Insurance Store Blog

Prepare for Driving In Bad Weather Before You Hit the Road

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:54:52 GMT

Rain, fog, sleet, snow, ice and wind… bad weather is the enemy of every driver in Missouri. Insurance Store wants you and your employees to be safe. Even if you are satisfied that your vehicle and all of its components are in good operating condition, bad weather demands that you take a few more precautions before hitting the road. At regular intervals, especially during the winter months, check the following items.

Abrasive Material: A bag of kitty litter or similar material will help you get moving under snowy or icy conditions

Battery: Does it need to be charged or replaced? Cold weather puts extra strain on a battery. Always keep jumper cables in your vehicle.

Brakes: Are they properly adjusted? Should they be replaced? Good brakes are more important than ever during the winter months. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), make sure it is working.

Chains: Do you carry them? They can be a real help on ice or snow.

Cooling system: Be sure the cooling system is free from leaks. Does it need more anti-freeze? Should it be flushed and refilled?

Defroster: Are the defroster and heater working properly? Make sure they can keep the interior from fogging and the windshield free from ice.

Engine: Have you had a recent tune-up? This is a must in cold weather to prevent slow starts and stalling.

Exhaust System: Check to make sure the muffler and exhaust pipe are free from leaks. Carbon monoxide from a faulty exhaust system can threaten your life.

Lights: Keep all lights clean and working properly (high and low-beam headlights, taillights, brake lights, directional signals).

Restraints: Keep lap and shoulder belts clean and accessible, and be sure to use them. Restraints can keep you behind the wheel and in control if the vehicle suddenly skids.

Tires: Are they properly inflated? Are treads in good condition and wheels aligned and balanced? Consider changing to snow tires.

Windshield Wipers and Washer: Keep wiper blades in good condition and be sure they are set at the proper pressure to sweep snow off the windshield. Keep plenty of windshield washer anti-freeze handy.

Insurance Store can provide you with tools for fleet driving training and additional information to help reduce crashes in everyday driving. Just give us a call at 636-532-0100 or contact us today!

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Car

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:24:00 GMT

Buying a new car is an exciting time - but it can also be stressful. After all, you're trying to get the best deal on price, while also deciding on the make, model and features you need.

We can't really help you become a master negotiator when it comes to buying a car. But we can give you some things to consider when you're looking around the lot - and when you're trying to answer the age-old question of "new, or used?"

Now, the new vs. used argument is pretty well documented - with people usually staunchly in one camp or the other - and you probably already know what side you're on. But read on with an open mind, and you might just come to a different decision the next time you’re on the car lot.

New cars

Ah, that new-car smell. It's a bit of a cliché, but it's one of the things that people love about climbing into a brand-new car. And while they make air fresheners that supposedly give you that same smell for your used car, it just doesn't seem the same, does it? Still, there are other benefits to buying new - and, of course, there are drawbacks as well.

PRO - Choices: When you buy new, you get to choose your color and the exact features you want. From spoilers to sunroofs to leather seats and stereo systems, you can customize your car to best fit you.
PRO - Maintenance: Some manufacturers offer free scheduled maintenance for a set period of time after you buy the car, and you likely won't need a new battery, tires, etc., for several years after your purchase.
PRO - Peace of Mind: Your new car may have a warranty for up to 10 years, and also is covered by "lemon laws" that could allow for a replacement or refund if the car has serious defects.
CON - Cost: Depending on the make and model, buying a new car is almost always more expensive (at least in terms of the purchase price) than a used car.

It's also worth noting that if you purchase a new car in its first model year (meaning it's a new model for the automaker), there won't be many user reviews available, and data on reliability and repairs will be limited. In addition, sometimes newly introduced cars have some kinks that generally are ironed out by the second and third model years. These aren't necessarily serious issues, and the warranty should cover them, but in some instances, you and your car could be headed to the shop more than you'd like.

Used Cars

Don't care about the new-car smell? Looking to save some money on your purchase? Well, a used car might be right for you. There are many advantages to buying used, but you'll want to be a little more careful. After all, it's hard to know exactly how well the previous owner treated the car. But you can limit your risk with a little bit of work.

PRO - Choices: While you won't necessarily get to customize your used car, you likely can find a pretty good fit. There are lots of used cars out there.
PRO - Cost: New cars depreciate quickly after they're purchased. By buying used, you're letting someone else take that financial hit over the first few years of the life of the car.
PRO/CON - Reliability: Buying a used car is less of a gamble than it used to be, particularly with the advent of "certified pre-owned" programs many automakers now offer. However, used cars generally don't carry the same warranties as new cars, even though the original manufacturer's warranty is usually transferable to a second owner.
CON - Maintenance: While a used car theoretically shouldn't need more frequent maintenance than a new car, you'll likely need to replace things like tires, headlights, etc., earlier. And scheduled maintenance probably isn't covered by the automaker.
PRO/CON - History: You'll need to check the car's title history to make sure it hasn't been in a serious accident or salvaged. Ask the dealership to provide this information, usually from Carfax.

