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All You Ever Wanted to Know About Insurance

Preparing Your Home for a Minnesota Winter

Winter in Minnesota is no joke, with freezing temperatures, freezing rain and snow. Preparing your home for these harsh conditions not only ensures comfort but also helps protect your investment. Here’s a quick...

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Porch Pirates and Holiday Break-Ins

It's the most wonderful time of year for porch pirates. The holiday season is a time of friends and family getting together, but it can also attract unwanted attention from burglars and porch pirates. It is important to...

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Increased Vehicle and Deer Collisions

Once autumn arrives, leaves start to change and so do wild animals behavior. Wild animals, especially deer become more active during the fall months. Deer are crepuscular animals, which means they are more active at...

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Road Awareness & Safety

As the leaves start to change, so do the vehicles on the road. Motorcyclist are soaking up the last rides of the year before the season is over. The mild autumn weather has extended the riding season of motorcycles,...

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Electric Bike Insurance

Electric bikes are becoming more popular and more capable. Some models are capable of reaching 60 miles an hour. Minnesota does not require a license or to register e-bike. That means right now, insurance is at the...

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Holiday Gathering- Safety Tips

The holiday season has begun! That means many families and friends will be gathering for festive parties and get togethers. While the spirit of the holidays are to celebrate, it is important to keep safety in mind. Here...

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Full Glass Coverage

Winter is tough on your car and on the roads in Minnesota. The roadways start to develop potholes and cracks, which as the freeze-thaw cycle continues, makes the roadways even worse. The freeze-thaw cycle creates road...

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The Big Mess - Cleaning Up After the Snow

Many people are still digging out from the latest blizzard. The National Weather Service measured 14.9" at Minneapolis St Paul Airport. We have seen nearly our average seasonal snowfall already! While you may have had...

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Severe Weather Season

A powerful weather system is expect to impact Minneapolis most of the week. The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting a strong storm Tuesday through Friday. High winds are expected, with winds gust up to 45-55...

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Distracted Driving Prevention

The amount of stuff to distract people while driving is increasing. Phone connectivity, stereos, using navigation apps, and car entertainment screens can provide quick distractions that take your eyes of the road....

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Tips on how to save money heating your house

Utility bills have been increasing recently impacting how much it costs to heat our homes. Heating cost have increased and to add to that, it was the coldest January in 8 years (Link).Ask This Old House does a great job...

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Frozen Pipes and How To Prevent Them

Arctic air has been plunging into Minneapolis causing the temps to plummet. The extreme cold is tough on your home and your house's plumbing. Once a pipe freezes, it creates an increase in pressure which can lead to a...

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Carbon Monoxide Dangers

The CDC estimates that around 400 people die every year due to carbon monoxide exposure. In Minnesota, there is an average of 14 people dying every year due to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of...

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Excessive Speed Wave

Is it the heat waves causing everyone to speed? Lately Minnesotan's everywhere have noticed a difference of driving habits of others on the road, including excessive speeding. This type of driving is not only dangerous,...

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Impact of COVID-19 & Bills

These are challenging times for the world. The extent of the damage this virus has caused has yet to be fully revealed. If you have been impacted by the virus or the economic ramifications, and you are having trouble...

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Preparing Your Home for Climate Change

Minneapolis is experiencing a change in our climate. This year has brought near record levels of precipitation. We are also seeing a trend of higher rainfall totals per storm. Minnesota has seen an increase in the...

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Fall Lawn Maintenance

Autumn is a great time to improve your yard. Maintaining your lawn is beneficial in a few ways. A well maintained lawn improves the curb appeal of your home, benefits the soil nutrients, as well as helps with water...

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Keeping Critters Out!

Homeowners insurance does not cover damages to your home caused by mice or other rodents. The fall is when these little animals search for warmth and shelter for the upcoming winter months. It is important to take...

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Highway With Hail

Hail is a type of precipitation. It occurs when an updraft in a storm carries raindrops upward and freezes the raindrops into chucks of ice. It can be deadly. Hail causes damage to homes, cars, people and animals. What...

