Author: Meredith Smith

Fireworks are a staple of many Fourth of July and other celebrations, but to remember to take precautions to ensure your special event is safe and accident-free.

The Risks

Unfortunately, many people do not realize just how dangerous fireworks and sparklers can be—which is a primary reason that injuries occur. Fireworks can not only injure the users, but can also affect bystanders.

Bottle rockets and firecrackers can fly in any direction and may explode on or near someone instead of up in the air. Sparklers are also a huge risk, as they burn at very high temperatures and are often given to children too young to use them safely. All fireworks pose a potential risk of burn, blindness, or other injury.

Tips for Safe Use

When using fireworks, always plan carefully in advance for who will shoot them and what safety precautions you will have in place. Here are some suggestions to ensure safety and avoid accidents:

• Use fireworks and sparklers outdoors only.
• Always have a hose or water bucket handy.
• Only use fireworks as intended. Do not alter or combine them, and do not use homemade fireworks.
• Keep spectators a safe distance away.
• Never give sparklers to young children.
• Wear safety goggles when handling or shooting off fireworks.
• Do not shoot fireworks off if under the influence of alcohol.
• Show children how to properly hold sparklers, how to stay far enough away from other children and what not to do (throw, run, or fight with sparkler in hand)—but supervise closely regardless.
• Point fireworks away from people, homes, trees etc.
• Never try to relight a dud (a firework that didn’t properly ignite).
• Soak all firework debris in water before throwing it away.
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them from metal or glass containers.

Boat insurance is a policy that helps protect you from financial loss if your boat is damaged, stolen or involved in an accident. It also covers liability if you cause injury or property damage while operating your vessel.

Common Coverages

• Liability coverage can help cover costs if you’re responsible for injuries or property
  damage to others.
• Physical damage coverage can help pay for repairs or replacement if your boat is
  damaged by collision, weather, theft, vandalism or another covered event.
• Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage can help cover accident-related costs if
  you’re hit by someone without sufficient insurance.
• Emergency towing and assistance can help if your boat breaks down on the water and
  needs help reaching shore.
• Personal effects coverage can help replace personal items on board—such as gear,
  electronics, and equipment—if they’re damaged or stolen.
• Trailer coverage can help pay to repair or replace your boat trailer after a covered
  accident or incident.
• Wreckage removal can help pay to remove the wreckage of your boat if it sinks and
  removal is legally required.
• Pollution liability can help cover clean-up costs if your boat leaks fuel or oil into the
  water.

Common Endorsements

• Agreed value coverage locks in a payout amount for total loss, regardless of
  depreciation.
• Fishing equipment endorsement increases limits on fishing gear lost or damaged on
  board.
• Hurricane haul-out can help cover the cost of moving or hauling your boat to safety
  during a named storm.
• Navigation area extension expands the geographical coverage area if you travel
  outside the standard policy zone.
• Charter use endorsement allows limited use of your boat for paid charters or rentals.
• Boat show and exhibition coverage can help provide coverage for the boat while it is
  displayed at shows or public events.
• Mechanical breakdown coverage adds engine or mechanical failure coverage,
  typically excluded from base policies.

Premium Cost Factors

Several things influence how much you’ll pay for boat insurance. Here are the most
common factors that can affect your premium.

Boat-specific factors:

• Type of boat—Speedboats, fishing boats, sailboats, yachts, and personal watercraft
  carry different risk profiles.
• Length and horsepower—Larger, faster boats usually cost more to insure due to
  higher repair and liability risks.
• Age and value of the boat—Newer or more expensive boats generally cost more to
  insure.
• Construction material—Fiberglass, aluminum, wood, and other materials differ in
  durability and repair costs.
• Modifications or custom features—High-end electronics, custom engines, or
  upgrades can increase both the value and risk.

Usage and operation:

• How the boat is used—Personal use, chartering, commercial fishing, or racing affects
  your rate.
• Navigation area—Inland waters are usually cheaper than coastal or international
  waters.
• Lay-up periods—Premiums may be lower if the boat is only used seasonally or stored
  for part of the year.
• Storage method—Boats kept in secure dry storage usually cost less to insure than
  those docked in water year-round.

