Berry Curtis Insurance Blog

 

Are You Shopping Online This Holiday?

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and many of us are searching our favorite web pages for the best deals on the items that top this year’s wish list. Last year, cyber Monday was the year’s single biggest day for shopping, generating over 2 billion dollars in sales. This year, consumer experts predict an even bigger day. However, this online activity is also a big day for cybercriminals. We recommend that you have us review your personal insurance to make sure you have the right kind of insurance, including identity theft protection, to protect you and your family throughout the holiday season.

Mistakes People Make When Buying Homeowner’s Insurance

With all the options you have these days buying the right kind of homeowner’s insurance can be confusing. Some advertisements want us to believe that purchasing homeowner’s insurance should only take 7 minutes! Making purchases too quickly can cause mistakes. Taking time to consider your options can save you money and future headaches. We found at least five mistakes people sometimes make when purchasing homeowners insurance.

How Could That Happen?

Your landscaper falls from your tree while he is pruning it, and the injuries send him to the hospital. His medical bills are about $5,000 and he does not have any insurance. Will your homeowner's insurance cover you if the worker decides to file a lawsuit?

Can You Live Without Disaster Insurance?

It is safe to say that most business and homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover the risks associated with disasters. The only exception would be damage caused by wildfires. Let’s look at how insurance might apply to other disasters.

Your Business May Need More Commercial Insurance

We live in world where lawsuits are common. Private firms are no longer immune from litigation from employees, competitors and even the government. Management or professional liability insurance is not just good business; it is as necessary as heat and lighting for your office. Statutes, federal and state laws change on a regular basis, so it is vital that your company protect its assets with management or professional liability insurance.

Motorcycle Insurance Tips

Choosing the right insurance policy is much like choosing the right motorcycle. You want it to fit your needs and lifestyle, but at the same time be within your budget.

Educate Your Kids about Summer Bike Safety

Summer is here and your kids will be out of the house playing and biking all over the neighborhood. Now is a good time to teach them about riding their bicycles in a safe manner.

Your Business May Need More Commercial Insurance

We live in world where lawsuits are common. Private firms are no longer immune from litigation from employees, competitors and even the government. Management or professional liability insurance is not just good business; it is as necessary as heat and lighting for your office. Statutes, federal and state laws change on a regular basis, so it is vital that your company protect its assets with management or professional liability insurance.

How To Select The Right Boat Insurance

Unlike home or auto insurance, boat insurance policies can vary widely from one company to the next. So which type of boating insurance is best for you? Larger and faster boats such as yachts, and personal watercraft such as jet skis and wave runners require a separate boat insurance policy. The size, type and value of the craft and the water in which you use it factor into how much you will pay for insurance coverage. Try these tips.

What Does Contractors Insurance Provide?

Contractors insurance policies range significantly in terms of what they offer. Most will have a business owner's policy (BPO) that will provide the following.

Do Traffic Tickets Affect Insurance Rates?

You just got a traffic ticket and your first thought is how much is my insurance going to increase? There are ways to determine this and we thought you should know this information. The information provided is considered general in nature and may vary from state to state.

Are You Prepared For Wildfires?

Everyone in California knows about wildfire. It is never to early to start thinking about the next one. Here are a few tips.

Three Kinds Of Coverage Every Homeowners Needs

Your home will be one of the most significant investments you will ever make, both economically and emotionally. Your family will spend countless hours there, among some of your most prized possessions. In the event of any misfortune, let us give you the peace of mind knowing that you are well protected.

Earthquake Risk ... Disasters Can Happen

Natural disasters are part of the price we all pay for living on the west coast. We all appreciate the good weather, lakes, mountains, and the natural beauty found on the west coast. However, fires, mudslides, floods, and earthquakes are just a few of the natural disasters common to the western states. Earthquakes are especially a concern in many of the western states, and they are almost impossible to predict with 100% accuracy.

Recreational/RV Vehicle Insurance

You probably bought your motor home or travel trailer because it offers the best of both worlds: the ability to explore the world we live in and the convenience of your home each night when you pull over. Motor homes and travel trailers offer a freedom and joy that’s unique regardless of the size of coach or fifth wheel you explore with. 

