These Are a Few of Our Favorite (2021) Things

We know that 2021 was an uncertain time for many Oklahomans, but there’s one thing you can always be sure of – Oklahoma Farm Bureau Insurance is here for you. Despite the hard times, we have a lot to be thankful for and we want to take a moment to express our gratitude and reflect on our top 3 favorite moments from last year.

#1: Sam Barrick raised $25,000 for the Ronald McDonald House

Last year, OKFB agent Sam Barrick led an effort in Love County to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House. He raised an incredible $25,000, which helped provide a comfortable space in the Ronald McDonald House for families that have a child hospitalized in OKC. Sam Barrick is living proof that Oklahomans have big hearts. Thanks, Sam, for all you do!

Oklahoma Farm Bureau Insurance Agents helped raise $25,000 for the Ronald McDonald House.

#2: Oklahoma Farm Bureau Insurance’s 75th Anniversary

In 2021, we celebrated our 75th Anniversary! We’re honored that so many of you have trusted us to take care of your homes, your farms, your businesses and your families over the last 75 years. Together, we’ve been through a lot and every day we’re inspired by your resilience, strength and character. Thank you for welcoming us into your communities and homes. We look forward to serving Oklahomans for many years to come.

#3: A New Feature Just for You

Anything we can do to make your lives easier – no matter how small – is a big win for us. That’s why in 2021, we rolled out a new feature that allows you to opt-in to receive email notifications for:

  • Changes made to a policy
  • Renewal notices
  • Billing statements

We’re happy to make these processes seamless and more convenient. If you haven’t signed up for email notifications yet, contact your Oklahoma Farm Bureau Insurance agent today to make the change!

Thank you for your business, support and friendship. Because of you, we know great things are in store in 2022.

3 Things to Do if Your Car Breaks Down

Imagine your car breaks down. On the highway. At 1 a.m. In the middle of winter. 

It sounds like a scene straight out of a horror movie, but experiencing a breakdown could happen to most of us at some point in our lives. We’ve all heard the saying, “hope for the best, plan for the worst.” While you can’t always prevent a breakdown, you can be prepared for one. 

Here are three tips to help you prepare for a breakdown:

1. Have a Kit For Break Down

Stay prepared and stay safe by keeping these items in the trunk at all times, no matter the weather:

  • Mobile phone charging device
  • First-aid kit
  • Road atlas
  • Flashlight
  • High-visibility vest
  • Warning triangle
  • Carjack
  • Tow rope
  • Spare tire
  • Water bottles
  • Granola bars

2. Know How to Stay Safe

If you’re driving back to the hotel after an evening dinner, and there’s an issue with the car, there are a few things you could do to stay safe. If you’re able, pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights to stay visible. Also, put on the parking brake and turn the wheel away from the road to avoid rolling into traffic. If you’re in fast-moving traffic, it could be better to stay in the vehicle until help arrives. 

3. Contact OKFB’s Roadside Rescue Team

If you’re an OKFB Insurance policyholder or OKFB member, remember to keep your Roadside Rescue card with you and have this number saved in your phone: 833-957-OKFB (6532). If your vehicle breaks down, the OKFB Roadside Rescue service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Enjoy the variety of services, including towing, flat tire assistance, battery jump start service, unlock service and more. 

Your safety is our top priority and if you’re in need of help, we will be there every step of the way. 

Can A Ticket Impact My Auto Insurance?

Life happens fast and at times it can be easy to speed through. It could be easy to speed to work when running late or accidentally parking in the wrong spot. However, getting a ticket on either of these encounters could impact your Auto Insurance rate. Check out these facts on how a ticket could lead to an increased Auto Insurance premium.

person pulled over and getting a ticket from a police officer

Ticket Violations Can Impact Your Driving Record

Did you know a speeding ticket in Oklahoma could stay on your driving record for up to 3-5 years? The Oklahoma Department of Transportation utilizes a point system to track traffic violations and other penalties. If left unaddressed, this could lead to higher Auto Insurance rates and even the suspension of a license. 

Amount of Traffic Tickets Issued

Speeding tickets are not the only violation that can live on your driving record. For instance, there are actions that can have a lingering impact on an Auto Insurance premium. Actions such as texting and driving, running a red light, out-of-state tickets and DUIs. Also, the amount of tickets and the types of ticket offenses are both used to determine a rate increase or change to your premium.

  • Tip: Practice safe driving habits to prevent a rate increase and future traffic violations. This could involve putting the phone down while driving, paying close attention to state laws, and not eating while in traffic.
car speeding on the road

By practicing safe driving and paying attention on and off the road, you can avoid a rate increase and additional tickets. Also, ensure your vehicle is covered under your Auto Insurance policy and contact your local OKFB agent for additional questions or inquiries.

Guide to Insuring a New Driver

Whether your child is about to obtain their license or you’re looking to get your own Auto Insurance policy, it may seem daunting while trying to find the right coverage. To help, ensure your new driver is protected with these tips.  

Adding a Driver to Your Policy

If you currently have an Auto Insurance policy, you can add a spouse or newly-licensed teen to it. To begin this process, reach out to your insurance agent and go over your current policy to discuss options and rates. There are three things that can be helpful to keep in mind to prepare for this conversation:

  • Review driving records and pay any outstanding fines i.e., tickets, fines, or other violations that could have a direct impact on an Auto Insurance quote. Learn more about the influence tickets have on your driving record here.
  • Adding a new driver could increase an Auto Insurance rate. One way to manage costs would be to re-evaluate and discuss the needed amount of coverage. This could be based on a vehicle’s age and model.
  • Ask about discounts the insurance provider may offer for Auto Insurance. At OKFB, we have an array of discounts across our lines of insurance. 

Shopping for an Auto Policy

Looking to get off your parents’ policy? Start with consulting with your parents’ current insurance agent and see what they can offer. Also, reach out to other insurance providers to ensure you find the best fit for you. It’s important to understand how auto coverage works. Take a look at our glossary of insurance terms to prepare for these conversations. 

Required Coverage

Auto Insurance is legally necessary when operating and owning a vehicle. There are also multiple coverage options available to ensure your specific needs are covered. However, every state has a minimum auto insurance amount that they require. According to Oklahoma’s Insurance Department, Oklahoma follows the 25/20/25 rule, or $25,000 for bodily injury protection per person, $50,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage protection. 

By working closely with an agent, driving safe and ensuring continuous coverage, you are protecting yourself and building a strong insurance history. Contact your local OKFB agent to talk through this process. It can start when you are ready to add a spouse, teenager or when beginning your journey toward owning your own Auto Insurance policy.