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Landscaping Tips

The landscaping around your home can help with the aesthetics of the home, and also help protect your house. Hiring a landscaper can be expensive, but it can also save you money down the road. Certain landscaping...

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Home Renovation Discounts

Spring through fall is the busiest time of year for remodeling. Remodeling and construction season is ramping up in Minneapolis. The cost of building materials and labor is increasing. It is a big financial commitment...

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Hands Free Cell Phone Bill

It is already illegal in Minnesota to text and drive. A new bill, which goes into effect on August 1st, will put further restrictions on distracted driving. Texting, emailing, and browsing the internet while driving are...

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Roadside Assistance Plans

A total of 9.7” of snow has fallen on Minneapolis with this last winter storm. Bad road conditions and mixed precipitation have made the roads a mess. The spring thaw will resume shortly, which will cause an increase of...

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Sewer and Water Back-Up

Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not include sewer and water back-up coverage. It is typically an added coverage. Sewer and Water Back-up is typically inexpensive, and can provide coverage for the home or...

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Troubling Trends

We are seeing a troubling trend of rising traffic and pedestrian deaths. The increase in deaths is a nationwide problem. A recent study from The Governors Highway Safety Association estimated that 6,227 pedestrians were...

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Time to reroof

The roof of any home provides a lot of protection, from the sun, rain, snow and wind. The life of a roof can vary by the material and climate. Most asphalt shingle roofs are good for 20 years or less. If you are buying...

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Spring Clean-up

The weather forecast today for Edina, Minnesota is 67° today! The warm weather is a great time to start the spring clean up. Regular routine maintenance can help prevent costly repairs in the future. If you are a...

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Workers compensation for a nanny

It's officially spring in Edina, Minnesota! Kids will be out of school for the summer months shortly, and that means you might be thinking about getting a nanny or babysitter. If you hire a nanny to watch the kids, you...

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Rental Car Insurance

It's spring break in Edina Minnesota and a lot of families will be going on vacation! When you are renting a car, the rental car company will offer their coverage. If you have a personal auto insurance policy, your...

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Protecting your home from melting snow

We are experiencing a rapid snowmelt in Edina! Flood warnings are up across much of the state. Increasing temperatures and the rain is quickly melting snow in Minnesota. A lot of people are experiencing wet basements,...

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Flood Insurance

In Minneapolis and St. Paul we have had a record setting amount of snow in February. Once that snow melts it runs off into creeks, rivers and lakes. March can bring more snow and even rain. We could be in for serious...

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Rake The Roof

The total snowfall for the month of February in Minneapolis and St. Paul has been 31.7 inches, some areas in the metro have actually seen more! While the snow is pretty, it can be pretty bad for your roof! Removing the...

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Did you get your special someone a Valentine’s Day gift?

If you or a loved one purchased jewelry for Valentine’s Day, you should add it to your homeowners insurance policy. Most home insurance policies have internal limits on items such as jewelry. Those limits vary by...

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Personal Property Coverage- Homeowners Insurance

At first glance, it appears your homeowners’ insurance policy has a lot of personal property coverage. Not all of your personal belongings are covered in the same way. We recommend reviewing your homeowners’ insurance...

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Water and Boating Safety

A great way to enjoy summers heat and humidity is on a boat. Everyone loves being out on the lake, whether you’re fishing, water-skiing or just cruising. Minnesota’s lakes and rivers can get crowded during the summer...

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Is Your Home Ready for Minnesota's Severe Weather

It is impossible to know if your home will be damaged by severe weather, but you can prepare yourself and your homeowners insurance. It is important to know what is covered and what is not. It is a good idea to read...

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What does renters insurance cover?

Lets say you’re at your apartment one night, and your neighbor decides it is time for a midnight snack. While they’re cooking they accidentally start a fire that is quickly getting out of hand. Well if a scenario like...

