Does Boat Insurance Cover Theft And Damage Due To Piracy?

Posted on March 31, 2026March 23, 2026 by admin

When most people think about pirates, they picture scenes from movies or stories from centuries past. Unfortunately, piracy remains a real concern in certain regions, especially in international waters. In recent years, piracy incidents have continued to occur, and many involve vessels being boarded. Because of this, understanding your boat insurance coverage is essential, particularly if you travel outside protected waters.

What Modern Piracy Looks Like

Modern pirates do not resemble the fictional characters often portrayed in films. Today, piracy is carried out by organized criminals who use modern weapons and technology. These individuals may target both commercial and privately owned vessels, including smaller family-operated boats.

Common piracy-related crimes can include boarding a vessel to steal cargo or personal belongings, hijacking the vessel itself, or kidnapping crew members for ransom. These risks make it important for boat owners to understand how their insurance policy applies in international waters.

Standard Boat Insurance Coverage

Most boat owners in Oklahoma City, OK carry boat or watercraft insurance. Standard liability coverage typically includes protection for damage you cause to another vessel or for bodily injury to others. Comprehensive coverage may insure your boat against theft or vandalism and may also cover certain personal belongings on board.

However, many policies exclude losses caused by piracy. Because exclusions vary from one insurer to another, it is important to review your policy carefully. An agent at S and S Insurance Services Inc. can help you understand any limitations or exclusions that apply to your current coverage.

Maritime War Insurance

Boaters who plan to travel through international waters often obtain Maritime War Insurance. This type of policy helps cover losses related to piracy, theft, or hijacking. It may also provide coverage for ransom payments if kidnapping occurs. Maritime War Insurance is separate from a standard boat insurance policy and is necessary in regions with elevated risk.

Additionally, some boat insurance policies do not extend coverage outside United States waters. If you plan to travel abroad, you may need supplemental coverage to ensure full protection.

Agents at S and S Insurance Services Inc. can explain your coverage options and help you determine whether Maritime War Insurance is right for your travel plans. We proudly serve the Oklahoma City, OK area. Contact us today to learn more.

Can I Get a Home Insurance Quote Before a Home Purchase?

Posted on February 27, 2026February 19, 2026 by admin

You are shopping for a house, and you want numbers that truly matter. One key number often overlooked is the home insurance premium. Yes, you can get a home insurance quote from S & S Insurance Services, Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK, before closing on a property. In fact, it is a smart step.

Why You Should Get a Quote Early

When calculating your monthly costs, you cannot rely solely on the listing price. Property taxes, utilities, and homeowners’ association fees all influence your long-term budget. Home insurance is also part of that equation. In Oklahoma, hailstorms, high winds, and occasional tornadoes increase claim frequency, leading to significant premium variations across ZIP codes. For example, a brick home in Norman may have a different premium than a frame home in Tulsa, even if both have similar square footage.

If you wait until the week before closing, you may find yourself scrambling. Lenders require proof of insurance before funding the loan, and delays can push your closing date back. Getting a quote early provides clarity and prevents last-minute complications.

What You Will Need to Provide

You do not need to own the home to request a quote. Typically, you will need the property address, year built, roof age, square footage, construction type, and information about any updates, such as electrical or plumbing improvements. If the roof was replaced after a hailstorm, that detail is important for underwriting. Your real estate agent can supply this information. Be sure to request it in writing to stay organized and ensure accuracy.

Before choosing a home insurance policy, speak with a local agent at S & S Insurance Services, Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK. Having the full picture allows you to move forward confidently, knowing your monthly obligations are based on accurate information.

What To Do If You Hit an Animal While Driving

Posted on January 30, 2026January 12, 2026 by admin

Animal collisions can be frightening, and they’re surprisingly common even in urban settings like Oklahoma City, OK. These collisions can also be expensive if you don’t have auto insurance that covers the incident. Here’s how to properly insure against this risk, and what to do if you do hit an animal while driving.

Get Comprehensive Auto Coverage

There are two main types of auto insurance coverage that protect your vehicle against damage: collision coverage and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage is for accidents involving at least one other vehicle or stationary objects, like a light pole. Comprehensive coverage includes protection against other events, such as hail, flood, theft, vandalism, and animal damage.

