What Livestock on the Road Means for Iowa Umbrella Insurance

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One of your cows manages to scramble over the cattle guard and get loose onto a gravel road one evening. Then a driver comes along going 55 mph. If you raise livestock in Iowa, you’ve probably had nightmares about this exact scenario. Maybe you’ve even lived it.

But what happens legally after a car collides with one of your cattle isn’t usually what people expect. Umbrella insurance can help bridge those gaps.

Iowa’s Fence Law Was Repealed in 1994

In the past, Iowa had a law requiring livestock owners to fence in their animals, but the legislature repealed it more than three decades ago. Now, common law governs the standard, specifically "ordinary care," meaning the same level of care a reasonably careful farmer would use under similar circumstances.

In other words, just because an animal is standing in the middle of the road doesn’t automatically mean its owner was negligent.

The Driver Has to Prove You Were Careless

In a case that reached the Iowa Supreme Court, a truck collided with a cow that had wandered onto Interstate 80. The injured driver couldn’t prove the owner’s fence had a defect or that a gate had been left unlatched, and the court ultimately sided with the cattle owner, dismissing the negligence claim.

If there had been documentation or witnesses establishing a history of cattle escaping that rancher’s property, the case likely would have gone to a jury. That’s exactly why umbrella insurance is worth having.

Umbrella Insurance Adds an Extra Layer of Protection Over an Iowa Farm Policy

You already have an auto policy and a farm liability policy, both with their own coverage limits. Umbrella insurance sits above those policies and can extend the liability limits of both.

When a high-speed vehicle collides with a 2,000-pound animal, the resulting claim can quickly reach the limits of your other policies. That’s why the team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. talks with clients who raise cattle or hogs about umbrella insurance.

Be Sure You Know Where Your Limits Stop

Accidents are impossible to predict, but you can control how far your insurance protection extends when an attorney shows up and starts photographing your fence line.

Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can review your policy with you and ensure your umbrella insurance is up to the challenge.

Farm Trucks and Auto Insurance Gaps

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Many trucks in Eldora, IA work harder than vehicles in most other places. During the week, they are used to haul feed, grain, and other farm-related materials. On weekends, they often double as family vehicles for errands, shopping trips, and school activities. This overlap between farm and personal use can create unexpected gaps in auto insurance coverage.

When a Farm Truck Becomes a Personal Vehicle

A truck registered for farm use in Iowa may carry different coverage than one used strictly for personal driving. It is common for farm owners to use these vehicles for non-farm errands, but doing so can create complications if the insurance policy is not structured correctly.

Farm auto insurance policies are typically designed to cover vehicles during farming operations. If an accident occurs while the vehicle is being used for personal reasons, your provider may question or even deny the claim, depending on how the policy is written.

Iowa Auto Insurance Requirements and Limitations

Iowa law requires drivers to carry minimum liability limits of 20/40/15. This includes:

  • $20,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $40,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $15,000 for property damage

While these limits cover damage and injuries you cause to others, they do not protect your own vehicle. Additionally, if your truck is insured under a farm policy, liability coverage may not apply when the vehicle is used outside of farm operations.

This is a common issue that many drivers do not realize until it is too late. A trip to the grocery store or to a school event may fall outside the policy’s intended use.

Why the Right Coverage Matters on Hardin County Roads

Roads throughout Hardin County see a steady mix of farm equipment, heavy trucks, and personal vehicles, especially during planting and harvest seasons. Major routes like Highway 175 and connecting county roads experience consistent traffic from both agricultural and everyday drivers.

If your truck shifts between hauling grain during the week and transporting your family on the weekend, your insurance policy must account for both uses. Without the proper coverage, you could face costly gaps in protection if an accident occurs.

Work with a Local Insurance Agent Who Understands Eldora, IA

In communities where agriculture plays a central role, the line between farm and personal vehicle use can quickly become blurred. It is important to review your auto insurance policy to ensure it reflects how your vehicle is actually used.

