Your Insurance Policies Can Protect You If You Get More “Tricks” Than Treats This Halloween

A few basic safety steps, along with up-to-date homeowners and auto insurance policies, can take some of the fright out of possible Halloween related damage, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

“If you’re worried about your home or apartment being damaged by a small army of trick-or-treaters dressed like Zombies, Charlie Sheen, Snooki or Lady Gaga—anticipated to be the most popular costumes this year—call your insurance agent, broker or company representative,” said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I. “They can help explain your insurance coverage, suggest upgrades to your policy and even offer tips to keep your home safe this holiday season.”

Fortunately, your insurance can provide coverage for many possible Halloween-related disasters:

• Your home or car is the target of mischief
  Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies provide coverage for vandalism. There will be a deductible before your policy starts to pay, but if you suffer expensive damage to your home or possessions you will be financially protected. In the event that your car is damaged by mischievous trick-or-treaters, there is coverage under the optional comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy.
  
  
• There is a fire in your home
  If a Halloween candle or electrically powered decoration causes a fire, any damage will be covered by standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. If the fire is significant enough to make your home unlivable, you would also be covered for additional living expenses, such as having to check into a hotel while your home is being repaired.
  
  
• A trick-or-treater is injured on your property
  If a trick-or-treater or Halloween party guest is accidently injured in your house or apartment, you would be covered under the liability portion of your homeowners or renters insurance policy, should the injured guest sue you. Standard policies also include no-fault medical coverage so that the injured guest could simply file their medical claim with your insurance company and avoid a lawsuit. Not everyone is familiar with this coverage, but it provides very important financial protection.
  
  
• You crash your car into a tree to avoid hitting a trick-or-treater
  Of course, we know you will drive slowly and carefully, but if a group of excited trick-or-treaters darts in front of your car causing you to swerve and hit a tree, you should be covered. Accidents that do not involve another driver or pedestrian are covered under the optional collision portion of an auto insurance policy. If another car or person is involved in the accident, the liability portion of your auto policy would kick in.

Some basic steps can make your home safe for trick-or-treaters, so you can avoid Halloween disasters altogether:

• Remove all objects around the outside of your house that could cause children to trip or fall.
• Turn your outside light on so children will know they can visit your home.
• Keep candles, jack-o-lanterns, matches and lighters in a place that children cannot reach. Halloween candles with multiple wicks close to one another are hazardous and should not be used. When lit they can produce a single high flame or several large flames close together resulting in intense heat and the danger of igniting nearby materials such as curtains or window sills.
• Keep pets inside and away from trick-or-treaters and lit candles, especially if they are easily frightened or become over-excited in the presence of strangers.
• If using decorative lights indoors or outdoors, use lights certified by a recognized organization such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Check lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections. Discard damaged sets. Do not overload extension cords.

It will be getting dark in much of the country by 5 p.m. on Monday, October 31, and because Halloween falls on a school day, many youngsters will be canvassing neighborhoods for treats after dark. Motorists need to remember that kids may be distracted by all the costumes and candy. So, drive slowly in residential areas and honk your horns on dimly lit streets to alert children who may not be paying close attention to vehicular traffic. And watch out for youngsters crossing against the light, darting out from between parked cars and walking in the street.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INSURANCE: www.iii.org; PUBLICATIONS: iii store AND amazon.com

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THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.

Insurance Information Institute, 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038, (212) 346-5500

Six Questions To Ask Before Buying A Life Insurance Policy

I.I.I. Recognizes Life Insurance Awareness Month, A Reminder Of The Importance Of Proper Coverage

Before buying a life insurance policy there are some important questions you should consider, and discuss with your insurance agent or company representative, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

The benefits of a life insurance policy are clear: the coverage provides financial protection against the death of a policyholder in the form of a payment to the beneficiary; and life insurance proceeds are not taxable income. However, it is important that you find the policy that best fits your situation. In recognition of Life Insurance Awareness Month, here are six key questions to help you make the right choice.

1. Do I need to buy a life insurance policy?
   If you and your spouse or partner have made financial commitments that rely on the continuation of your income, a life insurance policy is the most cost-effective way to provide the benefits your survivors would need. The proceeds from a life insurance policy also enables your estate to pay what it owes after your death, or fund a post-death gift to your beneficiaries.
   
   
2. Won’t the life insurance benefits I receive from my employer be enough?
   Maybe, but probably not. Group life insurance policies—often offered to employees by their employers—generally pay out a dollar amount equal to one year of the employee’s salary, much less than what your survivors would need over time.
   
   
3. Can I count on my survivors getting Social Security benefits?
   U.S. Social Security survivor benefits are available only if the surviving spouse has dependent children under the age of 18, or if the surviving spouse is aged 60 or over, so there may be a lengthy period where, in fact, he or she would not receive any benefits at all. Even when children and spouses are eligible for Social Security survivor benefits, the federal government caps them at a “family maximum,” which is likely to fall far short of what the survivors need.
   
   
4. How can I figure out how much life insurance coverage I need?
   Try to identify how much money your survivors will need for as long a time period as they will need it, and buy enough insurance to meet this dollar amount. Some people like to use a shortcut, such as a multiple of their current annual income, when deciding how much the face value of their life insurance policy should be. If you use this method, remember that your income is likely to increase over time, while the life insurance benefit is often a fixed amount, such as $100,000 or $500,000. In other words, a death benefit bought today as a multiple of your current income will be a smaller multiple of future income. Moreover, life insurance industry research has shown that most survivors struggled to meet their financial commitments when the life insurance policy proceeds they received were equal to three times the policyholder’s annual income, or less. If you use a multiple-of-income shortcut, consider buying a life insurance policy with a face value equal to at least 10 times your annual income.
   
