Guaranty Association Benefits Company

Texting and driving is a deadly combination. Not only is it dangerous, it is illegal in 11 states for all drivers. In fact, some states will use the distraction as an primary measure performance, which means an officer can cite just a driver to use a cell phone hand held, without any infringement of the circulation takes place.

Young and inexperienced drivers are the highest risk group. Some startling statistics include:

• In 2011, 3,331 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver
• 40% of US teens say they were in a car when the driver. used a cell phone in a way that put people in danger.
• 11% of all drivers under age 20 involved in fatal accidents were reported as distracted at the time of the accident.
• text messaging creates a risk 23 times worse than driving while not distracted from the accident.
• sending or receiving a text takes a driver's eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent at 55 mph driving the length of an entire blind on the football field.
• 16% of all crashes involve distracted driving drivers under 20 years

and as these numbers continue to rise, more and more companies offer programs that help educate novice drivers about the dangers of texting and driving. Programs such as Distractology and In-Control have been developed in the hope of reversing this alarming trend. There are also resources for parents and parents are Key Web page on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Some carriers also offer applications or devices that can be plugged into a vehicle to prohibit the use of cell phones while in the vehicle. There are smartphones and iPhone applications available for download that prohibit the use of text messaging capabilities or only allow calls to be picked up by a hands-free device such as Bluetooth. Some of these applications allow three contacts "VIP", which allow you to receive SMS or calls to three phone numbers. These can be programmed for mom and dad, 9-1-1, etc. Any incoming text will receive an automatic response text that says you are driving and you send the text once you reach your destination.

Have you ever been in a car when distracted driving caused an accident or you endanger another way? If so please tell us about it in the comments section below.

For more statistics like those listed above, visit http://www.distraction.gov.

Image credit: BMW / autoblog.com

I downloaded a new application this weekend called TED. Have you heard of this? It is the official app of the nonprofit TED: Ideas worth spreading. TED, which stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design, is featured on Google Play as the application that "... presents talks from some of the most fascinating people in the world: education radicals, tech geniuses, medical mavericks , business gurus and music legends. Find over 1500 TED Talk videos and audios (with more added each week) on the official TED app ... "It is a great app if you have a little time and enjoy the fascinating hearing people talk! (You can also visit their website to hear the talks as well).

I watched several latest videos and enjoyed each one. Rodney Brooks better, in my opinion, could have (MIT professor who founded iRobot), "Why we will rely on robots." It was fascinating. He shared that if people sometimes agonize about robots taking their jobs in the coming years, the focus should be on developing technology to help the aging population of the world. He reintroduced the law of Amara, which states:.! "We tend to overestimate the effect of a technology in the short term and underestimate the long-term effect," I'm excited I thought, "This is the best app ever!"

I'm curious to see if there were assurances linked to talks - business gurus or technology geniuses with an overview of how the insurance industry will be revolutionized. My research had two results and I watched them. One was Richard Resnick introduction of genomics revolution; the other was Robin Chase who wanted to rent my car. Although car sharing has some impact on the industry of auto insurance and the genomic revolution amazing sounds or speak was what I was looking for.

Nobody fascinating talks about the insurance industry? No ideas worth spreading about insurance? So I thought I'd share my own. Here are some technologies that I find fascinating that can revolutionize the insurance industry :.

• Telematics - how you use your vehicle a direct impact on the premium you have to pay
• autonomous vehicles - If you are not driving, which is responsible for the vehicle? No more collision insurance premiums
• building products - ?. Products to better withstand wind, water and hail

Are these examples of overestimating the effect of a technology in the short term and underestimate the long-term effect?

How do you think that future technology will impact the insurance industry?

Ok, I'm not writing about an opera ... I am writing on browsers Web

Do you 190 (if you can). Michael Jordan has yet to win its first NBA championship. (Go Pistons!) The Cincinnati Reds won the World Series! A gallon of gasoline costs about $ 1.35. Shouts of joy (NBC) was the top TV show. And who could forget ... Tim Berners-Lee invented the first Web browser.

Fast forward 23 years and there are many competing web browsers for their own slice of the pie use. desktops, tablets and smartphones all come with a default installed browser, but there are several web browsers available to choose from.

My favorite is currently Chrome . There is a free web browser developed by Google, originally released in September 08. The browser is simple, fast, and easy to use. It is available for your desktop, tablet and smartphone

Other popular browsers :.

Internet Explorer (commonly abbreviated IE) is a web browser developed by Microsoft, originally released in 1995. It is the most frequently used Internet browser for PC, most likely because he is the only web browser that is installed in the Windows operating system.

Mozilla Firefox is a free open source web browser and the Mozilla Foundation, originally released in September 02. Mozilla's lineage traces all the way back to the 190s; It is an offshoot of Netscape -. that dominated the market before Internet Explorer

Safari is a web browser developed by Apple Inc. and included with the Mac OS X and iOS operating systems, first published in January 03 . iPhones, iPads, and Mac PCs have become very popular and come with default Safari web browser like - Safari is also available (free) for other operating systems

Opera [ is a web browser and Internet suite developed by Opera Free Software, originally published in 1994. I've never used it, but I've heard good things.

use NetMarketShare statistics show IE currently holds nearly 58% of market share; that number was 64% at the end of 09. Thanks to the tablet and smartphone explosion, Chrome, Firefox and Safari have really made progress in recent years. According W3schools.com (a site that offers free tutorials in all web development technologies), 12% of visitors to their site using IE, 53% use Chrome, 28% use Firefox, 4% use Safari, and 2% use Opera . Using 09 in again for comparison, 37% of visitors used IE, 46% use Firefox, 10% used Chrome, Safari 4% used, and 2% used Opera.

I will continue to monitor browser usage over the next two years. What browser do you continue to gain market share and why? What browser do you prefer and why?

The boating season is winding in many parts of the country and it is time to start thinking about protecting your precious recreational . Your insurance policy does not cover damage caused by lack of maintenance or neglect to take the necessary steps to winterize your boat will protect the ship and engine against the winter elements. If there is water inside your engine when the temperature drops below zero, the result can be a block or cracked case and a repair bill that runs into the thousands.

Your first step in winterizing should be to make a list of all the tasks that must be accomplished. Please consult your boat and motor or the manufacturer's recommendations on winterization of the owner.

Here are some guidelines, courtesy WikiHow.com to prepare your boat for the cold winter months.

1. Fill the fuel tank of your boat about capacity. Leave enough room to expand. Add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel to deteriorate during the winter.
2. Close fuel valves to prevent potentially destructive internal condensation. All passport exhaust ports should be sealed with adhesive tape and the fuel filter and water separator must be replaced.
3. Coat the spark plugs. Remove the flame of the motor and oil "shoot" fogging or two cycles in the carburetor when the engine is running. Cut the fuel supply to burn excess fuel. With the engine stops, injecting oil into the cylinders.
4. Fill the engine block with antifreeze. Purge any remaining engine coolant from the engine block and the collectors and fill with antifreeze suitable for your boat model.
5. Change the oil for motor gears. Flush and replace the lower gear case lubricant if your boat has an inboard / outdrive motor. This keeps the internal components free of water damage.
6. Clear the battery and store in a safe, dry place for the winter. The battery must be fully charged when stored. Maintain the charge and maintain the water level while the battery is in storage.
7. Inspect the propeller and the hub of your ship. Look for dented or curved blades and general wear. Change damaged parts and make repairs when winterizing your boat.
8. Spray the contact points on all plugs and bulb sockets with a displacement of moisture lubricant. Wrap plugs with electrical tape to keep them dry.
9. Clean your boat before storing for the winter. Remove surface dirt with a washcloth or sponge.
10. Cover your boat, even if it will be stored in a heated garage or other type of storage facility.

The best place for your boat during the winter is out of the water, under cover, in a boat storage area at controlled temperature. However, this can be expensive, so at least do the maintenance steps above to help reduce the possibility of costly repairs to your investment come spring. Do you have additional maintenance tips boats to share?