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Sewer and Water Back-up

Do you need Sewer and Water Back-Up coverage on your homeowners insurance?Many homes in Edina, Minneapolis and the surrounding metro area have sump pumps in their basements. During recent storms, we have seen...

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Insurance Score: Credit History

All carriers to determine the premium for your personal insurance use an insurance score. The insurance score scales defer from carrier to carrier, but ultimately they are using the same information in order to...

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Do you have the right amount of personal property coverage?

Do you have the right amount of personal property coverage?If you can’t answer yes then it is time for a home inventory. A New Year might just be the perfect time to take stock of your material possessions to make sure...

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Snow is Falling, Drive Safe!

When the snow falls, accidents follow. Please read ATC Agency's safe winter driving tips to avoid an auto accident. Check your tires: Please make sure your tires are in tiptop shape; check tire pressure monthly,...

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Avoid the Woes of Winter Driving!

Thanksgiving is this Thursday and winter has arrived. Don’t get stuck in nasty weather unprepared, keeping up with routine car maintenance is always important but even more so during the winter months. All of us at A.T....

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Daylight Savings

In Edina the daylight hours are starting to dwindle and this Sunday is Daylight Savings. At A.T.C. Agency we would like to remind you of a couple housekeeping items that we like to routinely do in our household when it...

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These Car Maintenance Tips Could Prevent A Car Accident

Autumn has arrived in Edina, Minnesota and in the surrounding metro area, but it won’t be here for long. The days are now getting shorter, and the nights are getting longer. The longer nights mean cooler temperatures,...

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Happy Halloween!

All of us from ATC Agency want you to have a happy and safe Halloween! Don’t let the goblins and ghouls get you this Halloween, here are some tips from health and safety experts: Don’t eat candy until it has been...

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Renters Insurance

Renters insurance is a very affordable insurance policy. Every renter’s insurance policy has different limits but most policies have the same type of coverage. A standard renters insurance policy has coverage for your...

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Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcycle insurance protects you and your motorcycle. A basic motorcycle insurance policy covers bodily injury and property damage, uninsured and underinsured motorist, medical payments, and comprehensive and collision...

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Boat Safety

Summer time is right around the corner. In the land of ten thousand lakes, that means there are a lot of boats in Minnesota. Having fun on the lakes is a great way to enjoy the summer months, but it is easier to relax...

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Pool Safety

There are over 10 million residential pools in the United States. In Edina Minnesota, pool season is just around the corner. If you own a pool or hot tub, make sure any guests who are swimming are knowledgeable about...

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Crash Guide: Car Accidents

If you are in a car accident it can be hard to remember what to do. On average there are over 200 traffic accidents per day! According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) in 2014 there were almost 80,000...

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Grill Safety

Grilling season has officially started in Edina. Whether you are using charcoal or gas, there is no doubt that grilling adds a delicious taste to your dinner. After a grill has been sitting outside all winter, it is a...

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Homeowners Insurance- Dogs

The results from the American Kennel Club most popular dog of 2015 are in. The Labrador retriever was ranked as the most popular dog of 2015, followed by the German shepherd and the Golden Retriever. The Labrador...

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Tree Trimming Can Protect Your Home

Pruning trees during the dormant months of winter is common practice in Minnesota. Pruning late in the winter is ideal for the tree; it helps the tree heal quickly when the growing season starts. Keeping the trees in...

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Sewer & Water Back-up Is Not Just for Homeowners

If you own a home with a sump pump, you will need sewer and water back up coverage on your homeowners insurance. That is not the only scenario when sewer and water back-up comes in handy. If you are currently renting an...

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Protecting Pets During Winter

When you are taking your dog for a hike during the winter months, all of the salt and chemicals on the road can be harmful. Make sure you take a few steps to protect those paws. The winter can be hard on any animal’s...

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Keeping Your Driveway Ice Free

In the winter the conditions are just right to turn your driveway or walkway into a liability hazard. Slipping on ice can be dangerous, but it also can be prevented. Putting salt down can melt the ice, but it is not the...

