accident may increase. If you drive more frequently, you are also at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Review the driving pattern changes that you experience. Consider how these changes could affect the amount of insurance coverage you need.

Towing and Carpooling

If you are using your vehicle to tow a trailer or to provide other people with transportation, you may be contemplating what you would incur if you were involved in an accident.

A collision that results in damage to towing essentials or an occupant’s belongings could result in extensive repairs being needed. Adding more collision coverage to your auto insurance policy will prevent you from being responsible for high costs.

Mechanical Repairs

It is a good idea to review the mechanical repair services that are needed if your vehicle is involved in a collision. During your review you can acquire estimates for dent removal, paint applications, and other common services that may be needed after a collision.

Agent Guidance from Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC

If you are ready to revise your automotive insurance policy, schedule a meeting with one of our agents who serve Cloquet MN. Let the agent know about your concerns. They will match you with collision insurance coverage that will protect you against a wide range of accidents that cause damage to your vehicle.

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How Auto Insurance Handles Accidents Involving Wildlife

Minnesota is abundant with wildlife, which is one of the many reasons why our state is so special. However, this also means drivers need to be extra cautious, as sharing the road in Minnesota often involves more than just other vehicles on the road. Deer, raccoons, and even the occasional wandering moose can suddenly appear in your path. Despite careful driving, accidents can happen. For many, the thought of colliding with wildlife is distressing, not only because of potential damage to the vehicle but also due to the emotional impact of harming an animal.

How Coverage Can Help

Most standard auto insurance policies distinguish between collision coverage and comprehensive coverage. Here’s the key: accidents involving wildlife almost always fall under comprehensive coverage. This means if you hit a deer, swerve to avoid a raccoon, or discover damage caused by a startled animal, comprehensive coverage typically applies. Understanding this distinction can make a significant difference when evaluating policy options through Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, serving Cloquet, MN.

Dealing with a Wildlife Accident

Accidents involving wildlife can be unsettling. Beyond repairing dents, broken headlights, or more severe damage, there’s the stress of being stranded on a quiet road or the emotional toll of harming an animal. Filing a claim can alleviate the financial burden, but knowing in advance that your policy is designed to cover such scenarios provides reassurance before you even begin your journey.

Having the right coverage, specifically comprehensive protection, ensures that when the unexpected happens, you and your family won’t be left to handle the burden alone. Auto insurance through Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, serving Cloquet, MN, is about more than just cars and numbers. In a state where wildlife is an integral part of daily life, it’s also about compassion, preparedness, and safeguarding the lifestyle we cherish. Contact us today to discover how we can assist you.

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Autumn Roads, Real Risks: What Cloquet Drivers Overlook

The Cloquet, MN, area is beautiful year-round, and as the leaves start to change colors, the scenery becomes truly breathtaking. While driving the roads during autumn can be enjoyable, it’s essential to be aware of the risks that come with the season. Don’t overlook the coverage you need—our agents at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC are here to help.

Accidents Happen Everywhere

Many people purchase auto insurance based on state minimum requirements, but this approach can leave you vulnerable. State minimum coverage often doesn’t account for all the accidents you might encounter on autumn roads.

For example, what happens if you’re involved in an accident where there’s no other driver to blame? You could face challenges like slippery roads from rain, a collision with a deer, or other seasonal hazards. Without the right coverage, you may be left paying out of pocket for damages.

Getting Coverage Where You Need It

In Minnesota, liability insurance is required by law, but it’s not enough to fully protect you. Don’t overlook additional coverage options that can make a significant difference.

Collision coverage protects you in situations where you collide with objects like trees, guardrails, or mailboxes. Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, covers incidents that occur when you’re not driving, such as hail damage or being hit in a parking lot. Understanding these options can help you develop a more effective policy.

Let an Agent Help You

It’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of Cloquet, MN, and assume nothing bad will happen on the road. However, accidents can happen anytime, and it’s crucial to ensure your policy provides the protection you need.

At Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, we’re dedicated to helping you create a policy you can depend on. Contact us today to let us identify potential gaps in your coverage and ensure you’re prepared for the risks of the road.

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Understanding the Surge: Why Minnesota Car Crashes Are on the Rise

Between 2023 and 2024, traffic accidents in Minnesota rose by 12%. They’re so frequent that nearly every day, a driver dies from a car crash. As of this writing, there are no signs of this trend slowing down. Residents of Cloquet, MN, need to understand the causes of these traffic accident spikes to help lower the rising rate. The Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC team has identified the most common reasons for the increase.

1. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is the number one cause of accidents in Minnesota. With today’s technology and lifestyle, it’s too easy to get distracted. Examples include:

  • Eating while driving
  • Wandering minds (concentrating on other thoughts)
  • Conversations between the driver, passengers, or the back seat riders
  • Using the GPS, radio, cell phone, handheld devices, or other electronic devices

2. Speeding

A close second is speeding. Driving over the speed limit gives you less time to react to incidents occurring ahead of you. Examples are black ice, oil spills, potholes, objects flying out of a truck, and a person turning left or right on a side road. The impact of your vehicle hitting another vehicle, object, or pedestrian is massive. The collision is powerful enough to total your vehicle, destroy objects, and cause pedestrian fatalities.

3. Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of medications, alcohol, or drugs is a solid reason for accidents in Cloquet, MN. Operating a vehicle in this state of mind means the medication, alcohol, or drugs are distracting you from obeying traffic rules and making sound decisions. You also cannot react to sudden road changes on time, causing massive accidents.

Other severe causes of Minnesota accidents are:

  • Failure to obey traffic laws
  • Tailgating ("riding someone’s bumper")
  • Winter weather (slushy, icy, and wet roads)
  • Limited visibility
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Not wearing a seatbelt

Auto insurance is there for you when you are in an auto accident. If you follow this list, auto insurance will not help you. Expect to pay more for poor road behavior and less for exemplary road behavior. Call Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC or visit our office for more information on safe driving habits.

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What is underinsured motorist, and do I need it?

Minnesota’s minimum auto insurance coverage required includes liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injuries. Additionally, you are expected to carry $10,000 of liability coverage for property damage. The state also mandates personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of $20,000 for replacing lost wages and $20,000 toward medical expenses, covering up to $40,000 per person in your vehicle in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Furthermore, Minnesota requires bodily injury coverage for all in-state insurance policies written for uninsured and underinsured motorists. Each driver must carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

At Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC in Cloquet, MN, our knowledgeable licensed insurance professionals will help you make the best decision concerning your auto insurance coverages that fit your unique needs and budget.

The Importance of Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Underinsured motorist coverage is essential for Minnesota drivers as it covers additional bodily injuries you or your passengers may incur if you are in an accident with someone with inadequate liability bodily injury coverage. For instance, if you are in an accident where the other driver is liable for your injuries and you have $50,000 in medical bills, but the driver at fault only carries the state minimum liability for bodily injuries on their auto policy, which is $30,000, your underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage would cover the remaining $20,000 toward your medical expenses.

Contact Us for More Information

At Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC in Cloquet, MN, we can help you select the best auto insurance coverage to protect you and your family. For more information about underinsured motorist coverage or any other auto insurance questions, call us at (218) 499-8636.

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Adequate Coverage Looks Different for Every Driver

The driving habits of individuals can significantly vary. Some barely venture beyond their hometown or city, while others drive intensively for their job. This results in a spectrum of coverage needs amongst drivers. However, driving distance is only one factor when assessing adequate coverage to secure you and your vehicle on the road. This comprehension is why drivers in and around Cloquet, MN, look to the professional and friendly agents at the Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC for all their auto insurance solutions.

Adequate Coverage Varies for Every Driver

If you seldom travel outside your city or town, it could be construed that you face fewer risks compared to other drivers. Conversely, the argument could be that familiar routes could lead to complacency, increasing the chances of accidents. On the other hand, if your job involves driving, the assumption is often that the likelihood of encountering an accident increases. Contrarily, there’s an argument that more experienced and ‘professional’ drivers are naturally safer.

What do these scenarios imply? Regardless of how frequently or where you drive, accidents can transpire. This underlines the importance of having adequate insurance, even though the coverage might differ from driver to driver. Hence, it’s crucial to collaborate with an agent who understands your driving needs and concerns.

Auto Insurance Solutions in Cloquet, MN

If you live in the Cloquet area and have queries or need insurance for your vehicle, we can assist. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment today for the insurance solutions and protection you need and deserve at the Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC.

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Which Auto Insurance Features Provide the Most Value?

If you are driving in Cloquet, MN, you definitely need auto insurance. This is true pretty much anywhere you go. However, with so many choices regarding your policy, it’s no wonder you question what coverage would benefit you the most. We at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency, LLC frequently encounter this question, so today, we’re providing you with a straightforward answer.

Liability

Undoubtedly, liability coverage offers the most value. As terrible and expensive as a car accident can be, being liable for the damages can be even more costly, particularly when medical expenses are involved.

Your car insurance can cover your liability against others and their liability failures toward you.

For example, what would occur if you encounter an accident that isn’t your fault and the other person has no insurance? You’re often left alone, but uninsured motorist coverage protects you. It covers you even when the at-fault party fails to meet its liability obligations.

This could cover medical expenditures and compensate for lost time at work, among other benefits.