The bikes are a big part of the summer driving. Many people prefer the freedom of two wheels on the open road during the summer months. Whether to discover the scenic back roads on a cruiser or burn the road on a sport bike, the fact is that there is nothing like the feeling of the outdoors and the warm sun on your face as you roll. While this can be a liberating experience, it is not without its own set of dangers.

Motorists should be aware of motorcycles while sharing the road with our friends two wheels. Motorbikes can be easy to miss because of their size. They are smaller than cars and are more easily hidden in a blind spot for drivers. Be sure to look twice before changing lanes or making a turn - it could save the life of a rider

The road conditions affect motorcyclists differently than motorists .. adverse weather conditions or under the road such as potholes, sand, road debris, etc., can cause a rider to take evasive action rather abruptly. Make sure you leave enough space between you and a motorbike to be able to stop safely if the rider in front of you has to take evasive action.

Not only motorists should be more aware of their surroundings, motorcyclists can also do their part to help drivers notice their presence. A rider should never assume that a driver can see them. Wear reflective clothing or bright colors while driving to make it easier for drivers to see you. Always use your light when riding on the highway, even in the middle of the day. Light can attract the attention of a motorist before the rider. Use of high beam or a light modulation is also recommended.

position in the appropriate way is also very important when driving a motorcycle. Make sure to position yourself so you can see the side mirrors of a vehicle. If you can see their side mirror this greatly increases the probability that the driver can see you too. Give yourself plenty of clearance between you and the vehicles to avoid finding yourself in surrounding blind spots.

Weaving through traffic is also a very dangerous tactic. Do not try to weave between cars or share lanes with vehicles. The drivers can not see you or expect you to be with them between the two channels. If they change lanes or turn unexpectedly that you could be seriously injured. This is especially true in heavy traffic. When traffic stopped many riders driving between cars to weave their way through traffic. Drivers will often change lanes in a vain attempt to get a little further down the road and this can create a serious accident.

So the next time you hop in your car or hop on your bike for a cruise, remember these safety tips so that everyone gets to their destination safely. Do you know any additional tips that might be useful to motorists or motorcyclists?

Security tips obtained from the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles.

As consumers, we have expectations for customer service. We want a quick and accurate service representatives service competent and friendly customer service. There are so many ways to not only meet but exceed customer expectations, you just know what the client needs to get there.

It is important to have a firm grip on the products and services you offer to give the best possible customer experience. Easy access navigating a website or mobile application is a must in the company focused on technology today, and to respond quickly and accurately to requests from clients.

Some fundamental consumer expectations hope to have encountered as they go about their daily activities include:

• a fast, efficient and accurate
• products high quality at competitive prices
• friendly, helpful service staff to provide information and answer questions
• quick responses to their requests, either online, by phone or in person
• Stock enough to meet their needs without long waits
• a trained staff able to handle their questions without referring to
• a clean and easy installation to navigate site

most important, making the customer the number one priority will put you on track to meet and exceed customer expectations. Can you think of other ways that you could identify and meet the expectations of your customers?

Estep, Meredith. "The importance of meeting customer expectations (and how to meet them!)" Unitiv.com

Microsoft's latest Web browser is Internet Explorer 11. It made its debut on Windows 8, but it is also available for the most widely used Windows 7, who still works on most PCs. Here are some features you can expect to see if you adopt IE 11.

window and controls. The interface IE 11 provides more space for the content of the Web page and less on browser capabilities.

Tabs . simple tabs, IE squared to have pleasant capabilities. IE lets you drag the position of a tab or even out in the new window.

New Tab. new page in IE tab shows tiles for your frequently visited sites (which you can change or hide), but it also allows you to re-open recently closed tabs, reopen the last session, or start InPrivate Browsing.

Pinned Sites. Simply dragging the icon of a web page to the Windows taskbar, you create a pinned site.

the One Box. of Internet Explorer combined address and search field-One-Box protects privacy by allowing you to disable autosuggest function of your search engine on and off.

Excellent features of security and privacy. IE has not had the best safety reputation, but it is made great progress in protection against malicious software over the past years. Explorer has an entire menu called security, from which you can choose the protections of privacy and security. These include the SmartScreen Filter, which warns you when you try to access or download malicious sites suspected programs.

IE Internet Explorer 11 is not there five years. It is faster and safer than previous IE releases were. There are also some interesting features that you can benefit from.

Do you have more ideas to share on Internet Explorer 11?

Amanda, logistics leader of a major office supply wholesaler, was excited about the early fall. It was cooler and the leaves fell. Halloween was just around the corner, and it would mean the chance to go trick-or-treating with the kids.

She was also excited about the implementation of the new marketing strategy firm based on electronic commerce. After arriving to work on Monday and get her coffee, she enrolled in the new customer relationship management (CRM) the enterprise system. The system was designed to analyze customer sales and forecast demand for products

As she tried to pull up the weekly sales analysis report required for its monthly meeting, the system kept return an error message :. File not found. She decided to restart and the same error occurs preserved. Then she discovered that she could not find the quarterly or annual sales files. This was very strange. She called Miguel IT saying she could not pull up any selling files in the CRM system.

"Amanda, we have a problem," said Miguel. "It seems that we were hit by a malware attack on weekends. There is a computer virus that has infected the CRM system. It has destroyed or damaged a large number of files, and it seems that other systems may have been infected. for now, just hold tight while we work on fixing that. "

" Great, "said Amanda. "What are we supposed to do in forecasting customer orders? What do I tell our suppliers? They need my provisional figures! "

malware is a particularly dangerous threat to all businesses. According to TechTerms.com , malware is" short for "malicious software" and refers to software programs designed to damage or do other unwanted actions on a computer system. "common examples of malware include viruses and worms. a virus is defined by Webopedia.com as" a program or piece of code that is loaded on your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. "and a worm is defined as" a program that reproduces itself over a computer network and usually performs malicious actions. "both can turn off your computer system and cause serious damage to your systems and software. This can lead to financial and economic damage to you, your clients, and even third

Noting that some recent facts and statistics highlight the scale and seriousness of the threat of software attacks malicious.

• in 2013 alone, there were 30 million new threats in circulation. [1]
• There was an average of 82,000 new threats per day in 2013. [2]
• A recent study shows that nearly one in ten Android applications is partially or fully affected by malware. [3]
• More than 1,000 US companies have been infected by a malicious program that targets POS systems and credit interceptions and debit card data. [4]

in short, malware attacks are prevalent, dangerous and increasingly numerous. And they can cause serious financial damage to your computer system and affect your customers.

With this cyber insurance coverage in mind, a key element in the defense of any enterprise against malware attacks is to have that includes malware as a covered cause of loss. If malware is included as a covered cause of loss, then extra blankets that can repair the functions of your computer system and restore corrupted data may be involved. This can help to resolve the effects of a malware attack . Therefore, having a cyber coverage in your insurance policy for dealing with malware attacks is essential to ensure your business can cope and survive a malware attack

For more on cyber safety, see our video Insurance 101 :. Cyber ​​safety and Small Business. For more on cyber insurance coverage, contact your independent insurance agent.

The policy covers described above are in the most general terms and are subject to the exclusions and real political conditions. For specific coverage details and exclusions of the policy, refer to the policy itself or contact an independent insurance agent.

Recently, my Facebook news feed has been flooded with changes of state of the relationship! Many of my Facebook friends are now either "engaged" or "married", and it is not even the season commitment! Now you may think, it is actually an engagement season? Yes, studies show that the majority of engagements occur between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day each year. I guess that means my RSS feed will really bombed next month!

Do you go to BIG step and popping the question or you know someone who just did? Or maybe you have already survived the big day and changed your relationship status "married" on Facebook. If so, you'll want to review your policy to see how to say "I do" affect your insurance coverage.

Auto Cover

• You may be able to combine your car insurance policies into a single policy. This could qualify for a multi-car discount from your insurer. Driving records can impact it, however, you will need to discuss with your significant other whether or not they are a "speed demon" and have a history of violations.
• The interest rates for married drivers are generally lower than those for individual policyholders, which is another reason why it is important to notify your agent of your wedding.