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Defensive Driver Course

Drivers 55 years and older are able to take a Defensive Driver course either in person, or online. Most insurance carriers offer up to a 10% discount for completing a qualified senior defensive driving program. It is a...

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Tips To Save Money On Your Car Insurance

It is easy to think that every insurance carrier is offering the same product, but the insurance carrier you buy insurance from is extremely important. Most car insurance carriers who advertise on television like to...

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Car Insurance Discounts

When shopping for car insurance, make sure you ask your independent insurance agent if you qualify for any applicable discounts. Many insurance companies are saying they check multiple times if you are receiving any...

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Auto Loan Or Lease Gap Coverage

Auto loan coverage is sometimes referred to as gap coverage, it guarantees coverage up to the remaining balance on your auto loan or lease if the market value of your car is less than what you owe. Most of our insurance...

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New Vehicle Replacement Coverage

If you have just purchased a new car and have added it on to your auto insurance policy, make sure you ask your independent insurance agent about new car replacement coverage. Most insurance carriers offer some type of...

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Commercial Auto Insurance

Cars used in everyday business may need a commercial auto policy opposed to a personal auto insurance policy. Auto insurance for a small businesses covers a wide spectrum of different risks, most require the expertise...

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Why You Need Renter's Insurance

A renter’s insurance policy is an affordable way to protect your personal belongings, and yourself. If you currently don’t have insurance, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to financial loss. Renters insurance covers...

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Deductible Savings Bank

Insurance companies, like Progressive Insurance, are offering a Deductible Savings Bank. Customers can purchase the Deductible Savings Bank feature on their auto policy. During the policy period, if there are no new...

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Frozen Plumbing

Autumn has officially started in Minnesota and Wisconsin, although we have been experiencing relatively pleasant temperatures, the risk of frost is imminent. It is a great time to protect your residence from pipes...

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Car Insurance Tips

If you haven't reviewed your car insurance lately, it may be costing you. Rates for auto insurance have increased on average 10% since 2013, according to a survey by Consumer Reports. The best way to review your...

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Temperatures Sizzle Minneapolis and Saint Paul

In Minneapolis and Saint Paul, today, August 14th, 2015, is the third time we have seen temperatures at or above 90°F degrees this summer. When it is extremely hot and humid, your body's ability to cool itself is...

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Safeco Rewind

If you're a responsible driver and you've received a speeding ticket, or some other minor violation, or even had an at-fault accident you may be eligible for Safeco's Rewind program. Safeco Rewind allows you to save...

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Progressive Snapshot

If you are a safe driver and have felt you are paying too much for your car insurance then it is time to try out Progressive's Snapshot program. Pay a fair premium for your driving habits. Insurance carriers use your...

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Boats & Booze

Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is increasing patrols for boating while under the influence. It is important to remember boating and drinking do not mix. In Minnesota, there is zero tolerance for...

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Adding a teen driver

According to a new report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly two-thirds of people injured or killed in a crash involved a teen driver. According to the same report by AAA, in 2013 alone, 371,645 people...

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Protecting Your Car From Heat

In Minneapolis/Saint Paul, we are expected to see our first 90-degree day. Everyone knows that the suns rays are damaging to your skin, but it is also hard on your vehicle. Here are some tips on how to protect your car...

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Renters Insurance Edina

If you rent a home or if you are renting an apartment, you should have renters insurance. Renters insurance will cover your personal belongings, like clothing, furniture, or a television; but it also protects you if you...

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Homeowners Insurance Edina

We have some tips for when you are shopping for homeowners insurance in Edina, Minnesota. As of April 15th, the median home sale price in Edina, Minnesota was $399,900. When you are buying homeowners insurance, you are...

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Insurance Edina Minnesota

A.T.C. Agency is located in Edina Minnesota. We represent the whole Minnesota and Wisconsin area. We are licensed in property and causality, as well as life and health. That means we are able to service all of your...