   
5. Should I purchase a term or permanent life policy?
   Term insurance is a form of life insurance that pays out only if the policyholder’s death occurs during the “term” of the policy, which is usually anywhere from one to 30 years. The premium rates for term policies are lower than for permanent life policies. Permanent policies, such as whole life, universal life, variable life and variable universal life, remain in force as long as the premium is paid, and some policies accumulate a cash value.
   
   
6. How can I save money on life insurance?
   Life insurance premium rates, especially for term life policies, are now at virtually their lowest levels in history. However, there are a number of things you can do to keep the cost even lower, whether you are purchasing a term or permanent life insurance policy. For example, buy policies with face-value amounts that reflect “quantity discounts.” It’s possible that a $500,000 life insurance policy will cost less than one valued at $450,000 because the larger policy might offer a discount for reaching the $500,000 milestone. You can also save by paying premiums annually, rather than on a monthly, or quarterly, basis.
   
   But the most important question to ask about price is: how much will it cost your survivors if you do not pay the premium at all?

RELATED LINKS

Insurance Topics: Life Insurance

Video: Insurance IQ – Life Insurance

Video: Finding a Lost Life Insurance Policy

Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE)

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Do You Have Earthquake Insurance?

Contrary to popular belief, many homeowners do not have earthquake coverage. While, some may not believe it to be necessary, the recent earthquake which reached many locations in Kentucky is an eye-opener. What would you do if your home was destroyed due to an earthquake but had no issuance to cover it? Could you repair or rebuild?

Get the Facts on Earthquake Insurance

What you don't know can hurt you. For example, your basic homeowners policy doesn't cover damage, and if even if you do have the coverage on your policy the earthquake deductible is probably higher than you think.

Possibly the most important thing to know about earthquake insurance is this: A basic homeowners policy does not cover earthquakedamage. Even if you don't live in an area where earthquakes are common, it's possible you might need earthquake insurance.

Earthquakes have occurred in 39 states since 1900, and about 90% of Americans live in areas considered seismically active. Yet only a small percentage of people purchase earthquake insurance.

Even in California, where earthquake fears are a daily fact of life, only about 12 percent of homeowners have earthquake insurance, according to the California Earthquake Authority (CEA), down from 30 percent in 1996 when the state legislature created the CEA.

Each year, more homeowners get rid of earthquake coverage than buy it because, according to consumer groups, they believe the policies cost too much and cover too little.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there is a 70 percent probability that one or more damaging earthquakes of magnitude 6.7 or larger will strike the San Francisco Bay area during the next 30 years. (A magnitude 6.7 earthquake is equivalent to the 1994 Northridge, Calif., earthquake that killed 57 people and caused $20 billion worth of damage.)

Homeowner, condo and rental insurance policies do not cover damage caused by an earthquake, but coverage can be puchased as an endorsement or a separate policy. Earthquake insurance can be quite inexpensive depending on where you live. Contact your insurance agent or company to find out what the costs would be for your home.

Not surprisingly, Californians buy the most earthquake insurance, but earthquake insurance has been sold to residents of all 50 states.

The Earthquake Education Center at Charleston Southern University claims there's a 40 to 60 percent chance of a major earthquake somewhere in the eastern United States in the next 20 years. That has prompted the South Carolina Insurance News Service to recommend residents of that state consider purchasing earthquake policies.

The New Madrid Fault, which runs through Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee, also has insurers worried. According to the Insurance Information Institute, there's a 40 to 63 percent chance the region will suffer an earthquake with a 6.0 magnitude in the next 15 years. The availability of earthquake coverage has become an issue in some regions of those states. For those who don't remember, which would include anyone not alive in 1811, an earthquake struck the New Madrid area with enough force to change the course of the Mississippi river and ring church bells on the east coast.

"The potential magnitude of a catastrophic New Madrid quake dictates that we approach the preparedness on a regional basis," says W.R. Padgett, board chairman of the Central United States Earthquake Consortium. "No one state can possibly begin to address all the issues."

What does earthquake insurance cover?
Ideally, your earthquake insurance policy covers the cost to replace or repair your damaged property. There are several options to consider when picking a plan, including:

Does the policy cover only the dwelling? Are accessory structures, such as garages, also included?

Will your policy pay for the contents of your home and for additional living expenses if your home is badly damaged or destroyed?

Are there any exclusions or limitations to coverage?

What deductible must you pay before the insurance kicks in?

How much does earthquake insurance cost?
Earthquake insurance rates are determined differently by each insurance company and can vary widely depending on several rating factors.

Generally, older homes cost more to insure than new homes. Wood homes get better rates than brick ones because wood tends to withstand quake stresses better.

In addition, areas are graded on a scale of 1 to 5 for likelihood of quakes, and this might be reflected in earthquake insurance rates. Because earthquake insurance is a type of catastrophic coverage, most policies carry a high deductible — anywhere from 2 to 20 percent of your replacement coverage limit.

For residents of California, one option is to get insurance through the CEA. The CEA is a state-sponsored private-public partnership providing earthquake insurance to California homeowners, renters and condominium owners. Insurance companies that belong to CEA offer a standard earthquake insurance policy with a 15 percent deductible. There's also a 10 percent deductible policy available. The CEA Web site has a tool to calculate your estimated annual earthquake premium. Californians can also buy earthquake policies outside the CEA.

How much coverage should I buy?
If you ultimately decide to purchase earthquake insurance, remember you should buy enough to cover the costs of rebuilding your house and replacing broken possessions. The amount of insurance you buy should be based on replacement and reconstruction costs, not the market value of your property and possessions.

You should also find out your rights for filing claims before you sign any earthquake insurance policy. It's important to know how much time you have to file a claim following a quake. In some cases, damage from earthquakes is not immediately apparent.

