Question 1

Who do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve individuals, families, and small business owners primarily in Murray, Utah and the greater Salt Lake area. Whether you're a first-time homeowner, a new driver, or a business owner looking for liability coverage, we're here to help.

Question 2

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is to request a free quote online or schedule a call with Robert directly. We'll review your current coverage (if any), identify any gaps, and walk you through options that fit your budget and lifestyle.

Question 3

Why work with a local agent instead of buying insurance online?

Accepted Answer

A local agent advocates for you. When you buy online, you're on your own if something goes wrong. Robert Pico knows the Murray, UT area, understands local risks, and is available by phone or in person when you need help — not just a chatbot.

Question 4

Can I switch to Robert Pico Insurance Agency if I already have coverage elsewhere?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Switching is easier than most people think. We'll review your current policy, find you comparable or better coverage, and handle the transition so there's no gap in protection. In many cases, we can save you money in the process.

Question 5

Do you offer bundling discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bundling multiple policies — like auto and home, or home and life — with Allstate through our agency typically qualifies you for a multi-policy discount. It also simplifies your coverage since everything is managed in one place.

Question 6

How often should I review my insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

We recommend reviewing your coverage at least once a year, or any time you experience a major life change — buying a home, getting married, having a child, starting a business, or purchasing a new vehicle. Life changes mean your coverage needs change too.

Question 7

Is auto insurance required in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Utah law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage: $25,000 per person / $65,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damage. We recommend higher limits to fully protect your assets.

Question 8

How can I lower my auto insurance premium?

Accepted Answer

Common ways to save include bundling your auto and home policies, maintaining a clean driving record, taking a defensive driving course, raising your deductible, and asking about Allstate's Drivewise® program, which rewards safe driving habits.

Question 9

What does 'full coverage' actually mean?

Accepted Answer

'Full coverage' typically refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability covers damage you cause to others; collision covers your vehicle in an accident; comprehensive covers non-collision events like theft, hail, or fire. We'll help you decide what level of coverage makes sense for your vehicle's value and your budget.

Question 10

Do I need different coverage for a new car vs. an older vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Generally, yes. A newer or financed vehicle typically warrants comprehensive and collision coverage to protect your investment. For older vehicles with lower market value, you may be able to drop those coverages and save on premiums. We'll help you run the numbers to find the right balance.

Question 11

Am I covered if I drive for Uber or Lyft?

Accepted Answer

Standard personal auto policies typically exclude coverage during rideshare activity. If you drive for a rideshare company, you'll need a rideshare endorsement or a separate commercial policy to fill the gap. Ask us about Allstate's rideshare coverage options.

Question 12

How does adding a teen driver affect my auto insurance?

Accepted Answer

Adding a teen driver typically increases your premium since new drivers statistically have more accidents. However, good student discounts, driver training discounts, and keeping teens on a family policy (rather than a separate one) can help manage the cost. Call us and we'll walk through the best options for your family.

Question 13

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Accepted Answer

A standard homeowners policy covers your dwelling (the structure), personal property (your belongings), liability (if someone is injured on your property), and additional living expenses if you're temporarily displaced. Flood and earthquake coverage are typically separate — ask us about those add-ons.

Question 14

How much homeowners insurance do I need?

Accepted Answer

You should insure your home for its full replacement cost — what it would cost to rebuild it from scratch, not its market value. We'll help you calculate the right dwelling coverage amount so you're never underinsured after a loss.

Question 15

Do I need renters insurance if I'm not a homeowner?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Renters insurance covers your personal belongings, provides liability protection, and pays for temporary housing if your unit becomes uninhabitable. It's one of the most affordable policies available — often less than a few dollars a day.

Question 16

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding in Utah?

Accepted Answer

No — standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. Utah does experience flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas near the Wasatch Front. If your property is in a flood-prone zone, we strongly recommend a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier.

Question 17

Should I get earthquake insurance in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Utah sits along the Wasatch Fault, one of the most seismically active fault lines in the country. Standard homeowners policies do not cover earthquake damage. Given the real risk in our area, we recommend asking about earthquake coverage as an add-on to your policy.

Question 18

Are my valuables like jewelry and electronics covered?

Accepted Answer

Standard homeowners policies cover personal property, but high-value items like jewelry, art, collectibles, and electronics often have sub-limits that may not fully cover their value. A scheduled personal property endorsement (also called a floater) provides broader, itemized coverage for your most valuable possessions.