Home or renter's insurance

• As a couple newly engaged or married, you may be changing your lifestyle. Maybe you move out of your parents' house, renting an apartment or buying a home. All these changes should be discussed with your agent.
• If you rent, you should consider purchasing renter's insurance to cover your personal property and provide liability coverage. Click here to learn more about renters insurance.
• If you moved with your spouse, you'll want to review your policy to see if it has sufficient coverage for both your belongings.
• It is important to remember that most homeowners and renters policies have a limit on jewelry coverage, so you might need to plan your "rock". Click here to learn more about programming jewelry and other items.

Insurance

• If you and your spouse have health insurance, you will want to consider you add your spouse or vice versa so you do not pay for duplicate coverage.

Have you recently had a change of status or plan to in the near future? Then there is no time like the present to review your insurance coverage with your independent agent to ensure you are adequately protected as you begin your life together!

It is mid-November and the leaves fall, the temperature is lower, and in some parts of country, snow is falling. The holidays are just around the corner and thoughts of Christmas trees, family gatherings, gift packaging, and of course all that food are now dancing in my head!

one of the most popular and tastiest in my mind, ways of preparing that Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey is frying. Unfortunately it is also one of the fastest growing causes of residential fires resulting in millions of dollars of damage and many injuries and deaths. But if done correctly and safely, a fried turkey can be a delicious part of your holiday meal.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments in the United States respond to more than 1,000 fires involving a fryer every year resulting in an average of five dead, 60 injured, 00 houses destroyed and more than $ 15 million in property damage. My own state of Texas opens the way to fires and deep injuries turkey fries.

With a few precautions, however, you can safely enjoy that moist, sweet taste only caused by frying your bird. Here are some Do's and Don'ts for frying a turkey:

• Do make sure you have the proper equipment . Start either with a stove propane or electric fry with a heavy pot from 30 to 60 quarts capacity. Many stores have now fryers specifically built for frying turkeys. If your stove has no thermostat, you will need to fry thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. You will also need a meat thermometer, an injector, oven mitts or pot holders, and especially a fire extinguisher.
• DO NOT fry a frozen turkey . Thaw turkey in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 4 days before frying.
• Do not use too much oil . Soak your turkey in too much oil from oil will spill from the pan and can result in injury and / or a major fire, once the oil comes in contact with the element of fire or heating.
• NOT fry inside. If something goes wrong, you prefer that it be done in the backyard and in your home. It is also a great reason to hang out in the backyard with friends and family!

You can find hundreds and hundreds of great recipes for fried turkeys on the Internet. Using a few simple precautions can result the best holiday turkey you'll ever taste! Take it from a Texan ... we fry everything!

Do you have any tips for a delicious fried turkey?

We've all heard the phrase, "Spending money like it's going out of style "While money will really go out of style, some of the ways we manage our money just might. Because the technology behind the bank is changing so fast, things could be very different in a few years. Here are some ways that we bank today may become less frequent or disappear soon.

The local bank branch. As more people bank online or via smartphone, banks are evaluating the future of the neighborhood branch. With so many options available electronically, simply customers are not required to visit the branches as often. While the district branches will probably not disappear completely, they will be smaller and have fewer staff. The branch of the future may look more like an airport check-in to a traditional bank branch. Fewer tellers could manage a handful of IT self-service displays in places such as supermarkets, cafes and coffee shops.

pin numbers and card readers. PIN numbers and card readers will probably be a thing of the past soon. Fingerprint and eye scanners replace signatures. buyers might be able to walk into a store, pick up what they are after, pay via their mobile device, and get out.

cash and checks. There will most likely be money for a while. It is fast, easy, accepted almost anywhere, and can keep your paper trail to a minimum. Most experts believe the money will take longer to disappear. Meanwhile, smartphones and contactless payment methods will grow in popularity as a way to buy our groceries, clothing, train and bus tickets, and more. One can not say the same controls. Check usage has declined rapidly in recent years, and we are already using digital technology to transmit our checks.

traditional loans. Would you borrow money, but your bank will not provide the loan? There are already many different groups of models and loan websites peer-to-peer who lend money directly to individuals and companies without going through a traditional financial institution. Could this be the wave of the future? Time will tell us.

What other ways do you feel technology will affect the way you manage your banking and finance in the future?

Is the new year means a new car for you? Boy, it would be nice to buy the latest and greatest model every year? Or, maybe you have a new driver who is in need of wheels? Whether you are replacing an existing vehicle or adding another vehicle in your household, it is very important to be aware of how these scenarios affect your insurance coverage!

First of all, it is very important to have an existing personal auto policies in force. With a policy of active personal self, there will be a certain amount of automatic coverage for a specified number of days. The number of days of automatic coverage depends on the regulations of the State and if the vehicle is new or replacement vehicle. There are also provisions on whether the automatic coverage of your auto insurance policy provides liability only or full coverage (comprehensive and collision coverage). Your independent insurance agent will help you answer all questions regarding coverage.

Car dealers will want to confirm that you have auto insurance in place before you drive your new car off the lot. But if it's Saturday afternoon to 15:00 and you have found the car of your dreams? Your insurance agency is closed. What to do? In most cases, simply provide a copy of your card and / or copy of your current auto insurance declaration page being confirmation that you have insurance. This should satisfy the proof of dealership insurance requirement. However, it is very important to follow up with your agent the next business day to add the newly purchased vehicle to your policy

Some takeaways :.

• When buying a new vehicle, have the insurance ID card for your current vehicle to at least reach. It may be useful to also have a copy of the declaration page of your auto insurance policy. Consult your independent insurance agent about your coverage needs.
• Remember every state has guidelines regarding the automatic cover to check your policy.
• Contact your insurance agency to add the vehicle to your personal auto policy the next business day.

Finally, drive safely and enjoy your new car!

Learn more about insurance for college graduates watching our video.

"I can not stay on your auto insurance policy forever?"

"is that the cost per month or the entire year?"

rhetorical questions asked by many college graduates as they prepare to take on the world with their first job, their first apartment need renter's insurance, and the first car payment requiring insurance car in their own name. Here's the story of my daughter ...

New job, new apartment, new car, new city and state, the new boyfriend. Slowly and sadly she acknowledged that her parents could not keep paying for their insurance forever, and legally, she needed to have its own policies. With the realization that everyone must grow up one day, she went on a path to find the right policies to meet their needs and budget.

What convinced our daughter more than the advice of his guru assurance staff, his father was working with an independent agent. As a budding lawyer, she knew that if she had an accident, his New York car insurance policy may not cover it for failing to accurately report his car was principally garaged in another state. She also has another driver who drove his car over occasionally and not on the policy of his parents. She knew it was time to make a change. She realized she could not be left without coverage and be responsible for medical expenses, property damage, etc. resulting from an accident

But the confusion about what to do next -. Decisions on coverage, limits, and deductibles - was overwhelming and scary for her. She was afraid if she could afford the coverage they needed, and if she could make good decisions on their own to make sure she got the coverage she needed. She started doing a little research and ask questions. She talked to friends, family, coworkers, and, of course, went online. She found it all worth his time and made more comfortable with these important insurance decisions.

When she was ready, she called an independent agent. His agent was friendly and knowledgeable, understand this was the first time get the insurance itself. It was presented with several quotes, grouped options and payment options. She weighed the advantages and disadvantages of each policy and business presented to it before deciding on policies to move forward with. The whole process was very quick and for the most part, stress costs.

His words of advice to other exhibitor on their travel insurance include doing your homework, use an independent agent who can find the right company and policy to suit your needs, and combining your policies together if possible so you can get a lower monthly rate.

The process of obtaining its own policies gave him a great sense of independence and reassured her that she can make good decisions about their insurance needs. For parents ... .she took another step toward adulthood.

You may have heard the term "Internet of Things", one of the more buzz-words in a hold the full industry. But what that really means, and how could it impact you? To provide potential answers, we'll start with a look at how the Internet has developed over the years

According to Internet Live Stats :.

