Archive for the ‘Safety & Preparedness’ Category

The Top 10 Most Dangerous Spring Break Destinations and Tips To Stay Safe!

Wednesday, March 14th, 2012



A week where it is glamorized to often ignore risks and in some cases even welcome them, we advice everyone to be wise during Spring Break!

As you or your children are planning their getaway adventure, it may be worth noting the top ten most dangerous cities ranked by Avvo, a legal research organization. Rankings were judged as dangerous based on crime risk (amount of reported crime against general population), criminal defense questions (received by location in online forum), and the number of doctors and lawyers in the area. Here are the results of the study and it seems you generally want to avoid Florida, but take this as general advice from our insurance agency looking out for your best interest.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Spring Break Destinations in the United States

  • 10. Miami, Florida
  • 9. Jacksonville, Florida
  • 8. Panama City, Florida
  • 7. New Orleans, Louisiana
  • 6. South Padre Island, Texas
  • 5. West Palm Beach, Florida
  • 4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
  • 3. Las Vegas, Nevada
  • 2. Daytona Beach, Florida
  • 1. Orlando, Florida

According to just this list, it would be safer for you to walk Bourbon Street rather than wait in line at Disney World. As in anything there are risks involved and it is a matter of lifestyle and decisions made.

No matter your destination, our independent insurance agency wants you to be safe! Do not be afraid if you or your child is traveling or currently in a high ranked destination, the best advice is to be cautious.



Spring Break Safety Tips

Plan Ahead

When a group is living in the moment one thing can lead to another and force bad situations. There are many things you need to plan ahead for in order to avoid a higher risk situation.

  • Request Hotel Room Not On the First Floor - First floor rooms are easy to break into, and most easily accessible to public.
  • Go To The ATM In Daylight Hours
  • Be Responsible in Planning Transportation -It will be easy to get carried away or to compromise standards while on vacation. Planning ahead will ensure your safety and prevent you from dangerously drinking and driving.

Travel In Groups

Always travel with a trusted friend and let others know where you will be. Leave home with your friends and return home with your friends, no excuses.

Consider The Best Appropriate Insurance Coverages

If you are traveling out of the country it may be wise to look into International Insurance. You may rent a car while you are at your destination and Rental Car Insurance could be a wise option. You may want to be sure your auto insurance policy covers everything you believe it does, or need it to. Also, there are exclusions you need to be aware of when leaving your home vacant for the week and should talk to your insurance agent on what you need to do to protect your home.

Trust Your Instincts

If something seems wrong, trust your feelings and leave. Don't put yourself in any high risk situation. You are the best judge of yourself and you should do only what you are comfortable doing. In this regards, you may be most comfortable wearing your new jewelry or clothes to go out in, but we would advice you leave your expensive jewelry and valuables at home.

Be Safe. Be Smart.

There is risk in everything, so don't be alarmed, by the list. Be aware of your surroundings and do what you can to minimize potential risks!

Wherever you decide to go, travel safely. Our Georgia Insurance Company wants you to have a great time and make the best decisions.

Have a great and safe break!

Is The Size Of Your Home Putting You More At Risk For Loss?

Friday, March 2nd, 2012

We are creatures of habit and ultimately in today's world creatures of convenience.

In the busy world around us it only makes sense to ultimately become people who live a lifestyle that values convenience. (There is a tragic problem with making decisions based primarily on convenience) A problem that develops at home, is we typically only spend a large amount of our time in a small percentage of a home. Most people spend the majority of their time in the same few rooms often ignoring the rest of the home.

The Danger

In larger homes it is easy to ignore rooms of less traffic and neglect signs of water damage or fire hazards. These tips will help you check your home and be a happy, safe, and responsible homeowner.

Habits To Start If You Live in a Large Home

  • Walk through rooms of less traffic and look in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Observe ceilings and walls for signs of water damage or leaks.
  • Purchase fire extinguishers to place through out your home. The larger the home the greater number of fire extinguishers needed and recommended for fire prevention. It is a measure often forgotten, and easy to purchase and can ultimately save tens of thousands of dollars.
  • Inspect your water heater. Water heaters only have a shelf life of 8 - 10 years and water heaters are involved in causing many home fires. Be sure there are no flammable materials close and it is in good condition.
  • As you walk through your home take notice of any suspicious odors and smells, which can be signs of water leaks and possible mold build up.
  • If your home is on septic back up, periodically get your septic tank pumped and set a reminder so you don't have to deal with an eventual mess.

