Insurance Blog | Paragon Independent Insurance Agencies

What’s the Difference Between Comprehensive and Collision Insurance?

Posted on January 15, 2026January 2, 2026 by AgentInsure

If you drive a car, then you need to have auto insurance. There are many types of insurance to consider for your vehicle. Many people have questions about the types of car insurance that are available. This is why they turn to Paragon Independent Insurance Agency servicing Plano, TX.

Our insurance professionals are happy to answer your questions about car insurance. Having the answers to your questions, like what’s the difference between comprehensive and collision auto insurance, can help you choose the best policy for your vehicle.

What Is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Comprehensive auto insurance is a type of auto insurance that covers non-collision events. For example, a comprehensive policy may cover car theft, vandalism, or fire. If you have a comprehensive policy and your vehicle is damaged or destroyed in a covered non-collision event, then your insurance policy should pay to repair or replace your vehicle (minus the cost of the deductible).

What Is Collision Auto Insurance?

Collision auto insurance is a type of insurance that pays to repair or replace your vehicle if it is damaged in a collision — regardless of fault. This means that even if you cause the accident, your insurance can help pay for repairs (minus to cost of the deductible).

Which Type of Auto Insurance Is Best For You?

Some people seek collision auto insurance because they drive a lot on heavily trafficked roads. Other people seek comprehensive auto insurance because they live in an area where their car is more likely to be damaged in a non-collision event (like wildfire or theft). Your insurance agent can help you choose a type of insurance that would best suit your needs.

Contact Us To Get Started With Auto Insurance

If you need auto insurance, the professionals at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, servicing Plano, TX, can help. Call today to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable insurance professionals.

Understanding Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value for Homeowners

Posted on December 31, 2025December 4, 2025 by AgentInsure

Choosing the right homeowners insurance coverage involves many decisions, but one of the most important is understanding how your insurance company will pay for damaged or stolen items. The difference between replacement cost and actual cash value coverage can significantly impact your out-of-pocket expenses after a claim. At the Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX, we help homeowners understand these coverage options to make informed decisions.

What Is Actual Cash Value Coverage?

Actual cash value (ACV) coverage pays you the current market value of your damaged items, minus depreciation. For example, if your five-year-old laptop gets damaged in a covered incident, the insurance company calculates what that used laptop would be worth today, not what you originally paid for it. This means you’ll receive less money than it costs to buy a new replacement, leaving you to cover the difference out of pocket.

How Replacement Cost Coverage Works

Replacement cost coverage pays the full amount needed to replace your damaged items with new ones of similar quality, regardless of age or depreciation. Using the same laptop example, you’d receive enough money to purchase a new laptop with comparable features. While replacement cost coverage typically costs more in premiums, it provides better financial protection when you need to file a claim.

Making the Right Choice for Your Situation

Consider your budget, the age of your belongings, and your financial ability to handle unexpected expenses when choosing between these options. Most financial experts recommend replacement cost coverage for better peace of mind, especially for expensive items like electronics and appliances.

Understanding these coverage types helps you make smarter insurance decisions. Contact the Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX, to review your home policy and ensure you have protection that fits your needs.

Can an Umbrella Be Added to an Auto Policy?

Posted on December 15, 2025November 25, 2025 by AgentInsure

Whether you commute to work daily, enjoy long road trips, or just use your vehicle to run errands, optimizing your protection is key to preventing unexpected financial losses. If you already carry auto insurance, you may be wondering if you can add umbrella insurance to your existing policy in Plano, TX. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we’ll work with you to find the right combination of policies so you’ll remain protected on the road.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance adds a layer of protection beyond the limits of a standard auto insurance policy. If you’re in a major accident and your auto policy’s liability coverage is maxed out, an umbrella policy can add protection and security. It can cover:

Serious or life-threatening multivehicle accidents
High medical bills
Property damage involving assets
Lawsuits, attorney fees, and court-awarded damages

Who Umbrella Policies Are Recommended For

An umbrella insurance policy is ideal for those who:

Own multiple vehicles
Have teenager drivers in the home
Drive frequently or use their vehicles commercially for business operations (Note that this requires a commercial auto policy.)
Have significant assets that are personal or associated with their business
Want peace of mind for a low cost

Working with the right agency can help provide a sense of security and peace of mind when you need it most. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we help our clients find the right coverage for their lifestyle and demands. To learn more about umbrella insurance to raise the limits on your existing auto policy in Plano, TX, contact us.

Do Freelance Workers Need Commercial Insurance?

Posted on November 28, 2025November 6, 2025 by AgentInsure

The gig industry continues to dominate as more people find ways to turn side hustles into serious income streams. However, some freelancers in Pano, TX, may need commercial insurance to make sure their assets are covered. It turns out, there are a few things that can help you determine whether you need business insurance.