An agent at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can help evaluate your current coverage and identify any potential gaps. With the right policy in place, you can drive with confidence knowing you are protected in both farm and personal situations.

Am I Obligated to Use Employer-Provided Health Insurance?

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If your employer has recently offered health insurance as a workplace benefit, you may be deciding whether enrolling is the right choice for you. While employer-sponsored health insurance is often convenient and affordable, some employees wonder if they are required to accept it or if alternative options might be a better fit. Understanding your rights and choices can help you make a confident decision. Below, we explain whether you must take employer-provided health insurance and how Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa can simplify your search for coverage.

Are You Required to Accept Employer-Provided Health Insurance?

In most cases, you are not legally required to enroll in the health insurance plan offered by your employer. You are free to explore other options, such as purchasing an individual health insurance plan, enrolling in a spouse’s or partner’s plan, or qualifying for Medicaid if eligible. However, declining employer-sponsored coverage is a decision that should be made carefully.

Employer-provided health insurance is often more affordable because employers typically contribute toward premiums, and employees may benefit from tax advantages. If you choose private insurance instead, you may pay higher premiums and lose access to certain subsidies or tax credits, depending on your income and eligibility. It is also important to consider job stability, future healthcare needs, and whether alternative plans provide comparable coverage at a reasonable cost.

Explore Your Health Insurance Options With Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc.

Choosing the right health insurance plan can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate the process alone. Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. in Iowa is here to help you compare options, understand your coverage choices, and select a plan that fits your needs and budget. Whether you are considering employer-sponsored insurance or exploring individual coverage, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.

Does Home Insurance Cover an Accidental Kitchen Fire?

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Whether you are an experienced home cook or still learning your way around the kitchen, fires can happen more easily than many homeowners expect. A grease flare-up or an overheated appliance can quickly cause damage. Understanding how kitchen fires are handled under your homeowners’ insurance policy can help you feel more prepared if you ever need to file a claim.

At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., we help homeowners understand what their policies may cover and what to expect if a kitchen fire occurs.

Does Home Insurance Cover Kitchen Fires?

In most cases, homeowners’ insurance does cover kitchen fires. This typically includes damage caused by cooking accidents and certain electrical fires. For example, if a grease fire causes smoke or heat damage to cabinets, walls, or backsplashes, your policy may help pay for repairs after you meet your deductible.

Electrical fires may also be covered. If an overloaded outlet or faulty wiring damages appliances, walls, or nearby fixtures, homeowners’ insurance may help cover those losses, depending on the cause and your specific policy terms.

Understanding the Details of Your Policy

Home insurance policies can be lengthy and detailed, especially because they are designed to address a wide range of risks. However, not every situation is clearly spelled out. Coverage often depends on whether the fire was sudden and accidental or the result of neglect or improper maintenance.

For example, unusual scenarios or accidents may require a closer review of your policy language and exclusions. When fire damage extends beyond the kitchen and affects other parts of the home, understanding your coverage becomes even more important.

If you have questions about how your homeowners’ insurance handles kitchen fires or other types of damage, contact Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. Our team helps homeowners throughout Iowa review their coverage, understand their policies, and get answers when unexpected situations arise.

Umbrella Insurance Protects Business Owners

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As a business owner, you put significant time and energy into building your company. The last thing you want is for an unexpected liability claim to threaten the work you have done. Umbrella insurance can provide an added layer of protection when your standard liability policies reach their limits.

At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., we offer several coverage options designed to protect your business. If you are exploring umbrella insurance in Iowa, our team can help you understand which level of coverage may be right for your situation.

Why Businesses Benefit from Umbrella Liability Coverage

Commercial umbrella insurance adds extra liability protection on top of your existing commercial liability policies. When a claim exceeds the limits of your primary coverage, an umbrella policy can help cover additional legal fees, settlements, or judgments. This added protection can be crucial during complex or high-cost claims.

Businesses often choose umbrella coverage for several reasons:

  • Broader protection: Extends liability coverage for a wider range of risks, including bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury.
  • Higher limits: Provides a larger financial cushion, helping protect your business from major or unexpected claims.
  • Coverage for gaps: Helps address situations where underlying policies may not provide sufficient protection, such as certain lawsuits or accident-related claims.

