University Insurance Group August 2025 Newsletter

Back to School? Don’t Overlook These Insurance Gaps

Backpacks, notebooks, new clothes—it’s back-to-school season, and for many families, that means gearing up for another busy year. But in the rush to check off supply lists and prep for new routines, there’s one area that often gets overlooked: insurance.

From teen drivers to college-bound students, life transitions at this time of year can create unexpected gaps in coverage. Here’s what to keep in mind before the first bell rings.

1. Teen Drivers & Auto Insurance

Got a new driver in the family? Adding them to your auto insurance policy isn’t just a formality—it’s essential.

They’re covered under your policy, but it’s smart to check whether your current limits are still enough.

Ask about good student discounts and driver safety programs—many insurers offer savings for teens who hit the books and the brakes responsibly.

Tip: Even if your teen won’t be driving to school every day, occasional use still requires coverage.

2. College Students Living Away from Home

Is your child heading off to college? Whether they’re in a dorm or off-campus housing, here’s what to check:

Personal belongings may or may not be covered by your homeowners or renters policy. Laptops, bikes, and gaming consoles can add up fast.

If they’re taking a car with them, update the garaging address with your insurer to ensure proper coverage.

Consider renters insurance if they’re living off-campus—it’s inexpensive and protects their things in case of theft, fire, or water damage.

Quick Stat: The average dorm room contains more than $3,000 worth of personal items.

3. Device Coverage (Laptops, Tablets, Phones)

Digital learning is here to stay, and students rely on their tech to succeed. Unfortunately, accidents, theft, and even power surges happen.

Homeowners insurance may offer limited coverage, but there are often deductibles and exclusions.

Consider specialty electronics coverage or add a rider to your policy for high-value items.

4. Liability Protection for Everyday Mishaps

Kids can be unpredictable—and even well-meaning actions can lead to unintended consequences.

Accidental damage to school property or a friend’s belongings may result in liability claims.

A personal liability umbrella policy can offer extra protection beyond your standard coverage, giving you peace of mind if something big goes wrong.

5. Bicycles and E-Scooters

With more students biking or using scooters to get to school, theft and accidents are on the rise.

Check if your current policy covers these items while away from home.

For older students, especially those on campus, this may require a standalone policy or endorsement.

A Quick Back-to-School Insurance Checklist:

✔️ Update auto policies with new drivers or addresses

✔️ Review homeowners/renters coverage for students’ belongings

✔️ Ask about discounts for good grades or safe driving

✔️ Consider adding electronics or liability coverage

✔️ Talk with your insurance agent about any recent life changes

Let’s Start the School Year Fully Covered

The school year brings enough surprises—insurance shouldn’t be one of them. A quick review now can prevent costly gaps later.

Need help reviewing your policies? We’re here to make sure you and your family are set up for a successful, stress-free year.

What Is a Personal Liability Umbrella Policy—and Do You Need One?

A personal umbrella policy gives you extra liability coverage beyond your home and auto insurance. It kicks in when your other policies reach their limits.

If someone sues you or claims you’re responsible for serious injury or damage, umbrella coverage protects your assets. It also covers legal costs and situations not included in your basic policies.

Why Your Standard Policy Might Not Be Enough

Most home and auto policies include liability coverage. But the limits often top out at $300,000 or $500,000. That may sound like plenty—until a lawsuit hits.

Examples:

• A serious car accident leads to $1 million in injury claims
  
• A guest is badly hurt on your property and sues for medical costs and lost wages
  
• Your child posts something online that results in a defamation claim
  
• Your dog bites someone and causes lasting injuries

If your liability limit is exhausted, you’re responsible for the rest. That could mean savings, investments, even future wages.

How Umbrella Coverage Work

Umbrella insurance starts at $1 million in coverage and can go up in million-dollar increments. It covers:

• Bodily injury liability
• Property damage liability
  
• Legal defense costs
  
• Personal injury claims like libel, slander, or false arrest

It usually doesn’t cover:

• Your own injuries
  
• Business-related liability
  
• Intentional harm
  
• Damage to your personal belongings

You need to carry a certain amount of coverage on your home and auto policies to qualify for an umbrella policy—usually $250,000 in auto liability and $300,000 in homeowners liability.

