The start of a new year is always a perfect opportunity for personal and professional introspection. This gives people the chance to establish goals, reviews successes and failures, and implement changes for future improvement. It is also the ideal time to review financial decisions and protections for the future, including insurance coverage.

Car theft and break-ins can occur at any time, and in any area throughout the Houston area. Criminals may target vehicles for a variety of reasons, including stealing parts and wheels, valuables left inside, or tools and equipment inside of commercial vehicles. Although it isn't possible to prevent all car thefts and break-ins, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim with a few proactive steps.

Social media can be a fun and engaging way to connect with family and friends through quick and simple updates. While you might think social media posts and pictures are harmless and innocent, others might see them as opportunities for theft, vandalism and other criminal activity. Social media posts can easily put people and property at risk, so it's important to understand how criminals can use our social media posts against us, and safer ways to communicate through social media.

Houstonians love their cars and trucks, and while many opt to buy practical or fuel-efficient vehicles for their everyday needs, some decide to splurge and buy the vintage car of their dreams. Vintage automobiles may be a reminder of their youth, or a dream car long-desired for its style or speed. Although vintage cars and trucks might be fun to own and drive, there are some important factors to consider before taking the plunge and buying a vintage or older vehicle.

In order to operate a vehicle in the state of Texas, drivers are required to have a minimum amount of automobile insurance coverage in the event of an accident.

As discussed in our previous blog post, Houston drivers need to be fully protected while on the road, especially since nearly 20% of all drivers in the Houston area are either underinsured or completely uninsured. This makes driving particularly risky since car accidents can occur at any time, and can leave drivers physically and financially devastated. Having thorough and reliable auto insurance coverage is essential to ensure that you, your family and your vehicles are well protected from danger.

Because of Houston's vast size and lack of mass transit options, driving a vehicle is a part of life for many Houstonians, whether it's commuting to work, home, school, or retail areas. In Harris County alone, there are nearly 3 million registered vehicles on Houston area roads, but unfortunately, not all of them meet state insurance requirements.

As discussed in last week's blog, many parents help prepare their college students for the new school year by purchasing laptops, smartphones, furniture, appliances, and other needed items. One major asset college students also take with them is a vehicle, either their own car or a family vehicle.

In today's volatile economy, consumers across the county are looking for innovative new ways to save money and help their paychecks go farther. This can mean scaling back on entertainment expenses, carpooling to reduce fuel consumption, or buying groceries in bulk. One important, but often overlooked, way to save on your monthly expenses is to evaluate your current insurance policies and consider bundling your insurance policies together with one insurance agency.