Archives: 2016

What is Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI)?

Employment Practices Liability Insurance, commonly called EPLI, is a crucial business insurance that safeguards companies against employee claims alleging rights violations. In today’s complex employment landscape, even small businesses face exposure to potential lawsuits related to hiring, firing, workplace conduct, and management decisions. Having EPLI coverage can provide 

EPLI 101: A Shield Against Workplace Lawsuits

EPLI policies typically cover legal defense costs and settlements associated with a range of employee claims, including:

• Discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, or other protected categories
• Wrongful termination
• Sexual harassment or other forms of workplace harassment
• Retaliation for whistleblowing or reporting misconduct

These claims can arise from current, former, or job applicants. With legal fees and settlements often reaching tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, the cost of defending your business without EPLI coverage can be devastating.

Who Needs EPL?

Many business owners mistakenly believe EPLI is only necessary for large corporations. In reality, any business with employees can be at risk. Smaller businesses may be more vulnerable as they may not have in-house legal or HR departments focusing on labor laws. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), nearly 55% of employment-related claims are filed against companies with fewer than 100 employees.

Whether you employ five people or fifty, EPLI can shield your business from the financial fallout of an employment-related claim. The more employees you have, the greater your risk, but even a single disgruntled worker can file a lawsuit that disrupts operations and drains resources.

What EPLI Doesn’t Cover: Know the Boundaries

Like all insurance policies, EPLI has limitations. Common exclusions include:

• Wage and hour disputes, such as unpaid overtime or misclassification of employees
• Criminal acts or intentional wrongdoing by the employer
• Workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance claims
• Violations of labor regulations not specifically covered under the policy

Understanding these exclusions is crucial. Some risks may be managed through other insurance policies or better internal practices.

Real Claims and How EPLI Responds

Consider the case of a small restaurant sued by a former server who claimed she was fired for complaining about inappropriate comments from a manager. The EPLI policy covered the legal defense costs and a negotiated settlement, saving the business over $80,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.

In another instance, a tech startup was sued by a rejected job applicant who alleged age discrimination. Without EPLI, the company paid over $30,000 in legal fees before the case was dismissed. EPLI coverage would have helped absorb those costs.

HR Best Practices That Support EPLI

EPLI works best in tandem with strong human resources practices. Implement clear anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies. Train all employees, especially supervisors, on appropriate workplace behavior. Keep detailed documentation of employment decisions, disciplinary actions, and employee complaints. These steps not only help reduce the risk of claims but may also lead to more favorable EPLI policy terms and premiums.

Cover Your Business From the Inside Out

Workplace claims can happen to any business, regardless of size or industry. At Deibler Insurance Associates our advisors have helped businesses in Pennsylvania assess employment-related risks and guide them toward the most suitable Employment Practices Liability Insurance. Let’s work together to protect your business from the inside out. Call us at (717) 241-2775 to get started. 

Home Sweet Home: Insuring Your Property and Belongings

Your home is more than just a place to live. It’s your most valuable asset and the center of your everyday life. Homeowners insurance is designed to protect your investment, your belongings, and your financial stability. Many homeowners aren’t sure what their policy covers or where the gaps could exist. Understanding your coverage options is the first step to ensuring your home and everything inside it is truly protected.

The Home Base: Understanding Your Homeowners Policy

A standard homeowners insurance policy typically includes four main types of coverage: dwelling, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses.

Dwelling coverage protects the physical structure of your home, including the roof, walls, flooring, and built-in appliances. Coverage usually extends to attached structures, such as a garage. Many policies also include detached structures, such as sheds or fences.

Additional living expenses coverage, sometimes referred to as “loss of use,” pays for temporary housing, meals, and other incidental costs if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or severe storm. This ensures you aren’t paying out of pocket during an already stressful situation.

What Personal Property Coverage Really Means

Personal property coverage refers to your belongings inside the home. This includes furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances, and more. However, how you’re reimbursed depends on whether your policy uses actual cash value or replacement cost.

Actual cash value takes depreciation into account, so your 5-year-old couch will be worth less than what you originally paid. Replacement cost coverage, on the other hand, reimburses you for the current cost of buying a new, similar item. Although replacement cost policies tend to be slightly more expensive, they offer stronger protection when you need to replace damaged or stolen items.

Be aware that valuable items such as jewelry, fine art, or collectibles may have sub-limits. In those cases, you may need to purchase additional scheduled personal property coverage.