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Before Taking a Dip In The Swimming Pool, Consider the Insurance and Safety Implications

A Few Precautions Can Help Prevent Accidental Injury or Drowning and Protect You Financially, Says the I.I.I.

With temperatures soaring throughout the country, many people will be taking advantage of the heat-beating enjoyment of a swimming pool. Whether you have a luxury in-ground pool or plan to blow up an inflatable kiddie pool, it is important to consider the insurance and safety implications, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I).

Swimming pools are more popular than ever before. An estimated 8.8 million swimming pools are in residential or public use in the United States today, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“Pools offer a great way to keep cool in this heat and humidity, but they can also be dangerous,” said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I. “A child can drown in a few inches of water in less than 30 seconds.”

Indeed, there are over 3,400 fatal accidental drownings in the U.S. annually, with children ages one to four having the highest drowning rates. Fatal drowning remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury related death for children ages one to 14 years old, according to the CDC. In addition, for every child who dies from drowning another four children will be treated for “nonfatal submersion injuries” which can cause brain damage that may result in long-term disabilities including memory problems, learning disabilities and permanent loss of basic functioning (e.g. permanent vegetative state).

The I.I.I. suggests taking the following steps if you own or are considering purchasing a swimming pool:

• Call your insurance agent or company representative
  Let your insurance company know that you have a pool or are getting a pool, since it will increase your liability risk. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance” and it may be advisable to purchase additional liability insurance. Most homeowners policies include a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability protection. Pool owners, however, may want to consider increasing the amount to at least $300,000 or $500,000. You can also talk to your insurance agent or company representative about purchasing an umbrella liability policy. For an additional premium of about $200 to $300 a year, you can get $1 million of liability protection over and above what you have on your home.
  
  “You can be sued if someone drowns or is injured in your pool even if they do not have your permission to be there,” Salvatore warned. “So it’s important to have the proper locks and safety equipment and to have appropriate liability insurance.”
  
  If the pool itself is expensive, you should also have enough insurance protection to replace it in the event it is destroyed by a storm or other disaster. And, don’t forget to include any chairs, tables or other furniture around the pool deck.
• Contact your town or municipality
  Each town will have its own definition of what constitutes a “pool”, often based on its size and the depth of the water. If the pool you are planning to buy meets the definition, then you must comply with local safety standards and building and electrical codes. This may include installing a fence of a certain size, locks, decks and pool safety equipment.

The I.I.I. also recommends taking the following safety precautions:

1. Install a four-sided barrier such as a fence with self-closing gates to completely surround the pool. If the house forms the fourth side of the barrier, install alarms on doors leading to the pool area to prevent children from wandering into the pool or spa unsupervised. In addition to the fences or other barriers required by many towns, consider creating several “layers of protection” around the pool, in other words setting up as many barriers (door alarms, locks and alarmed safety covers) as possible to the pool area.
2. Never leave small children unsupervised—even for a few seconds. And never leave toys or floats in the pool when it is not in use as they may prove to be a deadly temptation for toddlers trying to reach them who might then fall into the pool.
3. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing. In case of an emergency, know how to shut off these devices and clearly post this information so others can do so too.
4. Ask if pool users know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer. If you have children, have them take swimming lessons as early as possible. And, do not allow anyone to swim alone.
5. Check the pool area regularly for glass bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards. Also, keep CD players, radios and other electrical devices away from pools or nearby wet surfaces.
6. Limit alcohol use around the pool, as drinking alcoholic beverages negatively impacts balance, coordination and judgment—and its effects are further heightened by sun exposure and heat. The CDC reports that alcohol use is involved in up to half of adolescent and adult deaths associated with water recreation.
7. Clearly post emergency numbers on the phone, in the event of an accident. Keep a first aid kit, ring buoys and reaching poles near the pool. You may also want to consider learning basic water rescue skills, including first aid and CPR training. For additional information, contact the American Red Cross.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has launched Pool Safely, a pool safety campaign that can also be found on Twitter: @poolsafely.

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Driving in Bad Weather

Driving in bad weather is a major cause of accidents. When you are driving, particularly on a long trip, make sure to stay tuned to radio reports about weather conditions. If you hear that an ice storm, hurricane, tornado, flood, hail or other severe weather is expected on the route you are taking or at your intended destination, change your travel plans. Whatever reason you have for going where you are going cannot be as important as saving your life.

If you are already in an area that is being hit by bad weather, don’t try to drive your way out of it. Seek shelter for both you and your car and wait for the storm to pass.

For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Prepare For Disasters Before They Happen; Know The Claims Filing Process

Tornadoes, fires, hurricanes—these and other disasters can wreak havoc on people’s lives, properties and possessions. Learning the claims filing process before an insured loss strikes can make your economic recovery faster and easier, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

“The claims filing process can be overwhelming, particularly if you have sustained a large loss,” said Michael Barry, vice president, Media Relations, I.I.I. “To begin the rebuilding process as quickly as possible, you need to get your claim going and that means contacting your insurance agent or company representative right away,” he added. “Your insurance company may send you a proof of loss form to complete, or an adjuster may first visit your home. In either case, the more information you have about your damaged property and possessions, the faster your claim generally can be settled.”

When a disaster does happen, the I.I.I. offers the following claims filing tips:

1. Be prepared to give your agent or insurance company representative a description of the damage. Your agent will report the loss to your insurance company or to a qualified adjuster who will contact you about making an appointment to inspect the damage. If you have to evacuate, make sure to give your agent or insurer a telephone number where you can be reached.

2. Take photos of the damaged areas. These will assist the adjuster in the investigation and help with the claims process.

3. If you do not already have one, prepare a detailed inventory of all damaged or destroyed personal property. Be sure to make two copies, one for yourself and one for the adjuster. Your list should be as complete as possible, including a description of the items, dates of purchase or approximate age, cost at the time of purchase and estimated replacement cost, if you are able to provide that figure.

