All Access Agency Insurance Blog

Unofficial End of Summer

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 18:23:03 -0500

This weekend is Labor Day; what plans do you have? This unofficial last weekend of summer is usually spent making sure the kids are ready for school, sorting through summer and fall clothes, and perhaps taking a trip to the beach. Take some time to plan some special celebratory cookout and outdoor meals too. Even if you continue grilling through the fall and winter, there's something special about the last summer holiday cookout. If you have time, visit a Farmer's Market for the best fresh corn,...

History of Labor Day

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:36:06 -0500

Labor Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September (September 6 in 2010). The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City. In the aftermath of the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals during the 1894 Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with Labor as a top political priority. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holid...

School's Back In Session

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 19:56:07 -0500

OK, folks, school’s back in session. Our summer fun’s over. It’s time to take the foot off the gas on city streets and watch for pedestrians. With school back in session and classes at universities starting later this month, motorists will be seeing more pedestrians trying to cross streets. In fact, whether it was the cost of gas or people just trying to get more exercise, more pedestrians have been evident for the past few months on streets all around the Atlanta area. ...

Timely Tire Tip for You

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 18:50:03 -0500

Today's radial tires are significantly safer than the bias-ply tires of 25 years ago. They still, however, need attention regularly. Under inflation, the most frequent cause of tire failure is considered the main culprit in many tire-failure fatalities. Because of summertime's higher temperatures, the air pressure in a warm tire rises. Why? Because air is a gas, and gas expands when it heats up. Keep this in mind if you are checking tire pressures. The given tire pressure specifications a...

Buy-Sell Insurance

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 20:20:51 -0500

A buy-sell agreement is a legally binding contract which protects the interests of the company’s owners and permits the business to continue in the event of the death, disability, or retirement of a business owner. A buy-sell agreement, commonly referred to as buy-sell arrangement, is drafted by an attorney and can be implemented with all forms of companies including, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations. A buy-sell plan can be thought of as a written agreement to he...

Key Person Insurance

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:51:20 -0500

Key person insurance, also formerly called key man insurance, is an important form of business insurance. There is no legal definition for "key person insurance". In general, it can be described as an insurance policy taken out by a business to compensate that business for financial losses that would arise from the death or extended incapacity of the member of the business specified on the policy. The policy’s term does not extend beyond the period of the key person’s usefulness to t...

Backyard Barbeque

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 00:16:47 -0500

Cooking outdoors was once only a summer activity shared with family and friends. Now more than half of Americans say they are cooking outdoors year round. So whether the snow is blowing or the sun is shining brightly, it's important to follow food safety guidelines to prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying and causing foodborne illness. Use these simple guidelines for grilling food safely. From the Store: Home First When shopping, buy cold food like meat and poultry last, right before checko...

Donald M. Berwick sworn in

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:39:11 -0500

CQ HealthBeat (7/13, Reichard, subscription required) reports, "Donald M. Berwick was sworn in as administrator of" CMS on "Monday afternoon in Boston by Health and Human Services Regional Director Chris Hager, a CMS spokesman said." Notably, "Berwick will make his first public appearance at a press briefing Tuesday in Washington, D.C., to help unveil the final version of regulations spelling out how doctors and hospitals must use health information technology to qualify for higher Medicare and ...

4th 0f July Be Careful

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:02:18 -0500

The holidays are a deadly time to be on the road. Every year, hundreds of Americans die as a result of alcohol-related car crashes. The Fourth of July has repeatedly ranked as the deadliest holiday of the year -- even deadlier than New Year's Day. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious risk. Aside from being irresponsible on the road, impaired driving carries serious insurance consequences. If your insurer discovers you’ve been convicted of a DUI, your car insurance r...

Father's Day

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 16:41:41 -0500

Father's Day is a celebration inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother's Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting. It is also celebrated to honor and commemorate our forefathers. Father's Day is celebrated on a variety of dates worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family-oriented activities. The first observance of Father's Day is believed to have been held on June 13, 1910 through the efforts of Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane...

Observing Memorial Day

Thu, 27 May 2010 11:10:19 -0500

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. local time. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at National Cemeteries. Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars take donations for poppies in the days leading up to Memorial Day; the poppy's significance to Memorial Day is the result of the John Mc...

RV Fun

Fri, 21 May 2010 13:41:17 -0500

In North America, the term recreational vehicle and its abbreviation RV are generally used to refer to a vehicle equipped with living space and amenities found in a home. A recreational vehicle normally includes a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom and a living room. In other countries the terms caravan or camper van are more common, and the vehicles themselves vary, typically being smaller than in North America. RVs are intended for everything from brief leisure activities such as vacations and cam...

Selected April Showers Bring May Flowers Poems

Thu, 06 May 2010 11:31:38 -0500

1. Sunny Side Always look at the sunny side of life the ups and the downs the truth of a beginning we need water to grow we need seeds to sow What we see today is bringing us more for tomorrow even if we can’t tell as they say april showers bring may flowers. 2. Spring Garden In the garden, the flowers are peaking their green tips edging up the dirt raindrops are glistening dropping from the petals to the leaves the winter is gone the spring is here April’s shower brought a May flowe...