Natural Disaster Coverage Explained

Homeowners insurance typically covers damage from fire, hail, wind, lightning, and certain types of water damage, including some burst pipes. However, many natural disasters are not covered by a standard policy. Floods and earthquakes are typically excluded, and you would need to purchase separate flood or earthquake insurance.

If you live in an area prone to specific weather-related risks, it’s essential to talk to your agent about supplemental policies that fill those gaps in coverage.

When Accidents Happen on Your Property

Personal liability coverage is another essential part of homeowners insurance. It protects you financially if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements. If you have pets, kids, or a pool, increasing your liability coverage or adding a personal umbrella policy may be a smart move.

Why a Home Inventory Is Key

In the event of a major claim, a home inventory can help ensure you are reimbursed accurately and quickly. You can create one by walking through your home and taking videos or photos of each room. Record the value, brand, and purchase date of each major item. Keep this inventory in a secure cloud storage or external drive that can be accessed when needed.

Protect Your Castle Without the Headache

Whether you’re buying your first home or reviewing your current coverage, at Deibler Insurance Associates in Pennsylvania we can help ensure your homeowners insurance meets your needs. Our team is here to guide you through the process, explain your options, and help you find the right policy for your home and your budget. Call us at (717) 241-2775 for a custom quote.

Exclusions in Business Insurance Policies: What’s Not Covered?

When purchasing business insurance, many policyholders focus on what is covered. But just as important is understanding what is not. These uncovered situations, known as exclusions, can leave your business vulnerable if you’re not careful. Knowing how exclusions work can help you choose smarter coverage and avoid costly surprises.

What “Exclusion” Actually Means

An exclusion is any situation, condition, or type of damage your insurance policy states are not covered. These clauses are in the fine print of your policy. They are essential for understanding your actual level of insurance protection. Exclusions exist to limit the insurer’s risk, clarify the scope of coverage, and often reduce premium costs. Failing to account for exclusions can result in denied claims when you need help most.

Common Exclusions

Most business insurance policies include several standard exclusions. These can include:

• Wear and tear: Damage from normal use over time is usually not covered.
• Intentional acts: Deliberate damage or criminal activity by the business owner or employees is typically excluded from coverage.
• Cyber incidents: Many standard policies do not include coverage for data breaches, ransomware, or other cyber events unless cyber liability insurance is purchased separately.
• Contract disputes: Breaches of contract are generally excluded unless specifically addressed with endorsements.

These exclusions can affect general liability, commercial property, and even professional liability policies. Always read the exclusions section to understand the limitations of your coverage.

Industry-Specific Exclusions to Watch For

Some exclusions vary based on your industry. For example:

• Construction: Exclusions may apply to work performed by subcontractors or damage resulting from poor craft.
• Healthcare: Claims related to malpractice or HIPAA violations often require specialized medical liability coverage.
• Retail: Shoplifting losses or customer data breaches may be excluded unless specifically covered in the policy.
• Technology: General business policies may not cover errors and omissions in software development or system implementation.

Every industry has unique risks, and your policy must be tailored to address them.

Riders and Endorsements Explained

Fortunately, many exclusions can be addressed through riders or endorsements. These are policy add-ons that provide additional protection for risks not included in a standard policy. For instance:

• A cyber liability endorsement can help cover expenses related to data breaches.
• A contractual liability rider can extend coverage to specific agreements.
• A pollution endorsement may cover environmental damage, which is often excluded from standard policies.

Ask your insurance provider about available riders that may help close critical gaps in your coverage.

The Fine Print Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Broker

When reviewing your business insurance, consider asking:

• What exclusions apply to each policy I hold?
• Are there any risks in my industry that are not covered by this policy?
• What riders or endorsements can I add?
• Are there bundled options that better suit my business?
• Can you provide examples of claims that would be denied under this policy?

These questions can help you uncover coverage limitations and make informed decisions.

Build Smarter Coverage for Your Business

Don’t let hidden exclusions derail your protection. Our agency can help you identify potential gaps and build a policy that fits your business needs. Contact us at Deibler Insurance Associates to schedule a review of your current business insurance and ensure you’re protected where it counts most.

Managing Premiums: Tips for Getting Lower Personal Insurance Rates

Insurance is vital to protecting the value of your home, car, and other personal assets. That doesn’t mean that the premiums should break the bank! Whether you’re trying to lower your monthly expenses or want to ensure good value, understanding what drives the cost of your premiums is the first step. Let’s take a closer look at how personal insurance rates are calculated and what you can do to keep costs in check.

