Are You Covered When You Borrow Someone’s Car?

Borrowing or driving a friend’s car is common, yet we often overlook coverage considerations. It’s important to be aware of exclusions and conditions in auto policies, particularly regarding “regular use” and “business use” coverage issues.

Establish Online Precautions and Rules for Kids

The Internet offers immense opportunities for communication and learning, yet it’s vital for children to prioritize safety and precautionary measures. Children and teenagers often underestimate online risks, like the potential for libel or cyberbullying, exemplified by an ongoing lawsuit against thousands of Twitter users for spreading defamatory claims.

Bump Up that Deductible!

Insurance consumers often seek ways to cut costs on personal lines insurance, but not all approaches are prudent. Requests for reductions in dwelling or liability limits on homeowners or auto insurance policies may seem tempting, but they often carry significant risks, particularly in liability situations such as auto accidents or injuries on your property, where substantial losses could occur if a judgment goes against you.

Exercise Care on Freeways

Automobile accidents are a leading cause of death in the United States, especially among children and young adults, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many of these fatalities occur on freeways and highways, due to the high speeds involved.

MA Workers Comp Payroll Basis for Sole Proprieters & Partners, effective October 1, 2015

The Workers Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau of Massachusetts (WCRIBMA) has introduced new payroll determinations for sole proprietors, partners, and LLC members, impacting premium calculations. Based on the Statewide Average Weekly Wage (SAWW), premiums are now determined by a formulaic approach, affecting new and renewal workers’ compensation business from October 1, 2015.

Avoid Those Cell Phones While Driving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 700,000 drivers in the United States use cell phones or manipulate electronic devices while driving during daylight hours. In 2012, there was a 9 percent increase from the previous year, resulting in an estimated 421,000 injuries in auto accidents involving distracted drivers.

Reduce Your Exposure to Intersection Auto Accidents

Automobile crashes causing injuries and property damage are most prevalent in urban areas, with one study finding that 81 percent of crashes happen in cities. Additionally, approximately 43 percent of auto accidents are linked to intersections, as highlighted by another study.