Why it is so Important to Act Now!

Georgia Home Insurance doesn't cover neglect. If there are signs of leaking in your home it is in your best interest to report what you observe to the insurance company as soon as possible. This is for your good. You need to fix the problem before it grows and reporting any damage as soon as it is discovered gives you the best chance your insurance agency will cover the costs. If you call at the first signs of damage, you are acting as responsible person in effort to protect your property.

Often the damage you see is just the tip of the iceberg. A professional is necessary to determine the full extent of the damage. We spent a day with Reliable Restoration and they told us they will gladly give free home estimates and advice.

In Conclusion

In larger homes it is a common occurrence to have rooms with less traffic. It is of utmost importance to occasionally walk and observe those rooms for any signs of damage to be sure you are protecting your property and you are not neglecting an existing problem. An insurance claim dealing with fire and water damage can be devastating as the damage toll grows to be large in a short amount of time. It is essential to take the proper precautions to protect your home with good insurance coverage.

We would recommend doing this routine walk through on large holidays when you likely are cleaning for guest to come over already. It is further recommended that you use your smartphone to record you walking through the home to have a digital copy of the items in each room, in case a fire or flood were to damage your property.

Lower insurance rates may seem appealing at first but we want you to make the best decision for your success and not solely based on the cheapest option. We believe we are the best insurance agency for you, and that working with our insurance company in Georgia will show you insurance helps you achieve your goals. We care about our clients and want to help them succeed.

3 Burning Facts You Don’t Expect From A Home Fire Insurance Claim

Tuesday, February 28th, 2012

You will be surprised to learn some of the repercussions of a home fire and the unfortunate circumstances a fire causes! Below are three things you didn't know about home fires and the damage caused.

There are many things you can do to protect yourself and prevent home fires from occurring. Having good insurance is essential to guarantee you being made whole again.

What You Didn't Expect From A Home Fire

Water damage can be just, if not more severe as fire damage

Extinguishing a home fire requires the fire fighters to pump thousand of gallons of water into a residential home, commercial property, or enflamed building. Water damage can multiply as water travels throughout the home damaging multiple surfaces, rooms, and floors.

Theft is one of your first concerns following a fire insurance claim

Immediately after a building fire, many doors and windows are down and broken. The building is exposed to local crime and your valuables that were not harmed or damaged are targeted items. It is of utmost importance you board up doors and windows with in the first 24 hours to prevent further loss.

The soot and odor is in EVERYTHING

Even in cases of a small fires that are well contained, you wouldn't believe how penetrating the strong odor can be through out the home. The soot and odor marinates the home to a terrible stink that feels inescapable. In the restoration process of a home following a fire the air is completely replaced numerous times to start to eliminate the powerful odor.


Witnessing the devastation of a home following a fire is more than an emotional experience, it is something that feels entirely wrong. It would be so sad to solely witness the loss of a home, but it brings our insurance company in Georgia great joy to help restore not only people's homes, but also their lives. We were fortunate to experience a day with Reliable Restoration as they worked to restore a home back to whole following a tragic fire. It was a memorable experience to witness insurance-in-action first hand.

We want to emphasis the importance of having good insurance in order to still experience success in the midst of tragedy. Reliable Restoration told us how shocked people are at the extent of fire damage, and the disbelief at the reach of water damage. Your home insurance policy will likely include the appropriate coverages, but we would be glad to further assist you with questions and learn more about your unique needs and see how our insurance agency is able to save you money on your insurance premiums.

We hope you never have to experience the devastating loss of a home fire. There are things you can do today to protect your home from home fires and reduce your risk. Be educated. Stay safe. Prepare for the unexpected.

5 Ways To Prevent and Minimize Water Damage in Your Home

Monday, February 27th, 2012



Maybe some science project back at school illustrated this point, but whether you have heard it or not it is no less true that "water travels the path of least resistance." This means water may travel through walls, ceilings, and often damages multiple levels/floors of a home, based on the path it chooses to take! Water damage is rarely a contained issue and can cover more than you would imagine! We had the opportunity to witness the damage water brings as we spent a day with Reliable Restoration restoring a home.