What Goes Into Your Insurance Costs

Several key factors influence the cost of your personal insurance. While the exact formula varies by provider and policy type, insurers evaluate the following factors:

• Age: Younger and older drivers often face higher auto insurance rates due to increased risk profiles. Homeowners of varying ages may also see rate variations.
• Location: Living in a neighborhood with higher crime rates or prone to weather-related incidents can increase premiums.
• Credit score: In many states, insurance companies use a credit-based insurance score in risk assessment. A lower score means higher premiums in many cases.
• Claims history: If you’ve filed multiple claims in recent years, insurers may view you as being a higher-risk client.
• Coverage limits: Choosing higher coverage amounts or additional insurance protection, such as personal liability insurance, increases premiums but provides higher levels of protection.

Being aware of these factors allows you to make informed decisions when purchasing insurance.

Combining Policies to Save More

Bundling policies is one of the easiest ways to reduce overall insurance costs. Many insurers offer multi-policy discounts when you combine auto, home, renters, or other personal insurance coverage. Aside from convenience, bundling can save you up to 25% in many cases. It is advised that you find out about options to include additional types of coverage, such as umbrella insurance or recreational vehicle insurance, to access more potential savings.

Deductibles and Your Bottom Line

Your deductible is what you will pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Choosing a higher deductible can result in a lower monthly premium. For example, increasing your auto insurance deductible from $500 to $1,000 could result in a 10% to 20% reduction in your premium. Ensure you are financially prepared to cover that higher amount if you need to file a claim.

How Your Score Impacts Your Rate

It may come as a surprise, but your credit score can play a significant role in determining your insurance rates. Insurers often use credit-based scores to evaluate risk. A higher score typically means lower premiums. If you want to improve your credit and potentially lower your insurance rates, consider these tips: pay bills on time, keep balances low on credit cards, and review your credit report regularly for errors.

Discounts You Might Be Missing

Many overlook discounts that could lead to real savings on their personal insurance. Here are a few to consider:

• Good driver discounts or savings for completing a defensive driving course
• Smart home features such as smoke detectors or water leak sensors
• Anti-theft devices installed in your vehicle
• Low annual mileage or participation in usage-based programs
• Loyalty or multi-year customer discounts

Your insurance agent can help you identify which discounts are currently available from reputable insurance providers that could help reduce the cost of your insurance policies.

Let’s Lower That Rate Together

If you’re looking for ways to trim your premiums without sacrificing coverage, our agency can help. At Deibler Insurance Associates, we’ll walk you through options tailored to your lifestyle and budget—from bundling to policy reviews to unlocking every available discount. Let’s work together to find personal insurance coverage that protects what matters most at a price that makes sense. Give us a call at (717) 241-2775.

Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Home Business?

Running a business from the comfort of your home is incredibly convenient, but it also raises questions about insurance coverage. While homeowners’ insurance can offer some protection, it may not fully cover home-based business activities. Understanding the limitations of your policy and exploring additional coverage options to help protect your business from unexpected losses.

What Are the Limitations of Homeowners Insurance?

A homeowners’ insurance policy is primarily designed to protect your home and personal belongings, not any business assets. While it may provide limited coverage for business property, the amount may be significantly capped. In addition, most homeowners’ policies do not include liability protection for business-related accidents. 

If a client or delivery person is injured on your property when you are conducting some facet of your business, it is likely that your homeowners’ insurance will refuse to cover the claim. This gap in coverage can leave you vulnerable to lawsuits and the risk of severe financial losses you will be forced to pay out of pocket. 

When Is Additional Coverage Necessary?

If your home business stores inventory, sees clients regularly, or uses costly equipment, you may need additional insurance coverage. The following are some options to consider:

Home Business Endorsement

This add-on to a homeowner’s policy extends coverage for business-related property and liability. While it offers more protection than standard homeowners insurance, it still has limitations, particularly for larger operations.

In-Home Business Policy

Designed for more comprehensive protection, an in-home business policy covers business property, provides liability coverage, and protects against loss of income and data breaches. This type of policy may be ideal for a smaller home-based business with low risk, small-scale operations, and little inventory or foot traffic. It provides more comprehensive coverage than a homeowners policy endorsement.

Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)

A BOP bundles commercial property insurance, general liability insurance, and business interruption coverage into one cost-effective package. It is more comprehensive than an in-home business policy. This may be the right option for a small to medium-sized home-based business with higher risks, more equipment, or more client interaction. For larger operations or a highly specialized business, you may need commercial business insurance that includes custom options, such as professional liability, cyber liability, or workers’ compensation. 

Is Liability a Major Concern?

Liability is one of the biggest risks for home-based business owners. If a person is injured while visiting your home for business purposes, your homeowners’ policy is unlikely to cover the medical costs or your legal fees. This risk is higher for businesses that host clients, such as consultants, tax preparers, and daycare service providers.

As a liability claim could lead to thousands of dollars in damages in addition to legal fees, it is important to secure adequate coverage. An endorsement on your homeowners policy or business liability insurance can help fill the gap to ensure you are protected from the financial fallout of an accident. 

Protecting Your Business Investments

Beyond liability, consider what you have invested in business equipment. Computers, cameras, and specialized equipment are high-value items that are not likely to be covered under a standard homeowners policy. Take inventory of your business assets and meet with our experienced agents at Deibler Insurance Associates. We can help you determine if your business should have higher levels of insurance protection. Give us a call today at (717) 241-2775.

Summer Grilling Safety Tips

There is nothing like the scent of burgers sizzling on the grill or the flavors of perfectly charred vegetables during the warm summer months. While grilling is a seasonal tradition, it is important to prioritize safety to keep cookouts accident-free. These essential summer grilling safety tips can help you ensure your outdoor cooking is both enjoyable and safe.

Choose the Right Location

The first step to safe grilling is to set up your grill in the right spot. Always place it on a flat, stable surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, or any flammable item or materials. Avoid grilling on wooden decks or near dry grass that could easily catch fire. Never use a grill indoors or in an enclosed space, as this could cause dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.

Inspect Your Grill

Thoroughly inspect your grill before firing it up for the first time each season. If you have a gas grill, check it for leaks by applying soapy water to the hose and connections. If bubbles form when the gas is turned on, you have a leak that must be repaired before using the grill. Ensure charcoal grills are free of leftover ash and debris.

Control Flare-Ups

Grease build-up is the main cause of grill flare-ups. To minimize excess fat, clean your grill grates and drip trays after every use. If you experience a flare-up, try to move the food to a cooler part of the grill and close the lid to smother the flames. 

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Accidents can happen even when you take precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it in case a fire breaks out. To put out a small fire without an extinguisher, cover the flames with baking soda. 

Stay Focused

Distractions are a common cause of grilling accidents. Although it is easy to get caught up in conversation or step away to grab supplies, leaving a grill unattended can be a major fire risk. The designated grill master is responsible for keeping an eye on the flames at all times. 

Shut Down Properly

When you have finished grilling, it is important to shut down your grill properly. For gas grills, turn off the burners and close the propane valve. For charcoal grills, allow the coals to cool completely, which takes many hours. Then, spray them with water and dispose of them in a metal container. Never leave hot coals unattended or in wooden or plastic trash cans or containers.

Pay Attention to Weather Conditions

Windy days increase the risk of flare-ups and flying embers. Be particularly cautious when grilling in less-than-ideal weather. If winds are strong, consider postponing your cookout to avoid fire risk. 

Protect What Matters with Deibler Insurance Associates

While practicing safe grilling is essential, ensuring you are protected in case of an unexpected event is also important. Homeowners’ insurance can provide coverage for fire damage and liability protection should a guest be injured. Contact our experienced agent to learn more about how the right insurance can give you peace of mind this grilling season at (717) 241-2775.

A Guide to RV Insurance

Owning an RV gives you the freedom to explore. You can wake up with mountain views one day and enjoy ocean breezes the next. However, with freedom comes responsibility, and that is when RV insurance factors in. Whether you are a full-time nomad or a weekend warrior, understanding RV insurance options is crucial for protecting your investment and safeguarding against unexpected risks.

What Is RV Insurance?

RV insurance is specialized coverage designed to protect recreational vehicles like motorhomes, travel trailers, and camper vans. It is a blend of auto and homeowners insurance, addressing the vehicle’s mobility and the comforts of the living space. The type of RV you own can impact the coverage you need. Generally, RV insurance is categorized into two types:

• Motorized RVs (Classes A, B, and C): As they are driven on the road, these vehicles require more comprehensive coverage, including liability and collision.
• Towable RVs (Fifth-wheels, travel trailers, pop-up campers): Although these typically require less insurance, as liability may extend from your primary auto policy, coverage for damage and personal belongings is still essential.

