The sharing economy is a term that describes the peer-to-peer economic model in which individuals can rent or borrow assets (goods and services) owned by someone else. Other names include the gig economy and access economy. While the practice is not new, due to the rise of Internet commerce, it has rapidly expanded in the last decade and is estimated to grow to a $335 billion business by 2025. Such rapid growth is understandable considering anyone with reliable Internet access can partake. Companies such as Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb are leading the way with global operations and millions of users worldwide. While such easiness makes these platforms accessible, they also present pitfalls and dangers that are not present in other forms of commerce. Whether you are thinking about joining the sharing economy or are already partaking, realize that there are dangers.
Author Archives: dumontag
The Importance of Equipment Breakdown Coverage
One insurance coverage that is extremely important to property owners – and is sometimes overlooked – is Equipment Breakdown Coverage. Equipment Breakdown insurance has been available for commercial property owners for quite a while, but it is now commonly available as an endorsement to homeowner and rental dwelling policies.
This valuable line of protection typically covers three types of losses:
Smart Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers
Adding a young driver to an auto insurance policy can cause sticker shock for a parent. According to InsuranceQuotes.com, a rate comparison site, adding a single teenager to a policy caused annual premiums to increase an average of 78%, or $671. The good news is that teen driver rates have been decreasing since 2013 when the average increase was 85%! [Read More]
RLI Personal Umbrella Policy
Did you know that owning a dog, driving a car or inviting guests in your home could make your the target of a lawsuit, even if you are not directly responsible for the cause. Unfortunately, we live in a society where lawsuits are becoming commonplace. Most of us are unprepared for the financial consequences. Watch this video on how to add an extra layer of liability protection that goes above the coverage limits already provided by your homeowners and auto policies to protect you and your personal assets.
Journaling Toward Your Goals
If you have a long term goal that seems almost impossible to accomplish, why not try this journaling method?
A few weeks ago, our company hosted a Power Hour luncheon that really struck a chord with me. Jeff Jenkins of Blueprint Consulting Group spoke about his personal journey and shared his “journaling” approach to accomplishing goals. I left the Power Hour feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to start tackling my goals.
The Benefits of Working with an Independent Agent
Having worked in the insurance industry for ten years, I have received many calls, e-mails, and texts from friends and family regarding their insurance needs. I am more than happy to assist where I can, but my conversations with them seem to always end with one question, “Do you have an independent agent?” Like many not in the insurance industry, insurance can be an unknown. It’s something that you know you need to have, but don’t fully understand how it works. It’s an intangible product that you pay for every year and hope to never use. Here are three reasons I believe working with an independent agent is the best option for purchasing insurance. {Read More…}
A Quick Bite: Dog Bite Statistics
Dog ownership is very common in the United States, and a dog is more of a family member than a pet. Dogs also pose a great liability for homeowners and an increasing amount of claims are being seen related to injuries from dog bites.
Every year, about 9,500 U.S. citizens are hospitalized due to dog bite injuries. Each day about 1,000 U.S. citizens require some form of emergency care related to dog bites (dogsbite.org). Below are some statistics related to dog bites in the United States. {Read More…}
It’s a Bird. It’s a Plane. No it’s a Drone.
Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles (UAVs) or Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), commonly known and referred to as drones, are aircraft which can be operated without an onboard pilot. Originally developed for military use in situations deemed too dangerous for manned aircraft, their use has since expanded to scientific, recreational, agricultural, commercial, and insurance industries. In the insurance industry, they are highly versatile. They can perform such tasks as property surveillance, 3-D mapping, and roof inspections. As the number of drones increase and their capabilities expand, it is inevitable that they will soon become common sights in the sky. As with any new technology, drones have their own unique risks and hazards. If you have purchased a drone, or are looking to purchase one for your personal or commercial use, the following tips, guidelines, and general information will help you comply with existing regulations, safely operate, and properly insure your drone. {Read More…}
Home-Based Businesses: Are You Properly Insured?
As a general rule of thumb, if you’re engaged in a business where you earn more than $2,000 per year, you should consider obtaining a commercial general liability policy or a business owners policy (which will provide property coverage for your business property in addition to covering your business liability exposures) but the actual nature of your business may dictate otherwise so be sure to discuss with your local independent insurance agent. {Read More…}
E-asy Button – Go Paperless
Has a service provider or company asked you to go paperless or to sign up for e-billing?
If you haven’t been asked this, I would be genuinely surprised. In today’s world, paper statements are becoming a thing of the past. Have you ever thought about why companies are pushing the idea of paperless billing? Here are a few great reasons
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