Insurance --- Just the Facts!

A Ban on Cellphone Use??

2011-12-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

The National Transportation Safety Board has just called for a ban on all cellphone use by drivers, including the use of hands-free devices. It is the most far-reaching such recommendation to date, based on years of studies into distracted driving accidents. There's also the concern that smart phones may give drivers even more reasons to look away from the road.

Two major dangers associated with cell phone use are:
1) drivers take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel when using cell phones
2) drivers become so absorbed in the conversation or other phone uses that their ability to concentrate on driving is severely impaired.

There are many sources of distraction while driving; it's easy to question whether a complete ban on the use of cell phones would be enforceable or effective.

2011-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

The Peerless Insurance Company Loss Prevention Department has released a new and improved presentation based on the feedback and requests from its business customers. The latest release is a Distracted Driving safety short and covers the different types of distracted driving, the impact on the ability of the driver to react, as well as a means to help prevent it from occurring in the first place.

This video is targeted toward drivers who operate commercial vehicles and takes just 6 minutes to review. Click on the link and learn more!

Pool Safety

2011-08-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

Always watch children when they are in or around the pool.
Teach children basic water safety tips: no running around the pool, no roughhousing, etc.
Keep children away from pipes, filters, tubes and drains to avoid hair or clothing from becoming entangled.
Know how to shut off pool equipment quickly in case of emergency. Post instructions for others.
Never leave toys or floats in the pool when not in use. They can make tempting targets for toddlers.
Teach your children to swim and be sure you know how to swim as well.
Learn how to do CPR on children and adults and update these skills regularly.
Keep the pool area free from electrical devices, glass and other hazards.
Never let anyone swim alone.
Limit alcohol use around the pool area. The CDC reports that alcohol is a factor in many adolescent and adult deaths related to water recreation.

Protecting Customers by Shredding Documents

2011-08-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

Identify theft is one of the most organized and costly crimes today. With the number of claims increasing every year, it can happen to anyone at anytime. Identify theft occurs when thieves acquire personal information to create fraudulent accounts and make financial transactions at the victim’s expense. The most common way to acquire such important information is by searching through trash for documents with names, social security numbers, bank account numbers, etc. Although identity theft cannot be completely prevented, there are many easy ways to minimize risk.

Paper shredding is a simple, but very important part of protecting customers and employees of a business. Shredding valuable documents is essential to our customer’s security at The McCurdy Group. Destroying these documents eliminates the risk of thieves searching through dumpsters or discovering our customers’ precious information. Before shredding, all paper documents are kept in a locked room and out of reach. After shredding, the paper is recycled and the private information remains protected.

Other tips to protect yourself from identity theft:

Bring in your mail daily from the mailbox
Immediately report lost/stolen credit cards
Safely store social security cards, birth certificates, and other valuable documents
Be careful what information you send in emails/post on the internet
Monitor your bank accounts and credit card usage

Copper is the New Gold

2011-07-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

With copper prices on the rise, the theft of residential scrap copper is an alarming development. Thieves look for scrap copper in the wiring of electrical units, air conditioners, refrigerators, plumbing pipes, and street lights. These desperate thieves sell to junk dealers for a fraction of the cost it will take to you to repair the damages. Unfortunately, there is little to no record- keeping for junk dealers and sellers so it is extremely difficult to track down thieves.

Make sure to protect your home with proper security and keep an eye on entrances to your property. Hot spots for copper theft are in vacant homes and buildings, but many thefts do occur in occupied homes.

There are a couple ways to prevent copper theft including a few different alarm systems which are attached onto refrigerant lines. This makes it more difficult to remove and quickly steal the copper components. If they are removed, an alarm will sound to scare off your copper thief. So be aware and alert to this new theft target.

The Dangers of the Unattended Lit Candle

2011-07-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Maybe you need a little ambiance or possibly a pleasant fragrance, so you light a candle in your room. A few hours go by and it is getting late and you are getting sleepy. As you sleep, a small drip of hot wax from the unattended candle catches your curtains, igniting them. The flame leaps from your curtains, to your bed sheets, to your clothes, to your body! Now you remember that nice, vanilla-scented candle you just had to light -- but it is now going to take a visit from the fire department to put it out. Accidents can happen at any moment. Don’t let something like this happen to you!

Candles are the number one cause of household fires. They cause hundreds of deaths and injuries a year and millions of dollars in property damages. Leaving a candle unattended is a danger to yourself, your children, your neighbors, pets, and the firefighters called to the scene.

Some Interesting Candle Facts:

December is the peak month for candle fires and Christmas is the peak day (A dry Christmas tree and a flaming candle don’t mix.)
Most candle fires begin in the bedroom between midnight and 6 am. (Zzz…You won’t always smell smoke when you’re asleep.)
Young children have the highest death risk from candle fires. (Teach your children fire safety!)
Many candle fires start because the candle is too close to a combustible material. (It’s as simple as being careful and aware with a very dangerous household object.)
It’s a good idea to extinguish your candles before that second Margarita…

If you do use candles, ensure they are in a sturdy container, out of reach of children and pets, and extinguished after use. Always blow out your candles before leaving the room, leaving the house, or going to sleep. Leaving a lit candle unattended can lead to very serious and dire consequences.

Groundwater Problems & Your Homeowners Policy

2011-06-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

What your Homeowners Policy Doesn't Cover

The basic homeowners policy does not cover damage from water entering at or below the surface of the ground. Examples include sewer water that backs up into your home through the basement floor drain or water that seeps through your foundation from heavy rains. To be short and sweet: when water comes into a home at or below ground level, the resulting damage is NOT covered.

How to Protect Yourself

You can try to control the problem by installing a sump pump. You can also buy a battery backup for your pump which can be critical if there is a power outage or a large volume of water for your pump to handle.

From an insurance standpoint, you can purchase an endorsement to be added to your homeowners policy called Sewer Backup Coverage.

You can also consider Federal Flood Insurance. Contact your insurance agent for more information on this program. Be aware that Flood Insurance has a 30-day waiting period after it is purchased before a flood will be covered so plan ahead. Also personal property in a basement or area where all four walls are below ground is NOT covered by a flood policy.

What's a home inventory and why should I take one?

2011-06-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

After tornados hit Massachusetts on June 1, 2011, many folks are in the process of rebuilding their homes and more importantly, their lives. And when dealing their insurance companies, they're asked to identify all those items that need to be replaced.

How can someone remember all the possessions they've amassed over the years and place values on them?

For those of us who have not had to deal with this problem first-hand as yet, we can learn a lesson from this: create a home inventory.

Start by making a list of your possessions, describing each item and noting where you bought it and its make and model. Count up each type of clothing item (pants, shirts, dresses, shoes, etc.) and make note of any valuable items. Gather up all receipts, appraisals and contracts you may have. Record the serial numbers for appliances and electronic equipment.

In addition to your list, you can take pictures of items, your closets and cupboards - or take the time to make a dvd while walking through your house or apartment.