Key Coverages to Consider

RV insurance is designed to cover hazards associated with owning and operating a recreational vehicle. The following are basic coverage options:

• Liability: This insurance covers bodily injury and property damage (including vehicles, homes, structures, and landscaping) sustained by others if you are at fault for an accident. 
• Collision: If you collide with another vehicle or a fixed object, collision coverage covers damage to the RV, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. 
• Comprehensive: This coverage protects against damages that are not related to a collision, such as theft, vandalism, storms, and damage from falling branches, rocks, or debris.
• Medical payments: If you or your passengers are injured in an accident, this covers your medical expenses.
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist: This coverage kicks in if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your damages. 

Do You Need Full-time RV Insurance in Pennsylvania?

If your RV is your primary residence, or you use it for six months or more of the year, full-time RV insurance is a must and required by most lenders. It is an enhanced level of coverage added to a standard RV insurance policy to provide more extensive liability and personal insurance protection, similar to homeowners’ insurance. The following are key features of full-time RV insurance:

• Personal liability coverage: This protects you if someone is injured in or around your RV.
• Medical payments: This covers the medical costs of guests sustaining an injury while visiting your RV.
• Loss assessment: This coverage protects if you are part of an RV association that requires shared costs for damages to common areas.
• Personal belongings coverage: Recognizing the RV as a full-time residence, this insurance provides more comprehensive coverage for your personal possessions in your RV.
• Emergency expense allowance: This helps cover temporary living costs if your RV becomes uninhabitable after an accident or covered event. 

Save on RV Insurance

RV insurance does not have to break the bank. Speak with one of our friendly agents at  Deibler Insurance Associates for tips on how to lower your premiums while maintaining the coverage you need. Give us a call today at (717) 241-2775.

6 Questions to Ask Your Business Insurance Agent

Choosing the right business insurance is one of the most critical steps in protecting your company from losses. But with so many coverage options available, how do you know which policies will be right for you? Our experienced business insurance agents can help you navigate the complexities. You can get a head start by answering these six key questions. 

1. What Types of Insurance Do I Need for My Business?

Every business has unique risks, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Common types of business insurance you may want to consider or discuss with your agent include the following:

• General Liability Insurance – Covers lawsuits related to bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injuries.
• Commercial Property Insurance – Protects your business property, including buildings, equipment, and inventory.
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required for the majority of companies, this covers medical expenses and lost wages for employees who are injured while performing their work duties.
• Professional Liability Insurance – Also known as errors and omissions insurance, this protects against claims of negligence or mistakes. This could be a lifesaver if your company is in consulting or holds a more administrative role for clients, such as accounting or tax preparation. 
• Cyber Liability Insurance – Covers losses related to data breaches and cyberattacks. A vital policy if you have valuable business, client, or customer information in digital files. 
• Business Interruption Insurance – Helps replace lost income if your business is forced to shut down temporarily due to a covered event. The types of events covered vary from policy to policy.

Together, you and your business insurance agent can assess your company’s specific risks and determine the right combination of policies.

2. How Much Coverage Do I Need?

Underinsuring your business can leave you vulnerable to financial losses, while overinsuring can lead to unnecessary expenses. Your agent should help you determine appropriate coverage limits. Factors to be considered include the following: 

• The size and location of your business
• Industry risks
• The number of employees
• The value of your assets
• Potential legal liabilities

Be sure to ask about policy limits, deductibles, and whether additional coverage is needed for high-risk situations unique to your company.

3. Are There Any Coverage Gaps I Should Be Aware Of?

Some business owners assume they’re fully covered, only to discover gaps in their policy when it’s too late. Ask your agent for any exclusions or situations where you wouldn’t be covered. For example:

• Does your general liability insurance cover product liability claims?
• Do you need additional coverage for natural disasters like floods or earthquakes?
• Are employee theft or customer lawsuits covered?

Identifying gaps early can help you add riders or supplemental policies to ensure full protection.

4. How Can I Save Money on My Business Insurance?

Running a business involves many expenses, and insurance can be a significant cost. Ask your agent about ways to reduce premiums, such as:

• Bundling multiple policies (a Business Owner’s Policy is a great way to do this)
• Increasing deductibles to lower monthly premiums
• Implementing safety measures to reduce risks
• Reviewing and updating policies annually to eliminate unnecessary coverage

Our insurance agent will work with you to find cost-effective solutions without compromising coverage to discover the right balance for your business.