Question 19

What's the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Accepted Answer

Term life insurance covers you for a set period (10, 20, or 30 years) and pays a death benefit if you pass away during that term. Whole life insurance is permanent coverage that also builds cash value over time. Term is generally more affordable; whole life offers lifelong protection and a savings component.

Question 20

How much life insurance do I need?

Accepted Answer

A common rule of thumb is 10–12 times your annual income, but the right amount depends on your debts, dependents, income replacement needs, and future expenses like college tuition. We'll walk you through a needs analysis to find the right number for your family.

Question 21

I'm young and healthy — do I really need life insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and now is the best time to get it. Premiums are lowest when you're young and healthy. Locking in a policy today protects your family and ensures you're covered even if your health changes in the future.

Question 22

Do I need a medical exam to get life insurance?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Some policies — especially smaller term policies — offer simplified or no-exam underwriting. Larger coverage amounts typically require a medical exam to determine your rate. We'll help you find the right policy based on your health profile and coverage goals.

Question 23

Who should I name as my beneficiary?

Accepted Answer

Most people name a spouse, partner, or children as primary beneficiaries. You can also name a trust, charity, or other individual. It's important to keep your beneficiary designations up to date — especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.

Question 24

Can I borrow against my life insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

If you have a whole life or universal life policy, it builds cash value over time that you can borrow against — often at favorable interest rates with no credit check. Keep in mind that unpaid loans reduce your death benefit. Term policies do not build cash value.

Question 25

What types of insurance does my small business need?

Accepted Answer

Most small businesses need general liability insurance at minimum. Depending on your industry, you may also need commercial property, business interruption, workers' compensation, professional liability (E&O), or a Business Owner's Policy (BOP) that bundles several coverages together.

Question 26

Does my homeowners policy cover my home-based business?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Standard homeowners policies exclude business-related losses. If you run a business from home, you likely need a separate business policy or endorsement to cover your equipment, inventory, and liability.

Question 27

What is a Business Owner's Policy (BOP) and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A BOP bundles general liability and commercial property coverage into a single, cost-effective policy designed for small to mid-sized businesses. It's often more affordable than buying each coverage separately. If you own a physical location, have business equipment, or interact with customers, a BOP is worth considering.

Question 28

Is workers' compensation required for my business in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Utah law requires most employers with one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance. It covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job. Sole proprietors and some LLC members may be exempt, but we recommend reviewing your specific situation with us.

Question 29

Do I need cyber liability insurance for my small business?

Accepted Answer

If your business stores customer data, processes payments, or relies on digital systems, cyber liability insurance is worth serious consideration. A data breach or ransomware attack can be devastating for a small business. Cyber coverage helps pay for notification costs, legal fees, and recovery expenses.

Question 30

How do I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

You can file a claim directly through Allstate's 24/7 claims line at 1-800-ALLSTATE, through the Allstate mobile app, or by calling our office and we'll guide you through the process. We're here to advocate for you every step of the way.

Question 31

How long does a claim take to process?

Accepted Answer

Simple claims can be resolved in a few days; more complex claims involving significant damage or liability disputes may take several weeks. Allstate's claims team will keep you updated throughout the process, and Robert is available to answer questions along the way.

Question 32

Will my premium go up if I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of claim, your history, and your policy. Not all claims result in a rate increase — for example, comprehensive claims (like hail damage) typically have less impact than at-fault collision claims. Ask us about Allstate's Claim Satisfaction Guarantee and accident forgiveness options.

Question 33

What should I do if my claim is denied?

Accepted Answer

Don't give up. You have the right to appeal a denied claim. Start by requesting a written explanation of the denial, then contact our office — we'll review the decision with you, help you understand your options, and advocate on your behalf with Allstate if appropriate.

Question 34

What is a deductible and how does it affect my claim?

Accepted Answer

Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and file a $5,000 claim, you pay $1,000 and your insurer covers the remaining $4,000. Higher deductibles lower your premium; lower deductibles mean less out-of-pocket cost at claim time.

Question 35

Can I call Robert directly when I have a problem?

Accepted Answer

Yes — that's exactly what we're here for. You can reach our office at (801) 606-1904 or email us at support@robertpicoinsuranceagency.com. We believe in being accessible when it matters most, not just when you're signing up for a policy.

Insurance FAQs

Still Have Questions?