4. Collect canceled checks, invoices, receipts or other papers that will assist the adjuster in obtaining the value of the damaged or destroyed property.

5. Make whatever temporary repairs are needed to protect your home from further damage and from causing injury to you and others. Do not make extensive permanent repairs until after the claims adjuster has been to your home and assessed the damage.

6. Save receipts for any supplies or materials purchased, and make copies of bills for your records. Your insurance company will reimburse any reasonable expenses incurred in making temporary repairs. Secure a detailed estimate for permanent repairs to your home from a reliable contractor and give it to the adjuster. The estimate should contain the proposed repairs, costs and replacement prices.

7. The contractor’s bid should include details of the materials to be used and prices on a line-by-line basis.

8. Be sure to keep copies of the lists and other documents you submit to your insurance company. Also keep copies of whatever paperwork your insurance company gives you.


If you believe the settlement offer made by your insurance company is not a fair one, contact the insurer. Be prepared to provide information to back up your claim.

Your settlement probably will not be the same as your neighbor’s. Your insurance policy may be different and the amount of damage to your home may be different even though you live on the same street. Your insurance policy will pay for the property you had before the disaster. But your homeowners insurance policy will not pay for expensive improvements like a tile roof, for instance, if you had a standard fiberglass roof before the insured loss occurred.

Serious losses are given priority. All losses are adjusted and claims paid as quickly as possible but hardship cases are usually handled first. If your home is destroyed or seriously damaged, your agent will do everything possible to assure you are given priority.
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For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Personal Watercraft

Personal watercraft are not generally covered by homeowners or auto insurance, and where they are, the coverage limits can be fairly low. You may need to purchase a specifically designed policy in order to insure these vessels. The personal watercraft policy covers:


■ Bodily injury
■ Property damage
■ Guest passenger liability
■ Medical payments
■ Theft

Typical policies include deductibles of $250 for property damage, $500 for theft and $1,000 for medical payments, although these may vary from company to company.

Liability limits start at $15,000 and can be increased to $300,000. This coverage will provide financial protection if your personal watercraft is involved in an accident.

Most policies also include water sports liability, which covers risks associated with activities such as waterskiing.

Consider buying an umbrella policy which will provide more liability protection. One million dollars in extra coverage costs about $300 a year and would extend to your home and auto insurance policies.

If you have several personal watercraft, you may qualify for a multi-boat discount on your insurance. Additional coverage can also be purchased for trailers and other accessories.

Be sure to speak with your insurance agent or company representative about your specific needs.



Personal Watercraft Safety

Sea Doos, Wave Runners and other personal watercraft are fun and so easy to use that you can get a false sense of security; however, each year they cause thousands of serious injuries.

To safely enjoy your personal watercraft, the I.I.I. suggests the following:



■ Never follow directly behind another personal watercraft. Stay at least 100 yards behind the vessel in front, and no less than 50 yards to one side. Because these vessels can travel at a very high rate of speed, each rider must be able to react to sudden changes in order to avoid a collision. Eighty percent of all injuries and fatalities occur when two vessels collide with one another.

■ Don’t jump the wake of a passing boat. You could misjudge its speed and cause a collision. Or you might end up in the path of traffic coming from the other direction.

■ Stay alert! Be aware of what is going on around you. Steer clear of other watercraft, swimmers, divers, water skiers and fishermen.



For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Lawnmower Safety

Each year, approximately 75,000 people are injured seriously enough by lawnmowers to require emergency room medical treatment. Only a small percentage of the injuries are caused by mechanical failure; most are the result of human error.

Here are some tips to follow before and while mowing your lawn:

Become familiar with your mower. Read the owner’s manual before using the mower for the first time. Note all safety and operating instructions. Learn the controls well enough to act instantly in an emergency and to stop the machine quickly.

Proper clothing is essential to protect your body from harm.Always wear non-slip shoes instead of tennis shoes or sandals. Steel-toe safety footwear offers the most protection against the blade. Long pants help protect your legs from objects that may be thrown from under the mower. Use ear plugs to prevent hearing loss caused by exposure to the high noise levels.

Never leave a mower running unattended.A mower left running unattended can be fascinating to a child. If the mower has an electric start, the key should never be left in the ignition.

Always start the mower outdoors. Never operate a mower where carbon monoxide can collect, such as in a closed garage, storage shed or basement.

Police the area.Before you satrt mowing, be sure the lawn is free of tree limbs, rocks, wires and other debris, which can get caught up in the blades.

The main source of danger is the blade. To perform its task efficiently, the mower blade must be sharp and travel at a high speed. If a hand or foot gets under the mower while the engine is running, it can cause serious injury. Never attempt to unclog or work on a lawnmower while the engine is on.

Disconnect the sparkplug wire.Any time it is necessary to reach under the mower, disconnect the spark plug wire to insure that the engine cannot start. It takes a little extra time, but not as long as it does to recover from a serious injury.

Check for frayed or cut wiring.When using an electric lawnmower, wires can easily get cut by the blade. Keep an eye on the wiring as you move the mower and check for frayed or cut wiring every time you mow.


For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Grilling Safety

Americans enjoy more than three billion barbecues each year. But barbecuing can be dangerous, even deadly, if you are not careful.


The following tips can make your grilling experience safer:

1. When ready to barbecue, protect yourself by wearing a heavy apron and an oven mitt that fits high up over your forearm.

2. With gas grills, make sure the gas cylinder is always stored outside and away from your house. Make sure the valves are turned off when you are not using them. Check regularly for leaks in the connections using a soap and water mix that will show bubbles where gas escapes.

3. Barbecue grills should be kept on a level surface away from the house, garage, landscaping, and most of all, children.