Water moves far and fast and the damage is invasive. According to the American Insurance Association, “Water damage claims have been growing faster than any other component of homeowners insurance.”

What To Know To Minimize Water Damage

  • Know where to shut off the water to your home - Your house valve is typically located outside, near the street either below ground with a cover or in a concrete box. It can also be located on the side or back of your home. This is important to know in case of any emergency to stop water flow.
  • Check and test the water valve - Once you have found the water shut off valve, test it. Be sure you are able to turn it. Many of them haven't been turned in some time and it may be best for you to use some lubricant or some tools. (May be wise to mark the valve incase you have to turn off water at night and it is hard to see)
  • Let faucets drip - during extremely cold weather if your water is still turned on. This will allow pressure to be released and water to move and can prevent pipes from busting.
  • Notice any spike in water bill - If your water bill seems abnormally high, check and inspect your home for potential water damage, as it may be a sign that you have a leak or water running you are not aware of, you can possibly prevent the damage from escalating and catch it early!
  • Occasionally check your pipes -Overtime pipes will become more prone to damage. It is suggested to occasionally check for cracks, rust, corrosion, or other signs of damage. It is much easier to prevent and catch it before a pipe bursts!

These tips won't save your life, but can possibly save you thousands of dollars and minimize the damage to your home. Being prepared and aware is the most important thing you can do!

In Conclusion:

As an independent insurance agency we believe we can help educate the public and our clients on mistakes we see and encounter to help you save money! Our insurance company believes together we can accomplish great things. When you're considering the best option for Georgia homeowners insurance, remember our passion to see you succeed.

Leaks can be slow and gradual, taking years to detect until significant property damage occurs, or there can be large leaks that quickly produce a variety of damaging results. Knowing these tips will help you minimize damage and feel safe and knowledgeable in your home. These tips are for water damage prevention, specifically dealing with pipes, we also have shared home flood insurance information if that is more applicable to your needs.

House Fire’s and What People Are Forgetting

Monday, February 27th, 2012


30 seconds. In that amount of time a small flame can grow out of control and become a major fire. Every 80 seconds a house fire is reported, with these tips our insurance company in Georgia can work to bring that number down and keep you safe.

Common Mistakes & House Fire Prevention Tips

  • Lack of fire extinguishers -More than 2 million fires are reported each year, but still few homes have fire extinguishers. It is amazing that it is such a common mistake. In large homes we recommend multiple fire extinguishers readily available. Especially in the kitchen as 26% of home fires start in the kitchen.
  • Inspect your water heater -Often people forget to check their water heater or have it inspected. Water heaters have a shelf life of 8 - 10 years and then often need to be replaced. Be sure there is never an open flame and no flammable objects are in proximity.
  • Check fire alarms -A working fire alarm drastically increases a persons chance of survival. It is estimated over 40% of home fires occur in homes of non-functioning fire alarms.

We spent a day with Reliable Restoration in a recent home fire, and as you walk in the only thing you can think is "Wow". They said the reaction is always the same when it is someone's first time seeing the externes and expanse of fire damage. Reliable Restoration shared with us things people need to understand about fires:

Time is short

Fire happens faster than people realize. In two minutes an entire room can be consumed in flames and smoke. It is shocking how fast a fire consumes. In any case of a major fire you need to focus on escaping and do not try to collect any valuables. The fire will continue to grow out of hand quickly.

It is complete darkness

Did you know fire is dark? After a short burst of light, a fire produces a blinding smoke that results in near complete darkness. It becomes difficult to see and maintain orientation.

Flames aren't always the most deadly

The smoke and toxic gases produced by the fire often kill more people than the actual flames themselves. Fire burns up the oxygen you need and produces smoke and poisonous gases that kill. Breathing in the slightest amounts of smoke and toxic gases can cause drowsiness, shortness of breath and make you disoriented. The odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door.

In Conclusion:

Fire's happen fast and you can take steps now to be best prepared. Fire extinguishers, frequent inspections of your water heater, and monitoring your fire alarms can save lives and minimize potential fire damage.

It is shocking to witness the damage from a fire. Please be safe and talk with your family about how to be best prepared and what to do. Let our insurance agency discuss with you the details of your Georgia home insurance policy. We want you to know you have the right insurance coverage and are prepared in case of a fire insurance claim.