The Latest From Equal Employment The Latest From Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

The EEOC just released the latest numbers relating to employment claims, and they remind us of the need for employment practices liability insurance.

Life Has Changed, Has Your Insurance?

The personal insurance needs of our society have evolved over the years. It is interesting to look back to see what has changed in the world of safety and insurance. As you think about these personal insurance issues, also think about how your insurance may respond today.

Advantages Of A Regular Workers’ Compensation Market Review

Your busy building your business; often reviewing your commercial workers’ compensation insurance seems like going to the doctor. Besides your costs did not go up that much this year, right? Paying your insurance premiums isn’t always enough. Having the right combination of coverage and price is one of the most important things you can do regarding for your business.

Are Rideshare Drivers Covered By Their Auto Insurance?

If you drive your personally owned auto for Uber, Lyft, or even a pizza delivery company, your personal auto insurance will not provide coverage you need, should you be involved in an accident. Uber and Lyft are "rideshare" services that compete with taxis and more traditional car transport services. These companies do not own or operate their cars and do not hire their drivers directly. Drivers are independent contractors who drive their own vehicles to pick up and drop off customers. Here are two big coverage gaps.

Do You Love Your Valentine’s Gift? You May Want to Insure It.

It is that time of year when many of us give that special person in our lives a gift that they will enjoy your round. Valentine's gifts typically include watches, jewelry, art, cameras and other valuable items. Whatever you may do this year, if you purchase an expensive item for that special person, make sure you get it insured.

Agritourism Risks Are Very Real, You Covered?

Agritourism is any activity that allows members of the general public on your farm property for recreational, entertainment, or educational purposes. Agritourism activities include everything from a bed and breakfast, a corn maze, an educational field trip, a store or wine tasting, to “pick your own” and roadside farm stands. It is important to understand your increased liability, by having visitors on your property.

Recent Wild Fires Means More Flooding

We have been witness to record-setting wildfires in over the past few years and experts are now telling us that the results will mean more flooding. We have learned that a combination of record heat has created a massive growth of undergrowth that acts as fuel for wildfires, thus creating more damage to the land. The ground blooms dry out and create more heat for wildfires. Winter weather changes also have created more rain than snow causing more erosion and overflowing dams. All of these conditions have created a perfect storm for flooding.

What Is Covered In A Typical Business Insurance Policy?

We design business insurance policies every day for many different kinds of businesses. There is constant competition for your customers, there are challenges in attracting and retaining top talent, and your cost of goods keeps going up. Part of your planning should include an annual business insurance review. Your business changes, and so do your exposures. Here are some of the major kinds of coverage found in most business insurance programs.

The Next Storm Is Coming… Be Prepared

There is no question another wind, flood, hail, or rain is in our future. It is always best to do a little preparation now so that you and your family are ready. First, we recommend that you have an agent complete a personal insurance review. There are some key areas of your personal insurance that help you in the event of a storm. These are just a sample of the kinds of questions we might ask you.

Homeowners Insurance... Be The Best It Can Be

Many homeowners have experienced premium increases. Our agency works ver yahrd to bring our clients the best possible combination of premiums, coverage, and service. Homeowners insurance plays an important role in society. It protects your most important financial asset, your home. Remember, each homeowner's insurance policy is different, and if you bought your homeowners insurance online, you may not have proper coverage.

Something Your Business Insurance Might Be Missing

If your business suffered a property loss, are you confident that your building would be restored to its pre-loss condition—including any changes in building codes? It is a sobering fact that over 30% of businesses that suffer a total loss never resume operations. If these businesses had purchased the right insurance, they might have been able to continue operation.

Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Fall will be here before you know it, and now is the time to start to think about preparing your roof for winter. Preventative roof maintenance is important, and can help protect your building through winter. Also, having fewer claims will help keep your insurance premiums as low as possible.

Is Your Business Covered For These Risks?

Many businesses buy commercial insurance thinking that the policy they have covers most if not all things that might go wrong and cause a loss to their business. That kind of thinking can lead to an uninsured loss.

Teens and College…A Good Risk?

This time of year, many recent high school graduates are preparing for their next phase of life. Their plans may include heading off to college in another city or state. One of the most important things they will need at school is something that doesn’t have to be packed at all – the right insurance coverage. Here is a list of some of the items you should consider before your child heads off to the University.