4. For charcoal grills, only use starter fluids designed for those grills. Never use gasoline and use a limited amount of starter fluid. If the fire is too slow, rekindle with dry kindling and add more charcoal if necessary. Never add more liquid fuel or you could end up with a flash fire.

5. Be sure to soak the coals with water before you put them in the trash.

6. Always remember that grills remain hot long after you are through barbecuing.


In Case Of An Emergency
If you get burned, run cool water over the injury for 10–15 minutes. Never put butter or salve on burns because they will seal in the heat and cause further blistering. If you receive a serious burn the sooner you get medical attention the better.


For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

How Can I Save Money On Auto Insurance?

The price you pay for your auto insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, depending what type of car you have and the insurance company you buy your policy from. Here are some ways to save money.

1. SHOP AROUND
Prices vary from company to company, so it pays to shop around. Get at least three price quotes. You can call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state insurance department may also provide comparisons of prices charged by major insurers. (State insurance department phone numbers and Web sites can be found on the back cover.)

You buy insurance to protect you financially and provide peace of mind. It’s important to pick a company that is financially stable. Check the financial health of insurance companies with rating companies such as A.M. Best (www.ambest.com) and Standard & Poor’s (www.standardandpoors.com/ratings) and consult consumer magazines.

Get quotes from different types of insurance companies. Some sell through their own agents. These agencies have the same name as the insurance company. Some sell through independent agents who offer policies from several insurance companies. Others do not use agents. They sell directly to consumers over the phone or via the Internet.

Don’t shop by price alone. Ask friends and relatives for their recommendations. Contact your state insurance department to find out whether they provide information on consumer complaints by company. Pick an agent or company representative that takes the time to answer your questions. You can use the checklist on the back of this brochure to help you compare quotes from insurers.


2. BEFORE YOU BUY A CAR, COMPARE INSURANCE COSTS
Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the car’s price, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft. To help you decide what car to buy, you can get information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).


3. ASK FOR HIGHER DEDUCTIBLES
Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.


4. REDUCE COVERAGE ON OLDER CARS
Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars. Or you can look it up online at Kelley’s Blue Book (www.kbb.com). Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance needs haven’t changed.


5. BUY YOUR HOMEOWNERS AND AUTO COVERAGE FROM THE SAME INSURER
Many insurers will give you a break if you buy two or more types of insurance. You may also get a reduction if you have more than one vehicle insured with the same company. Some insurers reduce the rates for long-time customers. But it still makes sense to shop around! You may save money buying from different insurance companies, compared with a multipolicy discount.


6. MAINTAIN A GOOD CREDIT RECORD
Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Most insurers use credit information to price auto insurance policies. Research shows that people who effectively manage their credit have fewer claims. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don’t obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.


7. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LOW MILEAGE DISCOUNTS
Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles per year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work.


8. ASK ABOUT GROUP INSURANCE
Some companies offer reductions to drivers who get insurance through a group plan from their employers, through professional, business and alumni groups or from other associations. Ask your employer and inquire with groups or clubs you are a member of to see if this is possible.


9. SEEK OUT OTHER DISCOUNTS
Companies offer discounts to policyholders who have not had any accidents or moving violations for a number of years. You may also get a discount if you take a defensive driving course. If there is a young driver on the policy who is a good student, has taken a drivers education course or is away at college without a car, you may also qualify for a lower rate.

When you comparison shop, inquire about discounts for the following:*

Antitheft Devices
Auto and Homeowners Coverage with the Same Company
College Students away from Home
Defensive Driving Courses
Drivers Ed Courses
Good Credit Record
Higher deductibles
Low Annual Mileage
Long-Time Customer
More than 1 car
No Accidents in 3 Years
No Moving Violations in 3 Years
Student Drivers with Good Grades

*The discounts listed may not be available in all states or from all insurance companies.

The key to savings is not the discounts, but the final price. A company that offers few discounts may still have a lower overall price.



For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Whether Your Wedding Is Royal or Not, Insuring Your Special Day Can Provide Important Financial Protection

Your nuptials may not be as extravagant as the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, but weddings in the U.S. can be extraordinarily expensive, so it is important to consider wedding insurance to financially protect your special day, according to theInsurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

A survey conducted by the wedding planning website, TheKnot.com revealed that the average wedding in the U.S. costs about $27,800, while the prices of weddings in urban areas are reaching $40,000 or more.

“Wedding insurance is a form of special event insurance that provides reimbursement for non-refundable deposits in the event the wedding needs to be cancelled or postponed due to a natural disaster, death, illness, serious injury or other catastrophe listed in the policy,” said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I.

Policies also provide financial protection in the event the caterer goes bankrupt, or the florist or photographer do not show up.

Several insurers offer wedding insurance. Some provide a package policy that includes a selection of coverages, while others offer a la carte coverage where you can pick among several options.

“Planning a wedding is a fun but emotional experience and purchasing wedding insurance can offer some piece of mind as the bride, groom and their families write check after check,” noted Salvatore.” In fact, some insurers even offer coverage for ‘cold feet’, providing someone other than the bride or groom is paying for the ceremony (generally the parents) and the couple breaks up more than 180 days before the ceremony.

Following are some tips to consider when purchasing wedding insurance:

• Find out if the insurer is licensed to do business in the state where you live.
• Determine how much the policy will cost and what specifically is covered and not covered by the policy.
• Ask your agent or company representative what wedding related insurance coverage you may already have through your homeowners, renters, auto or liability policy.
• Shop around and compare different wedding insurance policies for cost and range of coverages.

If you have any questions about wedding insurance, contact your insurance agent or company representative. He or she can help you determine if the coverage is right for you.

Furthermore, getting married is a major life event that should trigger a review of all of your insurance policies, including homeowners, auto and life insurance. You are not only merging two lives, but two households.