• Approximately 40 percent (more than 3 billion people) of the world population has an Internet connection today. In 1995 (widely considered the beginning of the Internet as we know it today), it was less than 1 percent.
• It took about 10 years to reach 1 billion users, 5 years to reach 2 billion and only 4 years to reach 3 billion.

Moreover those who connect to the Internet, the types and the number of devices being used to connect to the Internet is growing at an even faster pace. Remember when you are connected to the Internet with your computer? Now you might have a smartphone, tablet, and maybe even one of these little fitness trackers on your wrist. Dick Tracy has nothing on you! common predictions are that in the next 5-6 years, each person will connect to the Internet on an average of three devices.

So that brings us to the Internet of Things (IoT). There is no single definition of IoT, but his condition this way: the connectivity of things (equipment, people, etc.) through a communication network (Internet) to share information automatically. This "automatically" part is important; in a real IoT environment, it may not even be any need human interaction

Now, before we all start to go "Terminator", consider some of the more realistic and beneficial implications of this technology

• heart monitors that download data on hospital computers to help prevent heart attacks before they occur. Or how about this: you go to the emergency room with chest pain and they download real data on what you've actually faced during the last hour instead of asking you your symptoms
• A car that detects when? maintenance requirements, and schedules an appointment for you (with your permission of course).
• A refrigerator that determines you are low on milk and eggs and places the order with your local grocery store. You go and they tell you what you need. No more lists!

Of course, these are just some examples, and certainly not some of the deepest ideas of what could be possible that we will have even more interconnected.

We are right-dab in the middle of the information age. There are so many available at your fingertips it is almost impossible to understand. The next step is to determine how to use almost all of this information to ourselves and other benefits, and this is the Internet of Things will really come into play.

Click to watch our video to learn more about boat insurance

Before we know, it's time to put the boat on the lake or get the ATV on storage, so now is a great time to check with your insurance agent to make your summer fun items are properly protected. Here are some tips on reviewing your coverage, and some questions to ask your agent to make sure you and your family are insured for the increased risk accompanying these outdoor recreational activities.

boat

small boats can be automatically covered by your homeowner policy but coverage is limited according to the size of the vessel and the engine. If you own a boat, ask your insurance agent about the policy of a boatowner that covers physical damage to the ship and any liability that might arise from its use.

watercraft such as jet skis, will also need a separate. the insurance policy

questions to ask your agent before putting your boat or personal watercraft in water :?

• Does my policy have adequate liability limits
• Are there special discounts for taking safety courses?
• Who made the cover of the policy to operate the boat or personal watercraft?
• Is it the responsibility of towing skiers or people on tubes covered by my policy?

Owning and operating a boat or jet ski puts you at increased risk for the loss of responsibility. Consider adding a personal umbrella policy to provide liability coverage, your boat policy offers. Talk to your insurance agent about your options.

Golf Carts

Golf carts are a popular recreational vehicle both on and off the golf course. The coverage of golf carts personally owned by homeowners and auto insurance policies is usually only provided by endorsement. Golf carts that are used regularly outside the premises may require a separate policy or can be added to your personal auto insurance policy as a recreational vehicle. Check with your agent for coverage options

Questions to ask your insurance agent.?

• golf carts are allowed on public roads if their main use
• Are they required to be registered?
• Are there age restrictions on who can use the golf cart?

ATV

All- terrain vehicles (ATVs) are not covered by standard automobile insurance policies; However, the policy of your landlord may partially cover your liability on an ATV. Ask your insurance agent or company if this coverage is enough to protect you and your family. You may want to consider a separate ATV policy to make sure you are properly insured

Questions to ask your insurance agent :.

• Are there age restrictions on who can operate the ATV?
• Does the policy cover my friends or family who operate the ATV?
• is there a discount for a track operator safety courses or to ride with a helmet?

Pools

sure to ask if your policy owner specifies all the safety instructions that you must follow, as the installation of some barrier height or door locked for example.

an insurance company can deny coverage or cancel your policy if you do not follow the safety instructions or do not inform the company when installing a pool. Check with your insurance agent for rates and the safety instructions before installing.

Having a pool puts you at increased risk for the loss of responsibility. You can also consider buying a comprehensive policy to ensure coverage of civil liability, the offers of the policy that your landlord.

Classic & Antique Cars

Although these valuable assets are often insured year, they get the best road time in the warmer months. Before it out of storage for the summer, talk to your agent about your coverage needs for your classic or antique car.

Rentals

For some of us, renting our summer fun is the way to go. But rentals also carry their own set of insurance risks and exposures.

Motor Homes
Most personal auto policies standards do not provide coverage for damage to a rented motor home. While liability coverage for personal use is expected, given the size of a motor home and the potential damage they may cause, liability limits of your personal auto insurance policy can not be not suffice.

Car Rental
car rental companies offer optional insurance coverage called Collision Damage Waiver to protect you against the financial responsibility should be the stolen or damaged vehicle while that under your control. The personal liability, personal injury and property damage would still be covered by your personal auto insurance policy.

watercraft
One of the most common scenarios for rent watercraft involves jet skis. Despite their popularity, the policies of most standard homeowners limit the available liability coverage for jet ski rental to those with 50 HP or less, so this limitation may exclude coverage for many, if not most, of the jet rented skis. Most non-motorized boats such as kayaks, rafts, canoes and boats should be covered, but it is always best to check with your agent before renting.

What about the physical damage coverage? Consider the cost to replace a pontoon boat you should be held responsible by the marina or facility rental. Read all rental contracts to ensure you know exactly what you will be responsible.

Holiday homes
Your personal liability coverage follows you everywhere, as does coverage for your belongings. If your rented vacation home be damaged or become uninhabitable, there can be no loss of use coverage under your homeowner's policy, so that you would be responsible for costs for alternative accommodation or go to House.

Whether you own or rent your summer fun, personal umbrella policy offers an extra layer of protection on that most primary liability policies provide. Talk to your agent about the additional protection of an umbrella policy.

Some of the above information courtesy of the Ohio Department of Insurance.

The covers are described above in the most general terms and conditions and are subject to actual policy exclusions. For the actual wording cover, conditions and exclusions, see the policy or contact your independent insurance agent.

So it is that civilization has its drawbacks. Since man began to use fire, it was burning through her. But some of the dangers associated with the technology, many of which have been discussed in my previous posts, are relatively recent developments. Perhaps the most recent of them, other than video game addiction is all the health risks that come from spending time indoors or in urban areas.

There is a growing body of research showing that spending time in natural environments, or even just search in natural scenes , has incredible healing properties. Here are some of the health benefits that have been documented by clinical research:

• reduces the sense of depression, fear, anxiety and stress
• Increase sense of well-being
• Improves cardiovascular health
• Improves the health of the musculoskeletal system
• Reduces the tendency to focus on negative thoughts or emotions
• Increases attention
• Decreased aggression

which is very encouraging about this is that these positive effects were independent of physical activity. Just being in a natural environment produces these effects. Some of these benefits were even observed in the case were introduced in home or hospital room of a plant person!

This is a phenomenon easy to take advantage of what it requires just give me a list of suggestions to do so. How many times have we eat inside on a perfectly warm evening, still and sunny? How often do we spend break time at work inside locked? Do we spend hours and hours usually sitting in front of TV? We spend a large amount of money to build huge houses and buying huge entertainment systems to make it as easy as possible to spend all our time inside. Yet we already live a gigantic sensation called Earth, full of wonders beyond imagination. We take for granted the wonder of art and engineering in the form of plants and animals that most of us have barely begun to learn.

Sometimes if you want to be healthy, all you have to do is stop trying so hard not to be. What changes can you make in your life from day to day to spend less time inside and more time outdoors?

As most university graduates, they feel the only thing they have accumulated a lot of debt. This, and the labor markets and sluggish housing (the Great Recession at the end, did not it?), A prompted many college graduates to shy away from buying a home right away, opting to rent instead.

According to an analysis USA Today of Census Bureau data from 06 to 2011, 25 to 34 years had the highest large decline in property compared to any other age group. Can you blame these young adults to be wary of jumping into a big mortgage payment? Buying a home is one of the most important decisions and investments most people will make in their life. But just because you choose to rent your home rather than buying does not mean that you do not need insurance!

