Newsletter (page 7)

Auto Insurance
 
It is common for people to ask us why their auto insurance premiums going up.  In some cases, it is due to an increase in accidents or tickets.  However, there are many other reasons auto insurance premiums go up.  Now may be a good time to have us complete a review of your auto insurance.  Call us today for a free review.
 
Reasons Why Your Auto Premiums Increase
 

• You bought an expensive sports car.
• You now have a teenage driver.
• The deductibles on your policy are too low.
• You drive more miles.
• You have moved from the country into the city.

The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to help reduce your auto insurance premiums:
 
How to Reduce Your Auto Insurance Premiums
 

• Increase your deductible.
• Do not get tickets.
• Buy older vehicles.
• Use an independent agent to shop your insurance.
• Combine your other policies for discounts.

  
Hatzung Insurance is committed to providing clients with the highest quality insurance plans available combined with some of the lowest possible rates. Whether you are shopping for auto insurance, home insurance, life or business insurance, we can help you obtain the best coverage available with the lowest rate possible. 

All of us at Hatzung Insurance truly value the long term relationship with our clients, and are proud to give families, individuals and businesses the personal attention required when it matters most. When claims arise, we realize that it can be very stressful and will do everything possible to assure timely and complete recovery.

 
 
 
 


 

The future is now, and if you want your business to compete over the next few years you may want to pay attention to the following topics. There are a number of factors that will affect the business of insurance in the near future.

Technology
Our world has gone digital. Technology has changed the way you relate with your customers. Have you invested in the right technology, and do you have it insured?

Cyber Liability
With the growth of technology, we can now access and store data from our cars, homes and while on the go. This creates a real need to have effective data security, the most up to date protection, and policies and procedures for use and storage. Part of cyber management includes having a cyber-liability policy for your business.

The Next Generation of Leaders
Millennials will lead the next generation in the workforce. Is your business prepared?  Millennials like to live and work in the same community, use public transportation and work from home.

Energy Prices
As the price of oil drops it has become more economical to deliver goods and services. However, there are more auto accidents as a result.

COVID
Every business should have COVID-19 safety procedures in place. Helping your employees return to work safely and confidently during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is no easy task.
Employers must ensure social distancing for employees and customers, frequent and adequate employee hand-washing, and that sick employees stay home. Employers must also provide basic workplace hazard education about coronavirus and how to prevent transmission in languages best understood by employees. Your workers’ compensation insurer can offer tools and advice in this area.
 
Employment Liability
If you have employees, you are exposed to potential employment liability claims. Employees know their rights, and it is time for all employers to become more informed about how to protect their companies. An EPLI policy covers claims made against directors, officers, employees, the company and its subsidiaries.
 

This has been a tough winter for all of us in the Northeast, but the good news is that spring is just around the corner. Many people are planning a home remodeling project for the spring or summer. These projects may include a new backyard, kitchen or an addition for the expanding family. Whatever the project, you need to protect yourself from the financial risks and hazards associated with a home remodel project.

If you are planning on hiring a contractor or construction company to help you with your project, keep these tips in mind. Following these guidelines will help reduce your risk and increase your chances for a successful, and hopefully stress-free, project.

1. Before you hire a contractor ask for references. The Better Business Bureau is a good place to start.
2. Know what you want and have a specific list of products, including the brands. For example, if you want a furnace, be specific about the type and brand. There are many brands; some good and some not so good.
3. Always have a written contract with a competition date.
4. Go visit other homes on which the contractor has worked.
5. Some contractors may ask for100% of the payment upfront. Never do this. A small (10% to 15% up front is normal)

Bonus Tip: Make sure the contractor is insured. Ask for a certificate of insurance for general liability and workers compensation.

Homeowner’s Insurance
If you are increasing the value of your home as a result of the remodel, you will need to make adjustments in your homeowner’s insurance limits. Your homeowner’s insurance will not cover the contractor or his work. If the contractor causes damage to your home, you will want their insurance to provide restoration.
 

Employers must ensure social distancing for employees and customers, frequent and adequate employee hand-washing, and that sick employees stay home. Employers must also provide basic workplace hazard education about coronavirus and how to prevent transmission in languages best understood by employees. Your workers’ compensation insurer can offer tools and advice in this area.

Here are tips for your business to consider

• Making sure your facility is fully clean, disinfected, and equipped with a blueprint for maintaining safe conditions.
• Setting up a support system in place for employees as they return to work and adjust to new realities and emotional challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Creating a plan for a safe work environment that protects employees and customers alike from risks connected to COVID-19, including exposure and transmission.
• Prepare business continuity plans for significant absenteeism, supply chain disruptions, or changes in the way you need to conduct business.
• Establish an emergency communications plan. Identify key contacts (with back-ups), the chain of communications (including suppliers and customers), and processes for tracking and communicating about business and employee status.
• Share your response plans with employees and clearly communicate expectations. It is important to let employees know plans and expectations if COVID-19 occurs in communities where you have a workplace.

 
 
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, CDC, & OSHA
 

As a homeowner, you carry homeowner's insurance to protect yourself in case of damage to your home. A devastating storm can leave flooding waters, property damage, and personal injuries in its wake. Perhaps one of the least expected dangers that follow a storm is fraudulent contractors. Most contractors are honest and work hard, but some will follow disasters and try to take advantage of you.

After recent storms and major disasters, a few unscrupulous contractors use a trick to defraud homeowners every year - convincing them to sign away their rights through an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form.

A contractor or repair company representative will often tell you that an Assignment of Benefits or "AOB" form is necessary for them to do work on your home. They may promise it will make the process easier for you as it will allow them to "handle everything." They might even offer to lower or eliminate your deductible if you sign the form immediately.

Don't allow contractors to start work before the damage is assessed by your insurer. Most importantly, don't sign an AOB form. We are here for you and can help you navigate the claims process and avoid contractor abuse and fraud.

• Use well know contractors
• Ask for a written contract
• Ask to see proof of insurance and licensing from the contractor
• Make sure your agent and insurance company is involved. 
• Have your claims adjuster inspect all damage?