Owner-related factors:

• Boating experience—More experience can reduce your premium, especially if you take
  safety courses.
• Claims history—A clean record helps lower costs; previous claims can raise them.
• Driving record—Some insurers consider your driving history as an indicator of risk.

Policy choices

• Coverage limits—Higher coverage amounts increase premiums.
• Deductibles—Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but you’ll pay
  more out of pocket if there’s a claim.
• Selected endorsements—Adding optional coverage (like towing, personal effects, or
  agreed value) increases the cost.

Learn More

Every boat and boater is unique. The best way to get the right coverage is to speak with
an agent who understands your needs. Our team can walk you through your options and
provide a personalized quote.

We understand that Health Alliance Medical Plans has made the difficult decision to discontinue offering health insurance. For our current clients, this change may raise concerns about your health coverage moving forward. It’s essential to prepare proactively to ensure you continue to have the health insurance coverage you need. Here are steps you should consider taking:

1. Evaluate Your Current Situation: Review your health needs, including any ongoing treatments or medications. Review the health providers who are important to YOU and your family. 
2. Research Alternatives: Let us help you explore other health insurance options in the marketplace or through your employer, if applicable. Compare benefits, premiums, and healthcare providers to make an informed decision. 
3. Contact a Professional: Navigating the complexities of health insurance can be overwhelming. This is where **Dimond Bros Insurance** can be your trusted partner. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right plan tailored to your unique needs. 
4. Stay Informed: Follow updates on health insurance regulations and marketplace offerings. Knowledge is power, and we’re here to keep you updated. 

At Dimond Bros Insurance, our mission is to ensure a seamless transition to a new health plan, safeguarding your health and peace of mind. Our experienced agents are ready to assist you in navigating this change and help you find the ideal coverage. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today for personalized support!

Mike Holley – Vice President of Life and Health 

Dimond Bros Insurance, LLC 

Mike.holey@dimondbros.com

Personal lines insurance can be a crucial aspect of financial planning that offers individuals and families financial protection against various risks. Personal insurance refers to a range of policies aimed at safeguarding individuals and their families from financial setbacks caused by unforeseen events. This type of insurance encompasses policies such as auto, home, renters and life insurance, each designed to insulate individuals and families from financial losses.

By understanding the different types of personal lines insurance and their advantages, individuals can make well-informed choices to shield themselves and their families from unforeseen financial challenges. Consider the following risk exposures and how insurance can help.

Property Damage

One common risk for individuals is property damage, which is the damage or destruction of physical items you own, such as the structure of your home or individual items. Homeowners insurance can offer protection for your home and its contents. It typically includes dwelling coverage (for house damage) and personal property coverage (for belongings). Property insurance is an essential financial shield for property owners, offering financial coverage for various risks such as fire, severe weather and vandalism. Most mortgage lenders mandate insurance, ensuring additional protection for the owner’s investment. Property insurance offers peace of mind, assuring owners that their assets are safeguarded from unexpected incidents.

It’s important to note that property insurance doesn’t cover every situation. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes generally require separate insurance beyond a typical homeowners policy. In addition to standard coverage, property owners may need to invest in endorsements, such as sewer backup, flood, sinkhole and earthquake insurance, to address gaps in coverage.

Property Theft

Another common risk for individuals is property theft. Homeowners and renters insurance typically include coverage for property theft, even if the theft doesn’t occur at your home; however, coverage limits may vary depending on the policy and situation. Additional coverage, such as a scheduled personal property endorsement or a rider to your home or renters insurance policy, may allow you to list each valuable item individually, along with its appraised value, ensuring it is fully protected against loss, theft or damage.

Start by getting a professional appraisal for each item to determine its worth. Then, provide this documentation to your insurance provider, who will adjust your policy accordingly. This process can help ensure that your high-value possessions are adequately covered beyond the standard policy limits. Review and update your coverage regularly to reflect any changes in the value of your items.

Vehicle Damage and Theft

Even the most careful driver is at risk for vehicle damage and theft. Many people opt to carry only as much auto insurance as is required by law, which is typically just liability coverage, but this won’t cover damage and theft. For that, you will need a more well-rounded policy that includes the following:

• Comprehensive coverage can help pay for losses caused by non collision events, such as weather events, theft, vandalism or striking an animal.
• Collision coverage may help cover the cost of repairing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident with another vehicle or object.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help you stay financially protected if your vehicle is involved in a hit-and-run incident or if you get in a car accident with an at-fault uninsured/underinsured third party.