Why you might ask? Well for starters Did you know that your homeowners insurance policy generally covers the building where you live, not your belongings? Although you may not feel like you have a lot of valuables, property of most people are worth more than they think. How much would it cost if you had to replace all your belongings at some point? Broke No matter how you may be, it is likely that you have clothes, electronics and furniture.

Did you also know that your homeowners insurance policy does not cover your personal liability if someone is injured or property of another person is damaged while in your home? You may be liable for injuries or damage, and tenants without insurance coverage, you'll pay for them out of your own pocket.

What if your rental has become unlivable due to fire or other disaster? Where would you live and how do you pay for it? Most renters policies provide additional living expenses to cover situations like this.

What if you are still in college, but renting a place to live? You may mistakenly believe that your personal assets are covered by the policy of the owner of your parent. However, if your home is your permanent address, there is generally no coverage under the policy of the owners of your parent.

Many scenarios, but fortunately a solution! And the best thing about the renters insurance? It is very affordable, even for those of you who do not think you can take another expense. Talk to an independent insurance agent today about how you can benefit from a tenants policy!

Have you ever received a phone call from someone who represents your insurance company asking if they can stop for a loss of control of investigation? Loss of control of investigation? What does it mean? The fact is, for most insurance companies, this is a very valuable tool that complements the subscription process on your policy.

Think about when you sought insurance coverage. You went to your agent and they will have found a commercial insurance policy. With this policy, the insurance company has promised to pay for your covered losses when they occur. You went through the laborious process of collecting loss slopes, construction updates, product information, and any other information the underwriter needs almost give up your first born to get the policy. Then, finally, you receive your policy from your agent (or online for those who went green). OK fine. Glad that's over, I'm covered! Well ... you can not be finished yet.

Depending on the type of business you operate, the size of the property values ​​you have, or the amount of vehicles in your fleet, your insurance company may want to see things for himself. Whether you like it or not, there's some verbiage, buried deep in one of your policy forms, which says that your insurance company has the right to inspect your operations.

But do not worry! This is not a bad thing! Loss control is a collaborative effort to not only help the company to find out what they cover, but also for you, the policyholder to help with security measures, training topics, and analysis loss, among other things. Nobody wants to suffer a loss of any kind, but that is exactly what your policy is for - to pay for covered losses resulting from accidents or disasters. Although you can not control when an accident or disaster occurs, you can help to prevent or limit the damage somehow.

So if you receive a phone call from someone saying they represent your insurance company and you want to stop for a visit, how should you handle it? First, it is common to be a little wary in this day and age of a person who calls and wants to enter your home or business. If you do not feel the consultant properly identified themselves, call your agent or the insurance company to verify their identity. Your agent may also be able to give you an overview of why the insurance company feels an inspection is necessary. More often than not, it is just standard operating procedure. And remember, this is your business, then I encourage you to make you a part of this process. If you are not available, use one of your leaders. The loss control representative may have questions that must be answered, or see things that need explanation.

You should also take the opportunity to ask questions you may have about safety issues or training for your employees. loss control consultants (sometimes called engineers loss control) are formed in the life safety codes. They also know the methods of prevention and loss reduction. They may have suggestions for your operation and make formal recommendations.

Remember, loss control representatives are not to fear! Their goal is to help you manage your business as efficiently as possible either by preventing losses from occurring or reduce the severity of those that do. And from my point of view as underwriter, loss of control of the people are my eyes. They allow me to see what could be submitted on a paper application that not only allows us to identify potential risks and help prevent or reduce the risk, but also help us to charge an adequate premium for your coverage. And that translates into savings for you and the insurance company. This is not a loss but a win-win!

Growing up on Cape Cod, my father was a real picky about water safety, mainly because of his survival training as a pilot of the air Force. Naturally, I became a lifeguard during the summer months where I learned to be aware of the potential danger from rip currents.

Also known as rip tides, rip currents are powerful channels of water flowing from the shore beyond where the waves break on the move fast. They can form on any beach or lake where the waves break, often near sandbars, jetties and piers. According to the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), they are the main danger of surfing for beach lovers. At least 80 percent of lifeguard rescues are due to rip currents. More than 100 people die each year from just rip current drowning - which is more than shark attacks, tornadoes and lightning combined. Rip currents are able to drag even the strongest swimmers away from the shore, causing distress and panic.

Current Rip are dangerous, and it is best to learn to identify and stay out of them, but unfortunately, most people do not know what to look for. Some of the most recognizable features of a rip current include:

• A choppy channel of water that has a churning motion
• A sea foam line, the seaweed or debris moving steadily to the sea
• a disturbed pattern of waves

If you have caught in a rip current, do not panic. Knowing what to do can save your life, so try to remember some simple rules:

• Keep Calm. Do not fight against the rip current.
• To exit the rip current, swim sideways, parallel to the beach. This will get you out of the rip current so that you can swim back to shore, using the waves to help.
• If you can not escape by swimming, try to float or calmly tread water. Rip currents may weaken offshore. When it does, swim at an angle away from the rip current towards the shore
• If at any time you are unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself :. Facing the shore, wave your arms, and yelling for help.

emits National Weather Service NOAA regional forecast of the surf zone that help local authorities to determine the risk of a region for rip currents (low, moderate and high risk). These risk assessments help rescuers and officials of law enforcement to determine whether the water is safe for swimming, and beach patrols often post signs rip currents and surf hazard warnings that match specific surfing conditions and the current activity of local rip. Before you step foot in the water this summer, you familiarize yourself with the warning flags for your area and only swim on guarded beaches.

Current Rip can be dangerous but knowing the signs can help one relax and have some fun in the sun. What other advice do you have for staying safe at the beach this summer?

Recently the news seems to be full of crime-related activities that cause the loss of safety, property and life. Listening to these new stories can stir many emotions, fear in particular. Yet we continue to listen to these alarming stories and rarely take appropriate precautions we should in our daily lives. When we walk on the mall, we have our turnkey? Are we looking around to be sure our environment is safe? Common sense plays an important role for our security

The National Crime Prevention Council provides a list of do's and don'ts to stay safe.

• not walk or jog early morning or late evening, when the streets are deserted.
• when night, try having a friend walk with you.
• Carry only the money you need for that day.
• not to post cash or other targets such as inviting luxury jewelry and clothing.
• If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store, restaurant or a well-lit house. Do not be afraid to shout for help.
• Try to park in well-lit areas with good visibility and close to walkways, shops, and others.
• Always lock your car, even if it is in your own driveway, and never leave your engine running.
• Do everything you can to keep a stranger from entering your car or preventing a foreign force you into his car.
• If you have been abused by a loved one, not only him unresponsive. Do not let him in your house or your car when you are alone.

Talk to your friends and family (children too) about how to stay safe and be aware of their surroundings. Often we teach our children abroad danger, but tend to forget that the real danger may include anyone such as parents, teachers and other caregivers. People of all ages need to know what limits to set for appearances can be deceiving. My old saying is: trust but verify in all things. Always pay attention to small details of what you know and see, and trust your instincts. Do you have additional security tips you want to share?

Original post written by HUB International, shared with permission.