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Car Insurance Edina

If you have watched television lately, you have noticed the bombardment of car insurance ads. They promise saving 20% on your auto insurance premium in 10 minutes, or even 5 minutes. When you are shopping for an...

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Recreational Fires

Everyone loves to sit around a warm bonfire during the warmer months. Whenever you are having a fire, make sure you are following the necessary guidelines to ensure you have a great time and stay safe. If you live in...

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Bicyclist and Motorist

The season of biking in Minnesota has started. Minneapolis is one of the most bicycle friendly cities in the United States. As of 2014, Minneapolis has 118 miles of on-street bike paths, and an additional 92 miles of...

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Do It Yourself Alarm Systems

On average, more than 60 homes per day are broken into across Minnesota, according to a WCCO article that was recently released. Minneapolis Police Department reports a decrease in the amount of burglary and larceny...

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Don't Bring The Bed Bugs Back From Spring Break

Are you planning on a nice spring vacation? Don't let these pests infiltrate. According to a survey from the National Pest Management Association, one out of five Americans has had a bed bug infestation in their home or...

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Lake Superior Ice Caves

As of February 23rd, 95.5% of Lake Superior is covered by ice. The cold winter weather we have been having in Minnesota and in the rest of the country has made this the second consecutive year that the ice caves on Lake...

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Impacts of floods do not recede with waters

Floods are among the most deadly weather related hazards. According to a White House Report, since 1957-2005 floods accounted for 98 deaths per year, most were drowning related. The damage caused by flooding is not...

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Punxsutawney Phil

As the tradition goes for Groundhogs day, this morning Punxsutawney Phil gave his famous forecast. This year, the prognosticator predicts 6 more weeks of winter. Last year, Phil got it right, but only has an accuracy...

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Late Winter Tree Pruning

Pruning is an important task for preventive maintenance. Pruning improves the over all health of the tree or shrub. Pruning helps prevent disease, insect infestation, and storm damage. The best time to prune most trees...

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Big Changes For Tax Season

The tax season is officially underway, and this year there are some big changes. Although the last day to file your taxes isn't until April 15th, most employers send out W-2 forms by the end of January. This year, under...

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Be Careful; 1 in 7 Minnesotans Drive without Insurance

Studies suggest that about one in every seven of Minnesota's nearly 3.7 million licensed drivers doesn't have vehicle insurance. The stories are all too familiar: a child walking to school faces a lifetime of difficulty...

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Ten Reasons You Might Want to Call Your Homeowners Agent

Change in Occupancy: Homeowner insurance policies are contracts used when the owner of the property resides at the insured locations. Sometimes, owners move out and the property is vacant or unoccupied, rented to others...

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Ten Reasons You Might Want to Call Your Auto Agent

1) Discount Eligibility Good Student Discount: Many companies will give credit to students who maintain at least a 3.0 Grade Point Average. A copy of their report card, college transcript or a signed note on school...

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Warming Up the Car

It is inevitable that temperatures will dip below zero; on average we have 24 days of below zero temp readings in the Twin Cities (http://bit.ly/M6Ufhh). When you are getting up in the morning, it is tempting to start...

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Fireplace Safety

Happy New Year! With the holiday season in full swing, a lot of people like to have a cozy fire burning in the fireplace. The warmth radiating off of the fireplace is ideal for this time of year. Make sure the...

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Holiday Home Security

The holidays can be a great time to get out of Minneapolis to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe...

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Give 'Green'

As the holidays approach, regular habits tend to fall to the wayside. Folks who are consistently rested lose sleep, habitual fitness fanatics sink into recliners and, occasionally, even the most environmentally...

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Holiday Health

It goes without saying that keeping yourself and your family healthy through the holiday season in Minnesota can be a challenge. When you combine chillier temps, housebound days, year-end deadlines and pre-holiday...

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Drivers Beware of Uninsured Motorists

The insurance industry estimates that 10-20% of Minnesota residents drive without auto insurance. State legislators are working on ways to better identify Minnesota residents who drive without auto insurance. Motorists...