5. How Will My Policy Handle Claims?

Understanding the claims process before you file one can save time and frustration. Ask your business insurance agent:

• How do I file a claim?
• What documentation will I need?
• How long does the claims process typically take?
• Are there specific steps I should follow to expedite my claim?

A smooth claims process ensures your business gets back on track quickly after an unexpected event.

6. What Happens if My Business Changes?

Businesses evolve, and your insurance coverage should keep up with those changes. Whether expanding, adding employees, launching new services, or moving to a new location, updating your policies is important. Ask your agent:

• How often should I review my coverage?
• What changes require policy updates?
• Can I adjust my coverage mid-term if my business grows?

Keeping your agent informed about business changes ensures that you always remain adequately covered and that outdated portions of your policy are removed.

Get the Right Protection for Your Business

Asking these six questions will help you clarify your business insurance needs and make informed decisions about your coverage. Whether starting a new venture or reassessing your existing policies, the right insurance can provide peace of mind and financial security. If you would like to know more about protecting your business, our experienced insurance agents are ready to help. Call today to get started.

A Guide to Pet Safety When on Vacation

June is National Pet Preparedness Month, the perfect time to plan for your pet’s safety when planning a summer trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip, flying to a new destination, or leaving your pet at home, creating a safety plan for pets prevents stress, worry, and unexpected emergencies. This guide covers essential pet travel tips, including how travel insurance and pet insurance can provide valuable protection.

Preparing for Pet-Friendly Travel

No matter how you are traveling, if you are taking your furry friend to visit a new place, planning ahead can help you avoid problems. These general pet safety tips are always a good idea. 

Choose Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Not all hotels, vacation rentals, or campsites allow pets. Before booking, verify pet policies and any restrictions regarding breed, size, or additional fees. Consider accommodations with pet-friendly amenities, such as designated play areas, walking trails, and pet-sitting services.

Pack a Pet Travel Kit

A well-stocked travel kit ensures your pet has everything they need for a comfortable journey. Some items you should bring include the following:

• Sufficient food and water for the trip
• Food and water bowls
• Medications and medical records
• Collar with ID tags and a leash
• Familiar items (toys, blanket, or bed) for comfort
• Waste bags or litter supplies
• Grooming tools and cleaning wipes
• First-aid kit with supplies for your pet

Ensure Proper Identification

Microchipping your pet provides extra security if they are lost when far from home. Update your contact information with the microchip registry and ensure your pet wears a sturdy collar with an up-to-date ID tag.

Visit the Veterinarian Before Traveling

Schedule a vet checkup to confirm your pet is healthy enough to travel. Make sure they are up to date on any required vaccinations. If traveling internationally, research pet entry requirements for your destination, as some locations require specific vaccinations or quarantine periods.

Safe Travel by Car

Hit the road with your pet, ready for a long ride. 

Use a Pet Carrier or Safety Harness

Secure your pet in a well-ventilated carrier or a crash-tested pet seat belt harness for road trips. Never allow pets to roam freely inside the car, as this can distract the driver and increase the risk of an accident.

Plan Frequent Breaks

Stop every few hours to let your pet stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Keep them leashed when stopping off in unfamiliar areas to prevent accidental escapes.

Never Leave Pets in a Hot Car

Temperatures inside a car can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even with cracked windows. If you must stop at a place that doesn’t allow pets, have a travel partner stay with them and find a pet-friendly establishment instead.

Flying with Your Pet

Take to the skies knowing your pet will be well cared for throughout your flight.

Understand Airline Policies

Each airline has varying rules for pet travel. Some allow small pets in the cabin, while others require pets to travel as cargo. Research airline policies and book a direct flight whenever possible to minimize stress on your pet and reduce travel time.

Use an Approved Pet Carrier

Ensure your pet carrier meets airline size requirements and allows your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Label the carrier with your contact information and include a familiar blanket and toy so your pet can feel comfortable.

Leaving Pets at Home? Consider a Trusted Caregiver

If you travel without your pet, arrange for a trusted pet sitter who can be a friend, or place your pet at a professional boarding facility. Provide detailed care instructions, emergency contacts, and your pet’s medical history to ensure well-being in your absence.

