Buyer Beware of Online Insurance Shopping

There is no disputing that the internet has changed our lives in the past 15-20 years. It has altered how we live, shop, and interact with each other. Companies such as Facebook, Amazon, Google, and Apple have become household names. But technology has also brought the expectation that everything should be quick and easy. To meet this demand, some technology companies have tried their hand in the insurance space which can be problematic for the consumer.

While being able to access a quote online is a convenient and viable option for the consumer, there is a very dangerous reality that the consumer may end up with serious deficiencies in coverages if they only view the price when quoting online. The fact is not all quotes or policies are alike; some quotes offer higher limits, more “enhanced” coverages, coverage exclusions, and different deductibles. Unfortunately, most consumers do not realize these differences or deficiencies until a loss occurs.

Seeking a trusted independent insurance agent is the best option to avoid coverage gaps or deficiencies. Independent insurance agents are licensed professionals who can find the right coverage for the individual needs of a client, and at a fair price. Independent agents represent several different insurance companies so they can present the best options for the client. Insurance is an essential product in our everyday lives that can provide the invaluable piece of mind knowing your assets are protected. But buying insurance online to seek the best price, may leave you exposed to uncovered loss exposures you were not aware of. As the old saying goes, “the devil is in the details.” It may be prudent, but it’s important to take your time when quoting online so coverages can be compared and reviewed more closely. Your assets are more valuable than a few quick minutes of your time.

Copyright © 2019 Central Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: How to Prevent the Silent Killer

According to the National Safety Council, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year.  Carbon monoxide is called the silent killer because it’s odorless, colorless, tasteless, and can easily go undetected. When the cold temperatures start to hit, what’s the first thing we do? We turn on our furnaces to heat our home and tightly seal our windows. If your furnace is emitting poisonous gases, you are trapping them in your house. Here are a few things you do to help prevent this silent and deadly killer.

First, it’s important to have your furnace inspected and serviced annually. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests we install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors near every area in the home used for sleeping and be checked regularly to be sure they are working correctly [2].

The CDC shares additional ways to prevent carbon monoxide exposure [Read More]

Don’t Let Cyber Criminals Outsmart Your Smart Technology

cyber securityFor a number of years, businesses have had the option to purchase cyber liability insurance. This type of coverage protects them against threats like malware attacks, cyber extortion, online fraud, and data breaches. In fact, this coverage continues to be one of the most discussed areas of commercial insurance, as business owners realize no matter the size of their business – or the type of business they operate – all business are vulnerable to cyber attacks.

But what about individuals and families? [READ MORE]

Do Not Disturb: The Dangers of Distracted Driving

distracted drivingNine. A relatively small number until you put it into context. Every day, nine lives are lost due to distracted driving.  Driving is something that many of us do each day without putting in much thought or energy, almost like being on autopilot. Instead of using driving as a time to unwind, focusing on the road and getting to our destination safely, we are now consumed by distractions. Fortunately, you have the power to turn those distractions off…but will you?

According to TeenSafe, “there are 3,287 deaths each day due to fatal car crashes. On average, nine of these daily fatalities are related to distracted driving.” [1] That’s nine lives that could have been saved from distractions that are completely and unarguably avoidable. Every time you get behind the wheel you are taking a risk but it’s a risk over which you have some control. [READ MORE]

It’s Fall – Oh Deer!

The temperatures have gotten cooler, and the trees are vibrant with color! It is a beautiful time of year.

Fall also means animal-related car accidents are likely to rise. Between October and December, the annual deer breeding season (known as the rut) occurs. Deer can be very active and unpredictable during this time, and many find their way to our roadways.

Five recommended safety tips!

[Read More]

Dress for Safety this Halloween

As the temperatures lower and we start to enter into the fall season, one of my favorite holidays is approaching: Halloween. I remember as a kid the excitement that would build each week as it approached. Being able to dress-up and pretend to be something you idealize is an American tradition unlike any other. For one night a year, you are encouraged to get outside of your home, knock on your neighbor’s door, and ask for a Trick-or-Treat.

Halloween can be fun for the young and old alike, but with this unique holiday also comes unique risks. As we know, Halloween brings out a lot of children with hopes of scoring as much candy as possible in one fateful night. It is essential to be aware, both as a pedestrian and as a driver.

If you are planning to trick-or-treat, there are three things that can be done to increase safety and give everyone a better experience.

[Read More]

A Quick Bite: Dog Bite Statistics

dog bite claimDog 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.

droneUnmanned 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…}

The Great Escape: Emergency Escape Plans

home fire escape planAccording to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), roughly seven people died each day in U.S. home fires in 2013. Having a fire escape plan is quintessential and the implementation of such a plan is critical to ensuring a safe evacuation in event of a fire emergency. Here are some helpful tips to follow for preparing your home and creating and implementing a plan.
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