Liability Protection

Freelancers can be anything from writers to accountants. Some people do freelance legal work or do electrical work on the side. Whether you need liability protection depends on your line of work. Those in service industries, such as plumbers and electricians, should invest in liability protection in case a customer’s property is damaged. So should lawyers, accountants, etc.

Auto Insurance

There are several types of commercial insurance policies. People who use their vehicles for business need commercial auto insurance. This includes if you do freelance work as a plumber or electrician and use your personal car to drive to jobs or give estimates. An agent at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency can help you learn more.

Property Coverage

Most freelancers don’t have a brick-and-mortar store. But if you do, you need property insurance in case something happens to your business. You should also consider this policy if you have a home-based business and your home insurance doesn’t provide enough coverage for your business assets, such as tools or electronics.

Being a freelancer can help you enjoy the freedom of being self-employed, or it can be the ultimate side hustle. The types of insurance you need depend on your scope of work. A professional at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency will listen to your situation to help you find the right coverage. Contact us to learn more. We’re currently serving the Plano, TX, area.

Preparing Your Home and Family for an Emergency

Posted on November 14, 2025November 6, 2025 by AgentInsure

If you live in or near Plano, TX, Paragon Independent Insurance Agency works with highly rated insurance companies to provide you with as many choices as possible. As an independent insurance agency, we can offer you more options to help make sure you have the best home insurance for your needs.

What Emergencies Can Happen in Texas?

The same things that make Texas such a great place to live, also make it prone to emergencies. Southeast Texas borders the Gulf of Mexico. It is prone to hurricanes and the flooding that comes with them. Tornadoes and wildfires are also emergencies that happen in Texas, as well as ice storms. Knowing what to do and being prepared can save your life and that of your family.

Preparing Your Home

You should have a supply of nonperishable food if you don’t have a generator. You also need a good supply of bottled water. If you are looking at flooding, sandbags placed in front of your doors can help. Have a supply of batteries and lanterns so that you don’t have to live in darkness. A generator can be a lifesaver. If wildfires are in the area, wet down your house and keep vegetation as far away as possible in your landscaping.

Preparing Your Family

Have a planned escape route. Know where in the home you need to be and what route you are going to take if you need to evacuate. In the event of a tornado, know which room is the safest or have a storm shelter.

Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX, is here to help you get the right home insurance for your biggest investment. Call or email us. We look forward to hearing from you.

What Type of Insurance Should I Consider for My Food Truck Business?

Posted on October 30, 2025October 8, 2025 by AgentInsure

If you own or plan to start a commercial food truck business in Plano, TX, it’s essential to have the right insurance coverage. Whether your business operates from a designated location or is mobile, ensuring compliance with state requirements is crucial. By contacting the experienced agents at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we’ll help you secure the coverage necessary to operate your business confidently.

Texas Requirements for Food Trucks

Food truck businesses in Plano, TX, are required to carry general liability insurance and commercial auto insurance. Additionally, owners may need coverage for product liability and commercial property. Texas also mandates specific insurance requirements based on the weight of the food truck. If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance may also be necessary to provide protection.

Types of Food Truck Insurance

Commercial Auto Insurance

Standard auto insurance does not cover commercial vehicles, making commercial auto insurance essential for food truck businesses. This coverage includes property damage to other vehicles, bodily injuries resulting from accidents, and damage to your food truck.

Commercial Property Insurance

Commercial property insurance protects your food truck, tools, and equipment, whether you own them outright or rent them. This coverage ensures your business assets are safeguarded against unexpected events.

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance provides protection in the event of an accident involving a customer at your food truck. It covers claims for bodily injury, property damage, and other liabilities that may arise.

Product Liability Insurance

Product liability insurance is designed to protect your business in case the food or beverages you serve cause injuries or illnesses to customers.

Contact Us

Reach out to our team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency to ensure you have the coverage necessary to protect your business, customers, and assets. We’re here to help you navigate your insurance needs with confidence.

When to Reevaluate Your Auto Insurance Policy (and How Often)

Posted on October 15, 2025October 8, 2025 by AgentInsure

Life events can happen quickly, and your circumstances may change more often than you realize. Whether it’s starting a new job, relocating for work, or expanding your family and needing a new vehicle, these changes can impact your insurance needs. Many drivers in Plano, TX, keep the same coverage for years without considering how their needs may have evolved. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we recommend reviewing your policy regularly to ensure you’re receiving the best protection and value.

Major Life Changes Call for a Review

Significant life events are an excellent opportunity to reevaluate your auto insurance. Examples include purchasing a new vehicle, adding a teen driver to your policy, or moving to a new area. These situations may require adjustments to your coverage. Even changes in how much you drive can make a difference. That’s why it’s important to review your policy at least once a year to ensure it aligns with your current needs.

Annual Policy Checkups

Experts recommend conducting a thorough review of your auto insurance coverage annually. Drivers in Plano, TX, can benefit from meeting with an agent at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency to discuss updates or improvements that provide strong protection while accommodating life changes. Asking questions and staying informed about your policy is encouraged. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel knowing you’re adequately protected.