With most couples receiving numerous wedding gifts, it is also be a smart time to creat or update a home inventory. To help with this task, the I.I.I. offers Know Your Stuff, free online home inventory software, along with avideo on the topic. And, don’t forget that most wedding and engagement rings will need special coverage in the form of a floater or endorsement.

RELATED LINKS

Article: Wedding and Special Event Insurance

Video: Wedding Insurance

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INSURANCE: WWW.III.ORG; PUBLICATIONS: III STORE ANDAMAZON.COM

FACEBOOK: INSURANCEINFORMATIONINSTITUTE; TWITTER: @IIIORG

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.

INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE, 110 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10038, (212) 346-5500

Owning a Home Without Homeowners Insurance

Unlike driving a car, you can legally own a home without homeowners insurance. But, if you have bought your home and financed the purchase with a mortgage, your lender will most likely require you to get homeowners insurance coverage. That’s because lenders need to protect their investment in your home in case your house burns down or is badly damaged by a storm, tornado or other disaster.

If you live in an area that is likely to flood, the bank will also require you to purchase flood insurance. Some financial institutions may also require earthquake coverage if you live in a region vulnerable to earthquakes. If you buy a co-op or condominium, your board will probably require you to buy homeowners insurance.

After your mortgage is paid off, no one will force you to buy homeowners insurance. But it is not advisable to cancel your policy and risk losing what you’ve invested in your home.

For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Remodeling Your Home

If you plan to remodel your home, make sure that the house, the contractor and the subcontractors have adequate insurance coverage.

Don’t make the mistake of waiting until an addition or extra room is completed to increase the insurance coverage on the structure of your home. If the new addition is destroyed or damaged before insurance coverage has been increased, you may be responsible for the cost of repairing or rebuilding the addition.

Contact your insurance agent or representative before—or shortly after—construction begins in order to increase the insurance coverage on your house to an amount that reflects the higher value of the rebuilt structure.

When hiring a general contractor, find out if the contractor has workers compensation and ask to see a copy of the policy. Workers compensation pays for medical and rehabilitation expenses and covers lost wages if the workers sustain injuries on the job. Injured workers may sue you if the contractor does not have proper insurance.

In most home improvement projects, the contractor subcontracts the builders, electricians and plumbers. The workers hired may not be full-time employees of the contractor and therefore not covered under the contractor's workers compensation policy. While some independent builders, electricians and plumbers may carry their own workers compensation coverage, others may not.

You should verify the insurance coverage of the contractor and the subcontractors. If the coverage is insufficient, you may need to fill in the gaps by extending the limits of the liability portion of your homeowners policy.

If you purchase additional items, such as furniture, exercise equipment or electronics, you may need to increase the amount of insurance you have on your personal possessions. Keep receipts and add them to your home inventory.



For More Information Visit: Insurance Information Institute

Don’t Risk Being Underinsured: Five Insurance Mistakes To Avoid

Too many Americans believe that the coverage limits of their homeowners insurance policy are linked to the market value of their home, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

In the I.I.I.’s 2011 Insurance Pulse Survey, conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation, nearly half (48 percent) of survey respondents came to that mistaken conclusion.

“The real estate value of a home, that is the price you can buy or sell it for, has absolutely nothing to with the amount of insurance needed to financially protect the homeowner in the event of a fire or other disaster,” said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I. “Reducing insurance coverage because the market value of a home has decreased can result in being dangerously underinsured.”

One out of three respondents to the Pulse Survey reported that they purchased less homeowners or auto insurance as a way to save money. A better strategy would be to take a higher deductible, which can substantially reduce insurance costs. Home and car owners can then put the savings into a purchasing the right amount and type of insurance for their specific needs, pointed out Salvatore.

Another way to save money is to comparison shop, something that seven out of 10 Pulse Survey respondents said they utilized as a strategy to save on both their home and auto insurance needs.

Following are the five biggest auto, home, flood and renters insurance mistakes consumers can make, with suggestions to avert those pitfalls while still saving money:

1. Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than for the cost of rebuilding. When real estate prices go down, some homeowners may think they can reduce the amount of insurance on their home. But insurance is designed to cover the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price of the home. You should make sure that you have enough coverage to completely rebuild your home and replace your belongings.

A better way to save: Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000 could save up to 25 percent on your premium payments.

2. Selecting an insurance company by price alone. It is important to choose a company with competitive prices, but also one that is financially sound and provides good customer service.

A better way to save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating agencies and ask friends and family for recommendations. You should select an insurance company that will respond to your needs and handle claims fairly and efficiently.

3. Dropping flood insurance. Damage from flooding is not covered under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Coverage is available from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as well as from some private insurance companies. Many homeowners are unaware they are at risk for flooding, but in fact 25 percent of all flood losses occur in low risk areas. Furthermore with the significant snow fall this winter, spring related flooding may be particularly severe, thus increasing the importance of purchasing flood insurance.

A better way to save: Before purchasing a home, check with the NFIP to determine whether the property is situated in a flood zone; if so, consider a less risky area. If you are already living in a designated flood zone, look at mitigation efforts that can reduce your risk of flood damage and consider purchasing flood insurance. Additional information on flood insurance can be found at www.FloodSmart.gov.

4. Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car. In today’s litigious society, buying only the minimum amount of liability means you are likely to pay more out-of-pocket if you are sued—and those costs may be steep.

A better way to save: Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars worth less than $1,000. The insurance industry and consumer groups generally recommend a minimum of $100,000 of bodily injury protection per person and $300,000 per accident.

5. Neglecting to buy renters insurance. A renters insurance policy covers your possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due to an insured disaster, such as a fire or hurricane. Equally important, it provides liability protection in the event someone is injured in your home and decides to sue.

A better way to save: Look into multi-policy discounts. Buying several policies with the same insurer, such as renters, auto and life will generally provide savings.

RELATED LINKS

Broadcast quality video: Five Insurance Mistakes.