We at McCurdy Insurance can also perform the inventory for you and store it at a different location. No matter which way you record all your possessions, be sure to store your lists, receipts and photos or dvds in a different location, whether a safety deposit box, a relative's home or at your workplace.

High Limits for Young Drivers

2011-04-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

When we recommend healthy liability limits to young drivers, we often hear comments like “I don’t own anything“, “I have no assets”, or “What can they take from me?” Aside from the moral issue of doing the right thing and having adequate insurance coverage should you injure someone, it is important to note that if you are involved in a serious accident, you could jeopardize your entire financial future. In the case of a court judgment, you could have your wages garnished for the rest of your life; future assets can also be attached. A judgment in Massachusetts can be enforced for up to 20 years – plus interest.

Let’s be real: I was young once and I know what you are up to and what can happen even to the best drivers. Do you want to jeopardize your future for the sake of a few hundred dollars a year? Remember, if insurance rates are high, it is only because claim exposure is high.

This is not something to take lightly; get good coverage. And the value of your car has nothing to do with the damage you can cause. You can injure someone severely with a new Mercedes or a ten-year-old Toyota.

Fiction: The least expensive insurance policy is usually the best

2011-04-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Fact: Choosing an insurance policy based on price alone is a big mistake. It's important to read through the policy details and understand what's covered. Otherwise, you could end up paying a large portion of the claim if the maximum payout amount doesn't fulfill your needs. A low price may also land you an insurer that fights every claim and delays payments. Making price the key factor in your decision could cost you more money and hassle in the long run.

Disaster in Japan

2011-03-14T08:40:00.000-07:00

The earthquake and tsunami that wreaked havoc in Japan is a calamity. But, let's learn something from it. If a developed country like Japan is having difficulty coping with the aftermath of such a disaster, how would we fare if confronted with a similar situation??

One of the most basic ideas to consider is putting together some emergency supplies. The following list has been prepared by the US Government. This and other survival information is available at www.ready.gov.

When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:

Prescription medications and glasses
Infant formula and diapers
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
Cash or traveler's checks and change
Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Fire Extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Consider Rental Reimbursement Coverage

2011-02-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Under the best circumstances, having an auto accident is really annoying. It can be equally disturbing to realize you didn't buy rental car coverage on your auto insurance policy. So you could be faced with having no car while it's being repaired, paying the $500 deductible and another $300 to $500 for the rental car. If you've got the money, fine; but if you don't, rental coverage could be something you'd like to consider.

People may say "Hey, if the accident isn't my fault, I can collect from the other person's insurance carrier." That's true -- as long as the other person was at fault, they have insurance, and you get their name, plate number, license number, etc. If they don't have insurance, lots of luck taking them to small claims court for the rental car money.

I find that most of the time, it's better to take care of Number One and get the extra coverage. The cost is reasonable, ranging from $40 to around $100.

Snow Alert!

2011-02-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

The snow load on your roof could be approaching a dangerous level. For your safety, remove snow from your roof as soon as possible. The is especially critical if you have a flat roof or one with a minimal pitch.

The potential for roof collapse or structural damage increases as the weight of the accumulated snow and ice exceeds the snow load capacity of the roof. Also, the likelihood of developing ice dams and the resulting water damage to the interior of the house increases with the amount of snow remaining on your roof.

Rain falling on accumulated snow is especially dangerous because snow-covered roofs do not drain well and the weight of the snow increases.

It may be prudent to hire someone to remove snow from your roof before the next storm hits the area. You can call a local roofer or contractor to see if they can help.

Do a Dry Run – or an Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

2010-11-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

Most of us will remember the fire drills we had in elementary school and even in high school. We got to miss class, go outside, and fool around. In fact, if you were born in the late 40s, early 50s, you might even have had air raid drills in case we got bombed by the Russians, although I don’t think hiding under your desk would have done much good, but that's another story.

So why do we do fire drills? Why do we do dry runs? We do them because we need to know in advance what to do, how to act, what measures to take to protect ourselves. Practicing, that is having a walk-through of a situation, means things will go smoother if something does happen. We will be less panicked because we know what to do.

That's why acting troupes have dress rehearsals before the opening night. They do it to work out the bugs; that's why people test things, to work out the bugs. So let me ask you, have you done a dry run with your children on how to escape from your home in case of fire or a burglar situation. Do you all know where to meet?

What if there is a power outage; does everybody know where the candles and flashlights are kept? Or how to keep warm? How about something like changing a tire? Do your children know how to change the tire on the car? Or check the oil?

What about taking a few minutes to learn where the tools are, learning to use a jack, or realizing…oops no jack, no lug wrench,...what, no spare! Here is where that ounce of prevention comes in. Prepare some type of a emergency procedure. Is there a flashlight or flare in the car? Most kids have cell phones today so they can call someone. But what if they can't get hold of someone or what if they're hours away? Even if you have a motor club membership you could wait for hours.

So do a dry run. Show them where the jack is, and how to use it. Show how to take the tire off and put a spare tire on. Have a home fire drill. Decide together where you'll store the flashlights and candles. You’ll be glad you did.

Suggestions

Flash light

Blankets

Jack & lug wrench, oh yeah, the spare

Phone

Gas (keep the car full)

Shovel

Some sand

Maybe a piece of wood to put under the jack

Or a bottle of scotch …

Emergency money –I always keep $20 in the car

Sewer backup coverage

2010-11-29T08:08:00.000-08:00

We would like to remind all home and business owners that unforeseen circumstances and/or extreme weather conditions may cause wastewater (sewerage) back-up into your homes or businesses. In most cases, the town where the home or business is located is not liable for damages or losses suffered as a result of such conditions.

We encourage each of our customers (homeowners, tenants, and businesses) to explore the possibility of purchasing additional homeowner’s or property damage insurance to protect against this type of loss or damage.

Good Tips to Help Prevent Homeowners Losses

2010-11-23T07:06:00.000-08:00

Here's a good video from the Insurance Information Institute on how to maintain your home with an eye to preventing homeowner's losses:

http://www2.iii.org/video/proper_home_maintenance_preventing_losses.html

Traveler's Discounts on Massachusetts Auto Policies

2010-11-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

Effective Nov, 2010, Travelers now offers new and improved discounts for drivers who are:

Good Students
College student at school at least 100 miles from home

This is a potential savings of up to 18%.

There is also a 5% discount for new customers who submit a application at least 5 days prior to their renewal date.

Annual Low Mileage Discount: The discount used to be given for cars driven under 7,500 miles annually. Travelers has changed this to under 10,000 miles a year.

Check with your Independent Insurance Agency to be sure that you get all the discounts you're entitled to.

Thinking about Dog Bite Claims and Rental Property

2010-11-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

If you own property and rent out apartments, be sure that you require that each tenant sign a rental agreement and require proof that they have an HO4 (tenant's insurance policy). When you consider that there were more than 4.7 million dog bites annually, and that the average cost of a dog-bite claim claim in 2009 was $24,840, it's critical that your tenants have adequate insurance. It's likely that the tenant would be the first party the injured person would put a claim against.