Because liability risks vary from one business to another, choosing the right umbrella policy requires understanding your operations and potential exposures. Working with experienced insurance professionals ensures your coverage aligns with your needs.

At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., we are committed to helping Iowa business owners protect their companies with the proper level of coverage. Contact us today for a quote and learn how umbrella insurance can strengthen your overall protection plan.

Do You Need Auto Insurance For Broken Down Cars?

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Having auto insurance on a car that is broken down may seem unnecessary. If the vehicle is not drivable, it may feel like there is no risk of an accident. However, Iowa has specific requirements that determine whether you must maintain insurance coverage. Understanding these laws can help you avoid costly penalties and protect yourself financially.

Iowa State Regulations

In Iowa, you are required to maintain auto insurance on any vehicle that remains registered in your name, even if you are not driving it. The only legal way to let coverage lapse is to unregister the vehicle. This process includes surrendering the license plates and title, which means you will no longer legally own the car.

What Happens If You Get Caught?

Allowing a policy to lapse on a registered vehicle can lead to significant consequences. You will be financially responsible for any damage to the car, including damage caused by natural disasters such as tornadoes. Additionally, you may face fines, a suspended driver’s license, or other penalties.

In some cases, your vehicle may be impounded, or you may be required to surrender the registration until you can provide proof of insurance. Drivers who let their coverage lapse may also be classified as high-risk and required to carry SR-22 insurance, which is more expensive.

Gaps in coverage can also lead to higher premiums in the future, as insurers often charge more for drivers without continuous coverage. The better option is to work with a knowledgeable agency like Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc.

The team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can help you adjust your coverage to the minimum required levels while ensuring you remain compliant with Iowa state law. Contact us today to discuss your situation. We proudly serve drivers throughout Iowa.

Does a Copay Go Toward Your Deductible?

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It’s normal to think that a copay at the doctor’s office goes towards your deductible. Unfortunately, most health insurance policies do not count your copay toward your deductible. At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, we understand how confusing health insurance copays and deductibles can be. Here’s a look at how copays work, and how we can help you get a health insurance policy that fits your needs.

What Is a Copay?

A copay is a payment you make at your doctor’s office at the time of your visit. It’s similar to a deductible because you’re sharing part of the cost, and insurance covers the rest. However, your copay may or may not apply towards your deductible.

Why a Copay Won’t Count Toward Your Deductible

The type of health insurance you have dictates how your copay affects your deductible. Your plan may have copays for services that aren’t included in the deductible. For example, a routine health checkup isn’t included in the deductible. That means you still have to pay the copay even if you’ve met the deductible for the year.

Can a Copay Ever Be Applied to the Deductible?

Some health insurance polices allow you to apply your copay towards the deductible, but this isn’t guaranteed. You need to check your policy to find out if copays are credited or not. 

Contact Us To Learn More About Copays for Health Insurance

At Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving IA, we’re here to help you explore your options for health insurance copays and deductibles. We work with you to find a policy that makes sense for your healthcare needs. Our team of insurance agents understand what people face when it comes to finding a health insurance policy, and we use our knowledge to get you the right amount of coverage.

Exploring the Options: Can You Get a Second Health Insurance Plan?

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Through an employer, the state government, or the private route, many Iowa residents have health insurance coverage. The thought of having two health insurance policies never crossed your mind because you assumed having two policies was wrong or illegal. The team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. will reveal that having two health plans is not unlawful. What we prefer to discuss in detail is whether you would want to have two policies at all.

If You Already Have a Health Insurance Policy, Can You Secure a Second One?

Yes. Having two health insurance plans may reduce out-of-pocket costs, expand your network of providers, and increase insurance benefits. When the first one exhausts its resources, the second one may go into effect to cover copays, deductibles, coinsurance, and other outstanding expenses that the first one cannot. Having two health plans may also be beneficial when one of them concludes, if the remaining plan takes over coverage.