Cyber Liability Continues To Be An Emerging Risk

Cyber Liability continues to be a major issue for businesses in 2018. In today’s data-driven social media world, businesses of all sizes have had a cyber-attack or data breach. Statistics show 39% of all cyber incidents affect businesses with fewer than 100 employees. With the recent breaches in the financial and hospital industries, many businesses are considering cyber insurance. 

Why Your Business Needs Better Commercial Insurance

When was the last time you had a business insurance review? If it has been more than two years, it is time. Risk and claims trends are causing many business owners to rethink their commercial or business insurance programs

What's Under Your Roof?

Have you ever stopped to think about all the things that could cause damage to your home and personal property? Probably not, but we think about personal insurance coverage every day. Your homeowner's insurance is designed to protect you from claims that can come from many different events. We can design a homeowner's insurance product that fits your individual needs. Here are a few of the kinds of events that can be covered under your roof.

Key Coverage For Your Business

Every business should have a property insurance coverage to respond to the many risks associated with property ownership. Property policies offer many unique coverages, including Building Coverage, Business Personal Property Coverage, Building Ordinance Coverage, Equipment Breakdown Coverage, and more.

Why You Need Insurance If You Operate An Airbnb

Many people say the problem with insurance is your never know what you have until you have a claim. We hope to dispel that by providing you with education regarding your personal insurance policies should you rent out part of your home as an Airbnb.

You Will Never Need Personal Insurance If...

Are you tired of people telling why need to buy their insurance? Are you sick of buying "cheap" online insurance, only to end up with the wrong coverage? We thought it might be fun to tell that you do not need personal insurance if you meed the following criteria.

Leased or Rented Equipment

Like many organizations, your business may rent or lease equipment from time to time. You may be
planning a special event and need a tent to accommodate 250 people as part of a business activity. Or,
perhaps you are renting a sound system for a concert, or leasing office equipment such as your copier.
These kinds of events create added risk to the organization. 

Don’t Let Your Home Remodel Project Turn Into An Episode Of Tool Time

A home remodeling project can create an exciting new and improved home and even increase your home’s
value. However, the process can be daunting and frustrating as your home can be the center of a “war
zone” during the process. While you focus on color and design issues, do not forget to consider these items.

Innovative Insurance Solutions

We live in a changing world, and your business insurance needs to be changing as well. In order to keep your commercial insurance up to date you need to have the ability to change and update your insurance program on a regular basis. The insurance industry has developed a number of innovative coverage that your business may just need.

Does Santa Claus Need Insurance?

Imagine that your entire business was focused on just one day out of the whole year? You have to spend 364 days preparing for one single product distribution. Do you think there might be just a little bit of stress—say around December 20? If we attempted to present Santa with a business insurance proposal, he might say, “Who would sue Santa?” I

What Have We Learned From Natural Disasters

This past month we have had major wildfires in California and Oregon and Hurricanes in Florida and Texas. We hope the victims of all these vents are recovering and our prayers and thoughts are with them still. Thank you to all the first responders who have risked their lives during the past few months.

Three Types of Crime That Creates Problems For Your Business

Business insurance can protect you from many different kinds of criminal activity. We thought it would be worthwhile to identify a few ways criminals try to steal from your business.

A Few Simple Ways to Prepare Now For a Disaster

We have witnessed the wrath of hurricane Harvey and are looking at Irma hitting the East Coast Soon. Wild fires are hitting the West very hard. We thought it might be good to offer a little disaster preparedness.

Test Your Business Insurance IQ

We don’t expect you to be experts in business insurance, but we thought it might be fun to test you on what you do know about your business insurance.

Summer Means Greater Safety Awareness for Motorcycle Drivers

Summer traditionally sees an increase in motorcycle accidents, primarily due to the increased number of riders on the roads.

Construction Risks Increase In The Summer

We are heading into summer and that means there will be increased construction activity throughout the city. Risk and insurance experts tell us that construction risk and injuries increase from June through September.

Some Personal Supplemental Coverages Offer Value

Buying auto or home insurance can be confusing these days. Insurance companies keep making marketing claims that may or may not be very accurate. We are here to make your personal insurance buying decisions as smooth as possible.