Massachusetts Tops in Healthcare Plans

2010-10-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

Four Massachusetts health plans ranked in the top 10 nationwide according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance. The Committee rates plans based on performance, member satisfaction and accreditation. Harvard Pilgrim Health Care took first place; Tufts Associated Health Plan came in second. Fallon Community Health Plan and Health New England were also ranked in the top 10.

Dangerous Cell Phone Use

2010-10-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, the subject of texting while driving has gotten a lot of press. But, did you know how dangerous it can be just to use a cell phone while driving? According to a study by the University of Utah, distraction from cell phone use while driving, whether the phone is hand-held or hands-free, extends a driver's reaction time as much as having a blood alcohol concentration at the legal limit of .08%.

As of October, 2010, here are guidelines by state for using cell phones while driving:

Handheld Cell Phones: 8 states (Calif., Conn., Del., Md., N.J., N.Y., Ore. and Wash.), D.C. and the Virgin Islands prohibit all drivers from using handheld cell phones while driving. Except for Maryland, all laws are primary enforcement - an officer may cite a driver for using a handheld phone without any other traffic offense taking place.

All Cell Phone Use: No state bans all cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) for all drivers, but many prohibit all cell phone use by Novice Driver.

Go to http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html for more information.

Yard Sales

2010-10-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

Home owners and apartment owners sometimes have yard sales. This is an opportunity for them to clean out their basements, attics, and garages of unwanted or unused things - aka stuff. This sometimes reminds me of that old adage “One man's junk is another man's treasure.

Yes, it is an opportunity to clean out your basement, turn some of that stuff in the garage into cash, and feel like you've accomplished something. But here are some things you need to know about yard sales.

If you're having more than an annual yard sale to get rid of your own clutter, it could be a problem. If you have frequent yard sales, instead of being considered a yard sale, it could be considered a business; for example, if you're bringing in other people's items to sell, then that may be considered a business, not a personal and therefore, the homeowner's policy or tenant's policy would not respond and pay a claim if someone were injured.

Here are some other things to consider:

If you're doing a fund raiser yard sale for a charity, check with the people you're raising the money for and see if they have insurance that would cover you. Your renter's insurance or homeowner’s may cover you, but you should check with your insurance agent.

In addition to checking on insurance coverages, you should keep safety in mind.

Repair loose railings and cracked concrete, sidewalks, etc, which can cause injuries.
Place sale items so that there is enough room to move around without tripping.
Avoid placing items too close to stairs and ledges where people can fall. Don't sell items you know are unsafe or hazardous.

Have a great tag sale, make a couple of dollars and clean out your basement, but don't lose the house because you made a bad decision.

Dog Bite Liability Coverage

2010-08-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year, resulting in about 800,000 injuries that require medical attention. A single lawsuit - even if won by the dog owner who has been sued - can end up costing hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees and lost wages. The greater the dog owner's assets, the more potential there is for risk. The personal liability coverage available through your standard homeowner's policy may not be enough, although The McCurdy Group recommends a limit of $500,000. The best protection is a personal excess liability policy, also called an umbrella policy; an umbrella's limits range between $1 million and $5 million.

Dog bite claims account for more than one-third of all homeowners liability claims, costing $412 million in 2009. Payouts have increased 30% in the past six years

Be on the Lookout for Mosquitoes

2010-08-16T06:57:00.000-07:00

Mosquitoes can spread germs that can make you very sick and may even cause death. Protect yourself and your loved ones by avoiding mosquito bites:

Use bug spray when outdoors
Wear long sleeves and other clothing to help reduce mosquito bites
Stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active (sunset to sunrise)
Install or repair door and window screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home
Remove standing water from around your home (in bird baths, tires, bottles or cans) so mosquitoes can't breed there

Information about West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is available by calling the Massachusetts Department of Public Health information line at 1-866-MASS-WNV (1-866-627-7968), the Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800 or 2-1-1. Learn more about the 2-1-1 program in your area.

ATVs Can Be Dangerous

2010-08-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

A recent National Safe Kids Campaign report stated that over 30,000 children, age 14 and under, were treated in emergency rooms for ATV-related injuries (fractured bones, head and facial injuries) and 44 children in this age group died as a result of ATV related injuries (head and neck injury). Children ages 10-14 accounted for more than 75% of the deaths. As a comparison, ATV related injuries are 12 times more likely to result in death than bicycle-related injuries. Nearly 90% of ATV-related injuries suffered by children under age 16 were caused by adult-sized ATVs (ATVs that are 90cc or larger). Additionally, reports show that males account for 60% of the ATV-related death among children ages 14 and under. Youths account for more than 33% of the ATV fatalities, but made up only 14% of the riders. Injury and fatality numbers are expected to grow as ATV sales continue to climb. Clearly, the ATV can be a dangerous vehicle.

Home Insurance Quote Tips

2010-07-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

Home Insurance Quote Tips

Below you can find a few ways to lower your home insurance, provided by the website, InsureMyHouse.com. These can effectively lower your insurance premium.

Raise the deductible amount: This is the amount of money you have to pay out before your homeowners insurance kicks in. In other words, if your deductible is $500 and the damage to your house is only $400 then you essentially have to pay the $400. If the damage is $500 or more, your insurance coverage will begin paying out. The higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premium will be. Just make sure you can afford to pay the deductible amount if and when the time comes.

Install Alarm and Burglar Systems: If you have a burglar alarm installed it can help reduce your premium. Same goes for sprinkler systems.

Stay with One Insurer: In most cases if you spend time bouncing from one insurer to another, your premium will be higher. So if you can help stay with one insurer, they will, in the end, give you credit in the form of lowering your premium. If not, ask about long term customer discounts.

Obtain Your Credit Rating: Always knowing your credit score can help you with just about anything: Car loans, insurance premiums, etc. The higher your credit score the better your rate is going to be.

Combine Auto and Home Insurance: If you can ask your agent about combining your auto and homeowners insurance, you can save on your premium.

Stop Smoking: In 2006, there were over 400,000 house fires. About 5% of these fires were the result of smoking cigarettes.

Talking to an agent when obtaining homeowners insurance quotes is always suggested. We recommend a review of your coverages be handled by a home insurance professional.

McCurdy Teen Driver Program Begins in August!

2010-07-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

The Dennis A. McCurdy Insurance Agency is implementing an exciting new program to inform new drivers about all the new responsibilities that come with a new license.

The new driver can come in to the office for an informative half hour meeting with Meghan (a licensed insurance agent) and Lisa (our safety consultant) to discuss:

Driver Safety - discussion of distracted driving, defensive driving, texting and cell phone use, etc.
Policy Coverages - what each portion of the policy means, recommended limits
Premium Payments - the importance of paying their bills on time, consequences of non-payments, SDIP points
Accident Awareness - What to do if they are involved in an accident

Parents are welcome to attend but this is not necessary. Call 508-347-9343 to book an appointment.

Keeping Your Cool...