Hitting an animal isn’t technically a “collision” according to auto insurance policy standards. Instead, it’s considered a comprehensive claim. You’ll need comprehensive coverage if you want to be insured against animal-caused vehicle damage. You should also verify that you have auto insurance that covers injuries to passengers in your vehicle, like medical payments (MedPay) or personal injury protection (PIP).

At S & S Insurance Services Inc., we can provide you with a quote for comprehensive auto insurance and add-ons, like MedPay or PIP, to cover injuries and other essential protections.

What To Do If You Hit an Animal

Should you ever hit an animal while driving around Oklahoma City, OK or anywhere else, first make sure everyone is alright.

Seek medical attention if you’re injured

If medical attention is needed, call an ambulance or dial 911 immediately. Getting medical help will not interfere with your ability to file an auto insurance claim.

Document the Accident

Once you know everyone is okay, document the accident for your claim. When it’s safe to do so, take photos and/or videos of your vehicle from multiple angles to document the damage. Also, photograph the animal on scene and the surrounding area if you’re able to do so. Documenting the scene, including tire skid marks and road weather conditions, can help support your claim. You may want to call the non-emergency number to request a report. A report can be helpful in unusual accident situations, but it is typically not needed for the most common comprehensive claims.

File an Insurance Claim

You’ll have to notify your insurance company. You can do this by contacting your insurance agency. At S & S Insurance Services Inc., we regularly assist our clients with their auto insurance claims to help them navigate the claims process with their carrier.

How Do You Add More Coverage With Umbrella Policies and Auto Insurance in Oklahoma City, OK?

Posted on December 31, 2025December 11, 2025 by admin

From severe weather risks to busy highways, Oklahoma City, OK faces unique driving risks. If you’re a driver and resident of OK, you may be wondering how you can add more coverage to existing auto insurance policies with an umbrella policy that works for you. At S & S Insurance Services Inc., we specialize in providing clients with solutions that protect drivers anytime they are behind the wheel.

What Umbrella Insurance Adds to Existing Auto Coverage

Umbrella insurance policies add additional liability protection beyond the limits of standard auto insurance policies. This means, if you cause an accident and damages or medical bills exceed your auto liability limits, your umbrella policy can come in handy. This includes:

Property damage you have caused
Legal fees if you’re involved in a lawsuit
Bodily injury expenses

Adding More Protection to Your Auto Insurance

If you want to optimize the protection you have in your vehicle, you can do so by working with an agency you can trust regarding umbrella insurance. For stronger protection, consider the following options:

Increase your auto liability limits. Increasing liability insurance limits can provide peace of mind and financial security.
Add underinsured/uninsured protection in the chance that you experience in accident with another driver who does not currently have insurance.
Consider comprehensive and collision upgrades with existing auto insurance policies while comparing umbrella insurance options.

At S & S Insurance Services Inc., we’ll work with you if you’re a driver in OK or a resident of Oklahoma City, OK. Whether you’re a new driver or looking for ways to add more protection to existing policies, we’re here for you. To learn more about your options when calculating umbrella insurance you require, contact us for your consultation today.

What Types of Watercraft Require Seasonal Insurance in Oklahoma City, OK?

Posted on November 26, 2025November 7, 2025 by admin

If you enjoy the scenery, lakes, and waterways of Oklahoma City, OK, and you’re the owner of a boat or watercraft, you may be wondering what type of insurance is right for you. At S & S Insurance Services Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK, we assist our clients with boat/watercraft insurance. Whether you’re a recreational boater or if you prefer boating and using your watercraft seasonally, obtaining and maintaining the best insurance policy is a way to protect your investment long-term.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats are commonly used seasonally throughout Oklahoma City, OK. Seasonal insurance helps to cover:

Vandalism or theft issues (especially when your boat is stored)
Hail and wind damage, which is not uncommon in Oklahoma
Fire or lightning strikes
Trailer damage

Pontoon Boats

While relaxing on the lake, it’s imperative to protect your pontoon boat. Seasonal pontoon boat protection provides protection from:

Hull damage
Storm damage
Storage-related risks
Accidental damage during the towing of your boat

Jet Skis & Personal Watercraft

Additional seasonal insurance can help protect jet skis and WaveRunners any time you’re on the water. Seasonal insurance is recommended for personal watercraft to protect you from:

Potential theft
Damage while in storage
Repairs that may be costly, depending on the make and model of your boat or personal watercraft, also known as PWC. Seasonal insurance allows riders to pause liability coverage off-season as well.