Of course, whichever car you purchase, the important thing is that it's a good fit for you. Bear in mind that certain makes and models can result in higher car insurance costs for you, so feel free to check in with us before you buy.

Have fun shopping - and we'll see you on the road!

Is Your Home Energy Efficient?

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:52:56 GMT

Drafty windows. Leaky faucets. Dirty air filters.

All are common issues here in Missouri, and they’re not only annoying – they also cost you money in decreased energy efficiency and higher utility bills.

Would you like to save $200 to $400 a year on your energy costs? That’s how much the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program estimates that homeowners can save by incorporating technologies to make their homes operate more efficiently.

Of course, helping to protect you and your family is our goal at Insurance Store, and keeping your home well-maintained usually means your home will be safer as well. Those are goals we all should share. Several of the tips below from the National Association of Home Builders will help you accomplish both.

Do a home-energy audit

Making your home more efficient can seem like an overwhelming task. But “auditing” your energy efficiency is something you can do yourself, and it’s relatively simple. This will show you where your home loses energy, how efficient your heating and cooling systems are, and ways you can decrease your electricity use. Just inspect the areas listed here and note the problems you find.

Where’s the air? Air commonly “leaks” from homes through gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets and windows or doors. Stopping these drafts can save up to 30 percent of your yearly energy costs. Be sure to check your home’s exterior as well, paying particular attention to areas where two different building materials meet. When you find leaks, seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
Don’t wait … insulate! Check to see if the amount of insulation in the ceiling and walls is sufficient. Your attic door should be insulated and close tightly. For walls, make a small hole in a closet or other inconspicuous place and probe into the wall with a screwdriver – the area should be completely filled with insulation.
Do a systems check. Efficient heating and cooling systems can save you frustration as well as money. Make sure ducts and pipes are insulated properly, and have your equipment checked and cleaned by a professional each year. Filters for forced-air furnaces should be replaced as soon as they are dirty, or every 30 to 60 days.
Let there be (efficient) light. Lighting can account for up to 20 percent of your home’s total electricity use, so consider compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs, which last longer and use far less energy than incandescent bulbs.

The only thing left to do after you complete your audit (and make any necessary changes)? Figuring out how to spend the money you’ll save each year!

Contact Us!

For further questions and assistance, please contact us.

Motorcycle Insurance: Ride More, Worry Less.

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:25:36 GMT

Lowering the Cost of Motorcycle Insurance in Missouri

Simple steps can lead to savings in your pocket. Spending less money is much easier than perfecting your tight turns at high speeds on a gravel road. Take a look at some simple ways to lower your Missouri motorcycle insurance costs for riders like you.

More expensive motorcycle = more expensive insurance
Before you buy a motorcycle, check with Insurance Store to see what it will cost to insure it. Expensive bikes cost more to repair, maintain and insure. The safety equipment you select may also save you money.
Increase your deductible
By raising the amount you pay out-of-pocket for losses, you can save more on your motorcycle insurance policy. Ask one of our agents to explain the trade-offs.
Insurance Store + combined policies = lower cost
The more combined policies you have with a single insurance company, your car insurance, home insurance etc., the more substantial your savings will be. Learn more about your motorcycle insurance coverage options, by giving us a call or read about Missouri motorcycle insurance online.
Safety saves
You may be able to save money on your premium if your motorcycle is stored in a garage, if you belong to certain rider groups, or if you’ve taken a safe rider course sponsored by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

For more information on lowering the cost of your motorcycle insurance, please contact us. You can also request an online motorcycle quote and we'll provide you with quotes from multiple companies so you can compare and save!

Coverage to consider for home-based business

Mark Hendrix — Sun, 22 May 2011 01:16:00 GMT

I found this article from an acquaintance and thought it was enlightening. It is a very high level from Addpr.com. Call me if you have any questions.

(2011-05-21) Starting A Business At Home – 7 Insurance Types That Can Help

Starting A Business At Home – 7 Insurance Types That Can Help

When you decide to have a home-based business, buying insurance is not at the top of your priority list, but insurance is something that cannot be ignored either. Murphy’s law states that anything that can go wrong will go wrong. Therefore an insurance coverage can be one of the most important things you need to reach business success.

You may not have the need for all types of insurance listed here, but taking some time now to consider your insurance requirements can help you save and avoid hassles in the future. An insurance agent can help a lot particularly if you lack experience in this domain. Explain to them the particulars of your business and the agent should be able to determine the best insurance coverage for you and your business (and employees if applicable).

Business Interruption Insurance
Natural catastrophes can take place in unexpected times and your business be at a standstill. For instance, you cannot operate due to disturbances in weather. You will have coverage for income lost during the natural catastrophe, and will pay for operating expenditures that continue to accrue, even though your business isn’t up and running.

Health Insurance
Health insurance must be the primary concern for yourself and any employees you may have. If you have just left your current job to focus on your own business, you may be entitled for COBRA, which will offer temporary interim coverage. This will keep you covered while you search for the finest health insurance plan.