How Does This Work? 

All insurance policies in Iowa have a COB (coordination of benefits) to prevent double-billing or benefit redundancy for the same issue. Your carriers and the Iowa Insurance Code have the final say in who goes first. Some scenarios are:

  • Employer or private health insurance coverage where you are a dependent is secondary coverage to insurance where your name is first.
  • Policies with out-of-network coverage are primary to in-network insurance providers when you choose an out-of-network healthcare provider.
  • Most of the time, government health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, COBRA, etc.) is secondary to employer health insurance.
  • The plan that covered you the longest is the primary plan, and the plan with the shorter duration is the secondary plan.

How it works for your situation depends on the types of insurance you have. Our team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. will review your plans and Iowa state law to determine the primary provider. The primary provider does not change unless you cancel the policy or let it expire.

The best second health insurance policies fill the gaps that the first one cannot. Therefore, our team will review your health insurance policy and suggest carrier plans that will complement the first policy without redundancy. Contact us for more information.

Things You May Not Be Aware Aren’t Covered by Home Insurance

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Home insurance provides peace of mind. It is comforting to know that your major investment is being protected. That protection is not, however, complete. There are some things that home insurance excludes from coverage. In Iowa, our dedicated team at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. is here to help make sure you know exactly what your home insurance covers and what it doesn’t. 

Flooding

Floods cause more damage in the US than any other natural disaster and, perhaps surprisingly, they are not covered by your home insurance policy. The good news is that flood insurance is offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you live in an area prone to floods, it is a worthwhile investment.  

Earth Movement

Earthquakes, sinkholes, mud and landslides are also all excluded from your home insurance policy. Again, you can purchase an additional insurance policy to cover these risks. 

Owner Neglect

Owner neglect is not quite as straightforward. Your insurance company expects you to maintain your home in good repair. What exactly does that mean? Is a little peeling pain considered owner neglect? It could be. Your insurer decides what you need to do to maintain your home.

Basically, if your roof needs to be replaced, you need to replace it, and if there is damage to your home due to a faulty roof, it likely will not be covered unless that roof was damaged by weather recently. If you have termites, the damage is your responsibility, since you should get your home treated if you live in an area where termites are present. 

Sewer Backup

Unlike flooding caused by a storm, sewer backups are caused by the obstruction or malfunction of pipes in your home. Sewer backup is ugly and not covered unless you add an endorsement for it. 

If you live in Iowa, our independent insurance agents at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. can help you to get the most from your home insurance. Give our office a call or reach out through our website. 

Can You Combine Umbrella Insurance and Life Insurance?

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Many different types of insurance policies intersect, and it’s natural to wonder whether you can use a policy in conjunction with another for additional coverage. For example, could you take out an umbrella insurance policy alongside your life insurance policy? If so, what might that look like, and how might it work? Here’s what you need to know about combining umbrella insurance with life insurance and whether it’s possible. Start your journey with us at Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, now!

Is It Possible to Combine Umbrella Insurance and Life Insurance?

The goal of life insurance is to ensure your family has a sizable death benefit they can rely on if you pass unexpectedly. The prospect of growing that death benefit is something that most people would jump at if they had the opportunity. Since personal umbrella insurance provides added coverage across multiple policies, you might assume it also increases your overall death benefit. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. One covers your liability exposure, and the other covers your life. Umbrella insurance policies are designed to complement policies like auto and home insurance, providing you with extra liability coverage if one of the primary policy limits is exceeded. Basic life insurance, on the other hand, only offers coverage for death, not liability, and offers a death benefit to the insured’s family or beneficiary. You can’t add umbrella insurance to increase your death benefit, no matter how enticing that sounds. Make sure you’re pairing your umbrella insurance policy with compatible insurance, not with insurance that it won’t enhance, such as life insurance.

Get Life Insurance With Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc.

Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, is here to help you acquire an umbrella policy that works seamlessly with your liability protection. We work with you to find and compare quotes so that all you have to do is choose the policy that works best for you. Compare quotes with us now to get started!