The Role of Travel and Pet Insurance

Travel Insurance for Pet Owners

Some travel insurance policies offer pet-related benefits, such as coverage for veterinary expenses if your pet becomes ill or injured during the trip. Additionally, travel delays or cancellations may include reimbursement for extended pet boarding fees if you cannot return home on time.

Pet Health Insurance for Unexpected Emergencies

Pet insurance covers routine and emergency veterinary care, helping alleviate financial burdens if your pet needs medical treatment while traveling. Our pet insurance agents can help you compare plans to find coverage that suits your pet’s age, breed, and medical history.

Enjoy Stress-Free Travel with Your Beloved Pet

Traveling with pets requires extra preparation, but with careful planning, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re hitting the road, boarding a flight, or arranging pet care at home, prioritizing pet safety and keeping an eye on your insurance coverage can offer peace of mind. If you’re looking for the right travel insurance to protect you and your pet, our travel insurance agents are here to help you find the best coverage for your needs. Call us today or come into our office for a free assessment. 

The Ins and Outs of Contractor Insurance

Contractors work in high-risk environments where accidents, property damage, or unexpected delays can disrupt business operations at any time. Whether you’re an independent contractor, a general contractor, or run a contracting business, having the right insurance coverage makes it possible to protect yourself, your employees, and your clients. 

Why Contractor Insurance is Key

Contractor insurance provides financial protection in case of accidents, lawsuits, or property damage. Without it, you could be personally liable for costly claims, threatening your business and financial stability. Many clients and regulatory bodies require contractors to carry specific types of insurance before allowing them to start work on a project.

Types of Contractor Insurance

General Liability Insurance

This insurance is the most fundamental coverage for contractors. It protects against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury caused by your work. General liability insurance covers legal and medical expenses if a client or passerby is injured on your job site or if you accidentally damage a client’s property.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

If you have employees, most states require you to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages if an employee gets injured. Even if you work alone, some clients may require proof of workers’ comp before signing a contract with you.

Commercial Auto Insurance

Contractors often rely on vehicles to transport tools, materials, and employees. Personal auto insurance policies typically do not cover business-related accidents. A commercial auto policy ensures that your work vehicles are protected in case of accidents, theft, or damage.

Professional Liability Insurance (Errors and Omissions Insurance)

If your work involves design, consulting, or advising clients, professional liability insurance protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or incomplete work. This is especially important for contractors in specialized fields like architecture, engineering, and home inspections.

Builder’s Risk Insurance

This type of insurance covers property damage to buildings under construction. It protects against losses due to fire, vandalism, theft, and weather-related damage. Many project owners require contractors to carry builder’s risk insurance before starting construction.

Equipment and Tool Insurance

Your tools and equipment are essential to your work. Equipment insurance covers damage, loss, or theft of your tools, ensuring you can quickly replace them and continue working without significant delays.

Surety Bonds

While not technically insurance, surety bonds provide financial guarantees that a contractor will complete a project as agreed. Some clients and government contracts require contractors to be bonded before work begins.

How to Choose the Right Contractor Insurance

The right coverage depends on factors such as the size of your business, the type of work you do, and whether you have employees. Here are some steps to help you choose the best insurance policy:

• Assess your risks: Identify potential risks in your industry and daily operations.
• Understand client and legal requirements: Check if clients, state regulations, or industry standards mandate specific coverage.
• Compare insurance providers: Work with an insurance agent specializing in contractor insurance to compare policies and pricing. Our contractor insurance agents are familiar with a range of providers and can help you compare the benefits of each to see which suits you best. 
• Bundle policies for savings: Many insurers offer package deals for multiple policies, which can save money and simplify coverage management. For instance, you may qualify for a discount when you bundle general liability, commercial auto, and equipment insurance under a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) or a Contractor’s Insurance Package. Check with one of our contractor insurance agents to see how this might apply to your company. 

Do You Have the Right Contractor Coverage? We Can Help

Contractor insurance is a critical investment in the success and longevity of your business. Without the right coverage, you may face costly lawsuits, project delays, or financial losses that could put your livelihood at risk. When you understand the different types of contractor insurance and choose policies that fit your needs, you can work confidently, knowing your business is protected.

If you’re looking for tailored contractor insurance solutions, our insurance specialists are ready to help you find the best coverage for you and your business—at the best available rates. Call us today to schedule a meeting with one of our local agents.