With Debunking Day coming up on March 11th, there’s no better time to clear up some long‑standing misunderstandings about home and auto insurance — especially for families living in Hickory, Morganton, Lenoir, Newton, Conover, Granite Falls, Valdese, Taylorsville, and the greater Western North Carolina region.

Across our foothill and mountain communities, many people make insurance decisions based on assumptions or outdated information. Unfortunately, those misconceptions can lead to costly surprises, especially in an area known for heavy rainstorms, winding mountain roads, steep driveways, and older homes.

To help you stay protected, here’s a fresh look at eight persistent insurance myths — and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: “Red cars cost more to insure.”

 

The truth: The color of your vehicle has zero impact on your rate. Insurers care about the make, model, age, safety features, repair costs, your driving record, and where you drive. Whether you’re commuting along Highway 321 or navigating downtown Hickory, your car’s paint color is irrelevant.

Myth #2: “Only people in flood zones need flood insurance.”

 

The truth: Flooding doesn’t follow the map — and that’s especially true here in Western NC. Heavy rainfall, runoff from steep terrain, creek overflow, and oversaturated ground can cause flooding even outside designated zones.

Many areas near Lake Hickory, the Catawba River, and low‑lying roads have seen unexpected water issues in recent years. Since homeowners insurance usually does not cover flood damage, coverage is worth considering for most residents in our region.

Myth #3: “Older cars don’t need full coverage.”

 

The truth: While older vehicles are often worth less, North Carolina still requires liability coverage regardless of age. And if you rely on your car for work, school, or navigating our rural roadways, dropping comprehensive or collision could leave you financially strained if you couldn’t afford repairs or replacement.

Myth #4: “Homeowners insurance covers every item I own.”

 

The truth: Homeowners insurance includes personal property coverage, but higher‑value items often exceed standard limits. Jewelry, firearms, artwork, antiques, and specialized tools — which many people across Hickory, Morganton, and Lenoir own — usually need to be listed individually through endorsements or a separate policy.

Myth #5: “Anyone who drives my car is covered.”

 

The truth: Not always. Most policies cover drivers using your vehicle with permission, but exclusions apply. Business use — such as deliveries, gig work, or consistent commuting by someone else — is usually not covered.

With many Western NC households sharing vehicles among family members, college students, or coworkers, it’s important to verify your policy protects all common drivers.

Myth #6: “I don’t need homeowners insurance because I have savings.”

 

The truth: Even strong savings may not withstand a major loss. The average rebuild cost in North Carolina continues to rise, and many homes in our region — especially older or custom‑built mountain homes — cost far more than expected to repair.

Homeowners insurance also covers liability, personal belongings, and additional living expenses if your home becomes temporarily uninhabitable — crucial protection if you had to relocate after a fire or storm.

Myth #7: “My auto policy automatically covers rental cars.”

 

The truth: Many auto policies extend to personal-use rentals, but business use is often excluded. Before turning down coverage at the rental counter — whether you’re picking up a vehicle at Charlotte Douglas Airport or renting for a trip — double-check what your policy includes.

Myth #8: “My credit score doesn’t affect my insurance rate.”

 

The truth: In most states, including North Carolina, insurers can use a credit‑based insurance score when determining your premium. Better credit often results in lower rates. If your score has improved recently, it’s worth asking whether your insurance costs could be lowered, too.

Quick Tips to Prevent Coverage Gaps

 

Being proactive with your insurance helps avoid surprises — especially in an area where weather, terrain, and growth bring unique risks. Helpful habits include:

• Review your policy every year — especially after major life or property changes.
• Ask your agent to walk through exclusions.
• Keep an updated home inventory with photos and values.
• Understand the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value.

When to Revisit Your Insurance Coverage

 

Consider reviewing your coverage anytime:

• You buy or sell a home or vehicle
• You complete a renovation or home improvement
• Your household changes (marriage, divorce, or a new child)
• A teen or new driver joins the family
• You start a business or side hustle
• Your income, financial picture, or credit score shifts

Whether you’ve believed one of these myths or simply want more clarity, now is a great time to take a fresh look at your insurance — especially with Debunking Day around the corner.

I’m here to help you feel confident in your coverage and ensure there are no unwelcome surprises. Reach out anytime to schedule a quick, no‑pressure policy review for your home, car, or business in the Western NC region.