Newsletters
According to a recent survey, 60% of Americans do not periodically review their policy--they wait until filing a claim.
What's covered by my homeowners policy? How much liability insurance do I need? What's the best way to take an inventory of my home?
Our newsletter articles are designed to provide helpful information on a wide range of timely topics. Simply click on one of the headlines below and the full article will appear. And keep checking month after month. You never know what story may address your individual situation.
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May
Six Factors That Drive the Price of Auto Insurance
Auto insurance costs have actually become more affordable for households in recent years. Premiums are customized for each policyholder using rating criteria that reflect the perceived level of risk. These factors may affect the cost of your auto insurance premiums.
Twister Tips
Tornadoes caused 550 deaths and more than $25 billion in property damage in 2011, the most devastating year since modern recordkeeping began. Although tornadoes can occur any time of the year, about 80% of the twisters in 2011 touched down in April, May, June, and July. These safety tips may help protect you and your family in the event of a tornado.
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March
Car Thefts Wane, But Crooks Still Find Ways to Steal
The number of reported auto thefts has fallen remarkably in the last five years; even so, more than 700,000 motor vehicles were stolen in 2010. Oftentimes criminals resort to stealing valuable parts or personal items from inside the car. Here are some facts to consider as you decide whether to help protect your auto and its components with a comprehensive auto policy.
“Dangerous” Dogs and Other Homeowners Exclusions
More than one-third of homeowners insurance liability claims relate to dog bites. Unfortunately, not all dog-related incidents are covered by standard homeowners policies. If you have a dog, your coverage and liability may vary widely depending on your specific policy and where you live. Moreover, there are other situations that might be excluded from homeowners coverage.
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February
Insuring Tokens of Affection and Other Precious Possessions
Do you have cherished jewelry or other items that would be expensive (or impossible) to replace? Adding an endorsement (or floater) to your homeowners, condominium, or renters policy may provide additional coverage for especially valuable articles.
Preparing for Potholes and Other Winter Driving Dangers
Winter poses a host of driving dangers, but roads could be just as dangerous in the early spring, when melting snow and ice may cause pesky potholes. These safety tips and guidelines for appropriate insurance coverage might help you make this a safer and more secure driving season.
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January
Wake Up to the Dangers of Driving While Drowsy
The consequences of falling asleep at the wheel can be serious. At least one in six fatal crashes involves a sleepy driver. Here are a few tips to help you stay alert while driving, and how to recognize when you may be too tired to stay on the road.
Exercise Care with Home-Heating Equipment
Alternative heating sources such as fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters can be effective and cost-efficient, but they can also be dangerous. In 2009, heating equipment caused nearly 60,000 home fires, resulting in 480 deaths and $1.1 billion in property damage. Here are some overall safety tips and guidelines for specific types of equipment.
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December
Don't Let Alcohol Spoil Your Holiday Festivities
The holidays are a time of socializing with friends and family, and drinking alcohol is often part of the festivities. By taking some important steps, hosts may be able to help their guests have a safer drive home.
Getting Acquainted with Your Insurance Deductible
Understanding the different types of deductibles, and when they may apply, could help reduce your homeowners or auto insurance premiums and enable you to have the level of protection you may need from your policies.
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November
Market May Be Flooded with Water-Damaged Cars
In the aftermath of widespread flooding, thousands of water-damaged vehicles could find their way to the used-car market. Here's how to spot and potentially avoid purchasing a waterlogged car that could have a number of hidden problems.
The House That Came in from the Cold
During the last 20 years, winter storms have caused an average of $1.3 billion annually in property damage. By following these simple steps, homeowners may be able to protect their property against the destructive forces of cold, snow, ice, wind, and fire.
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October
Tips to Help Avoid Dangerous Home Fires
Home structure fires affect thousands of U.S. homeowners every year, despite the fact that they are often preventable. Fire Prevention Week (October 9-15) serves as an important reminder to identify and address potential fire risks that may be present in your home and to discuss fire safety with your family.
Deer-Vehicle Collisions Can Cost Big Bucks
It has become more common for deer and other wildlife to wander into areas occupied by people and their automobiles. Despite the growing risk, there are a few ways to help reduce your chances of being involved in a crash caused by wildlife and to help protect you financially if an unavoidable accident occurs.
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September
Motorcycle Insurance: Covering Your Two-Wheeler and Yourself
Motorcycles have worked their way into the mainstream, and mild weather typically makes the fall a fun time to ride. Here's a look at some safety and insurance issues associated with motorcycle riding, and how to help protect yourself both physically and financially.
Housing Challenges Raise Insurance Issues
Changes in the housing landscape mean that more Americans are renting the homes they currently live in, some homeowners are becoming landlords whether they planned on it or not, and many houses are being left unoccupied and vulnerable.
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August
Good Driving Habits Help Save Lives and Money
It's fairly easy to see how conscientious driving can help preserve lives, but busy schedules may lead drivers to develop unsafe habits and abandon good practices. Fortunately, there are some relatively simple ways that drivers can improve the odds of safe car travel — and possibly save some money along the way.
Bicycle Basics: How to Help Protect Your Ride
Bicycling has become more popular as a means of transportation and a sport in recent years. Here are some helpful suggestions for insuring and protecting your bike, as well as some essential safety tips.
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July
Policies to Cover Recreational Pursuits
Summer has arrived and it's finally time to take to the road — and/or the waterways — for some excitement and leisure. If you currently own or hope to buy a motorhome or watercraft, here's what you need to know about insuring your investment.
Own a Pool? Tips for Safer Splashing
Drowning is a leading cause of death for children under the age of five. If you have a pool or spa on your property, it's important to understand the potential for danger as well as the level of liability risk.
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June
What the Experts Expect This Hurricane Season
In the wake of a historically active 2010 season, above-average tropical storm activity has again been forecasted for the wide Atlantic basin in 2011.
Older Boomers May Have Special Insurance Needs
The first baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) are turning 65 this year, but the youngest are as young as 47. It follows that the lifestyle decisions and financial matters of individuals at the forefront of the boomer generation are likely to differ substantially from those who still have many years left in the workplace.
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