Consumer information: Homeowners and Renters Insurance; Auto Insurance

Brochure: brochure, Twelve Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Costs

Podcast: how to save money on How to Save Money On Auto Insurance

Web Video: Renters Insurance

Facts and Statistics: Auto Insurance; Flood Insurance; Homeowners and Renters Insurance

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INSURANCE: WWW.III.ORG

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT III STORE AND AMAZON.COM

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.

INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE, 110 WILLIAM STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10038, (212) 346-5500

Did You Get an Engagement Ring or Other Expensive Piece of Jewelry for Valentine’s Day?

If you receive an engagement ring or other expensive piece of jewelry this Valentine’s Day, who are you going to call to tell about it? Your mother? Your best friend? Maybe you’ll post your good fortune on Facebook? While these may be your first impulses, if you want to protect your sparkling new gift, the most important call will be to your insurance agent or company representative to make sure you have the necessary insurance, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).

Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for personal items such as jewelry and other valuables. However, many policies limit the dollar amount for the theft of valuable personal possessions such as jewelry, furs and precious stones to $1,000 to $2,000.

“To properly insure jewelry, consider purchasing additional coverage through a floater or an endorsement,” said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I.

In most cases, this would also be covered you for ‘mysterious disappearance’. This means that if your ring falls off your finger or is lost, you would be financially protected. Floaters and endorsements carry no deductibles and frequently provide the option of having the insurance company replace the item for you.

Floaters and endorsements are available as additions to homeowners and renters insurance policies. Some companies also offer a stand-alone policy to cover jewelry without having to purchase a full homeowners or renters policy.

“While there is no way to insure the sentimental value of jewelry, at least having it properly insured will provide financial protection in the event it is lost or stolen,” noted Salvatore.

To make sure your jewelry is adequately protected, the I.I.I. suggests the following:

■Contact your insurance professional immediately
Let your agent or company representative know that you are now in possession of an expensive piece of jewelry. Find out how much coverage you have and if additional insurance is needed.

■Have the item appraised
Heirlooms and antique jewelry will need to be appraised for their dollar value. Ask your insurer for recommendations regarding a reputable appraiser. It is important that expensive items be appraised properly—if you purchase a floater or endorsement, you will pay a premium based on the appraised value and in the event of a claim, will be compensated for this dollar amount.

■Keep a copy of the store receipt
Forward a copy of the receipt to your insurer so that the company knows the current retail value of the item. Keep a copy for yourself and include it with your home inventory.

■Store valuables in a secure location
Protect your jewelry by storing it in a secure location in your home. If you do not plan to wear the item regularly or are holding it for a child, consider keeping it in a safe deposit box. You may save money on the cost of insuring it, as some companies offer ‘in vault’ coverage. If you want to wear the jewelry for a special occasion, many insurers will offer the option of purchasing additional coverage for the time it is out of the bank. You would, of course, have to notify your insurer ahead of time.

■Update the value of your jewelry
Expensive items can go up or go down in value. Talk to your insurance professional about how to make sure the dollar amount of your floater or endorsement reflects these changes. Prices for floaters and endorsements will vary depending on the type of jewelry, the insurance company you choose, where you live and where the item will be kept.

■Take a picture of the item
Get into the habit of keeping a visual record of all of your personal possessions. This helps to document your loss and speed up the claims process. It is also useful to document antique and unusual pieces of jewelry

■Add the item to your home inventory
Everyone should have an up-to-date inventory of their personal possessions. An inventory can help you purchase the correct amount of insurance and speed up the claims process when there is a loss. The I.I.I. has created free, online software, Know your Stuff® - Home Inventory, to make creating a home inventory easier. You can also add a digital photograph of your new gift and save scanned receipts. Computerizing your inventory makes updating easier and more efficient.


FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INSURANCE: www.iii.org
PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT iii store AND amazon.com

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.
Insurance Information Institute, 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038, (212) 346-5500

Freezing Pipes - Prevention

To help protect your pipes from freezing, consider the following:

• Insulate all accessible pipes using pipe insulation (this can be found at your local hardware store).
• Keep all exterior entry, exit and overhead doors to unheated spaces closed as much as possible during the winter months.
• Prior to the winter months, ensure that all cracks, holes, and other openings on the exterior walls are sealed tightly with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating the wall cavity.
• If any pipes are located adjacent to exterior walls or within base-cabinets or in closets, leave the cabinet/closet doors open or use a fan to increase warm air circulation around the pipes.
• If you have rest rooms, kitchens, or service rooms with water sources located on exterior walls, it is likely that the plumbing for these systems is located inside the exterior walls. Or, if you have piping coming up through the floor over an unheated room or unheated crawlspace under your building, it is likely there is plumbing exposed to freezing weather.
• In areas of severe cold weather, as specified on the map below, pay close attention to local weather reports for notice of extreme weather. When extreme cold weather is predicted, let all faucets drip to prevent freezing of the water inside the pipe and if freezing does occur, to relieve pressure buildup in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet. The pressure buildup is the actual cause of bursting pipes.

• Install a water leak detection system, available at your plumbing supply store, which will alert someone to respond in the event water is detected.
• Install a valve that allows you to shut off the water supply during periods when the building may be unoccupied, particularly when colder weather is expected. Be sure to drain your water supply system before leaving the building unoccupied.
• Connect your sprinkler system to a water flow alarm that will alert a responder. In the event of a pipe rupture or a damaged sprinkler head, the responder will shut off the water supply. This will help limit water damage potential.
• If your business is unoccupied for more than 24 hours at a time, you should have a plan in place to inspect the building once a day for freezing pipes during the winter months.
• To check pipes, turn on each water supply faucet individually (both hot and cold) to ensure that there is a steady stream of water present. If the flow of water is slowed, or worse, there is no flow, then it is likely that your pipe has frozen. Identify the blockage (probably the area of most exposure) and use a blow dryer (do NOT use an open flame torch!) to heat the supply line, leaving the faucet open. Continue heating the pipe until there is a steady flow of water.