2010-07-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

Many businesses, including construction and landscaping, rely on the summer months for the bulk of their income. Here are a few tips to keep you and your employees cool and productive:

Prehydrate - 16 oz of non-caffienated, non-alcoholic fluids prior to beginning work
Continued Hydration - 8 oz every 20 minutes; flavored water is recommended because people will drink a larger volume of that compared to plain water
Remove hats - hats trap in body heat; remove them in hot shade and wear visors in the direct sun
Clothes - loose, thin, white synthetic t-shirts. Cotton absorbs moisture whereas synthetic materials release it from the skin where it is evaporated.

Do a Home Inventory

2010-06-25T08:29:00.000-07:00

It's a good idea to have a inventory of all the contents of your home in case of theft, fire or other damage. Here's a free service from the Insurance Information Institute that makes it easy to document your belongings.

http://ezasset.appspot.com

Homeowners and the New MA Oil Law Requirement

2010-06-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Effective July 1, 2010, Chapter 453 of the Acts of 2008 affects homeowners in 2 ways:

Homeowners must make sure that their oil tank - above or underground - conforms to the new code requirement. There is no grandfathering.
If the homeowner's oil system does conform, the insurance company must make coverage for loss due to an oil spill available to him or her.

The law states that: An owner of residential property utilizing a heating oil tank for consumptive use on the premises with 1 or more fuel supply lines or return lines in direct contact with conrete, earth or other floor surfaces shall:

enclose any fuel supply line with a continuous non-metallic sleeve,
cause an oil safety valve to be installed at the tank end of any fuel supply line in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or
employ any other approved release prevention method.

There are exemptions and other details about this law that you should know. Contact your insurance agent for more information.

RMV announces Low Number Plate Lottery

2010-06-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Registry of Motor of Vehicles has announced the 2010 Low Number Plate Lottery. This year there are 179 plates available for the low plate lottery including the following types:
Number only — three digits (e.g. 268)
Number only — four digits (e.g. 2062)
Two Numbers and One Letter (e.g. 19K)
One Letter and Two Numbers (e.g. B29)

To be eligible, applicants MUST mail the entry form to the Registry of Motor Vehicles • Attn: Lottery Plates • P.O. Box 55889 • Boston, MA • 02205 -5889. The submission must be postmarked no later than August 9, 2010.

Lottery Rules and Eligibility Requirements
Only one (1) entry per applicant will be accepted, regardless of the number of active registrations he/she may have.

An applicant must be a Massachusetts resident. An applicant must have a currently registered and insured passenger vehicle.

Companies/Corporations may not apply.

RMV employees, including contract employees, and their immediate family members are not eligible. (Black’s Law Dictionary defines “immediate family member” as the term generally referring to one’s parents, spouse, children, and brothers & sisters.)

Entry forms must be legible and printed in ink. The form must not have any missing information. Incomplete or illegible forms will be rejected. It may be helpful to have your registration in front of you when completing this entry form. Your accuracy will reduce the risk of your entry form being rejected. *Fields marked with an (*) are optional.

Requests for specific plate numbers will not be honored. Eligible applicants will be considered for all plates listed. Plates will be awarded in the order in which they are listed on the “2010 Plate List.”

An applicant’s registration and license cannot be in a non-renewal, suspended, or revoked status at the time of entry, the time of the drawing, or the time of the plate swap. As such, an applicant must not have any outstanding excise taxes, parking tickets, child support, warrants, or unpaid Fastlane violations.

Entry forms must be mailed and postmarked no later than August 9, 2010. Hand-delivered entry forms will not be accepted.

By law, lottery winners must be announced by September 15, 2010. Please visit our website (www.mass.gov/rmv) later in the summer for the official drawing date.
Lottery results will be available on the RMV website: www.mass.gov/rmv
All winners will be notified by the RMV in writing with instructions on how to transfer their current registration to their new lottery plate. Winners will have until December 31, 2010 to swap his/her plate by phone or at the Special Plate Section at RMV Headquarters. Unclaimed plates will be forfeited after December 31st. Plates will be registered to the winning applicant onlyAll plates remain the property of the RMV even after registration.

Lottery winners will be announced at a live drawing on August 28, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at The Larz Anderson Auto Museum located at 15 Newton Street in Brookline. Lottery results will also be posted on the RMV website.

Add One Hour To The Day.

2010-06-16T08:31:00.001-07:00

Add one hour to the day. Set the alarm one hour earlier.

“Early to bed, early to rise…” is not just a nursery rhyme truism. Because there are never enough hours in the day, it is a real bonus to find an extra one. It is sitting there for the taking each and every day. The discipline to take advantage of that hour (or two) is not an easy one to master.

When Joan Lunden did ABC Good Morning America for 14 years, her driver would pick her up each morning at 4:30 a.m. ( and he had to leave at 3:30 in order to drive to Westchester to get her). He observed that he seldom dropped her off before 6:00 p.m. at night. And all that just for a morning show!

There is, of course, no free lunch. The price you pay for an extra hour or two each morning comes due each evening when you must plan your activities accordingly. The candle cannot be burned at both ends.

Once you get control of extra a.m. hours, use them wisely—not for busy work. One successful sales professional called all of her key contacts for the day and left a voice mail message saying that she had some important information for them and she would outline what it was, with a promise to call them back later in the day. The pre-opening message would be the first thing her clients would hear when they came to work. Not a bad way to start all of your accounts’ days.
____________________
From my buddy Jack Falvey at: http://www.makingthenumbers.com/ off big time

Is Your Boat Safe?

2010-06-07T08:42:00.000-07:00

Boating Season has arrived and here are some steps to take to reduce fatalities, injuries, property damage and liability costs:

Be sure your boat is adequately insured
All recreational boats are required to carry one approved Personal Flotation Device for each person aboard
All vessels must be equipped with US Coast Guard (USCG) approved visual distress signals
USCG approved fire extinguishers are required and should be hand portable, either B-I or B-II classification, and have a specific marine type mounting bracket. It must be marked "Marine Type USCG."
Take a boating safety course.
Get a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC) - a free annual check available to all boaters to ensure that their recreational vessels meet Federal and State equipment requirements. The USCG Auxiliary and US Power Squadrons vessel examiners participate in the VSC Program.
Additional safety equipment to consider: Marine radio, dewatering device and backup, anchor and line for area, and first aid and person-in-water kits.

Keep Your Driver's License With You

2010-06-07T08:33:00.000-07:00

Did you know that if you are stopped in the state of Massachusetts and don't have your driver's license with you (even though you have a valid license), you can be fined $50? That a steep price to pay!!!

A New Item for Your To-do List

2010-05-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

It seems that in this busy hustle-and-bustle world we live in, we tend to be so focused on ourselves, our families and our to do lists that we forget about what’s important: basic common courtesy.

When is the last time you held the door for someone? Said hello to the employee at the grocery store who is checking out your groceries or preparing your deli meat? How about asking the bank teller how his or her day is going? Or letting someone pull out in front of you while you are stuck in bumper to bumper traffic…what is one more car in front of you really going to matter?