Insurable Risks Derived From A Growing Businesses

Recently, small business owners were surveyed to help identify some of the top risks they faced when growing their businesses1 . Many small business owners are unaware of the new, and increased, risks that come with growth.

Slip Right Into Watercraft Insurance

In 2016, the Coast Guard counted 4,463 accidents that involved 701 deaths, 2,903 injuries and approximately $49 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.

Wildfires Can Occur Anywhere

Unlike earthquakes and floods, wildfire damage should not require a separate policy, and probably does not even require a high-risk policy. It is a good idea, however, to know what your homeowner’s policy does cover. In many cases wildfires are covered, but it is always good to call your agent for a homeowner’s insurance review

Are You Prepared For A Workers’ Compensation Audit?

Every business must have workers’ compensation insurance. This kind of coverage is designed to protect the workers from on-the-job injuries. Workers’ compensation also protects the employer from liability in the event of a workplace illness or injury.

Business Practices for Which you Will be Thankful

One of the best things a business owner can do to protect his or her business, is to have a business
insurance program that covers your business in the best way possible. Your business insurance program should include Employment Practice Liability, and Directors and Officers Liability insurance. These coverage’s can often be bundled together through a management liability policy.

Is Earthquake Insurance Really Needed?

Many California homeowners go without earthquake insurance. Often people mistakenly think that earthquakes are covered under their homeowner’s policy. Other people figure the odds are low, and that nothing will happen. Let us correct you; unless you have added earthquake coverage, it is excluded from your homeowner’s policy. Some mortgage companies may even require earthquake coverage, depending where you are located.

 The Impact of Legalized Marijuana On Your Business

California legalized the use of marijuana last year and the impact will be felt on all businesses. The new California initiative would allow adults to grow as many as six plants for personal use. In addition, the ballot measure allows retail sales of marijuana by licensed shops and imposes a 15% excise tax.

From Two Incomes to One… and The Value of Live Insurance 

Most families depend on two incomes to make ends meet.  If your spouse died suddenly, could your family continue to meet all their financial obligations—from paying rent or the mortgage, to daily living expenses?  Could your family continue their standard of living on a single income?  Would your plans for the future stay intact? 

Are There Insurance Lessons In “The Walking Dead”?

The AMC TV show, The Walking Dead has captured the interest of many of us.  It is one of the most popular shows on TV. While the chances of zombies roaming around an apocalyptic State of Georgia are remote, there are still many things we can learn from the show.  

Does My Insurance Cover My Christmas Gifts?

The holidays are behind us, the tree is down, and the gifts are put away.  But wait, you may have a problem! In some cases, you may need to update your home insurance or auto insurance in order to maintain the proper coverage.  Many of us may have purchased gifts that increase our personal liability, and we thought it might be good to review these items. If you have any of these items, please call your agent today.  

Remember, Criminals Are Also Looking For Deals This Holiday

We are in the middle of the holiday season. While you are out shopping for the perfect gift, criminals are also out looking for ways to enhance their holiday take. While your personal insurance will most likely cover losses from theft, we thought it might be a good time to have us review your personal insurance. Stop in and have some coffee while we review your homeowner's insurance coverage. 

A Little Preparation Can Get Your Business Running After a Loss

No one wants to think about an event so severe that it would cause your business to close. However, disaster needs to be part if your ongoing business plan. Mojor events can include floods, storms, data breach, fires, accidents, death of an owner, or lawsuits. Whatever the risk, a little pre-planning can go a long way toward getting your business up and running. 

2016 Holiday Shopping Safety

Halloween is over and that means we are in the middle of the Holiday season. During the next 60 days, we will all be busy shopping, eating out, and traveling. Thieves know that the police are overloaded during the holiday season, and they will take full advantage of it. Burglars know that there are many expensive items in homes and cars during this time. 

Why Motorcycle Insurance Important

You love your bike and where your bike can take you. When you hit the road it is important to have safety in mind as well as the right kind of motorcycle insurance. 