What questions do you still have about home fires and how to be prepared?

What else could you do to be best prepared, that our insurance agency hasn't mentioned?

Expecting Severe Weather & Record Number of Tornados in 2012

Thursday, February 23rd, 2012



The weather in 2012 has been determined to stay unusually warm and drier than in years past. This last January was registered as the fourth warmest in Georgia's recorded weather history. Early forecasts believe the weather conditions are more than favorable to produce "above-normal tornados" this season.

With more tornados expected on the horizon, we will work hard to keep you safe and updated on the ways you can take preventative measures to ensure your safety.

What exactly does more tornado activity mean?

Last year there were 1,709 tornados across the United States and 2011 was recorded as the fourth most deadly tornado year. It nearly broke the record of most tornados during a one years span of 1,817 during the 2004 year. The south is expected to begin seeing tornados through out the months of March and April, but history shows April through June are most likely for tornados.

How can you prepare for severe weather situations?

  • We recommend downloading the AccuWeather App for the iPhone that monitors severe weather conditions and predicts likelihood of storm changes.
  • Keep a crank radio nearby to listen to updated weather reports, in case of power failure.
  • Know where to go during severe weather (most interior place in your house, away from windows, lowest point of your house)
  • Talk with your family (especially children) about what to do when severe weather strikes.
  • Know where your flashlights are and keep fresh batteries in them, especially during severe storm season. (Your flashlight on your phone will only drain your battery, try to maintain phone battery especially if power goes out.)
  • If you're in your car on the road and you see a tornado, get out and get to the lowest place you can (drainage ditch on the side of the road).
  • Do not hide under a bridge or overpass, as debris picked up by the tornado will funnel into those areas.
  • Take severe weather alerts seriously and heed warnings to take shelter.

Our Georgia Insurance Company will continue to share information about severe weather safety and preparations to keep you well informed. If you have any additional advice please share! Our insurance agency wants to be sure you are prepared and safe, please don't hesitate to ask us any questions especially regarding your Georgia home insurance!


What other preparations do you suggest? What questions do you have about severe weather that we can answer for you?

3 Ways to Save You Money and Receive Lower Insurance Rates on Auto Insurance

Thursday, February 2nd, 2012


 

Everyone wants to save money anyway they can. Driving alone has nearly gotten to the point that we choose to stay home so we don't use gas. If you're hurting to make the payments on your car, drive only distances you could probably bike to, and/or are generally wise. Otherwise, here are some ways to help you save on auto insurance!

 

3 Ways to Save You Money on Auto Insurance Rates Now

  1. Check for Discounts with Your Insurance Agency

    • Life changes quickly. A discount you didn't qualify for a year ago, may be another 15% off your premiums you pay now!

      - Do you carpool to work? 

      - Does your car have a low amount of mileage? 

      - Have you been accident free for three years? 

      - Are you a longtime customer? 

      - Are you retired? 

      - Have you enrolled in a defensive driving course?

      Talk to your insurer about receiving the appropriate discounts. Your teenage driver can possibly receive discounts on their policy based on grades and GPA, or by enrolling in a pre-approved driving school.

  2. Raise Your Deductible

    • Your deductible is what you pay before the insurance company pay's the rest on an insurance claim. By prompting your insurance agent to increase your deductible and agreeing to being willing to pay more when an accident does occur, your monthly premium should inversely decrease. Depending on how drastic you decide to increase your deductible your premiums will continue to be lowered.
      Be cautious not to get too ambitious, you have insurance to help you pay for your car when things do go wrong. Increasing your deductible too much means you're paying out of pocket.
  3. Shop Around For the Best Coverage

    • You can shop for quotes on various websites that compare insurance carriers' prices. If you choose to work with an independent insurance agency, they work with numerous carriers and shop your policy to provide you with the best insurance coverage, but you have the advantage of having a personal agent. Independent insurance agencies can provide the same coverage because they work through the major carriers, but on a much higher level of service so they understand you and your needs.

      Make an educated decision, and realize it is your insurance agent's job to provide you with the best service. If you aren't satisfied let us help you find the best insurance coverage at the best rate.