These things seem so small and maybe they don’t matter to you. But I bet that the person standing behind the counter all day will appreciate it. I bet if you try it just once and see their face after you’ve asked “how is your day going?”, you’ll be so surprised and feel so good…that you’ll add it to your daily to-do list.

New Solutions to Distracted Driving

2010-04-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

We hear about it. We read about it. We preach to our teen drivers about it. Did you know that your risk of a crash is 23.2 times as high if you are texting while driving? Despite all of this, when our cell phone rings while we are going 50 MPH on Route 20, we answer it.

In our defense, the advances in technology have led us to believe that we, along with our friends, family and work associates, must be readily available at all times. Also, the simple act of operating a vehicle seems to have become so mundane in our evolved society that multitasking is the only way for us to feel accomplished when we have reached our destination.

So how can we break our addiction? More technology, of course! The following is a list of websites offering cell phone software which disables your device while your car is in motion: www.cellcontrol.com, www.zoomsafer.com, and www.trysafetyfirst.com

What Happens to my Insurance Rates When I Buy a New Car?

2010-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Will my rates go up? The short answer is: it depends. Auto insurance rates are based on many factors including the type, age and cost of auto you drive. One thing you can count on is that cars that have been financed require more insurance. The lender will require that you carry comprehensive and collision coverage - which can mean higher premiums.

A Massachusetts Consumer Guide to Home Improvement

2010-04-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Every year, consumers spend millions of dollars on home improvements. Far too often, unsuspecting homeowners are cheated by home improvement contractors. In 1992, the Home Improvement Law was created to protect consumers and regulate the practices of home improvement contractors.

Remodeling and improving your come can be a huge undertaking. Fortunately, by understanding your rights under the law and taking a few precautions, you can help avoid potential problems. Be sure to plan carefully before investing thousands of dollars into home improvements.

Interview at least 3 contractors and request a written, detailed estimate.
Confirm references for each contractor. Check the contractor's complaint history with the Attorney General's Office or Better Business Bureau.
Always ask for a detailed written contract, even for small projects. It will protect you and help ensure that you and the contractor understand the scope of the job and the price. State law requires that home improvement contracts over $1,000 be in writing.
Be sure the contractor obtains the building permit.
By law, the contractor cannot collect more than one-third of the cost of the contract in advance.

For more details about the protections afforded to you through the 1992 Home Improvement Contractor Law, go to mass.gov/consumer/home improvement.

Wedding Insurance

2010-03-31T06:43:00.000-07:00

You can now purchase insurance in the event that something goes wrong with your wedding in spite of all your careful planning. There are many things that can go wrong - things that are beyond your control - like your reception venue going out of business, your bridal shop closing, wedding rings getting lost or sudden serious illness.

A wedding is an investment; the average cost is now up to $27,000. For as little as $200, you can purchase wedding insurance that help make things right when things go wrong.

Do You Need Special Insurance When You Rent a Hall?

2010-03-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

Do you need special liability coverage if you rent a hall, room, the town common, etc. for an event such as a wedding, anniversary or birthday party? The answer is NO as long as you have a Homeowners Policy. The standard Homeowners Policy provides liability coverage for various "insured locations", one of which is "part of the premises occasionally rented to the "insured for personal use." It would also be a good idea to have an Umbrella Policy which would give you an extra $1,000,000 in coverage.

Make Your Computer Safe from Identity Thieves

2010-03-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Here are some tips to reduce the chances of compromising your computer:

Update your computer to include the latest virus protection software and use a firewall
Avoid downloading files from strangers or clicking on unknown hyperlinks
Use a secure browser
Don't store financial information on your laptop
Avoid the use of an automatic log-in feature
Delete personal information before you dispose of a computer
Read website privacy policies
Avoid phishing, which is a scam that uses spam or pop-up messages to deceive you into disclosing your personal information.

Rental Car Contract Cautions

2010-03-18T07:03:00.000-07:00

Have you felt pressured when renting a car to purchase the Collision Damage Waiver? Most rental car contracts include provisions that will invalidate the Collision Damage Waiver (for which you pay a hefty fee) for any of the following reasons:

if you leave the keys in the car
if you drive on dirt roads
if you let anyone other than drivers listed on the contract drive the vehicle (Note: this includes valets!)
if you drive under the influence of intoxicants

Remember that Collision Damage Waivers are not insurance and therefore are not regulated by insurance departments. You are at the mercy of the rental car companies so be sure to read the contract carefully.

Energy Credits Available on Your Tax Return

2010-03-08T07:20:00.000-08:00

This year we have had several taxpayers taking advantage of the Energy Credit on their tax returns. There are several items that can qualify – furnaces, pellet stoves, insulation, windows and doors. When purchases are made, the company you buy them through provides the documentation that states they qualify for the energy credit. In the example of windows, they must be of a certain type to be energy efficient.

A couple items that do not qualify are appliances and siding. Appliances, although they are energy star rated, are not part of the energy credit. They may have rebates from their manufacturers though. In the case of siding – vinyl siding and even insulated vinyl siding do not qualify. Siding provides structural support for the house and therefore is not part of the credit program.

The good news is even higher income earners qualify for the 30% credit this year. The credit is not unlimited, there is a cap on the maximum credit per taxpayer still.

How do I take a home inventory and why?

2010-02-04T09:03:00.000-08:00

Would you be able to remember all the possessions you’ve accumulated over the years if they were destroyed by a fire? Having an up-to-date home inventory will help you get your insurance claim settled faster, verify losses for your income tax return and help you purchase the correct amount of insurance.Start by making a list of your possessions, describing each item and noting where you bought it and its make and model. Clip to your list any sales receipts, purchase contracts, and appraisals you have. For clothing, count the items you own by category -- pants, coats, shoes, for example –- making notes about those that are especially valuable. For major appliance and electronic equipment, record their serial numbers usually found on the back or bottom.

Don't be put off! If you are just setting up a household, starting an inventory list can be relatively simple. If you’ve been living in the same house for many years, however, the task of creating a list can be daunting. Still, it’s better to have an incomplete inventory than nothing at all. Start with recent purchases and then try to remember what you can about older possessions.
Big ticket items - Valuable items like jewelry, art work and collectibles may have increased in value since you received them. Check with your agent to make sure that you have adequate insurance for these items. They may need to be insured separately.

Take a picture - Besides the list, you can take pictures of rooms and important individual items. On the back of the photos, note what is shown and where you bought it or the make. Don’t forget things that are in closets or drawers.

Videotape it - Walk through your house or apartment videotaping and describing the contents. Or do the same thing using a tape recorder.

Storing the list, photos and tapes - Regardless of how you do it (written list, photos, videotape or audio tape), keep your inventory along with receipts in your safe deposit box or at a friend's or relative's home. That way you’ll be sure to have something to give your insurance representative if your home is damaged. When you make a significant purchase, add the information to your inventory while the details are fresh in your mind.