Who Needs an Umbrella Policy?

Umbrella insurance isn’t just for high-net-worth households. It makes sense if you:

• Own a home or rental property
  
• Have teen drivers in the household
  
• Own a pool, trampoline, or boat
  
• Host guests often
  
• Own a dog
  
• Have savings or investments
  
• Want extra protection from lawsuits

Even one unexpected event can wipe out your coverage—and your finances.

What It Costs

Umbrella policies are affordable. A $1 million policy typically costs:

• $150–$300 per year
  
• A few more dollars per month for each additional million in coverage

Final Check

Ask yourself:

• Do I have anything to protect?
  
• Could I be at risk for a major liability claim?
  
• Would I feel more secure with higher limits?

If the answer is yes, umbrella coverage is worth considering.

We’ll walk you through your options, review your current liability limits, and help you decide if this extra layer of protection makes sense for you.

August Article Round-Up

We’ve rounded up several articles from around the web that are particularly relevant this time of year:

• This will help put summer heat in perspective: NASA’s Parker Probe got closer to the Sun than any spacecraft ever — and captured the closest photos we’ve ever seen. Suddenly, 90 degrees doesn’t seem so bad!
• Anticipating carpool line blues? See how one school got creative and turned the daily wait into something a little more fun.
• Thinking about moving or upgrading your space? Check out these 30 ways to boost your home’s value — from low-cost fixes to big-impact updates.
• A field, a tractor, and a message of love: One farmer found a unique way to celebrate 20 years of marriage. Have a look here!

Welcome to Wise-Lee Shared! Smart answers for your real insurance questions—because Wise-Lee’s always got your back.

What Happens If I Loan My Car to a Friend and They Crash It?

Let’s say you hand your car keys to a friend. They get into an accident. Who’s responsible?

Here’s the short answer: insurance follows the car—not the driver.

That means your auto insurance is usually the one that kicks in first, not your friend’s.

Here’s how it works:

Scenario 1: Your friend causes the accident.

• Your insurance pays first (liability and possibly collision).
• If the damages exceed your policy limits, your friend’s insurance might help—if they have one.
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Scenario 2: Someone else hits your car while your friend is driving.

• The other driver’s insurance covers damages (if they’re at fault).
• Your insurance still might be involved for medical payments or uninsured drivers.

Things to keep in mind:

• Occasional use is typically fine. Regular use? That needs to be listed on your policy.
• If your friend doesn’t have a license or is excluded from your policy, you may not be covered.
• Lending your car = accepting financial risk. Always be sure they’re responsible behind the wheel.

Mark Your Calendar

Here are some notable dates you won't want to miss this month!

• August: National Eye Exam Month - If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, consider scheduling one for yourself or the kids, especially before back-to-school.
• August 4: National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day - No better excuse to indulge. Whether you bake a batch at home or pick up a warm cookie from your favorite local shop, it’s the perfect day to share something sweet with a neighbor or client. If you don’t have a tried-and-true recipe, give this Crumbl copycat a try!
• August 8: National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day - This offbeat holiday is a nod to overzealous gardeners with an abundance of zucchini and a lack of recipes. It’s also a fun reminder that random acts of generosity (and produce) can bring communities together.
• August 18: World Breast Cancer Research Day - Today is a day dedicated to recognizing the progress made in breast cancer research and the importance of continuing that work for future prevention and treatment. The date itself — the 18th day of the eighth month — is a meaningful reminder: One in eight women and one in 833 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes.
• August 26: National Dog Day - Our furry friends are part of the family. Celebrate by updating your emergency plans to include pets. If you’re a homeowner, it’s also a good time to make sure you understand how pets may factor into your liability coverage.
• August 31: National Eat Outside Day - Soak up the final days of summer. Pack a picnic, fire up the grill, or just enjoy lunch on your patio. Just don’t forget the bug spray.