Knowing which options you have when it comes to boat/watercraft insurance is crucial whether you’re a resident of, or visitor to, Oklahoma City, OK. The more intricate your policy is, the easier it is to ensure your ability to protect your investment over time. To learn more about boat and watercraft insurance and for your quote, contact S & S Insurance Services Inc. for your consultation today.

Does Home Insurance Cover Landscaping?

Posted on October 31, 2025October 21, 2025 by admin

Home insurance is designed to protect us, knowing we have coverage in the event of a disaster or other incidents, like theft and vandalism. However, the structure that is our home and our belongings doesn’t constitute the entirety of our home. The surrounding property is also our home, even though home insurance doesn’t cover the land itself. That begs the question: Does home insurance cover landscaping? Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when you buy a home insurance policy. If you’re ready to start shopping around and you need support, start your journey with us at S & S Insurance Services Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK.

Will My Home Insurance Policy Cover Damage to Landscaping?

Most standard home insurance policies don’t cover much when it comes to landscaping, but they do provide some protection. Limited coverage may extend to certain elements, such as trees and shrubs, with claims being limited to conditions covered by your policy for other parts of your home, including fire, theft, and vandalism. There are numerous exceptions to landscaping rules. The good news? You may be able to find a policy provider who can extend additional coverage for landscaping, ensuring that all your hard work and property outside have added protection. Take care to negotiate what you want. If you can’t find it, there’s likely a policy provider out there who offers what you need to cover your home, including increased protection for trees, shrubs, plants, and other lawn features.

Start Shopping for Home Insurance with S & S Insurance Services

We here at S & S Insurance Services Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK, enable you to shop for home insurance without the challenge of finding and comparing quotes on your own. Compare quotes with us today to find a home insurance policy that will cover your home and other crucial elements of your property.

How Collision Coverage Differs From Liability Coverage

Posted on September 30, 2025September 24, 2025 by admin

Auto insurance comes with a mix of terms that can sound similar, but two of the most important are collision coverage and liability coverage. Drivers in Oklahoma often carry both on their auto insurance with S & S Insurance Services Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK; yet, each plays a very different role when accidents occur.

Collision Coverage Explained

Collision coverage is designed to repair or replace your own vehicle after an accident, regardless of who caused it. If you hit another car, a fence, or even a tree, this portion of your policy helps cover the damage to your vehicle. It is especially valuable for newer or higher-value cars, where out-of-pocket repair costs could be overwhelming.

Liability Coverage Explained

Liability coverage works differently. Instead of protecting your car, it protects you from the financial consequences of damaging someone else’s property or injuring another person in an accident you cause. Oklahoma requires drivers to carry minimum liability limits, but many people choose higher amounts to shield themselves from lawsuits or large claims better.

Why the Difference Matters

The main distinction is straightforward: collision coverage protects your vehicle, while liability coverage protects the other party. Without liability insurance, a single accident could expose you to thousands in medical bills or repair costs for someone else’s car. Without collision coverage, you would be left paying for your own vehicle’s damage out of pocket.

Collision and liability auto coverage through S & S Insurance Services Inc., serving Oklahoma City, OK, complements one another, providing drivers with well-rounded protection. One ensures your car can be repaired, while the other keeps you financially safe if you are held responsible for harming others. Together, they form the foundation of an auto policy that truly protects you from the unpredictable nature of the road. For more information about your policy terms, please contact us today.

Do You Need Insurance for Jet Skis and Personal Watercraft in Oklahoma?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 23, 2025 by admin

Picture a beautiful day on the water, suddenly interrupted by a collision or unexpected event. While Oklahoma law doesn’t require insurance for boats or watercraft, having coverage can protect you from costs resulting from accidents, vandalism, or fire. Contact an agent at S & S Insurance Services, Inc. to find a plan that suits your needs so that you can enjoy all your boating days worry-free.

