Top Insurance Mistakes We See in Crown Point, Indiana

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Top Insurance Mistakes We See in Crown Point, Indiana

Crown Point is a great place to live and do business—but over the years, we’ve noticed many homeowners, drivers, and business owners making costly insurance mistakes without realizing it.

As a local independent insurance agency serving Crown Point and Northwest Indiana, here are the most common insurance mistakes we see, why they matter, and how you can avoid them.

1️⃣ Choosing Price Over Coverage

Everyone wants to save money—but focusing only on the lowest premium often leads to gaps in coverage.

Common issues we see:

  • High deductibles clients can’t afford

  • Missing coverages like uninsured motorist or sewer backup

  • Policies that don’t match real-life risks

👉 Cheaper insurance can end up costing far more after a claim.

2️⃣ Being Underinsured on Home Value

With rising construction costs in Lake County, many Crown Point homes are insured for less than it would cost to rebuild.

This happens when:

  • Home values aren’t updated

  • Renovations aren’t reported

  • Replacement cost vs. market value is misunderstood

🔥 If your home is underinsured, you may have to pay out-of-pocket after a major loss.

3️⃣ Skipping Flood or Sewer Backup Coverage

Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners’ insurance—and sewer backup coverage is usually optional.

In Crown Point, we see:

  • Basement flooding from heavy rain

  • Sewer and drain backups

  • Water damage claims denied due to missing coverage

💡 A small add-on now can save tens of thousands later.

4️⃣ Not Updating Policies After Life Changes

Life moves fast—and insurance doesn’t update itself.

We often see forgotten updates after:

  • Buying a new car

  • Adding a teen driver

  • Getting married or divorced

  • Starting a home-based business

📌 Outdated policies = denied claims or incorrect coverage.

5️⃣ Carrying State-Minimum Auto Coverage

Indiana’s minimum auto insurance limits are often not enough to protect you financially.

If you cause a serious accident:

  • Medical bills can exceed limits quickly

  • You could be personally sued

  • Your savings and assets may be at risk

🛡️ Higher liability limits and umbrella coverage offer real protection.

6️⃣ Not Having Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance is one of the most affordable ways to protect your assets, yet many Crown Point residents don’t carry it.

It provides:

  • Extra liability protection

  • Coverage beyond auto & home limits

  • Peace of mind for families and business owners

💰 Often costs less than $1/day.

7️⃣ Business Owners Using Personal Policies

We regularly see Crown Point business owners relying on personal auto or home policies for business activities.

⚠️ This can lead to:

  • Claim denials

  • No liability protection

  • Major financial exposure

Even small businesses need proper commercial coverage.

8️⃣ Never Reviewing Insurance Policies

Insurance should be reviewed at least once a year, yet many people haven’t looked at their policy in 5–10 years.

Rates change.
Coverage changes.
Your life changes.

🔍 Annual reviews often uncover:

  • Missing discounts

  • Better coverage options

  • Overlapping or unnecessary coverage

9️⃣ Buying Insurance Online Without Advice

Online insurance can be convenient—but it doesn’t explain:

  • What’s excluded

  • Where coverage gaps exist

  • How claims actually work

🤝 A local independent agent helps you understand what you’re buying, not just what you’re paying.

✅ How to Avoid These Mistakes

The best solution is simple:

  • Work with a local independent insurance agent

  • Review coverage annually

  • Ask questions before—not after—a claim

You can experience being a part of and full-serviced independent Insurance Agency today! Simply contact Briggs Agency Inc, if you are interested in an insurance review at 219-769-4840 or visit our website at www.BriggsAgency.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Blog post written by: Zachary Pelke