Wait patiently for all your tax documents

2010-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Before calling for an appointment with your tax advisor or sitting down to work on your own taxes, make sure you have all the documents that you need. At this time, January 25, 2010, some people have all their tax documents, some are still waiting and some people think they have everything. Patience is important. Companies (those you work for, banks, healthcare companies, investment companies, etc) have until January 31st to have documents POSTMARKED. This year January 31st is a Sunday, therefore they have until February 1st. This means that paperwork will still be coming in mailboxes the first week of February. It is important to be sure you have all information when preparing your return.

Major Differences between Federal and Massachusetts Income Taxes

2010-01-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

There are a several differences to be aware of this year when preparing your 2009 taxes. The following are three examples of items that may not be taxable on your Federal 1040 tax return but ARE taxable on your Massachusetts tax return:
· The first $2,400 of unemployment benefits in 2009 (Federal you pay on $2,401 to total received, State of MA you pay on ALL benefits received)
· Relief of indebtness or cancellantion of debt
· Teacher deductions

The State of MA is choosing to make all of these items fully taxable and are not matching the Federal rules.

2009-12-21T10:15:00.000-08:00

Debt Forgiveness
Many people do not often realize that debt forgiveness is income on their tax return. People often work with credit companies to reduce the amount of debt owed to the credit cards. This can be done personally or through an attorney. When this happens you will owe less to the credit card company BUT this amount that is "forgiven" is taxable income on your tax return. The credit card company issues a 1099 for the amount and that is reported to the IRS as well. If it is not reported properly on your tax return, the IRS will send a letter and in addition to the taxes owed, they will add a penalty for non-reporting as well as interest.

Tax Treatment of Energy Saving Improvements

2009-11-25T08:52:00.000-08:00

If you are planning to make energy saving improvements to your home and you do so before the end of 2009, you can get a tax credit on your 2009 return. The following are some of the highlights:
10% credit up to $200 on window/skylight/storm window replacements
10% credit up to $500 for exterior doors and storm doors
10% credit up to $500 for installing insulation
$300 for >14 SEER HVAC replacement
$150 for >95 AFUE boiler/furnace replacment
Even if you purchase multiple products you can only get a maximum of $1,500 over the 2-year period (2009 & 2010). Basically you can spend up to $5,000 during this 2 year period on a single or multiple products, and get 30% or $1,500 (30% of $5,000 = $1,500) back as a tax credit. If you get the entire $1,500 credit in 2009, then you can't get anything additional in 2010.

OSHA Compliance

2009-11-24T06:19:00.000-08:00

My brother, a small business owner, told me that he was recently contacted via telephone by a salesperson claiming to be selling log books required by OSHA. He explained that the salesperson was insisting that these logs and checklists would be his protection upon an OSHA inspection. “Just give me your address, we’ll mail them and then we will bill you.” Being more familiar with plastering than government safety standards, his only saving grace were his instincts. “It felt like a scam,” he said.

Most business owners are familiar with the saying, “knowledge is power”. In this case, I would recommend going to the source of these standards: OSHA! They have an entire website designated to helping small businesses understand what they need to be compliant; http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/index.html, complete with a handbook http://www.osha.gov/Publications/smallbusiness/small-business.html which, in their words, “should help small business employers meet the legal requirements imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act), and achieve an in-compliance status before an OSHA inspection”. It includes an extensive self-inspection checklist, which can be tailored to meet your own business environment and guidelines for work-related injuries / illness recordkeeping. This handbook, along with the logs for recordkeeping, are all on the website and available at no cost.

So, was it a scam? I would say “no”. Like your business, this company is charging a fee for a service. But, we’ve all heard that saying, “don’t buy the cow, if you can get the milk for free…” .

Requiring Certificates of Insurance from Contractors

2009-11-18T06:32:00.000-08:00

Copies of Insurance Certificates should be obtained by a homeowner before he or she hires any worker for some work to be done on the home. For example, a chimney sweep, roofer, painter, etc. all should show proof of current insurance before any work begins, to protect the homeowner.

Buyers/Shoppers Beware!

2009-11-18T06:28:00.000-08:00

There is yet another scam for consumers to beware of this season – using debit cards! If you use debit cards or even credit cards that can get “cash back” – be sure to check your slips BEFORE leaving the store! The scam is that some clerks have put the ‘cash back’ option on prior to your signing for your purchase. If you do not checked your receipt carefully, you may not notice the ‘cash back’ listed on the slip. The clerk is pocketing your money! Only small amounts money, usually $20, is stolen so many people won’t notice a discrepancy when buying a lot of items. So…..if you use a card of any kind, be sure to check your receipts carefully!

Mass Registry Name Change

2009-11-09T07:11:00.001-08:00

IMPORTANT NOTICE!
Due to the creation of the new Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), effective November 1st customers paying the RMV by check (or money order) should make their checks payable to MassDOT.

First Time Homebuyer Credit

2009-11-09T07:08:00.000-08:00

I’m sure most everyone has heard about the First Time Homebuyer Credit by now. The Federal Government is giving an $8,000 tax credit, which is refundable (after any taxes owed, you will receive check for the balance) to first time buyers. This was set to expire on December 1, 2009 but now has been extended. Buyers must enter into a binding contract by April 30, 2010 and close on the property by June 30, 2010.

There are very specific rules and it is important that you understand all of them before assuming that you are eligible. A couple of the highlights are: In order to qualify you cannot have owned a home within the last 3 years prior to the date of your new purchase. If you are married, even if only one of you had owned prior property, neither one of you qualify for this credit. There are cases that you will have to pay back the money (if you sell your property within 36 months of purchase).

Also under the new legislation passed on November 6, 2009, there is a new credit available to first time, long-time homeowners who buy a replacement principal residence. They may claim a credit of up to $6,500. They must have lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the replacement home is purchased.

People with higher incomes can now qualify for the credit. The new law raises the income limits for homes purchased after Nov. 6, 2009. The credit phases out for individual taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) between $125,000 and $145,000 or between $225,000 and $245,000 for joint filers. The existing MAGI phase-outs of $75,000 to $95,000 or $150,000 to $170,000 for joint filers still apply to purchases on or before Nov. 6, 2009.

This article is not intended to cover all the rules, but give you a few of the highlights. It is very important to fully research this credit before making the assumption you are eligible.
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Mortgage Insurance

2009-10-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

To protect your investment in your home, you've most likely purchased insurance coverage for storm and fire damage and for prople getting injured on your property. But have you thought about mortgage insurance - how to continue making those mortgage payments if you or your spouse were to die prematurely? How would you make sure the other could afford to raise your family in your home?

A term life insurance policy can help. You may be surprised at how affordable it is if you are in good health. You can design a plan that fit your needs and mortgage.

USB Drives - Beware!!

