You really like the vehicle, and it passed inspection by your trusted auto tech. But – Wow… look at that 6-figure mileage!  Whether you’re in the market for a “new” used vehicle or thinking about retiring that van you bought brand-new back in the Obama era, you’ll probably admit that your first thought was the mileage.

It turns out that mileage is only one factor to consider when you evaluate a used vehicle.  There are several others which might turn out to be even more important.

Check out this article from ERIE Insurance that will fill you in on all the factors that matter before you buy or drive. 

Can mileage affect your Auto Insurance?  Ask our experienced agents here at William M. Sparks.  We have the answer, and we can also help you to review your current Auto Insurance policy to arrive at the best coverage for your circumstances and budget. Call us (410-252-8304) or visit our website anytime at https://wsparks.com/personal-insurance/auto-insurance.html.

If you are a small business owner working from home or a solopreneur, you might think that Business Insurance is something you can do without.  It turns out that thinking leaves you at risk for potentially expensive consequences.

Why?  Not understanding Business Insurance coverage can leave you open to believing the many common Business Insurance myths that create serious gaps in your protection.  It’s those gaps that leave you vulnerable in the face of unexpected loss, accident or lawsuit.

You might think, “my homeowners insurance covers me”… or “I have no employees”… or “I have no storefront”… or “I’m just getting started”… or “it’s too expensive”.  You are not alone, but before you decide, take a moment to examine the facts.

See how ERIE Insurance breaks down the most common Business Insurance myths and offers solutions.

You might have questions or wonder where to start protecting your business.  We at William M. Sparks Insurance Agency are ready to help you create a plan that closes the gaps and gives you peace of mind.  Just reach out by phone (410-252-8304) or visit our website (https://wsparks.com/commercial-insurance.html).

As summer winds down, we begin to welcome signs of fall:  cooling temperatures, a new school year, changes in the landscape, earlier sunsets to name a few.  Not only might your routine change when summer ends, but your daily commute is affected by shorter days and weather changes as well.  You might even be drawn to drives through the countryside if you enjoy the changing foliage.  

Pleasant though it might be, the changing season also calls for you to stay alert.  Cooling temperatures often bring rain, and  when combined with falling leaves can be as slippery on the roadway as ice.  Deer are more visible and not just on rural roads, especially from October to January and typically from dusk to dawn,  Days get shorter as fall sets in; so you'll find yourself driving more often in the dark.  Traffic patterns and volume change once school is in session, causing greater caution when driving.

Here is what ERIE Insurance says about being prepared when driving this fall. 
This advice should make your driving time safe as you enjoy the fall changes.

Even the most cautious drivers in the safest vehicles may face the unexpected at some point.  That's where good Auto Insurance is needed.  If you have not reviewed your Auto Insurance coverage recently, there is no time like the changing of seasons to do that.  Here at William M. Sparks Insurance Agency, we are prepared to help with sound answers to your questions and a thorough review of your policy, whenever you are ready.  Reach out to us by phone (410-252-8304) or visit our website (https://wsparks.com/personal-insurance/auto-insurance.html).

We tend to regard water, power, and even Internet as essential, and we take them for granted.  But in the event of an emergency, all bets are off.  You could suddenly find yourself without those essentials for days or even weeks if emergency strikes.

Depending on where you live, you could be vulnerable to either natural disaster such as heavy snow, flooding, tornado or hurricane  or some form of man-made disaster. That’s why your family should have an emergency plan and supplies ready for any type of disaster. Your plan should be tailored to your family and your location, and you'll want to have a home emergency kit that you can prepare now and reach for quickly when the need arises.

See this Checklist of Home Emergency Items advised by ERIE Insurance to help you survive the next emergency.

You may not be able to predict a disaster, but good preparation in advance will reduce your stress and help eliminate chaos if or when disaster strikes.  Part of your preparation is to have a solid Homeowners Insurance policy structured to meet your family's needs. 

Here at William M. Sparks Insurance Company, we can help you to review your Homeowners Insurance coverage and offer you the right package at the best rate available. Reach out to us  by phone (410-252-8304) or visit our website (https://wsparks.com/personal-insurance/homeowners-insurance.html) well before disaster strikes.

Education is expensive whether you are pursuing a college degree, career certifications at a trade school, or something else.  Even with grants and scholarships, many students face the need for funding through loans in some way.  While grants and scholarships typically require no repayment, loans must be repaid. Many types of loans are possible, from federal loans to parent+ loans to private loans; and each arrangement has its own rules.  Co-signers and spouses might share the student loan debt in some circumstances. 

Paying off such loans can take years beyond graduation.  Thus the question:  If I die before my student loans are paid, what happens to that debt?  The answer:  It depends!

Learn more here as ERIE Insurance walks you through what happens to the debt and what solutions and options exists – including the role that Life Insurance can play.

Here at William M. Sparks Insurance Agency, we can help you to learn more about the protection and peace of mind Life Insurance for student loans can offer. We can answer your questions and help you tailor a solution that uniquely fits your needs.  Reach out to us anytime by phone (410-252-8304) or visit our website at  http://www.wsparks.com.