Business Property Insurance
Business property insurance assists in protecting you against loss of equipment or inventory. Fires and floods can create such adversities on your venture. If you obtain this type of insurance, you can have peace of mind that you’re still in secure financial shape in the face of the catastrophe.

Life Insurance
Life insurance will help ensure that your loved ones has the finances it needs if you happen to have an untimely death. It will be much easier to get someone to offer you a loan when you own life insurance. In other words, it is a prerequisite to obtain a loan because it makes sure that the loan will be paid despite an untimely passing.

General Liability Insurance
If your home-based business entails having customers visiting your home, having general liability insurance is necessary. Whether you intend to hold appointments, allow clients to pick up goods, or have the public go into your home for any other reason, this insurance will protect you if somebody gets hurt while on your property. The lawsuits that can result in such situations will cost you money but with general liability insurance, these legal expenses are covered.

Disability Insurance
Sudden disability will cause you to lose income due to the actuality that you are unable to do work for a living. This is where disability insurance becomes useful as it will financially assist you when it does occur. Having the sense of security is well worth every penny you pay.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance is an utter necessity if you intend on having employees working out of your home. The medical expenses that may result in the event of employees’ injuries while doing tasks for you is covered by this workers’ compensation insurance. Some may assume that this is not needed because the kind of business they run is not that precarious but no matter what type of industry, workers’ compensation insurance is still extremely advantageous. Don’t be concerned; you may get cheaper plans if your business faces less risks.

This types of insurance can help make certain that you’re ready to face any possible event that might occur while you are operating your home-based business. Disasters, accidents, and catastrophes can strike at any point in time. By getting yourself ready, you may be saving you and your company significant financial loss, wasted time and effort.

Claim Scenarios For CYBER LIABILITY – Are you covered?

Mark Hendrix — Mon, 16 May 2011 23:44:00 GMT

The average cost of a data breach is $204 per lost record, with more than half of such costs attributable to lost customers and the associated public relations expenses to rebuild an organization’s reputation. The below examples illustrate situations in which the costs incurred to re-mediate a data breach were significant. I site these examples from Philadelphia Insurance Company marketing materials.

Unauthorized Access
An Intl. computer hacking group gained access electronically to the computerized cash registers of a restaurant chain and stole credit card information of 5,000 customers, starting a flood of fraudulent purchases around the world.

Theft of Digital Assets
A regional retailer contracted with a third party service provider. A burglar stole two laptops of the service provider containing the data of over 800,000 clients of the retailer. Under applicable notification laws, the retailer – not the service provider – was required to notify affected individuals. Total expenses incurred for notification, and crisis management to customers was nearly $5,000,000.

Privacy Breach
An employee of a rehab center improperly disposed of 4,000 client record in violation of the center’s privacy policy. The records contained social security numbers, credit and debit card account numbers, names, addresses, and telephone numbers as well as sensitive medical information. The center settled the claim with the state of Massachusetts and agreed to pay fines and penalties imposed by the state as well as extend $890,000 in customer redress funds for credit monitoring on behalf of the victims.

Theft of Digital Assets
A home health-care organization had backup tapes, laptops and disks containing social security, numbers, clinical and demographic information and in a small number of cases, patient financial data that was stolen. In total, over 365,000 patient records were exposed. The organization settled with the state attorney general, providing patients with free credit monitoring, credit restoration to patients that were victims of identity fraud, and reimbursement to patients for direct losses required to revamp its security policies, implement technical safeguards and conduct random compliance audits.

Human Error
A non-profit community action corporation printed two 1099 forms on one piece of paper. An employee was supposed to separate the forms and send each to its rightful owner. Instead, one person received both copies. The mistake sent tax forms and social security numbers to strangers. Approximately, 50% of the landlords who work with the community action corporation received their form in addition to the private information of the others.

Cyber Extortion Threat
A U. S. Based information technology company contracted with an overseas software vendor. The contracted vendor left universal ‘administrator’ defaults installed on the company’s server and a “Hacker for Hire” was paid $20,000 to exploit such vulnerability. The hacker advised if the requested payment was not made he would post the records of millions of registered users on a blog available for all to see. The extortion expenses and extortion monies re expected to exceed $2,000,000.

Human Error
An employee of a private high school mistakenly distributed via e-mail the names, social security numbers, birth-dates and medical information of students and faculty creating a privacy breach. Overall, 1,250 individuals’ information was compromised.

Malicious Code
A juvenile released a computer worm directing infected computers to launch a denial of service attack against a regional computer consulting & application outsourcing firm. The infection caused an 18 hour shutdown of the entity’s computer systems. The computer consulting & application outsourcing firm incurred extensive costs and expenses to repair and restore their system as well as business interruption expenses which totaled approximately $875,000

Thanks to Philadelphia Insurance Companies for these claims examples. A member of the Tokio Marine Group. Coverages described may not be available in all states and are subject to underwriting. Philadelphia Insurance Companies is one of our preferred markets for Cyber Coverage. If we can review your needs please let us know what your situation is and we will be happy to engage with your needs.