Happy Mother's Day

Tue, 04 May 2010 12:14:13 -0500

The United States celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May. In the 1880s and 1890s there were several attempts to establish a Mother's Day, but they didn't succeed beyond the local level.[48] The holiday was created by Anna Jarvis in Grafton, West Virginia, in 1908 as a day to honor one's mother.[4] Jarvis wanted to accomplish her mother's dream of making a celebration for all mothers, although the idea didn't take off until she enlisted the services of wealthy Philadelphia merchant J...

Physical Activity

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:43:18 -0500

Adding Physical Activity to Your Life There are a lot of ways to get the physical activity you need! If you're thinking, "How can I meet the guidelines each week?" don't worry. You'll be surprised by the variety of activities you have to choose from. To meet the guidelines for aerobic activity, basically anything counts, as long as it's done at a moderate- or vigorous-intensity for at least 10 minutes at a time. Stick With It By picking physical activities you enjoy and that match your a...

Air Travel Checklist

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:10:04 -0500

Before You Fly -- A Packing Checklist All Access Agency Insurance ...

Freqently Asked Questions About Flood Insurance

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:12:42 -0500

Flood insurance policyholders who suffered damages from recent hurricanes that impacted the Southeastern U.S. may have a number of questions about their policies. In an effort to provide the most up-to-date information and ease their concerns, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) officials have put together answers to the most frequently asked questions. Who do I go to first for help with questions about my NFIP policy? You should call your insurance agent or insurance company first. Does m...

Tornadoe Season Is Coming

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 10:59:40 -0500

In the United States, "tornado season" generally is in the spring when tornadoes are more prevalent from April through July, with May and June being the peak months. But like thunderstorms, tornadoes can form any time of the year. The area in which tornadoes are most prevalent is known as "tornado alley," typically defined the region from Texas north to Nebraska. But, of course, tornadoes can and do occur in every state in the country. For accurate and timely storm updates in your area, watch T...

How to Buy a Used Car On the Internet

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:49:39 -0500

Appraise your trade-in vehicle online using kbb.com or edmunds.com or both. These websites may give you entirely different values, so combining an average to come up with a ballpark is good. They also narrow down dealer, private party and trade car values. If you are not trading or selling your old car, skip this step. Step 2 Make yourself comfortable! Now you will start to research your dream car on the Internet by finding local car dealerships and private party se...

Grocery List for Healthy Cleaning

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:07:06 -0500

Keep these essentials in stock to keep your home safe and spotless. You can get just about everything you need for healthy cleaning at the grocery store without ever wandering down the commercial cleaning aisle. Here's a shopping list from cleaning expert Mary Findley, president of Mary Moppins Cleaning System: 1 gallon white vinegar 1 bottle rubbing alcohol 1 large box baking soda 1 gallon distilled water Ivory liquid dishwashing d...

Recreational Vehicle Safety

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:17:10 -0500

Traveling Safely in Your RV Traveling safely is important to everyone who takes to the road in a motor home or travel trailer. Make sure your RV is well maintained and ready to go when you are. That's the first step toward having a safe trip. Before your trip Remember to observe the common principles of safety: Obey the speed limit Buckle your seat belt Know your rig height before you go Install a deadbolt door lock on your RV Inspect all belts and hoses for crackin...

Business Use of My Personal Vehicle: Will My Insurance Work?

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:07:21 -0600

There are over 240 million registered motor vehicles in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau. At a given time, as many as a third of those clutter American roadways, and it is estimated that one-fourth of those are being used in the course of work. Running errands, making deliveries, visiting customers. Even for those whose employment is not based on driving, it’s fair to say that your vehicle is an essential part of your employment. This presents an important question: If you are involved...

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:56:53 -0600

Riding a motorcycle, you are far more likely to get in an accident and far more likely to get hurt than if you are driving a car. That's a fact. In fact, according to The US Highway Safety Authority, in 2002 20.9 cars out of 100,000 ended up in fatal crashes. The rate for motorcycles is 66.7 per 100,000. That means that you are 209% more likely to be in a fatal crash on a motorcycle. But, don't give your bike away. We are dedicated to providing you with resources and information to make your rid...

Boating/ Wear a Life Jacket

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:43:19 -0600

Boaters enjoy the feel of sun and spray. So it’s tempting to boat without wearing a life jacket – especially on nice days. But modern life jackets are available in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Many are thin and flexible. Some are built right into fishing vests or hunter coats. Others are inflatable — as compact as a scarf or fanny pack until they hit water, when they automatically fill with air. There’s no excuse not to wear a life jacket on the water! How to Choose the Right L...

10 Home Safety Tips

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:49:43 -0600

Top Ten Tips List Is your home safe for your family? Follow these 10 tips from the Home Safety Council to protect the people you love! Prevent Falls 1) Install grab bars in the tub and shower. Use non-slip mats. 2) Have bright lights over stairs and steps and on landings. Keep stairs clear of clutter. Prevent Poisonings 3) Keep cleaners, medications and beauty products in a place where children can’t reach them. Use child safety locks. 4) For Poison Help call 1-800-222-1222. Call ...

