insurance agents in Yakima

Insurance FAQ



Why should I purchase underinsured motorist coverage?

Even though Washington State law requires drivers to have auto insurance, many drivers in our state have no insurance or have inadequate coverage to compensate injured persons or to cover property damaged in an accident.

Underinsured Motorists and car crashesUnderinsured Motorist Coverage insures you and your passengers for injuries caused by an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run motorist. This coverage also extends to you and members of your household injured by an uninsured or underinsured motorist as a pedestrian or when riding a bicycle. Underinsured Motorist Coverage can also be purchased to cover damage to your vehicle caused by an underinsured driver. For more information click here.

What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident?

  • Stay calm.
  • Move as far off the roadway as possible, but stay at the scene of the accident. Turn on hazard lights or use flares if necessary.
  • Make sure everyone is OK. Assist those who are injured.
  • Call the police to report the accident and ask for an ambulance if necessary.
  • Write down the make, model, and license plate numbers of other vehicles involved.
  • Write down the name, address, drivers license number, and insurance company of the other driver.
  • Write down the name and address of witnesses and injured persons.
  • Do not blame anyone or accept blame for the accident.
  • Contact your insurance agent to report the claim as soon as possible.
  • If the accident involves death or injury, report it to the police department immediately. Obtain a copy of the police report within 24 hours.

Download the When involved in a Car Accident Card [ PDF 114 KB]

Why do we need Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage when we have medical insurance to cover injuries?

You and your family members may have medical insurance, but that may not be true for all of the passengers riding in your vehicle. And, unlike medical insurance, PIP has no deductible and no coinsurance clause. PIP even includes a Loss of Income benefit in the event that you are injured and have to miss work. Also, injuries are paid promptly under PIP, which can prevent injured passengers from filing lawsuits. 


Does my comprehensive coverage have a deductible for rock chip repair?

Comprehensive insurance covers rock chip repairs with no deductible (your deductible is waived).


Why should I carry insurance on all of my vehicles?

Even though you drive one vehicle and leave the other one parked, it’s best to maintain coverage on all of the vehicles you own. You want to be able to switch cars whenever you need to, without having to call your agent to change your coverage each time. However, if you have a vehicle you drive only six months out of the year (such as a motor home or convertible), we recommend keeping comprehensive coverage on that vehicle during the months it stays parked. You will have to make sure and call your agent when you’re going to drive it again, however. It may help to tie a string around the steering wheel to remind yourself to call in and add the coverage you need.

If I can’t get to your office in Yakima, will you come to my location?

Yes, we will come to your location if needed.

Do you have local claims service?

The companies we represent, Pemco, Unigard, and Progressive, all have claims representatives in Yakima that also serve the surrounding region. 


What if I have a property claim like theft, vandalism, or a fire?

  • Make sure everyone is safe and prevent further damage.
  • Obtain the names and addresses of all witnesses.
  • If you have a theft claim, notify the appropriate authorities and obtain the report number. Make a list of what was stolen, including brand name; model number; age; purchase price; place of purchase; and cost to replace.
  • Photograph or video tape the scene if possible.
  • Preserve and protect your property to prevent further loss.
  • Call your Elliott Insurance agent at 248-7711 or 800-487-3369. If it is after business hours, and you need to contact someone immediately about your claim, you may call one of the following 24 hour claims service lines.


    If you are insured through Pemco, call 1-800-GO-PEMCO
    If you are insured through Unigard, call 1-800-777-0078
    If you are insured through Progressive, call 1-800-PROGRESSIVE

Elliott Insurance — The Insurance Makeover Headquarters for Yakima and Central Washington

 
insurance agents in Yakima