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Trick-OR-Treating Safety Tips

I remember the days of dressing up in a super special costume to tour our neighborhood filling up my Jack-o'-lantern pail with candy. Some of our neighbors handed out terrible treats. It is important to check the...

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Protect Your Family From the “Silent Killer”

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, invisible gas that results when certain fuels do not burn completely. And it can be deadly. That is why it's important to know how to prevent it, detect it and protect yourself...

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Deer Safety Tips


Tucking your boat in for winter?

For boat enthusiasts everywhere, the end of boating season can be disappointing because on-the-water adventures are about to come to an end and the task of winterization is about to begin. As you know, taking the time...

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How to Care for Water/Sewer Backup until Help Arrives

Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that can cause illness unless you take proper precautions. The longer sewage is allowed to remain in your home, the greater the potential for sickness and...

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The Dangers in Driving at Night

A little extra caution can go a long way while driving at night Summer has ended, and while fall and winter have their own pleasures - including skiing- longer nights mean increased danger on the roads. You might think...

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Back to School – Is Your Home Ready?

We're not quite sure where the summer went here at A.T.C. Agency, but, if you haven't noticed, it's already time for the new school year in Minneapolis. As you think about how to get your kids organized and ready,...

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Top 10 Stolen Cars of 2013

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NCIB) annual "Hot Wheels" report examines vehicle theft data submitted by law enforcement to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and determines the vehicle make, model and...

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Tenant Insurance

Renters insurance offers renters similar coverage to homeowner insurance. A typical policy provides coverage for personal liability, premises medical coverage, additional living expense, and personal property (contents)...

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How Much Home Insurance is Enough?

The cost to rebuild your home is its replacement value. This can be very different from the estimated market value or actual purchase price. In most cases, it costs more to rebuild the home you own than to buy a new one....

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Insurance Tips for Back-to-School Time

College is expensive enough without finding out too late that an accident or theft isn't covered under your current policies. So, as you get your children ready to head off to school in the fall, there's one vital "to-...

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Hit the Road with the Right RV Coverage

RV Coverage RV insurance can protect your motorhome, travel trailer and even your horse trailer. Here at A.T.C. Agency, let us help you select the right coverage for you RV needs and get a great price at the same time....

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Power Outage Tips

It's always a good idea to have an emergency kit handy in case of power outages or other issues - especially with the threat of stormy weather in fall and winter. See recommendations from the American Red Cross below....

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Slow down & save lives

How many times has the following happened to you? You're speeding down highway 100, when you spot a state highway patrol car. You quickly hit the brakes and slow down, relieved that you didn't get caught ... this time....

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When Things go BOOM in the Night - Fireworks Safety

For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends, having fun and creating memories - whether at home or away up north. But for some families, the holiday is a nightmare. Homes each...

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Keep your pets safe during the Fourth of July Fireworks

For most of us, the Fourth of July is a time to enjoy the pyrotechnics that mark the holiday. But for our pets, fireworks are another story. Many pets can be traumatized by the noisy rockets and firecrackers so many of...

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Put the top down & drive in Minnesota

The call of the open road is at its strongest during the summer - and so is the call of the convertible. If you're one of those drivers who has long dreamed of dropping the top and heading across Minnesota and beyond,...

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Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Make reduce, reuse and recycle a part of your routine "Reduce, reuse, recycle." Most likely, you've heard that catchy phrase connected with information about saving natural resources and even saving your family money....

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Protect Your Home From Rain Water Intrusion!

If you have not experienced rain water entering you home from the many downpours this past weekend, consider yourself very lucky. With more rain in the forecast your luck may eventually run out... Here are a few tips...

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Tornado Truths

Tornadoes have caused severe and irreparable damage to tens of thousands of Americans and their property in recent years. On top of the physical and emotional fallout, many have also lost their lives as a direct result...

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Memorial Day Means Hello Summer!

Just like hamburgers and hot dogs, a sizzling grill is a symbol of summer and grilling isn't just about great food. Backyard barbecues often create treasured memories with friends and family. Keep in mind, however, that...

