Why is Insurance Important?
We’ve all heard of insurance. Most of our parents have it. Is it something we need ourselves? Maybe. Are you renting a room, an apartment or an entire home? Do you drive a car that you bought yourself or are maybe making payments on? Are you paying a mortgage on a home?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could benefit from some type of insurance coverage.
Insurance protects you and the things you own if something bad happens, like a car accident, damage to the place where you live, an injury that puts you out of work for a long time and other possible damages. When these things happen, insurance pays at least part of the cost to replace these things.
Let’s say you’re renting an apartment, and a fire destroys everything you own – clothes, electronics, furniture, etc. Do you have the money to replace those? This is especially important if you decorate with candles or lights during the holidays. The landlord is not responsible for replacing any of your stuff and usually will not. If someone sideswipes your vehicle, do you have the money to get it fixed? Insurance does!
When we don’t make much money, or we run out of money before we get to the next paycheck, it can be easy to say, “I can’t afford insurance.” And truthfully, most of the time we don’t when things are going well. But, that accident, that fire, those other damages don’t always just happen to someone else.
Types of Insurance
There are different types of insurance, all for different risks. each designed to cover specific risks. Some common types are:
- Auto Insurance: Protects you and others in the event of a car accident.
- Homeowners/Renters Insurance: Covers damage or theft of your home and belongings.
- Health Insurance: Helps with medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
- Life Insurance: Provides financial support to your loved ones if you pass away.
- Disability Insurance: Replaces a portion of your income if you become unable to work due to illness or injury.
- Travel Insurance: Offers protection during trips, including coverage for canceled flights, lost luggage, and medical emergencies.
Insurance is not just for parents or people in well-established careers. It’s for college students, young adults starting families and lots of other people. Understanding the importance of insurance and the types available is essential as you navigate your way through life. It’s like having a safety net that allows you to take risks and pursue your dreams without worrying about the financial fallout of unexpected events. So, whether you’re planning to buy your first car, go off to college, or embark on any new adventure, remember that insurance can be your partner in securing your financial future.