Have you always dreamed of owning a sporty red convertible, but hesitated because of high insurance costs? You may be pleasantly surprised to discover that some choices (such as car color) have much less impact on insurance rates than most people think, while other unrecognized factors could lead significantly cost of your car insurance.

auto insurers are carefully regulated by insurance laws, industry standards and actuarial statistics they set their prices. Learning these standards and educate yourself on the most prevalent consumer myths could be a direct route to the car of your dreams, with significant savings on insurance premiums

MYTH # 1 :. COLOR CAR INSURANCE RATES AFFECTS [

insurers based your rates on the back of your vehicle, the cost of repairs, and safety driving record. Since the color of the car has no statistically significant effect on accidents, one account in their calculations

MYTH # 2: .. Luxury cars are more expensive to ENSURE

Your auto insurance coverage for liability and medical expenses is based on claims experience rather than the purchase price. If a luxury car has a better record of preventing accidents and minimize damage, it might actually be more affordable to make a cheap model. High performance sports cars usually have supplements that affect insurance premiums

MYTH # 3: .. CLASSIC CARS ARE CHEAPER BECAUSE NOBODY STEALS THE

In fact, the opposite is often true. Some thieves prefer to steal older popular cars (like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry) due to the increase in demand for their spare parts. These are the old cars because owners may wish to continue to buy full protection against auto theft

MYTH # 4: .. ALL MODELS PRICE INDIVIDUAL INSURERS IN THE SAME WAY

Each insurer pricing databases on their own experience claims, and some companies have a better record on a particular model than others. Get quotes from a variety of businesses can lead to significant savings

MYTH # 5: .. My rates are based solely on MY DRIVING RECORD

Long ago insurers have discovered a reliable positive relationship between the experience of the driver and claim their credit rating. The result is a lower rate to policyholders with better credit scores. Check your credit report before you shop, and be sure to correct any erroneous information

MYTH # 6: .. If I get a traffic ticket, my rates will go up

Although this is often true, it is not always the case. Drivers with long-term history of safe driving and self-citation can avoid a rate increase from a single ticket. A call preemption your broker is a smart way to know the details. traffic citations are public knowledge, so that your insurance company may learn the term note

MYTH # 7 :. INSURANCE COVERS A FRIEND WHEN THEY borrow MY CAR

Indications. protection for lending cars can be quite complex. In many cases, your car insurance policy covers anyone who borrows your keys, while in other situations the cover of a driver can cover the cost of a collision. The best policy is to avoid paying your car whenever possible, especially to drivers who may not have adequate insurance coverage

MYTH # 8: .. PERSONAL AUTO INSURANCE COVER BUSINESS CONDUCT

If you're self-employed, it can be risky to assume that all your business mileage is your personal auto insurance. Make sure you know the limits of your car insurance, and do the same for employees who drive as part of their employment with your company.

The best way to separate the myths from the facts on car insurance is a friendly conversation with your independent insurance agent

- See more :. http://connects.hubinternational.com/the-red-car-surcharge-and-seven- other self-insurance myths

Customer service can leave a memorable impression, even long after the moment has passed. Have you ever been blown away by the service upscale clientele? It has happened to me while I was in college it was five years ago, and I still remember how it made me feel.

I called for a Thursday evening Domino to place my order and much to my surprise, they already knew who I was and asked me if I wanted to place my order usual. At first it made me laugh, but then I came to feel appreciated and that their client had a fast favorite pizzeria. I was not the only customer whose orders they remembered; Domino provided the same service to many of my neighbors and fellow students. Every time I called, I felt like they were happy to hear from me again and more than willing to take my order with excellent customer service.

Customer service is more than provide a service to someone, it provides a feeling. Our emotions and the feeling of being valued guide us in directions we take and ultimately where we spend our money. This is something I have always kept in mind that I provide customer service in my career. Of course, I was given some tips and tricks along the way, but mostly I'm genuine. I am very happy to talk to someone and affect their day positively.

I also remember that my interactions with them can have a "domino effect". For example, I was recently talking with a customer who called to work on his lunch hour. At the end of our conversation, she said, speaking with me was a great experience. She also mentioned that the day turned around and she was going to spend this feeling in his next patient! I simply provided his service on the phone, but it ended up going much further. How great is that?

You see, this pizza place at university has done more than save my order and telephone number. They created a relationship with me and showed me what it is to be a valued customer. So next time you're interacting with a customer, ask yourself what kind of positive impact it can really have on others. Have you ever known a good customer service that you want to share? Please post your story in the comments below!

Over the next two weeks we will see the return of cooler temperatures, shorter days and the football season - Go Bucks! It is also the time of year students across the country return to school. And for students, back to school means more than buying school supplies and new clothes.

Whether your son or daughter is just beginning their college career or return to campus life, there are many things to think about. Moving into a dorm or apartment, buying a new computer or furniture, take a car to school - all these great events have insurance implications. Make sure your son or daughter is protected before heading to school with this checklist.

• Is your son or daughter to take a car with them to school? If so, check with your agent to make sure that the vehicle is insured.
• Your child is signing an apartment lease? Is politics a necessary tenant?
• If you buy furniture and electronics to provide a dorm room or apartment, do your homeowner's policy provides adequate coverage of content?
• Are they buying a new laptop? If they regularly take the class, consider the unit's planning to ensure wider coverage.
• College students may be victims of identity fraud. Many students open credit lines for the first time without the help of parents. Consider adding an Identity Recovery coverage to your homeowners policy for better protection.
• In most cases, your homeowner's policy will expand the coverage of personal responsibility to your son or daughter right away to school. College is a big responsibility and it comes with additional exposures. Now is a good time to consider a personal political umbrella to provide additional protection for you and your family.

For these and other needs coverage for students, contact your local independent agent today. They can help you customize your policy to meet your needs.

College is a big step for any young adult. As you help your son or daughter prepare for this stage, these are some tips you can share to help you succeed?

The policy covers described above are in the most general terms and are subject to actual policy exclusions and conditions. For specific coverage details and exclusions of the policy, refer to the policy itself or contact your agent.

With the convenience of our daily conduct is the ability and disadvantages of being involved in a car accident. A total loss is possible, depending on what you are driving and the extent of damage. But what is a total loss? And do you know how to protect yourself against the financial consequences of such a loss?

The insurance industry generally defines a total loss of vehicle when the cost to repair the damage suffered by the loss reaches or exceeds 75 percent of value of the vehicle ( LCA) and / or is otherwise impossible to repair. LCA is essentially defined as replacement cost less depreciation. Virtually all vehicles depreciate with each passing year and with increasing mileage. The purpose of insurance is to indemnify, or in other words, put back in the same position they were before the loss. By paying the value of real money, you are paid for the value of the vehicle based on its current condition, age and mileage. While this is a good thing, there are two better alternatives available

The first alternative is something most people have heard and applied to a financed vehicle. it is called the protection of guaranteed assets or coverage of GAP. GAP covers the outstanding balance of your loan (usually up to 150 percent) compared to the LCA. This saves you from having to make payments on a vehicle you own or roll over the outstanding balance in the funding of a replacement vehicle. All but pays for itself if you lose your vehicle a total loss and you owe more on your car than it's worth. Generally, you can buy it from the dealer when you buy your vehicle or your insurance company, if any, for an additional premium.

Speaking of replacement vehicle, it is coverage available in some auto insurance policies that just as the so-called replacement coverage. This replaces the loss with a new vehicle of the same make, model and equipment as if it were new, no depreciation for mileage or age. Replacement guarantee generally applies only for either five vehicles. This looks like a very good deal because it is! I think it is well worth the small extra premium it typically costs to have this coverage. As a claims adjuster, I have seen many situations where an insured was upside down on their vehicle, but unfortunately they had either opted not to or were unaware of the replacement coverage, they don ' GAP had bought at the dealership.

Whether you are planning to buy a new vehicle or already have a pretty new vehicle, it is beneficial to look at these two types of coverage. It may well save you a lot of money and frustration in case of total loss. Talk to your independent agent to make sure you have the necessary safeguards in place.

The benefits described here are in the most general terms, and subject to the conditions and actual policy exclusions. For the actual wording cover, conditions and exclusions, see the policy or contact your agent.

After any accident, there is often damage. And the damage may include loss - not only physical loss, but also the inherent loss of value, commonly called diminished value. But what exactly is diminished value?

diminished value can best be defined as an economic loss of the value of the damaged property. In the case of an automobile collision may negatively affect the market value of a vehicle. This means that the value of the vehicle before the accident decreased due to the fact that he was involved in an accident.

The evaluation of the amount of reduced value can be difficult. Unlike real physical damage, where the cost of repairing the damage is relatively concrete and finite, the amount of the reduced value can be difficult to determine. Unless one actually sells or trades vehicles and indicates the trade or sale value is "X" amount lower due to the fact that the vehicle was involved in an accident, the amount in question may be open to debate.