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Prom & Graduation Safety

High school is full of defining moments for Minneapolis teens and two of the highlights for most are prom and graduation. However, this time of year often sees other, more tragic defining moments - serious car accidents...

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Why a Home Inventory Is Important

Let's try a little exercise: Can you list everything you own from memory? Didn't think so. The fact is most people own more things than they realize. It's easy to remember the cars, the computer, the TV. But what about...

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Let's Keep Our Lawns - and Ourselves - Safe in Minnesota

For many of our neighbors in Minneapolis, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard - often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly. Each year about 400,000 people...

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Hydroplaning or Aquaplaning

The rain is helping usher in spring, but it is also accumulating on the roads. The winter debris is being washed away, but it is clogging the sewers and causing huge puddles to form. Those puddles can be dangerous, they...

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Happy St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day calls for drinks with friends, wearing lots of green accessories, and a healthy dose of responsibility. Here are the top 10 safety tips to a safe night out! 1. Plan ahead, take a friend 2. Predetermine...

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Spring in Minnesota Means Massive Snowmelt

The winter of 2013-2014 could be one for the record books. Meteorologists claim this is the coldest winter since 1979. The snowfall this season has been substantial and spring is right around the corner, we are most...

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Love Your Valentine’s Day Gift? Insure It!

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and thoughts of people everywhere turn to ... jewelry. About one of four Americans buys jewelry, spending $2,000 per year on average, and industry experts expect jewelry sales...

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Tips to Lower Your Homeowner Insurance Premium

As a consumer, you can take steps to make sure you're getting the best deal on your homeowners insurance. To start, check your premium and compare it to last year's premium. Companies are required to notify you of rate...

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Common & Preventable Homeowner Claims

1) Kitchen fire - The majority of fire losses originate in the kitchen due to food that is left unattended on the stove, or ignition of grease. Never put a grease fire out with water. Use baking soda or flour instead. 2)...

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Winter Driving Tips

The cold weather tests the limits of our cars. The cold weather is hard on the battery, tire pressure, and even the interior of a car can crack when it is too cold. Hopefully you will find these tips useful, and if you...

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5 Tips to Secure Your Home

The holidays are just around the corner and unfortunately so are the thieves. This time of year can bring out the Scrooge in some people therefore it is important to protect yourself from the unnecessary aggravation. A...

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Frozen Pipes are Scary!

An average of a quarter-million families have their homes ruined and their lives disrupted each winter, all because of water pipes that freeze and burst. And recovering from frozen pipes is not as simple as calling a...

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Night Driving

A little extra caution can go a long way while driving at night Summer has ended, and while fall and winter have their own pleasures - including skiing and snowboarding- longer nights mean increased danger on the roads....

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Happy Holidays

The holiday season has officially begun. Happy Holidays! We want to remind everyone of the importance in planning for a sober ride home. Everyone loves a good party and it is the time of year where there will be an...

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Beware Ghouls & Goblins Pose a Potential Threat

It is the season for trick or treaters, soon they will be knocking on your door asking for tricks or treats. It is your responsibility as the homeowner and insurance policy owner to prevent losses. Halloween is a...

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Caution Deer Ahead

Minnesota Department of Public Safety is reminding motorist and motorcyclists to be especially cautious of deer this fall and winter. In the coming months deer activity increases because they are breeding. The Minnesota...

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Do you text while driving?

Did you know that 100,000 auto accidents occur annually due to texting while driving? There are too many tragic stories of people who took their eyes off the road for a split second to look at their phone or to respond...

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Boat Trailer Safety Tips

When purchasing a trailer in Minnesota stay within recommended capacity guidelines. When determining capacity, remember to include the weight of fuel and accessories in addition to the weight of the craft. Trailers come...

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Summer Thunderstorms

It is important to begin preparing for a major storm before it strikes. To start preparing you should have an emergency kit, which includes food, water and basic items you may need in your household. If you are outdoors...