       

2 Tips to Save You Money on Auto Insurance Rates in the Future

 

We aren't talking about hovercrafts here. When you buy a car in the next few months or years, these tips need to be considered prior to making your purchase to save you money on your insurance premiums.

 

  1. Purchase a Vehicle With Specific Safety Features

    Safety features to be sure your prospective car includes are:

     - Airbags

    - Antilock Braking System

    - Security Alarm

    Many of these features come standard on newer models but if you are buying an older car consider these features when thinking about you and your family's safety and budget as it may hurt your insurance cost.

  2. Buy a Low-Profile Car

     

    You may be surprised to see which vehicles rank as some of the most dangerous cars. You wouldn't assume the Kia Spectra would out-rank a Dodge Charger on the dangerous scale, but the Kia has poor front and side impact crash ratings! Do your homework, or seek the advice of your insurance agent on your car options.

Conclusion:

There are ways to save money on your automobile insurance. You can save money today and take steps to save money in the future. Dealing with your insurance agent and discussing ways to save may be the best start to reducing your premiums. Independent insurance companies work with major carriers and offer personal coverage which can save you a headache and a handful. Our Georgia Insurance Company would be delighted to help you.

Make an educated decision on what is best for you, but don't think you are stuck in the situation you are in. Our insurance company can offer you full coverage car insurance and compliment our coverage with personal customer care. We hope you will get to know us more. Please, stay safe on the roads.

How Our Independent Insurance Agency Will Provide You With the Best Insurance Policy

Wednesday, February 1st, 2012


 

We welcome any opportunity to explain the advantages of an independent insurance agency. The conversation always ends well, because an independent insurance agency:

  • offers the best insurance coverage available
  • builds strong relationships with clients
  • exists in the local community

An Independent Insurance Agency is Able to Offer the Best Coverage at the Lowest Price

 

As an independent insurance agency, we work with with a large list of insurance carriers and can shop your policies. We work with the insurance company you may have been considering, but also with many more you likely haven't even heard of. We work with you to understand your needs and find the best coverage at an affordable price.

Working with an independent insurance agency only guarantees you pay the least for the best coverage because we can compare coverage and premiums with all of our insurance carriers.

An Independent Insurance Agency Develops a Personal Relationship with the Insured

Your insurance policy is based off of your unique situation and need. We get to know you and diagnosis the risks you're faced with on a regular basis. We then tailor a unique policy that fits your lifestyle, and that isn’t the ending point but it’s the start to a relationship.

Working with an independent insurance agency means you get personal service. When you call, someone doesn't look you up by your sixteen digit policy number. We know our clients by name and they know us. We are involved in helping them achieve their goals and endeavors and don't let any unforeseen circumstances stop them.

An Independent Insurance Agency is Local

 

We have branches of our Georgia insurance company scattered through out the state and also a Florida insurance branch. We continue to grow and look to be in more clients neighborhoods in the coming years.

When storms come or tragedy strikes, we are there to help and get the community back on its feet. Not because it is our job, but because it is our home too and we want our community to be back to normal.

Our independent insurance agency has branches in Douglasville, Norcross, Hiram, Marietta, Sugarloaf, Ellijay, Toccoa, Lawrenceville, and Destin. This doesn't limit our services across the nation but allows us to provide more personal service to those closest to us. Southern States Insurance writes insurance policies nationwide.

In Conclusion:

 

Working with an independent insurance agency, like Southern States Insurance, allows you to be part of a relationship. Insurance agents are invested in helping our clients achieve their successes and work to let nothing hinder their goals. With us you are part of a conversation, and not simply buying a product.

We know there are many misconceptions about insurance companies, and some of the opinions people have built up have been based on insurance companies taking advantage of clients. Our clients are convinced that insurance is something meant to help them achieve their successes and their goals.

Let us show you how we can help you achieve your goals. We know working with an independent insurance agency is the best way to offer you a personal experience and the best coverage available.

If you like your current insurance carrier, but want to switch agents, you are going to need an agent of record. Let us help you with any questions to be sure you're completely satisfied with your insurance policy.

The Best Approach To Winter Roads For Non-Emergency Transportation Companies

Monday, January 30th, 2012

Well, old man winter is upon us. While our non-emergency transportation companies in Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, Alabama and other southern states are experiencing less severe road conditions. Our friends in the northern and central states have already experienced the weather's icy grip and the dangerous conditions that continue to accumulate.