Personal Liability

Personal liability insurance is crucial for protecting yourself financially from potential lawsuits and claims. If you have attractive nuisances on your property, such as a swimming pool or trampoline, you could be held liable if someone gets injured while using them. Dog bites are another common source of liability claims, as you could be responsible for medical expenses and legal fees if your pet injures someone. Hosting house parties also increases your risk, as guests could get injured or cause damage, leading to potential lawsuits. Adding personal umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of protection, extending your coverage limits and offering peace of mind in case of significant claims that exceed your standard policy limits. This comprehensive approach can help protect you against various risks and liabilities.

Legacy Planning

Legacy planning with life insurance can be vital in helping provide for your loved ones after you’re gone. Life insurance can help cover funeral expenses, pay off debts and provide a financial cushion for your family, allowing them to maintain their standard of living. It’s never too early to get life insurance, as securing a policy when you’re young and healthy often means lower premiums and better coverage options. Additionally, early planning allows you to build a more substantial policy overtime, which can better protect your legacy. By taking proactive steps now, you can provide peace of mind and financial stability for your loved ones in the future.

Contact Us

We’re here to help you learn more about addressing insurance exposures through proper coverage. Contact Dimond Bros. Insurance for more information.

June is National Safety Month. This campaign, put together by the National Safety Council (NSC), highlights efforts to prevent injuries and deaths inside and outside the workplace. It also helps provide learning opportunities for employees, allows employers to share their safety pride and gives employees the opportunity to pledge that they will work safely.

National Safety Month highlights research and prevention efforts in a themed area throughout each week of June.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 5,500 workplace fatalities and over 2.8 million job-related injuries occurred in the last 12 months alone. These findings emphasize how vital it is to promote safety at work. During National Safety Month, a different safety topic will be highlighted each week. Here’s an outline of topics:

• Safety engagement (June 1-8)—In order for employees to prioritize workplace safety, they need to be engaged. Employers can foster greater safety engagement among their staff by developing interactive training activities, scheduling regular toolbox talks, posting plenty of safety signage on-site and offering a range of written resources (e.g., workplace safety manuals and flyers). Additionally, employers should conduct routine occupational safety audits and reward employees who demonstrate a commitment to injury prevention.
• Roadway safety (June 9-15)—Having employees operate commercial vehicles poses a variety of potential safety risks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle traffic crashes contribute to more than 40,000 fatalities each year. As such, it’s critical for employers to only hire qualified drivers and educate these employees on roadway safety. Specifically, drivers should be instructed to inspect their vehicles before and after each journey, avoid any distractions behind the wheel and comply with all traffic laws.
• Risk reduction (June 16-22)—While all workplaces share some common safety hazards, specific risks vary based on employers’ operations. That’s why employers need to perform in-depth risk assessments and analyze their unique safety exposures. In doing so, employers can adopt more effective occupational safety measures and better protect their employees on the job. Employers should also encourage their employees to participate in risk reduction by reporting any unaddressed workplace safety issues.
• Slips, trips and falls (June 23-30)—Slips, trips and falls are prevalent injuries across industry lines. What’s worse, falls can sometimes be fatal. In fact, the National Institutes of Health reported that falls are the second-leading cause of unintentional, injury-related deaths. With this in mind, it’s crucial for employers to identify and mitigate any workplace risks that could cause slips, trips and falls. Further, employees should receive regular training on slip, trip and fall prevention.

By educating your employees on such topics, companies can create healthier and safer work environments. For additional safety-related information and resources and to sign up for National Safety Month, visit the NSC’s website.

The content of this article is of general interest and is not intended to apply to specific circumstances. It should not be regarded as legal advice and not be relied upon as such. In relation to any particular problem which they may have, readers are advised to seek specific advice.

When renting a car, the rental company will typically ask if you’d like to purchase insurance coverage for the vehicle. It’s at this point when you have to ask yourself: Do my personal insurance policies provide the coverage I need, or should I purchase insurance through the rental car company?