Safety In and Around Cars

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:28:48 -0600

About 10 percent of motor vehicle-related deaths of children don’t happen in traffic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They happen when children are struck by cars in parking lots or driveways or when they are left unattended in vehicles. Three Safe Kids Buckle Up programs—Spot the Tot, Never Leave Your Child Alone and Preventing Trunk Entrapment—teach that vehicles are not toys and children of any age should never be alone in or around them. Spot the Tot Danger c...

Good Drive Discounts

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:03:01 -0600

Maintaining a spotless driving record is a plus to your wallet. Not only does it keep your insurance premiums low, but, depending on your carrier, it could also earn you a safe driver discount (some providers refer to it as a good driver discount). Massachusetts has even mandated safe driver discounts into law, under the Safe Driver Insurance Plan. Good Driver Incentives Each carrier adheres to a different incentive policy, based on your driving record. Some carriers, for instance, offer a 2% d...

Workers' Compensation

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:20:09 -0600

Workers' compensation (colloquially known as workers' comp in North America or compo in Australia is a form of insurance that provides compensation medical care for employees who are injured in the course of employment, in exchange for mandatory relinquishment of the employee's right to sue his or her employer for the tort of negligence. The tradeoff between assured, limited coverage and lack of recourse outside the worker compensation system is known as "the compensation bargain." While plans d...

IRA mistakes to avoid at tax time

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 10:50:51 -0600

Saving more for retirement is always a good idea, especially now. In 2009, the Employee Benefit Research Institute estimated that Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), a cornerstone of retirement savings, sank to a median value of less than $29,000 post-financial meltdown. That leaves many Americans working even harder to recoup their losses and stay on track to make retirement a reality. The good news is that many people can increase their saving potential simply by learning more about IRA do...

Insurance During New Home Construction

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 10:57:25 -0600

You should consider home insurance for your new home during construction. If you don't, you may be exposing yourself to a great deal of risk if a fire, theft, or other event damages or destroys your partially-completed home. One way to cover your new home during construction is by purchasing a standard homeowners insurance policy. This will cover you for any damage to the building as it's being built, and may also provide some coverage for theft of building supplies (although the contractor's in...

Some Common Questions

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 11:07:01 -0600

Insurance has become a basic necessity and is something we should all purchase at some stage of our lives. Although it can sometimes be expensive, insurance can be well worthwhile and will be beneficial in the long run. We can insure almost everything we own such as our cars, homes, valuable objects and we can even insure ourselves by obtaining a life insurance policy. Finding the right insurance can be a bit daunting if you don’t know what kind of insurance you will need. There are many questio...

Business Owner's Policy

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:51:42 -0600

All Access Agency Insurance has assembled products from many of the nation's leading insurers for you to choose from. With our unique technology, we can match the business risk profile with insurance companies that specialize in that industry and want that type of business. We'll help you get the right coverage from the right insurer. Product Summary Many small business owners buy a type of insurance coverage called a Business Owner's Policy. This is a package policy that covers major property ...

Tax Time Think About IRA's

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:43:14 -0600

IRA – Individual Retirement Accounts One easy way to become a more tax-efficient investor is to utilize tax-advantaged accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs), which come in two varieties—traditional and Roth. These special accounts allow you to enjoy either tax-deferred or tax-free growth of your investments. OAS_AD('Middle'); Tax deferral can lead to significant savings ...

Flood Insurance Basics

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 15:03:34 -0600

Flood Information 101 By now, you probably know that only flood insurance covers flood damage, but you probably don't know all of the details. Here are a few of the more frequent terms: Insurance Agent Flood insurance can only be purchased through an insurance agent; you cannot buy it directly from the federal government. If your local insurance agent is unfamiliar with the NFIP you can: Find an agent serving your area; or Contact the NFIP at (888) 379-9531 to request an agent referr...

Cheap Auto Insurance for Your Car

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 11:53:50 -0600

In the market for a new car? Read the sales papers and schedule the next four Saturdays to visit dealerships? Want something bolder; something that makes a statement? Want something bigger because your family has expanded and you need the extra space for child safety seats? Whatever your reason for getting ready to pull out the checkbook and sign away a big chunk of your paycheck, there are more things to consider other than statements and space when making your checklist for your new car. For ...

Why Buy Life Insurance

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:24:05 -0600

Why buy Life Insurance? Good question! Have you ever considered that your earning power is your most valuable asset? How will you protect it? In considering a life insurance purchase there are two general questions to ask yourself: How much life insurance do I need? What type of life insurance should I buy? How much life insurance is enough? This question is best answered by looking at your family and financial needs. While life insurance can never replace you, it can provide much needed f...

No More Business As Usual

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:10:07 -0600

Between the recession and damage to the industry's reputation, insurance companies can no longer conduct their businesses as they have in the past. Rebranding, tightening processes and turning to customers and distributors for input are among the ways that insurers are going to reinvent themselves to compete in a constantly changing world. How has the recession changed the way your company conducts business?