Vehicle Protection

Vehicle repairs can be pricey, and vehicle protection assistance can help significantly alleviate those costs. For instance, most comprehensive policies cover windshield damage, making it surprisingly affordable to replace your windshield in case it gets damaged beyond repair.

And that’s just one example. There are numerous ways that vehicle protection covers can save you significant amounts of money if your vehicle gets damaged.

Emergency Services

Finally, let’s discuss emergency services. What happens if you run out of gas or your car breaks down during a road trip? It’s a stressful situation, but most insurers offer special options that cover such eventualities.

They can send someone to refuel or tow your car to a repair shop. While these features may not save you as much money as the previous covers, they offer peace of mind. Breakdowns are mentally exhausting, and these policy features provide a reliable source of help when things go wrong.

There are many other auto insurance options worth exploring. The optimal way to ensure you have the precise coverage you need is to converse with your representative at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC. We have been serving Cloquet, MN residents for years and look forward to serving you as well.

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Navigating Auto Insurance in Cloquet: What Every Minnesota Driver Needs to Know

Auto insurance is a significant and essential expense for residents of Cloquet, MN. At Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC, we deeply understand and specialize in this critical topic. Our team of seasoned experts is readily accessible to guide you through and help you understand the landscape of such insurance policies. We aim to equip you with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions for your future.

Gauging the Impact of Your Credit Score

It is critical to consider your credit score, as it plays a significant role in the auto insurance policy you can attain. Understanding the current state of your credit score is vital, as it directly impacts the types of insurance policies available to you. By keeping yourself informed about your credit score, you’ll be better prepared, avoiding unforeseen surprises down the line.

The Implication of Safe Driving

Safety while driving is fundamental for obvious reasons and also contributes significantly to the probability of securing a comprehensive auto insurance policy. The safer the driver, the broader the range of options available. Conversely, a history of moving violations reduces the possibility of finding a policy that meets all your requirements.

Advantages of Anti-Theft Systems

Installing an anti-theft system in your vehicle can significantly impact your relationship with your insurance provider. Insurance companies favor those who take precautions, such as installing anti-theft systems. Opting for a vehicle equipped with these security measures from the outset is another viable option with numerous benefits.

Residents of Cloquet, MN, who wish to learn more about auto insurance policies can contact Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC. We’re here to alleviate your concerns and help you select the insurance policy that suits you best.

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Can I get non-owner insurance in Minnesota, and how does it work?

Auto insurance aims to protect us from the financial losses associated with an auto accident and injury. So, having adequate coverage is of the utmost importance.  Our agents at Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC in Cloquet, MN have the experience and industry knowledge to help you find the best coverage to fit your unique situation.   

In Minnesota, the state requires drivers to have a minimum of the following coverages:

  • Liability (Bodily Injury) – $30,000 per person or $60,000 per accident to cover the driver and/or passengers in the other vehicle if you are found liable for the accident.
  • Liability (Property Damage) – $10,000 per accident to cover repairs to the other driver’s vehicle if you’re responsible for the accident.
  • Uninsured Motorist – $25,000 per person or $50,000 per accident to cover medical expenses for you and passengers involved in a hit-and-run accident, or the other driver has no insurance.
  • Underinsured Motorist – $25,000 per person or $50,000 per accident.  This is to cover medical costs for you and any passengers if the liable party causing the accident has inadequate medical coverage to pay for your medical expenses associated with the wreck.  
  • (PIP) Personal Injury Protection – $40,000.  Regardless of who’s at fault for an accident, PIP coverage covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers injured in an accident. 

How Does a Non-Owner Policy Work?

What if you don’t own a vehicle? In Minnesota, you can still find liability coverage to protect you financially when borrowing a car or driving a rental. It’s called a non-owner policy.  Suppose you don’t personally own a vehicle. In that case, this policy can still give you liability coverage for bodily injuries and property damage. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer any coverage for your personal injuries or damage to the car you’re driving.

We Are Here To Help

A non-owner policy shows excellent responsibility and character when borrowing someone else’s automobile.  For more information, contact us at the Brittany Olson Insurance Agency LLC in Cloquet, MN, for more about a non-owner policy and other great options.

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Partner Carriers

  • Allstate
  • American Modern
  • Bristol West
  • Dairyland
  • Eagle Point Mutual
  • Foremost
  • Geico
  • Grinnell Mutual
  • Hagerty
  • JC Taylor
  • Mid Minnesota Mutual
  • National General
  • Nationwide
  • Philadelphia
  • Progressive
  • Ram Mutual
  • Safeco
  • SFM
  • Travelers
  • Universal Property and Casualty
  • Woodland Mutual