2009-10-07T06:43:00.000-07:00

As technology advances, so do the risks! USB Drive/memory sticks came on the market a few years ago and could only hold a small amount of data. Now they can hold a significant amount of data and they are being used everywhere! The problem now is the increased likelihood that sensitive data can be lost or stolen or the devices can be used to inject viruses or other malware into computers. Data from a USB can be loaded onto a workstation without restriction, bypassing firewalls and other network defenses.

There is an interesting account of a consultant who was hired to probe the security of a credit union. Early one day he scattered 20 USB drives – disguised as promotional items- in the parking lot of the credit union. Each drive was infected with a virus that, when inserted into the SUB port, would send critical data back to the consultant. Amazingly, 15 of the drives were picked up by employees – all of whom subsequently plugged them into their computers. The software on each drive loaded itself onto the PC and the consultant received enough data not only to gain access to the infected PC but other systems on the credit union’s network as well!

If you need to use USB drives as part of your day-to-day business, then disk encryption software or a secure USB drive may be your best bet. Having a good security policy in force that addresses the use of these drives and other “outside software” being loaded onto company computers is not a bad idea either! It's important for you to consider your insurance policies – do you have anything on your business policy that would cover you if an employee did damage of this nature? Things to think about!

Think You Are Good At Multi Tasking? Think Again!

2009-10-07T05:50:00.000-07:00

Many employees try to juggle several tasks at the same time – jumping back and forth from email messages to working an open project on the computer to answering phone calls. A recent study of college students reveals that multi-tasking may actually lower productivity.

Researchers at Stanford University studied 262 college undergraduates and found that students who regularly used various media at once were not very skilled at tests of memory, attention, or "task-switching." The results surprised researchers who had expected to find an innate ability in multi-taskers that made them skilled at handling multiple tasks at once.The participants first filled out questionnaires on their media use – how often they went online, watched television, read, listened to music, emailed and text-messaged, and how often they did a few of those activities at the same time. Based on these responses, the researchers classified the participants as heavy or light media multi-taskers and then put them through a series of cognitive tests.The test results suggest that heavy multi-taskers are not actually good at juggling numerous activities. They scored lower than those classified as light multi-taskers on filtering out irrelevant distractions, on organizing and filing away information, and on shifting their attention from one task to another.

Commentary: The results of this study cast doubt on the wisdom of using technology to jump around between tasks. Of course, there are times that interruptions are unavoidable, but employees may find it beneficial to stop answering emails and phone calls when working on a project requiring close attention. Efficiency experts have suggested that setting aside particular times of the day to answer emails and to respond to phone calls is an effective time management tool. Constant access to the Internet, telephone and other media may hurt rather than help productivity.

Amy Norton, "'Multi-taskers' are bad at one thing: multi-tasking," www.reuters.com (Aug. 24, 2009)Amy Norton, "'Multi-taskers' are bad at one thing: multi-tasking," www.reuters.com (Aug. 24, 2009)

Why is there such a hubbub about dog breeds by insurance companies?

2009-09-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few facts for you to chew on:

Dog bites account for one third of all liability claims
In 2007, claims reached a new high, up 28% since 2003
In 2007, there were 4.7 million dog bites, resulting in 800,000 injuries requiring medical treatment
$356,700,000 (yes, that's millions of dollars) was paid in claims, up 10.5% from the previous year
In 2007, there were 14,500 dog bites claims filed; the average claim payment was about $24,511

Returning Plates to the Registry

2009-09-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

If you turn plates in at the Registry of Motor Vehicles, be sure to notify your insurance agent or company that you want coverage cancelled. The Registry does not make this notification. We cannot remove the vehicle until the date after the plates are returned.

Do's and Don'ts When Disaster Strikes

2009-09-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

For Fire and Smoke Damage - This list of Emergency Tips has been compiled from many years of experience in fire and smoke damage repair and cleaning.

DO:

Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil.
Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, draperies and carpets.
Open windows for ventilation.
Change furnace filters if blower is operating.
Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper.
Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towel bars with light coating of oil.
Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter.
Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps).
Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter.
Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environment.

DO NOT:

Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided.
Use exposed food items or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat.
Use TVs, stereos or electrical appliances until they are cleaned and checked.
Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner (improper cleaning may set smoke and odor).

Car Breakdown Safety

2009-08-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

If you are involved in an accident or your car breaks down, safety should be your first concern. Getting out of the car at a busy intersection or on a highway to change a tire or check for damage are probably two of the worst things you can do. The Insurance Information Institute recommends the following precautions when these situations occur:

Never get out of the vehicle to make a repair or examine the damage on a busy highway. If possible, drive the vehicle to a safe place before getting out. If you've had an accident, motion the other driver to pull up to a safe spot ahead.
If you can't drive the vehicle, it may be safer to stay in the vehicle and wait for help. Use a cell phone to summon help. Under most circumstances, standing outside the vehicle in the flow of traffic is a bad idea. If you must leave your vehicle, be sure to stay behind any guardrails or well off the side of the road.
Carry flares or triangles to alert other drivers once you get to the side of the road. Marking the location of your vehicle to give other drivers advance warning can be critical. Remember to put on your hazard lights!
In the event of a blowout or flat tire, move the vehicle to a safer place before attempting a repair - even if it means destroying the wheel getting there. The cost of a tire, rim or wheel is minor compared to endangering your safety.

Should I purchase an umbrella liability policy?

2009-08-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

If you are ever sued, your standard homeowners or auto policy will provide you with some liability coverage, paying for judgments against you and your attorney's fees, up to a limit set in the policy. However, in our litigious society, you may want to have extra liability protection. That's what a personal umbrella policy provides.

An umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit of liability coverage on your homeowners or auto policy. It will also cover you for such things as libel and slander.

For about $150 to $300 a year, you can but a $1 million personal umbrella policy.

Because the personal umbrella policy comes into play after the underlying limits have been exhausted, there are certain limits that insurers will require on your auto and home policies. Most companies will require avout $250,000 auto liability limits and $300,000 homeowners liability limits to purchase an umbrella policy

2009-07-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

So often we find out that our insureds are leaving the state, whether it be our customers or their children. It's important to ask this question: What do I do when I leave the state and how can I cancel my insurance?

When you are preparing to leave, call us and let us know so update your address information. Once you've relocated and gotten your new license plates, please mail us your old Mass. plates; without them we cannot cancel your policy! Once we've received them, we will cancel your policy effective the day after we receive them. (Call us to discuss how to handle this if your plates have been lost or stolen.)

If the state you move to requires insurance, once you get your new insurance policy, we can usually cancel your policy effective your new policy date. Just send us a copy of the policy through the mail or fax.

If there is premium due to you, you will receive it once the Mass policy has been canceled. Abd by updating your address we will be able to ensure it goes to the right place.

We wish you the best in your new home and hope you find a wonderful agent to work with. If you ever need anything we are always here for you!! AND when you decide to move back, we can help you with that, too!

Insurance Rates - Who Sets Them?

2009-06-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

Some customers of Independent Insurance Agents think that the agent is the one who determines the rates for insurance policies and retains the premiums. The truth is -- this could not be further from the truth! The insurance companies set the rates which must then be approved by the Massachusetts Department of Insurance. Most premiums are sent directly to the insurance company (e.g. Travelers, Safety, Plymouth Rock) who pay the agent a modest percentage of that premium.