Stay Protected with the Right Coverage

Insurance isn’t a “set it and forget it” purchase. Regularly evaluating your policy ensures you’re not underinsured. The team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency makes it simple to adjust your coverage as your life evolves. Contact us today to review your current policy or request a quote.

Can You Get Auto Insurance If You Don’t Own a Car?

Posted on September 30, 2025September 9, 2025 by AgentInsure

It might seem unusual at first, but yes, you can absolutely get auto insurance even if you don’t own a car. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency in Plano, TX, we often receive this question from people who drive occasionally but don’t have a vehicle registered in their name. Whether you’re renting cars, borrowing a friend’s vehicle, or using a car-sharing service, there are options to keep you protected.

What Is Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is designed specifically for individuals who don’t own a car but still drive occasionally. This type of policy typically provides liability coverage, which helps pay for damages or injuries you might cause to others in an accident. It doesn’t cover the car you’re driving, but it does protect you from out-of-pocket costs if something goes wrong.

Why Would You Need It?

If you frequently rent cars or borrow vehicles from friends or family, having your own coverage makes sense. It fills in the gaps where the car owner’s insurance might not apply or may fall short. Additionally, it ensures you remain consistently insured, helping you avoid coverage gaps that could lead to higher premiums in the future.

It’s More Common Than You Think

Many people who live in cities or work from home don’t need to drive every day. However, when they do, they want the security that comes with being insured. Non-owner policies are a smart and affordable solution for occasional drivers.

Let’s Talk About Your Options

If you’re unsure whether non-owner auto insurance is right for you, give us a call. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency in Plano, TX, we’ll walk you through the details and help you find a policy that fits your lifestyle.

Why Plano Homeowners Need Insurance to Protect Your Home from Storm Damage

Posted on September 15, 2025September 9, 2025 by AgentInsure

Few things are more devastating than seeing your family legacy damaged by a severe storm. Plano, TX, homeowners need home insurance to protect their most valuable investments from nature’s perils, including thunderstorms, hailstorms, tornadoes, and other natural disasters.

Why Plano Homeowners Need Insurance to Protect Their Homes

Structural Damage

Nature’s most intense storms can leave a trail of destruction, including tattered roofs, broken windows from hailstorms, flooding from sudden downpours, and missing shingles caused by high winds or tornadoes.

Reduce Out-of-Pocket Repair or Replacement Costs

While none of us can predict when or where the next major storm will strike, we can take proactive steps to protect our homes, families, and properties from the physical and financial devastation these storms can cause.

Home insurance helps homeowners cover the costs of repairing or replacing structural damage and personal belongings. Without adequate coverage, these expenses would typically result in steep out-of-pocket costs.

Plano, TX, is no stranger to unpredictable weather, leaving homeowners concerned about when and where the next dangerous storm might occur.

A well-crafted home insurance policy provides homeowners with the assurance that their homes and financial interests are protected.

Speak with a trusted local agent at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency to learn more about additional benefits.

Get Home Insurance in Plano, TX

Are you a new homebuyer searching for the best local home insurance options or a homeowner looking to review your existing policy to ensure adequate coverage?

Contact the experts at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency! Our team of insurance professionals is ready to answer your home insurance questions and help you secure the coverage you need to protect your home and family from unexpected storms and natural disasters.

Does Your Start-Up Need Commercial Insurance?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 6, 2025 by AgentInsure

Starting a business is exciting, but it also comes with risks. One of the smartest early investments you can make is commercial insurance. But how do you know if your start-up truly needs it?

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Commercial insurance protects your business from a variety of risks, including property damage, liability claims, employee-related issues, and more. Common types of commercial insurance include general liability, property insurance, workers’ compensation, and professional liability insurance.

Why Start-Ups Should Consider Coverage

Many start-up founders believe they can delay purchasing insurance until their business grows, but risks don’t wait for you to scale. Even in the early stages, a single lawsuit, accident, or natural disaster can disrupt or even shut down your business. If your start-up works with clients, handles customer data, rents a workspace, or sells physical products, you may already face exposures that require coverage.

For instance, a client could sue over a missed deadline (professional liability), a visitor might slip and fall in your office (general liability), or a fire could damage your equipment (property insurance). Commercial insurance helps protect your business from unexpected events.

Tailoring Insurance to Your Needs

While you don’t need every type of insurance, you do need the right coverage for your business. A home-based software start-up won’t require the same insurance as a food truck or retail store. Consulting with a business insurance agent can help you create a policy that fits your needs and grows with your business.

Paragon Independent Insurance Agency Is Proud to Serve Plano, TX

At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we’re proud to serve Plano, TX, and assist with all your insurance needs. Contact our team or visit us today to speak with an agent and learn more about our plans.

Paragon Independent Insurance Agencies, Inc

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