Although standard auto insurance policies may extend to rented vehicles, you should never assume you are protected. Examining your own auto insurance policy will show you the types of coverage you already possess and where additional coverage may be needed. Since auto policies differ, it’s a good rule of thumb to contact your broker so they can help you navigate your policy and determine if you have the appropriate amount of coverage when renting a vehicle.

Examining Your Insurance Policies

When deciding whether or not your personal insurance will cover your rental car, there are a few different coverages you should have. If you answer yes to all of the following questions, you may not need to purchase additional coverage:

• Do you have liability, collision or comprehensive car insurance? Liability, collision and comprehensive insurance are the three main coverage options available when purchasing car insurance. Although it is not always required to purchase all three coverages, they can optimize your protection in the event of an accident.
  • Liability insurance provides coverage if you damage or injure another person or their personal property.
  • Collision insurance provides coverage if your vehicle is involved in a collision, either with another vehicle or object.
  • Comprehensive insurance provides coverage if your car is damaged by a variety of exposures such as theft, vandalism or natural disasters.
• Does your policy cover administrative fees, loss of use or towing charges? It’s always a good idea to check see whether your insurance company pays for—or provides a rider for—additional fees associated with rental cars. This coverage can be helpful if a car you rent is lost, stolen or damaged.
• Do you have a renters or homeowners policy that will cover your belongings if lost or damaged? Your homeowners or renters insurance policy covers your personal belongings from theft, fire or vandalism within your home. Policies often include off-premises coverage that can extend your coverage to outside your residence. Therefore, if personal belongings in your vehicle are stolen or damaged, your homeowners or renters insurance policy may be able to cover a percentage of your losses. Not all insurance carriers will extend coverage to protect personal belongings within your vehicle—always check with your broker to see what your renters or homeowners policy covers.

What Is Rental Car Insurance, and What Does It Cover?

Car rental companies provide additional coverage that is often used to supplement insurance you already possess. Rental car agencies offer four different coverage options:

1. Supplemental liability insurance: Most car rental companies need to have the minimum amount of liability coverage required by the state, but oftentimes it isn’t an adequate amount of coverage. If you have a personal car insurance policy with a high liability limit, you may not need additional protection.
2. Loss damage waiver (LDW)/collision damage waiver (CDW): This is not insurance per se, but rather a document that can alleviate your financial responsibility should your rental vehicle be damaged or stolen. This also includes loss of use coverage if the rental company charges you for the amount of time the car could not be used while being repaired, as well as other administrative fees the car rental agency assesses. The LDW may become void if the incident occurred from the driver of the rented vehicle exhibiting reckless behavior, speeding or the vehicle being driven on unpaved roads.
3. Personal accident insurance: This will cover the driver and any passengers within the rented vehicle for any medical bills caused by a car crash. This coverage is useful if you do not already have health insurance or personal injury protection insurance.
4. Personal effects coverage: This covers any personal belongings that are stolen from the rental vehicle. If you already have renters or homeowners insurance, this may already be covered under your policy.

The coverages offered are oftentimes the same as what you already have for your personal car insurance. Again, to avoid paying for coverage you already have, review your policy before renting a vehicle.

Does Your Credit Card Provide Rental Insurance?

Many reputable credit card companies offer rental insurance to their customers. To utilize this secondary form of coverage, you must put the total amount of the car rental on your credit card. In many cases, credit card companies will also require you to deny any insurance offered by the car rental agency in order to access their coverage. In the event that your rental car is in a covered incident, the credit card company will help cover costs of damage or theft up to a certain dollar amount. Various rental car fees can be covered by your credit card, but this can vary by provider.

Before purchasing any additional coverage through the car rental facility, call your credit card company to see if your card offers car rental insurance. Since most credit card rental insurance is classified as a secondary form of coverage, you may need to rely on your personal auto insurance coverage first.

Ask About Your Policy

Deciding on your rental car coverage can be a tricky endeavor. Before purchasing any extra coverage, talk to your insurance broker about your personal auto insurance policy and whether you may need to purchase any additional insurance. No one wants to pay more for their auto insurance, and you shouldn’t have too.

If you have any questions or are unsure if rental vehicles are covered under your policy, contact Dimond Bros. Insurance today.

[© 2020 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. This Know Your Insurance document is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.]