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Infotainment Another Distraction for Drivers

AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducted a study that tested the different levels of distracted driving while listening to the radio, talking on a handheld phone, text messaging and voice-to-text messaging. The...

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Fraud Prevention Tips

Sign your credit and debit cards with "See ID." This will force you to show your signature sample off your ID. Few perpetrators of fraud will be able to replicate your signature on his or her ID. If you receive a voice...

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Our Habits Dictate Our Health

Health insurance costs are on the rise due to the cost associated with our lifestyles. Activities like smoking, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol use, lack of preventative screenings, patient non-...

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Safe Driving Is Not Just For Teens

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration there are more than 1,700 fatalities and 840,000 injuries annually due to vehicular crashes on public highways. Did you know that sending or receiving a...

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Control Insurance Costs

Investigate coverage and product options with your independent agent: The biggest advantage of using an independent agent is the access to a number of insurers with different products that can be tailored to your...

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Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is more prevalent in the U.S. than in Europe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention surveyed and found that nearly 69 percent of U.S. drivers admitted to talking on a cellphone while driving...

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Spring Flooding

As winter wraps up the temperature will rise which can bring rapid snowmelt. The ground will still be frozen so the water will have nowhere to go. The melting snow and rainwater will run off into lakes, streams and...

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Winter Car Tips

Welcome to Minnesota's winter, a snowfall of 8 inches plus averages once every 2 years. The winter wonderland can look magnificent, but also poses significant dangers when traveling. Taking a little extra time for your...

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Happy Turkey Day!

We want to wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for at A.T.C. Agency, we are eternally grateful for you! Our loyal clients make us very happy! Thank you for your continued business with...

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Winter Tips

Thanksgiving is approaching us, and quickly. The weather in Minnesota has become a bit unpredictable. We recently had snow in northern Minnesota and three tornados in the Southern Metro in the same day. When the weather...

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Preventative Storm Tips

The weather across the nation has become increasingly more severe; and it is always a good idea to have an emergency plan on hand. In the planning process make sure you have a flashlight with batteries, extra supplies...

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Flood Insurance

The recent heavy down pours in northern Minnesota have created havoc, it is a great time to take the opportunity to review your current homeowners insurance. In order to properly protect yourself and your family against...

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Uninsured and Underinsured

When purchasing Auto Insurance, it is important to understand the significance of Uninsured and Underinsured coverage. When the economy is struggling unfortunately many individuals don’t insure their vehicles. According...

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Minnesota Storms

The weather in Minnesota can become inclement quickly. Knowing what to do when a disaster strikes can make all the difference, it is the same after inclement weather strikes. There is a lot of information that you will...

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Home Renovations Tips

In Minnesota, as soon as the summer starts, so does the construction. Many people are starting to take on those renovation projects, with that in mind, always ask for a copy of insurance from any contractor doing work...

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Summer Grill

Spring has sprung and Minnesota is alive again! Let the grilling season begin. Please keep in mind, however, that when you grill, you're literally playing with fire. Unfortunately many learn the hard way and suffer...

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Motorcycle Safety

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month starts in May, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This month marks when drivers need to start being more mindful of motorcycles, and the increase...

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Car Insurance Guide

To begin you are required to carry liability insurance which will protect you from damages that you are responsible for. Liability extends protection to damages due to your negligence. Liability is cheap, please make...

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Renter Insurance

Renter's Insurance What happens if a pipe bursts, thieves tear down your window to climb in or a spark ignites a fire? Protect your personal items with a renter's policy. They are great and cheap! The policy will...

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Condo Insurance

Condo Insurance There are two components for an HO-6 policy; the first component is the master policy which affords coverage to the common areas and the second is the personal HO-6 policy which covers your appliances,...

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Understanding Identity Theft

Your identity belongs to you. Here are some suggestions from ATC Agency to help you protect it. One smart and effective way to protect yourself against identity theft is to prevent it. If your identity is stolen, you'll...

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