Why Insurance Is Important

Although insurance isn’t required in Oklahoma City, OK, it’s still a smart choice for your boat or jet ski. You want to enjoy your watercraft without worrying about losing it due to fire, vandalism, theft, or an accident. A local agent can help you find coverage tailored to your needs. Keep in mind that the size and value of your vessel will influence your insurance requirements. Policies may include coverage for:

Bodily Injury and Property Damage: Covers accidents that injure others or damage their property.
Uninsured Boater: Covers damages if the at-fault party has no insurance.
Medical Payments: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers resulting from an accident on the water, regardless of fault.
Comprehensive: Covers your vessel for damage, theft, fire, or vandalism, regardless of fault.
Collision: Covers your boat or watercraft after an accident with another boat or object.

Call an Experienced Oklahoma City Agent Today

If you own a boat, jet ski, or wave runner in the Oklahoma City area, one of our local agents can help you find the right policy. While insurance isn’t required by law, it provides valuable protection if your boat or watercraft is damaged, stolen, or involved in an accident. Contact S & S Insurance Services, Inc. today to speak with an agent and get started.

Does Home Insurance Cover Lightning Strike?

Posted on July 31, 2025July 25, 2025 by admin

Lightning can cause significant damage to your home’s electronics and even its structure. When lightning strikes, it’s reassuring to know that your insurance policy has you covered. That’s why many homeowners turn to S & S Insurance Services Inc., servicing Oklahoma City, OK. We work with multiple insurance carriers to help customers find the right coverage to protect their homes and properties. Our team is always happy to answer questions and help you understand your insurance policy.

Is Lightning Strike Covered by Home Insurance?

Most standard home insurance policies cover damage caused by lightning strikes. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific policy. To confirm whether lightning damage is included in your coverage, review your policy documents.

If you’re unable to find the information you need, contact your insurance agent. They can provide clarity and answer any questions you have about your home insurance policy.

What Else Is Covered by Home Insurance?

Coverage varies between home insurance policies, but here are some common examples of what is typically included:

Fire
Wind
Explosion
Riot
Theft
Vandalism
Smoke

If you have questions about additional coverage options, please consult with your insurance agent for more information.

How Do You File a Home Insurance Claim?

If your home has been damaged by a lightning strike, filing an insurance claim is one of the first steps toward recovery. To file a claim, contact your insurance representative at S & S Insurance Services Inc., servicing Oklahoma City, OK. Our courteous and professional staff are here to assist you throughout the process.

Do you need home insurance coverage? Contact us today. We work with a variety of insurance carriers to help you find the best policy tailored to your specific needs.

What Your Policy Covers in an Ice Storm

Posted on June 30, 2025June 23, 2025 by admin

While rare in Oklahoma City, OK, ice storms can still sweep through the area during the winter and cause significant damage to your vehicles, whether personal or commercial. Fortunately, the team at S & S Insurance Services, Inc. can help you find the protection you need to stay safe.

Why You Need More Than Collision Coverage

It’s tempting to purchase basic collision insurance and call it a day. However, collision coverage only protects you in situations where you’re at fault in an accident—it doesn’t cover damage caused by other drivers or external factors.

For example, weather-related damage, such as that caused by an ice storm, is not included in collision coverage. While collision insurance may protect your car if you slip on black ice or snow, it won’t cover damage from severe ice storms. To safeguard your vehicle against these risks, you’ll need to upgrade to comprehensive coverage.

How Comprehensive Coverage Protects Your Vehicle

Comprehensive vehicle coverage provides protection for non-collision-related issues specified in your policy. For instance, if an ice storm sweeps through the area and damages your windshield or car, comprehensive coverage can help.

Does comprehensive insurance cover ice storm damage? In most cases, yes! However, it’s essential to review your policy to ensure ice storms are included. Checking your policy details will help you avoid unexpected surprises when filing a claim.

Get the Coverage You Deserve

If you live in Oklahoma City, OK, and want to protect your vehicles from ice storm damage, contact S & S Insurance Services, Inc. today. With years of experience and a wide range of policies, we’re ready to ensure your vehicle is fully protected.

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