We Understand Your Farm or Ranch is All About Family

Your farm is your livelihood, and you can never too cautious. Since an accident can happen when you least expect it, it is important to be prepared when potential problems arise. Most traditional insurance products do not respond to the needs of farm and ranch operations. These needs can include special farm equipment, equine property, stable liability, dairy exposure, cattle and other livestock mortality exposures, high valued homes, and livestock breeder's floater, to name just a few. 

Summer Months Mean An Increase In Road Contruction Zones

Road and highway construction projects increase between the months of June and September. All of us have come upon road projects and have been asked to slow down or stop. If you get into an accident, your personal auto insurance coverage. In the past five years, over 4,400 people have died because of auto accidents in highway work zones. The drivers and passengers are the ones most often injured. Remember, road worker are just doing their jobs. Be kind and follow instructions.

How Can Your Business Limit Lawsuits

Your business not only creates income for you, it may provide employment for other people. Small and medium businesses are subject to the same risks as major corporations. You buy business insurance to help protect your business for claims and litigation that may come from a variety of sources.

The Risks Of Owning A Swiming Pool

Summer is here and many of us are enjoying our backyard swimming pool. It is good to remember that owning a pool not only has liability risks, but there are property risks as well. However, most important is keeping your friends and family safe, so here are a few pool safety reminders. 

How Cyber Liability Insurance Can Keep You In Business 

Almost every business has a cyber liability exposure. Most businesses are secure some form of coverage to protect their companies from these types of threats. A recent report by leading insurance firm said that purchases of cyber insurance grew over 30% in the last year. It has become clear that that even a good IT department cannot solve all the cyber risks your business has.

Does My Privately Held Business Need Directors and Officers Liability Insurance 

Directors and Officers (D&O) Insurance is an effective for the risks facing private organizations. Our products and services are designed to fit the needs of your business. Our insurance policy protects directors, officers, employees. volunteers, committee members, trustees, and the organization itself. 

Overlooked Business Insurance Coverage

There is nothing more important than having the right commercial insurance for your business. Let’s face it, one uninsured loss could be devastating to your business. According to the Small Business Administration, 30% of businesses never recover from large loss. Your business insurance can be designed to fit your individual needs. Here are a few business insurance coverages that some business may overlook.  

Educate Your Kids About Summer Bike Safety

Summer is almost here and your kids will be out of the house playing and biking all over the neighborhood. Now is a good time to teach them about riding their bicycles in a safe manor. Your homeowner's policy can provide coverage for bicycle theft, and some homeowner's policies have low coverage limits for things like sporting equipment. If you own a high value bike you may want to make sure it is properly covered. Remember any loss covered will be subject to your homeowner's insurance deductible. 

Dangers Of Texting And Driving

A texting driver is twenty three times more likely to have an accident than a non-texting driver is. However, one million people chat and text while driving each day. The average text takes a driver's eyes off the road for nearly five seconds, so when traveling 55mph, that is enough, time to cover the length of a football field. Most experts agree texting and driving is equal to driving drunk.

Have You Just Started A Business?

Startup businesses have a wide variety of issues, exposures, and concerns, and you want to make sure that your new venture will be protected. There are many different decisions that, as a new business owner, you need to make, and selecting the right commercial insurance is one of them. The first thing you need to do is hire the right agent to help you through the process of obtaining the right kind of commercial insurance. We recommend you choose an independent agent to help you. Independent agents have access to many different markets and can provide the right combination of commercial insurance products and services.  

How To Save On Commercial Insurance

The purchase of business insurance is an essential investment for business owners. Insurance policies protect the business from the financial consequences of accidents and mishaps that could erode profitability and threaten continuity of the operation. Business insurance can be expensive, so we wanted to give you a few tips in how to get the most out of your business insurance purchase. 

What To Do After An Accident

It is our hope that you never have an auto accident. But let’s face the facts, at some point you may be involved in an auto accident. The accident may be the fault of the other driver or due to your own negligence. Whatever the case, here are a few things to do right after an accident.

The Best Ways To Insure Your Recreational Toys

Spring is here and many of us are thinking about taking our boat out, hitting the road on our motorcycle, and even planning a long trip in our RV. Regardless of whether you are relaxing on your boat at the lake, traveling through the Rocky Mountains, camping with friends and family, or enjoying the open road on the bike of your dreams; you need to take the proper steps to protect what you have worked so hard to enjoy.