Decreased value takes into consideration not only the fact that the accident occurred, but also the degree of real structural damage that was sustained, if any. Obviously, a replacement rear bumper is not the same as if the rear body panel, floor and the two rear spars were also compromised. The higher the degree of structural damage and fewer miles on the vehicle at the time of loss, plus the loss of actual or perceived market value supported. However, the impact of the inherent loss in the value generally decreases as an owner keeps the vehicle after an accident and increases mileage.

So what exactly does this mean for you, the vehicle owner? The damage from the brand, model year, and mileage of the vehicle can have many variables in measuring the diminished value supported, if any. Anyway, the impairment is not something to be overlooked. This is especially true if you plan to exchange or sell your vehicle soon. Theoretically, if a vehicle is repaired to its pre-loss condition, there is really little inherent diminished value. However, the fact remains that most consumers and dealers will not pay the same for a vehicle that was involved in a recent accident as they would for the same vehicle that has no history of damage.

If you are involved in an accident for which you are not at fault and the insurance company of the other driver paid for your injury claim, there is a possibility that you might have a valid claim for diminished value. Regarding the claims of the first part that is between you and your insurer, the terms of the general policy does not include cover for impairment. The only notable exception is the state of Georgia, and that depends on the particular policy. As always, check with your independent agent for more details on your personal auto policy. I would like to hear your thoughts on diminished value, please leave a comment below!

The policy covers described above are in the most general terms and are subject to the exclusions and real political conditions. For precise details of coverage and exclusions of the policy, refer to the policy itself or contact an independent agent.

Individual states can handle situations diminished value differently, so please consult your independent agent for your state laws regarding the diminished value.

Amanda, just four months on the job as the new risk manager of a large manufacturing company, was walking in a crisis management meeting with the senior management of the company. The issue was serious: the company had suffered a data breach

When she entered the conference room, heated discussions were already under way .. As she sits, Frank, general manager, turned to her.

"Amanda, IT found that we live a malware attack and a denial of service," he said. "The end result is that the virus prevents many of our systems to function. Clients can not connect to our website to place orders. The malware attack has damaged some important manufacturing equipment. We will not be able to fulfill a number of orders as promised. And this equipment may need to be replaced. Finance estimates that this will lead to loss of business income. "

"Worse," he continued, "word came out and customers are already calling to ask what we will do. The legal department has advised this can not be good for our image with the public. Last but not least, iT reported that large amounts of critical business data has been damaged. She believes they should have both the malware and attacks DoS neutralized within days, but . as the damage is done our risk manager, we want you to take it head with what should we do "

in a calm voice, Amanda said.?" I was afraid that this could be produce. That's why one of my first steps as a risk manager was to buy a cyber insurance policy with a range of covers. "She made copies of the policy and passed around everyone at the meeting.

" Our policy covers computer attacks caused by denial-of-service, and software attacks malicious. And our form provides cover for public relations expenses, loss of business income from a cyber attack, as well as systems and data restoration costs. In short, this policy should really help us mitigate the costs and consequences of the data breach. And coverage should also help us to repair and restore our systems and data corruption. I'll contact our carrier. "

Frank looked at Amanda." Well done, Amanda. That's what I call a good risk management. "

Having a cyber insurance coverage is essential for companies. In fact, a recent study shows that 50 percent of small businesses will suffer a data breach. [1] And a new report shows that the average cost of a data breach is estimated at $ 3.5 million. [2] But just buy cyber insurance is not enough. It buys good policy with good collateral! What if Amanda had bought a cyber policy that does not cover malware attacks? What if their policy did not pay for the cost to restore damaged data?

When considering a cyber insurance policy for your business, talk to your independent insurance agent to ensure that you get the necessary guarantees to treat a variety of cyber risk scenarios.

policy coverages described above are within the terms more general and are subject to the exclusions and real political conditions. For specific coverage details and exclusions of the policy, refer to the policy itself or contact an independent insurance agent.

[1] http://www.propertycasualty360.com/2014/06/18 / infographic-is-your-business-to-risk-data-brea? ref = hp [2] http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2014/05/07/328512.htm

The fact that a company is not a traditional brick and mortar business does not mean that he can not go without business insurance. Even a home business needs insurance. Many people think they are already covered by their homeowners policy when they work outside the home. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as most policies contain proprietary business exclusion in the provisions of the standard policy. Instead, they should consider the aspect of responsibility for both general liability and professional liability of small business can have.

I recently attended a Small Business Expo which included a group of local experts. Even after working in insurance for 14 years, it amazes me always consider the needs of a small business is beyond the supply of every day - all these things behind the scenes that set the foundation for a successful business: the creation of an entity, branding, marketing and current insurance. Social media has also made it very accessible for many people to turn a hobby into a business very quickly. For example, I'm sure there's someone you know who is peddling crafts vintage markets, festivals and community gatherings, or maybe they sell online. Have they stopped to consider the risks of their business exposed to? Their insurance needs might be?

A speaker from the panel offered some advice to those who own or are looking to start a small business. He explained that the exhibition of a small business could face are unique and different for each company. And as every business is a little different, there is not a cookie-cutter solution that fits all small businesses' needs. If you or someone you know, own a small business, it is highly recommended to make an appointment with an independent agent to discuss trade shows and coverage needs. Here are some "what if" questions to consider that can help guide the discussion:

• What if my tent or canopy collapses on a customer
• What if my shots display? more on another provider?
• What if my product breaks a law of copyright?
• What if my product hurts someone?
• What if someone trips or falls when they are up products from home?

regardless of size or industry, all firms face a potential risk and an independent insurance agent can help you find the right coverage to meet your unique needs. What advice do you have for someone who may have, or be at the start in research, a small business?

The covers here are described in the most general terms, and subject to the conditions of real political and exclusions. For the actual wording cover, conditions and exclusions, see the policy or contact your agent.

Have you ever seen the movie Arnold Schwarzenegger Kindergarten Cop ? In a scene near the end of the film, a school was evacuated due to a fire. Although fire is contained in a small area of ​​the building, sprinklers throughout the whole building go off. As someone with a little knowledge sprinkler, I can tell you that the scene is certainly fiction!

A common misconception about sprinklers is that water is discharged from all sprinkler head when the system is activated. However, if this were true, sprinkler systems would only damage, not help prevent it. Each sprinkler head is activated individually by a sensitive device integrated heat in the head. There is a sprinkler system type called a deluge system in which all sprinkler heads are working at once, but this type of system is quite rare. It is usually located in a building where there is a risk of rapid spread of flame.

The sprinkler head is the central nervous system of a sprinkler system. Although there are many different types of sprinkler heads, they have all of the following:

• an outer shell that is screwed into the tube called a
• a plug that plugs the hole with water
• a heat sensitive device that connects the cap to baffle
• a deflector that diverts the water to make a spray cone shaped

heat sensitive device is either a glass bulb or a metallic bond in two parts, that is fused together. Both types operate in the same manner. The liquid in the glass bulb will boil at a given temperature. This causes the glass bulb to break that removes the cap from the sprinkler head, allowing the water to flow through the hoses to the deflector. The metal link in two parts will melt at a given temperature causing the same result.

deflectors can be straight or a pendant. the vertical heads are located above the hoses and are designed to divert water from an upward position to a downward spray. The pendant sprinkler head is at the bottom of the hose and is designed to divert water so it makes a cone-shaped jet in the area below.

The most important element of a sprinkler system is water, of course! Water is introduced into the irrigation system from a public water line or a private water source. The size of the tube from these sources vary depending on the amount of water necessary for the system to work. Water is fed into the sprinkler control valve, which is the "brain" of the system. The system can be shut on and off the valve that you usually find in the basement or utility room of the building.

Although there are several types of sprinkler systems, they are all either wet or dry systems. With a wet sprinkler system, the pipes are filled with water at all times. Pipes in a dry sprinkler system are filled with compressed air, and the water is maintained in the irrigation control valve. Water is blocked by a valve which is maintained by the compressed air in the spray lines. These systems are equipped with a jockey pump to keep the air at a PSI higher than the water level below to maintain the trigger system.

