Palm Valley Insurance, Inc., serving Ponte Vedra Beach, FL and Northeast Florida, notes that anyone who has followed automotive technology knows that self-driving cars are just on the horizon. But even before you can hop in your vehicle and let the computer take you where you need to go, self-driving features are now available on conventional cars.

What are the two best features that enhance your auto safety?

One safety-enhancing feature is automatic emergency braking. The way AEB works is that if the vehicle’s forward sensor detects an obstruction, the car ahead of you or someone who walked into traffic without looking, the brakes are applied automatically to prevent a collision. The AEB comes with an alarm that alerts you to what almost happened in case you were distracted.

The other great self-driving feature that could make you safer behind the wheel is called the blind spot warning system. The BSW provides a visual and/or audio warning if there is another vehicle in an adjacent lane in your blind spot. The system may be configured to provide another warning if you switch on your turn signal and try to shift lanes when another vehicle is in the way.

These two features can help prevent some of the most common causes of accidents. Other self-driving features that might help you remain safe include rear automatic emergency braking, which would stop you from backing up into an obstruction, and lane departure warning if you are moving outside your lane by accident.

Safety features, however, are no substitute for driver vigilance.

For any questions about auto insurance, feel free to contact Palm Valley Insurance, Inc. serving Ponte Vedra Beach, FL and Northeast Florida. Our agents can work with you to start a policy and get you a quote.

Flood insurance is not included in your standard homeowner’s policy, as it is a separate type of insurance. Although it is offered through FEMA, you can purchase flood insurance through your insurance agency. This is different from federal assistance, which is actually a loan that must be paid back.

Your flood insurance will protect you against situations where damage has occurred due to flooding, tidal waves, or severe storms, and it can cover specific situations related to mudslides. You will be covered in scenarios that are directly related to the flood, and your personal possessions will typically not be included under this coverage.

Legal Requirements and Qualifications

It is not required by law that residents of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL carry flood insurance, but lenders can require homeowners to obtain a policy. This is primarily the case when a property sits on a flood plain or in a low-lying area. You can discuss your level of risk with your insurance agent, as flooding can occur for a variety of reasons, including hurricanes, flash flooding, and rapid thawing. It is important to recognize that homes situated in areas with a low-to-moderate risk of flooding actually account for one-third of all disaster relief. 

Palm Valley Insurance Inc. Can Help You

At Palm Valley Insurance, Inc., we have valuable experience meeting the insurance needs of those living in and around Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. You can visit our website, and use our rating tool to find a quick quote on homeowners and automobile insurance. We consider it a privilege to work with you, and we invite you to call or stop by our office to discuss all your home or flood insurance options today!