Have You Considered Professional Liability Insurance

Most businesses purchase general liability insurance to protect their businesses against certain kinds of claims. These claims could include bodily injury and property damage. It is very important for businesses to understand the difference between professional liability and general liability. 

For People Who Really Love Classic Cars

There is a special group of people who love that “old car feel”. People love older cars because these classics bring back childhood memories, and because they can be a good investment. Whatever the case, classic cars need the right kind of insurance. 

Don’t Let A Loss Turn Into A Financial Disaster

There is nothing worse than having a major home fire or other loss; unless it is to have a loss and then have difficulty getting your home repaired. This is especially true in areas of the country where a major disaster has hit. Unfortunately, disaster affected neighborhoods are often targeted by some unscrupulous people who offer construction, clean-up, or repair “services”, and then defraud their victims. We hope that you never have a disaster, but if you do, here are some sound suggestions for dealing with home repairs.

 

How Distracted Driving Can Affect Your Auto Insurance

Driving distractions are an increasing occurrence in America due to the growing use of hand-held devices. Driving is a skill that requires your full attention to safely control your vehicle and respond to events happening on the roads around you. Driving involves constant and complex coordination between your mind and body. Any event or thing that prevents you from operating your car safely is considered a distraction. For example, driving while using a hand-held device increases the likelihood you will be in a car accident by 400%. This has been a factor that has influenced recent restrictive legislation in our state banning hand-held devices while operating a vehicle.

Artisan Contractors Insurance

Construction projects depend on the special talent and skills of artisan contractors. Artisan contractors are part of our thriving economy. For many artisan contractors, the most cost effective and efficient way to obtain property and liability coverage is with a Business Owners Policy (BOP) especially tailored to their needs. Although marketed under a variety of names, these policies will typically have provisions similar to the BOP. In addition, a contractor will need workers’ Compensation insurance.

Proper Building Management for Winter Weather

Winter storms are a reality for many businesses in our area.  Winter storms include heavy snow, ice, wind, and even flooding.  All these events can create a complete shutdown for many businesses.  The good news is that there are many things that you can do to prepare your business for winter’s wrath.  Initiate your snow removal contract, if needed.  Work with your staff to check building conditions at all locations, and monitor the temperature.

 

Are You Up to Date on OSHA Regulations?

OSHA issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that clarifies an employer’s continuing obligation to keep and maintain accurate records of recordable incidents. The new rule doesn’t impose any new reporting requirements or add any new obligations for employers. Instead, the proposed rule clarifies the obligations that employers already have and reinforces that accurate records “are not simply paperwork, but have an important, in fact, life-saving purpose.”.To read more, click below:

 

Now Is The Time to Test Your Home Fire Safety Equipment

Now that Halloween is over and we have set our clocks back, it is time to check your home fire safety equipment.  Having working fire safety equipment can save lives. But electronic devices are not infallible; batteries die, and other parts of the smoke detector can wear out over time. Regular testing can help ensure that your family will be safe in the event of a fire in your home. .To read more, click below:

 

Redding Back To School Time…Sports Are Going Strong

As your child head back to school this fall, California parents need to be educated on the risks involved in  Redding school and club sports programs. These are generally good programs, but participation does come with some risk. There are over 35 million children participating in organized school and other sports programs throughout the United States. This is why sports injuries are the second leading cause of emergency room visits for children and adolescents, and the second leading cause of injuries in school. While many of these injuries are covered under some form of Florida health insurance, there should be some cause for alarm. Your personal liability may be increasing as youth sports get more competitive..To read more, click below:

Do You Want To Prevent Your Car From Being Stolen?

How important it is to have the correct Redding auto insurance?  Well, read the following statistics. A vehicle is stolen every 55 seconds in the United States. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, over 80% of all comprehensive claims involve auto theft. Only about 60% of stolen vehicles are recovered. 40-50% of vehicle theft is due to driver error. The top two months for vehicle thefts are July and August. Half of the insurance companies who offer auto insurance offer discounts for alarms or anti-theft devices.To read more, click below:

New Technologies Have Helped Lower Redding Homeowner’s Insurance

Can you believe all the new innovations that are available for your home? Many new