Although this is just a "sprinkling" of facts about sprinkler systems, I hope it gives you a better understanding of how they work. The more you know, the more effectively you can use in your business. Contact the loss control representative of your insurance company for more information on sprinkler systems.

Did you know that 43 percent of engagements occur between November and January? Specifically, the most popular days are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year. With an average of 2.3 million couples who marry in the United States each year, that's a lot of engagement rings !

Engagement rings can develop a sentimental value and even become family heirlooms. It can be devastating to damage or lose a special piece of jewelry. Even partial losses can be expensive to repair: a chipped or cracked stone, a missing stone aside, and normal wear and tear can loosen causing the setting the center stone to fall. So while it may not be as glamorous as gold and diamonds used to create these beautiful baubles, insuring your expensive jewelry is a crucial step to protect them! Be sure to consider the following questions:

1. What is my ring is Get the facts! A jeweler can offer you is a detailed sales receipt or evaluation, a statement of important information about the piece of jewelry that says its value. Ensure that included the "Four Cs": cut, color, clarity and carat weight. In addition, the value of your jewelry can change over time so it is a good idea to get a new assessment every three years to ensure that your article is provided for the current value.
2. Does my ring come with a warranty? Some jewelers can provide a guarantee for manufacturing defects, but the majority of guarantees have very limited coverage. These often expire soon after the purchase and most have strict limits. Insurance can provide complete protection and make you feel safe knowing your valuables can be repaired or replaced should they be damaged or lost.
3. Do I need additional insurance for my jewelry? Although insurance can not replace the sentimental value of an item, it can replace the dollars and cents used to purchase the item. Can you afford to pay out of pocket to replace a lost ring? Check the details of the policy of your landlord or tenant to see if there may be no coverage included jewelry, and if so, what is covered, for example: the perils deductible, and limiting the dollar . You may need to purchase a separate policy to fully ensure your jewelry.

Although insuring your engagement ring is not as romantic as planning your big day, it certainly helps to maintain peace of mind! Make sure to speak with your independent agent to ensure your valuables are fully protected.

Have you considered ways to protect your home beyond the insurance? Are you worried about your estate planning? Have you considered your options to place your home in a trust or a limited liability company (LLC)? Both can be great options to avoid certain penalties estate tax. Although trusts are much more well known as an estate planning tool, an LLC may be just what you should consider! But what exactly is an LLC?

An LLC is a hybrid business entity that has characteristics of both a corporation and a partnership but not a real company. It is controlled by a single manager or several managers if more than one person is involved in the LLC. One advantage of an LLC is a limited liability which means that in the case of a trial, a creditor could not go after the assets held by the LLC; your personal assets are protected. Another advantage of the LLC is the availability of pass-through income tax; the LLC is only taxed once, at the owners as opposed to the enterprise level.

However, with the advantages there are also disadvantages to be aware of. For example, there is the possibility of self-employment tax. And most often, the houses belonging to an LLC are second homes or vacation or rental properties, so it may not make sense to put your house in an LLC

Forming an LLC is relatively easy. Choose a name that conforms to your state requirements, file the official paperwork called "Articles", pay the filing fee, create an operating agreement and obtain the necessary licenses.

While CLL is generally considered a commercial entity and ineligible to personal insurance, the insurance industry is recognizing the need for an LLC coverage for your home. Some insurance companies offer an endorsement LLC that can be added to your homeowners or personal umbrella policy and provide cover for the house itself, and other structures on the property as a detached garage or fence. It can also provide a personal liability coverage and medical payments to others if the manager of LLC members are responsible for an accident on the property.

Ask your independent insurance agent about protecting your LLC-appointed home with approval LLC. What other ways do you protect your second home or vacation? I would like to hear your ideas in the comments below!

Original post written by the Insurance Institute of Ohio and share with their permission.

Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms are popular forums for sharing special moments, the adventures of life and family vacations. Although you may be encouraged to put your whole next to the path, think you may end up sharing beyond your circle of friends or planned followers.

According to a 2011 survey on home safety, 78% of burglars admitted to using social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook and Foursquare to search and select potential victims and it was 3 years ago! As the digital age progresses, and the public on these networks grow, the use of these channels for less than honorable reasons is sure to be even higher.

Below, we share seven social media quick tips to play safe and help protect the value of your family property when you have to leave them behind

1) Keep your holiday plans and travel intentions -. even "go out for the night on the town" - private . These types of messages or notifications only invite savvy thieves technology that actively look for keywords on Facebook and other social media platforms to target your home.

2) If you are a fan of Foursquare, you may want to give it up. Vacation time or other activities that leave your home unattended may not be the most ideal time for the distribution of your whereabouts. Nothing to say "steal me" like sharing your exact position .

3) Keep your photos off Instagram, Facebook and other social sharing sites until you're home. Use your time away to break away and organize your photo sharing plans to publish your return.

4) To avoid the potential for a break-in, never publish expensive souvenir photos or other valuables online. These photos will only increase your chances of becoming a target.

5) Take time take a look at your current privacy settings profile . Networks occasionally change your settings without your knowledge, making you susceptible to inadvertent overshare. Facebook, in particular, is known for making changes. The evolution of their 05-2010 privacy policy is even represented in this infographic, showing its preference to push more and more content that you share with the entire Web over time.

6) Disable synchronization location capabilities on your mobile device . Having identifying the location in the game on your phone can make you vulnerable to monitoring and tag your location on social media messages. So even if you do not say you are away, a simple post about anything can actually sound the alert that you are away.

7) Make sure you share these safety tips with your household social media . Teenagers especially have a fondness for sharing special plans and photos instantly, without thinking about a potential drawback. And that includes posting on Instagram. Teach them why it might be important to wait

- See more :. Https://www.ohioinsurance.org/category/oii-insurance-matters/

Have you ever wondered what the technician of the body shop looks when they write a quote for the damage to your vehicle? You can expect the estimated return to "this number", but are shocked to see that it is actually "that number." Why is it so different from what you thought? I will try to shed light on how the damage is estimated.

First, one must understand that there are several different rooms available to repair a car. There are original parts manufactured (OEM) distributor, remanufactured parts that are returned to the supplier for remanufactured and returned to the market, and spare parts that are created from a mold by generic companies spare parts. OEM parts are generally more expensive, while the aftermarket parts are generally the least expensive.

A shop will look at the damaged part and the surrounding parts to see if they are damaged. Say you have damage to your front door on the driver side. A shop will look at the door and see if the damage can be repaired or if the door needs to be replaced. They will also look to see if the front fender driver's side is damage because it is an adjacent part. Even with the rear driver's side door. They will inspect the side mirror, moldings on the door, and also check to see if only the outer shell must be replaced or the door.

Remove and Install (R & I) time is an important part of a repair estimate and is included on each estimate. Most of the damaged parts are not readily available to remove. A body shop should remove other parts surrounding the damaged area to repair or replace the damaged part. These R & I both are usually not very long, ranging from 20-40 minutes for each part, but if the damage is severe enough, it may require a lot of pieces to be removed and all R & I time is represented on the estimate based off the labor evaluate workshop expenses. This can add up quickly.

paint supplies and paint job can also be included in the estimate. paint supplies can range from $ 150 for a small job to $ 1500 for a larger one. the paint job covers the time needed to paint the repaired parts of the vehicle, including any mixture that is required to match the paint.

If you had repair work done on your vehicle, you may have paid more than was originally planned. This is because when a magazine written estimate, they are only estimating the damage they can see clearly. Once they begin repairs and disassembly of the vehicle, they often find concealed damage. This is called a supplement and it may include additional damages found, more time needed to repair the damage, or the price differences when parts are actually ordered.

As you can see, there is much more to repair estimate than you might think. There are many things to look at and it can often be overwhelming. If you are worried about a particular estimate you receive in a store, there is a guide called the Mitchell Guide that documents the original parts cost and how long the repairs should take to the most cars . It is a useful tool to compare your estimate with industry guidelines.