Agents want to help their customers get the best rate for the best protection for their individual situations. Customers should fully answer agency questionnaires and provide complete answers to questions from their agents; that's how the agent will be able to find all the applicable discounts and rating advantages for the customers.

Let Pictures Tell the Story

2009-06-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

If you're involved in an auto accident, take pictures of the crash site and the damage to all vehicles with your cell phone or digital camera. Or if your have a loss in your home or apartment be sure to take pictures before you take some steps to minimize additional damage (boarding up a window, putting a tarp on a damaged roof, for example).

When it comes to recreating the circumstances of the accident, pictures will make it easy.

Progressive Insurance to Pay Massachusetts $120,000

2009-06-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

From The Boston Globe 5/27/09
Progressive Direct Insurance Co. agreed to pay the state of Massachusetts $120,000 to settle charges that it inflated the rates for rival companies, according to Attorney General Martha Coakley.

Specifically, Coakley's office accused Ohio-based Progressive, the nation's fourth-largest automobile insurer, of comparing its six-month rates to the 12-month rates offered by other companies. Progressive inaccurately listed all the rates on its website as six-month prices.

Progressive, which started offering policies in Massachusetts on May 1, 2008, stopped quoting rivals' rates on its website and through its call center late last year, and notified Coakley's office about the mistake.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agency

2009-06-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

There is a difference. Some people think it doesn't really matter where they buy their insurance. But this misconception could be costing them money, service and protection. Buying insurance isn't like buying bread or milk. Insurance is an important safety net for your family, your home, your car or your business. Don't treat the purchase lightly!

There is a difference in where you buy your protection.
1. Captive Agents, who can sell you the insurance products of only one company.
2. Telephone Representatives, who can offer you the insurance products of one company and only on the telephone.
3. On line websites often limit coverage options available, provide quotes that significantly differ from the actual premium that you will be billed and don't allow customization to meet your needs.
4. Independent Agents, who represent an average of eight insurance companies and research with these firms to find you the best combination of price, coverage and service.

Don't Count on the RMV to Send Reminders

2009-06-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles no longer mails out license renewal notices.

It is your responsibility to know when your driver's license expires. Check the expiration date on your license and set up a reminder for yourself.

If you forget to renew your license and get pulled over, it is a criminal offense. Your vehicle can be impounded; you will have court costs, fines and surcharges. Be sure to renew your driver’s license at least seven days before your birthday to guarantee that you receive your new license before your old license expires.

Driving on an expired license is considered "unlicensed operation" and is an arrestable offense.

You can do many registry activities online at http://www.mass.gov/rmv/express/index.htm.

Replacement Value vs. Market Value as it relates to Homeowners Policies

2009-05-12T08:15:00.001-07:00

Many people wonder why their Homeowners Coverage A - Dwelling - amount may increase even though the current market value of their home is decreasing. What most people don’t understand is that the amount your home is insured for is not a reflection of market value, but rather replacement value – the cost to rebuild your home from top to bottom in the case of a total loss.

There are many factors that go into determining the replacement value of a home, some are more obvious than others. Although you may immediately think about the cost of lumber, fixtures, or other materials required to rebuild, you may not think about the rising costs of transporting those materials, the cost of new technology, new building codes and regulations or even the cost of labor and energy.

So, the next time you see your homeowners premium increase keep in mind that you are purchasing coverage needed to rebuild your home and not simply to purchase a new home.

The Etiquette Corner

2009-05-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

Simply getting where you’re going every day raises a few questions for the manners-minded.

A tip on “At the Gas Pump”

At multi-island gas stations, drive slowly and carefully to accommodate people who are standing at the pumps or walking back & forth to the store. When possible, pull up to the gas pump that will allow other drivers easy access to unused pumps. Pay special attention to any “cash only” or “credit card only” signs on the pumps so that you won’t waste others time by having to move from one pump to the other.

Shop for items or attend to other business inside only if you’ve parked your car in a parking spot (leave it at the pump only when paying your bill inside). Remember, too, that you’re in a potentially hazardous environment. Avoid danger by turning off your engine before pumping gas and waiting until later to light a cigarette, cigar or pipe.

The difference in deductibles

2009-05-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

Most people chose to have standard $500 collision and $300 comprehensive deductibles. The thing you need to know about deductibles is you may be paying more for the coverage than you will receive in the event of a claim -- or you may be saving very little money if you chose a higher deductible. Young drivers can pay about $500 a year for collision coverage. If they have a car that is valued at $2000, they will have paid more than they will receive if they pay that premium for four years. If they saved this $500 a year, plus the $500 for the deductible, they would have the money to replace the car themselves rather than a promise that they will receive this money if anything happens.

There is also the option of taking a $1000 deductible over a $500 deductible which can sometimes save money if you have a newer or more expensive car. The downside to this is that in some cases there is not much of a savings and you end up paying the higher deductible if you have a claim.

This is why having an agent is very important. He or she will work with you to help you decide what is best for you. Someone who knows the ins and outs of insurance is a very valuable asset to any consumer.

Why it's important to have high property damage limits on your Mass Auto policy

2009-05-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

State minimum coverage for property damage on a Massachusetts auto policy is $5,000. This is a section of the policy that is frequently used in everyday accidents and needs to be carefully reviewed by the agent and insured alike.

When you get into an accident with another vehicle, if you are at fault, your property damage extends to fix the other vehicle. Suppose you are in an accident with a new Mercedes or BMW and that vehicle is totaled; chances are that $5,000 property damage will not be enough to cover a bumper, never mind the entire vehicle. Another thing to consider when choosing these limits is the possibility of a multi-vehicle accident and accidents caused by poor weather conditions.

We cannot always plan for or predict what will happen, which is why we have to be prepared with adequate limits on our insurance policy. McCurdy Insurance suggests having a property damage limit of $250,000, but definitely no less than $100,000.

Who does your insurance agent work for??

2009-05-08T09:28:00.000-07:00

Do you know who your local insurance agent works for? What's your first thought? The insurance carrier who you have your policy with? Well ,you are wrong if that is what you think! Your agent works for YOU; they are the liaison between you and your insurance company.
The job of an insurance agent is to service your account, make sure your policy limits are where they should be, make recommendations when need be, ensure you are receiving all the discounts you apply for and, most importantly, answer your questions and ease your concerns and problems.

The insurance agent is not responsible for creating the insurance companies policies and procedures. We must follow their standards, but by no means do we set those standards. Agents aren't the ones charging billing fees, late fees, or increasing your premium due to getting in an accident or receiving a speeding violation. When inconveniences occur in regards to any of your insurance policies, your agent is going to help you fix it, get in touch with who needs to be spoken to and get answers for you and, more often then not, resolve it.

The insurance agent is there for you, has your best interests in mind and wants to do nothing more then to make your insurance experience positive, reassuring and stress free!