For More Information Visit: DisasterSafety.org

Surviving Severe Cold Weather

Much of the country periodiaclly experiences severe and sustained cold weather, with snowfalls interspersed with periods of melting and freezing. This can inflict considerable damage on homes.

Here are some tips and steps you can take to make insurance losses less likely during extended severe weather.

• Keep sidewalks and entrances to your home free from snow and ice.
• Watch for ice dams near gutter downspouts. Keep gutters free of leaves and debris so melting snow and ice can flow freely. Ice dams can cause water to build up and seep into your house.
• Keep the house heated to a minimum of 65 degrees. The temperature inside the walls where the pipes are located is substantially colder than the walls themselves. A temperature lower than 65 degrees will not keep the inside walls from freezing.
• Identify the location for the main water shutoff in your home. Find out how it works in case you have to use it.
• Open hot and cold faucets enough to let them drip slowly. Keeping water moving within the pipes will prevent freezing.
• If you haven’t already, make sure all hoses are disconnected from outside spigots.
• If your garage is attached to your house, keep the garage doors closed. The door leading to the house is probably not as well-insulated as an exterior door.
• If ice forms on tree limbs, watch for dead, damaged or dangerous branches that could break and fall because of ice, snow or wind and damage your house, a car, or injure someone walking near your property.
• If you use fireplaces, wood stoves and electric heaters, watch them closely and make sure they are working properly.
• Remember to close the flue in your fireplace when you’re not using it.
• If you have to leave your home on a trip, ask a neighbor to check the house regularly. If there is a problem with frozen pipes or water leakage, attending to it quickly could mean far less damage.
• If you plan to be away for an extended period of time, have the water system drained by a professional to keep pipes from freezing or bursting.
  A Worst-Case Scenario
• If you discover that pipes are frozen, don’t wait for them to burst. Take measures to thaw them immediately, or call a plumber for assistance.
• If your pipes burst, first turn off the water and then mop up spills. You don’t want the water to do more damage than it already has.
• Call your agent or company as soon as you can. An insurance adjuster doesn’t need to see the spill before you take action. However, he or she will want to inspect any damaged items.
• Make temporary repairs and take other steps to protect your property from further damage. Remove any carpet or furniture that can be further damaged from seepage.
• Make a list of the damaged articles.
• Save the receipts for what you spend—including additional living expenses if you must leave your home until repairs are completed—and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
  

Standard homeowners policies will cover most of the kinds of damage that result from a freeze. For example, if house pipes freeze and burst or if ice forms in gutters and causes water to back up under roof shingles and seep into the house. You would also be covered if the weight of snow or ice damages your house.

However, most policies do not cover backups in sewers and drains or flood damage, which can also happen in winter. To be covered for flooding, you need a policy from the National Flood Insurance Program, while coverage for sewers and drains is generally offered as an endorsement to a standard homeowners insurance policy.

If your home suffers water damage, it is important to make sure that it is properly dried and repaired to prevent any potential problem with mold. Remember, mold can not survive without moisture.

Check with your agent or company so you’ll be sure what your policy covers.

For more information visit: Insurance Information Institute

Safe Driving and Good Car Maintenance Take Center Stage In Winter

Damage to cars from falling ice or tree branches is covered under the comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy, an optional coverage which about 75 percent of U.S. drivers purchase. Comprehensive covers damage to a policyholder’s car not involving a collision with another car, including damage from fire, theft, explosions, earthquakes, floods and riots.

In order to avoid potentially dangerous situations under challenging driving conditions, the I.I.I. offers the following tips:

SAFE WINTER DRIVING

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at your destination. Trips can take longer during the winter than at other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads.
• Drive slowly—accelerating, stopping and turning all take longer on snow-covered roads.
• Leave more distance than usual between your vehicle and the one just ahead of you, giving yourself at least 10 seconds to come to a complete stop. Cars and motorcycles usually need at least three seconds to halt completely when traveling on dry pavement.
• Be careful when driving over bridges, as well as roadways rarely exposed to sunlight—they can be icy when other areas are not.
• Avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
• Keep the windshield and windows clear. Drivers in cold-weather states should have a snow brush or scraper in their vehicle at all times. Your car’s defroster can be supplemented by wiping the windows with a clean cloth to improve visibility.
• Do not activate your cruise control when driving on a slippery surface.
• Do not warm up your vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Bring a cellphone so that those awaiting your arrival can get in touch with you if you are very late. But avoid the temptation to use the phone while driving, as it can be a dangerous distraction.
• Monitor the weather conditions at your destination before beginning your trip. If conditions look as though they are going to be too hazardous, just stay home.
• Drivers should neither apply extra gas nor stop their vehicle when traveling on an icy road and approaching a hill. The extra gas will prompt a car’s wheels to spin, and stopping completely will make it difficult for the vehicle to regain its momentum.

GOOD CAR MAINTENANCE

• Keep your tires properly inflated and remember that good tread on your tires is essential to safe winter driving.
• Check your exhaust pipe to make sure it is clear. A blocked pipe can cause a leakage of carbon monoxide gas into your car when the engine is running.
• Be sure to keep your gas tank full. Stormy weather or traffic delays may force you to change routes or turn back. A fuller gas tank also ensures that your car’s gas-line will not freeze.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT INSURANCE: www.iii.org

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT iii store AND amazon.com

THE I.I.I. IS A NONPROFIT, COMMUNICATIONS ORGANIZATION SUPPORTED BY THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY.

Insurance Information Institute, 110 William Street, New York, NY 10038, (212) 346-5500