Since non-emergency transportation companies can't shut down services because it's unpleasant outside, it becomes imperative for the owners to emphasize the importance of defensive driving to all of their drivers.

How to Safely Drive in Winter Conditions as a Non-Emergency Transportation Company

  • Maintain a minimum of three full car lengths from the vehicle in front of you.
  • Maintain a safe rate of speed.
  • Watch for ice on overpasses and bridges.
  • Take extra time to make sure that all wheelchair straps and tiedowns are tight and secure.
  • Use good journey management. Let your dispatcher now where you are and where you are headed.
  • Keep your lights on at all times for safety.
  • Avoid roads off the beaten path, take major roads as much as possible
  • Make sure that your vehicles are equipped with emergency roadside equipment (flares, triangle reflectors, can of tire sealant, etc.).
  • Exercise common sense. Driving on ice and snow is not to be taken lightly.
  • Perform trip inspections, prior to and after travel, to check for damage or dangerous ice accumulation.

Ultimately the safety of the passenger and the drivers is most important. Be careful on the roads, and be extra cautious of other drivers who show signs of inexperienced winter weather driving. Remember that preparedness and good risk management will ultimately relate to less insurance claim activity, and ultimately lower premiums, on your car insurance and non-emergency transportation insurance.

Unfortunately, many of us have to continue driving in such treacherous conditions, but we hope by considering these points you will be safer on the roads. If you are seeking further advice, our Independent Insurance Agency in Atlanta is available to help you protect your assets and stay safe during every condition that may arise.

Should My Restaurant Insurance Policy Include Equipment Breakdown Coverage?

Monday, January 23rd, 2012


 

Equipment Breakdown coverage is excluded from the standard commercial package insurance policy. The success of your restaurant business heavily depends on a variety of equipment, and if equipment breakdown were to occur your success and reputation could be jeopardized. This valuable coverage can be added as a stand alone policy or in some cases it can be added to your current policy by endorsement.

What will adding Equipment Breakdown cover?

The typical Equipment Breakdown policy will cover losses caused by short circuit, electrical arcing, power surges, mechanical breakdown, motor burnout, boiler damage and operator error. So take a deep breathe, because if you have equipment breakdown policy and anything goes wrong you are likely covered!

 To what extent will Equipment Breakdown coverage pay for my equipment?

Equipment breakdown insurance will not only pay for the physical damage to equipment caused by the mechanical and electrical breakdown, but also any losses due to the failed equipment. This includes:

  • Business income loss
  • Spoilage losses
  • Extra expenses to minimize the equipment loss
  • Extra expenses to expedite repairs.

Examples

Restaurant businesses rely on a range of refrigeration equipment including walk- in refrigerators and freezers, beverage coolers, and ice makers to name just a few. If your refrigeration equipment break downs it would mean a loss of product and customers.

  • A power surge damaged a restaurant’s refrigeration system. The restaurant was closed while repairs were made. The policy paid $10,000 for Physical Damage, $12,000 was paid for Business Income Loss and an additional $25,000 for Spoilage.
  • A restaurant lost refrigeration in two walk-in coolers and a freezer when a utility power quality issues damaged the compressors and motors. Equipment Breakdown paid over $30,000 in spoilage.
  • The compressors of a refrigeration shorted out. All of the dairy products and meat had to be thrown out. The Equipment Breakdown policy paid over $4,000 in spoilage as well as $140 in physical damage.

Conclusion:

Selecting the appropriate coverage to protect the investment in your restaurant business can be a confusing process. It's more that selecting an accurate coverage limit. There are different coverage forms, potential hazards to consider, property not normally included and numerous other options. Southern States Insurance represents several commercial property insurance carriers and we can tailor a product specific to your needs.

It is important to protect your restaurant business and Equipment Breakdown coverage needs to be thoroughly considered and discussed with your agent.

Our Georgia Independent Insurance Agency want's to engage with you on Facebook and Twitter to answer any questions and provide you with more news, laughs, and client successes. We have been in the insurance business for 20 years handling insurance claims and providing personal service to our clients.

 

**For more information about commercial property insurance coverage contact Terri Krider at TKrider@InnerHarbourFLA.com or call 850-837-3629