Check flood coverage now
May 18, 2010 - Dillon Herald
The tragic flooding that recently submerged much of
Tennessee is a grim reminder of how important disaster
preparation and flood insurance can be in protecting your family and your assets.
With the start of hurricane season just around the bend,
now is the time to make sure you have a plan in place should
a natural catastrophe hit our state.
The South Carolina Insurance News Service recommends
a thorough review of your insurance coverage with
your agent or company. A review should examine coverages,
ages, deductibles, limits, and any exceptions that may apply.
Flood insurance is NOT part of most standard homeowner,
mobile home, or renter s insurance policies. You must buy
separate flood coverage and there is a waiting period of 30
days. According to the National Flood Insurance Plan, 25 percent of all flood claims occur in
low-to-moderate risk areas.
(full text of SCINS news release on flood insurance was included)
Friday, May 28, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Hurricane warning: Be prepared and make sure you have the right insurance coverage
It takes just one storm to bring major damage to South Carolina
Columbia, S.C. – May 25, 2010 – Hang on, South Carolina – it looks like a busy hurricane season may be ahead this year. Colorado State University’s forecast team predicts an above-average season, with 15 named storms in the Atlantic, eight becoming hurricanes.
It only takes one hurricane hitting our state to cause catastrophic damage and heartache. The 2010 season will begin June 1. The South Carolina Insurance News Service encourages homeowners and business owners to protect their property and make sure they have the correct insurance in place.
"It is a good routine for people to review their policies with their company or agent before the start of hurricane season to verify they have the necessary coverage," said Russ Dubisky, executive director of the S.C. Insurance News Service.
More than 20 years ago Hurricane Hugo caused $4.2 billion in insured damage when it came ashore in South Carolina. However, with population growth and increases in construction costs, our state now has $200 billion in insured property along the coastline.
Coastal residents may need several separate insurance policies to protect their homes and property from disasters: a basic homeowner’s insurance policy, a wind and hail policy (if your basic homeowner’s insurance policy does not already cover wind and hail), a flood insurance policy, earthquake insurance policy and excess coverage such as a personal articles policy. Talk to your company or agent to ask questions about your coverage.
A hurricane’s "footprint" has many aspects and each can be damaging, said Dr. Steve Lyons of The Weather Channel at a recent Hurricane Expo in South Carolina. These include wind, water rise, waves, rainfall and tornadoes. Even hundreds of miles inland, a hurricane’s torrential rainfall can bring flash flooding and tornadoes can demolish buildings.
"Making changes to strengthen your home not only protects your property but can qualify you for discounts on insurance," Dubisky said.
South Carolina insurance companies and the S.C. Wind and Hail Underwriting Association give discounts for the following :
• Storm shutters
• Roof tie-downs or clips
• Impact-resistant windows and doors
• Reinforced garage doors
• SC SAFE HOME improvements (See http://www.scsafehome.sc.gov/)
• Institute for Business & Home Safety “Fortified … for safer living” homes (See www.disastersafety.org)
"All South Carolina residents should pay attention to hurricane forecasts and take precautions," Dubisky said. Better tracking forecasts available now will allow issuance of a hurricane watch 48 hours in advance and hurricane warning 36 hours ahead, according to Dr. Lyons of The Weather Channel.
Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico as well as the Atlantic demand our attention, as both can cause problems in South Carolina. For example, William Winn, director of public safety in Beaufort County, said his county has had more damage from storms making landfall in the Gulf. In 1998, Hurricane Earl, a Gulf storm, caused a major tornado on St. Helena Island.
Now, to get ready!
Ahead of hurricane season:
• Review your insurance coverage with your agent or company.
• Document, photograph or video your possessions for insurance records.
• Keep this inventory in a safe place away from your home.
• Trim shrubbery and trees to make them more resistant to wind damage.
When a hurricane is imminent, prepare your home and be ready to evacuate. Here are some tips:
• Cover all windows with pre-cut plywood or storm shutters.
• Bring in outdoor furniture, garbage cans and other items that could be blown about.
• Turn off utilities and propane tanks.
• Close interior doors.
• Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
• Take your insurance agent’s name and phone number and your policy information with you.
Be vigilant and pay attention to hurricane warnings and announcements, emergency management experts say. Sooner or later, another strong hurricane will hit South Carolina.
Read more about preparing for hurricanes and other catastrophes at www.scinsurance.net.
For more than 30 years, the South Carolina Insurance News Service, a nonprofit organization, has been providing free insurance information to consumers and the media about property and casualty insurance issues. The News Service is funded by insurance companies doing business in South Carolina.
South Carolina Insurance News Service
1301 Gervais Street, Suite 715
Columbia, SC 29201
Office: 803-252-3455
Fax: 803-779-0189
www.scinsurance.net
Columbia, S.C. – May 25, 2010 – Hang on, South Carolina – it looks like a busy hurricane season may be ahead this year. Colorado State University’s forecast team predicts an above-average season, with 15 named storms in the Atlantic, eight becoming hurricanes.
It only takes one hurricane hitting our state to cause catastrophic damage and heartache. The 2010 season will begin June 1. The South Carolina Insurance News Service encourages homeowners and business owners to protect their property and make sure they have the correct insurance in place.
"It is a good routine for people to review their policies with their company or agent before the start of hurricane season to verify they have the necessary coverage," said Russ Dubisky, executive director of the S.C. Insurance News Service.
More than 20 years ago Hurricane Hugo caused $4.2 billion in insured damage when it came ashore in South Carolina. However, with population growth and increases in construction costs, our state now has $200 billion in insured property along the coastline.
Coastal residents may need several separate insurance policies to protect their homes and property from disasters: a basic homeowner’s insurance policy, a wind and hail policy (if your basic homeowner’s insurance policy does not already cover wind and hail), a flood insurance policy, earthquake insurance policy and excess coverage such as a personal articles policy. Talk to your company or agent to ask questions about your coverage.
A hurricane’s "footprint" has many aspects and each can be damaging, said Dr. Steve Lyons of The Weather Channel at a recent Hurricane Expo in South Carolina. These include wind, water rise, waves, rainfall and tornadoes. Even hundreds of miles inland, a hurricane’s torrential rainfall can bring flash flooding and tornadoes can demolish buildings.
"Making changes to strengthen your home not only protects your property but can qualify you for discounts on insurance," Dubisky said.
South Carolina insurance companies and the S.C. Wind and Hail Underwriting Association give discounts for the following :
• Storm shutters
• Roof tie-downs or clips
• Impact-resistant windows and doors
• Reinforced garage doors
• SC SAFE HOME improvements (See http://www.scsafehome.sc.gov/)
• Institute for Business & Home Safety “Fortified … for safer living” homes (See www.disastersafety.org)
"All South Carolina residents should pay attention to hurricane forecasts and take precautions," Dubisky said. Better tracking forecasts available now will allow issuance of a hurricane watch 48 hours in advance and hurricane warning 36 hours ahead, according to Dr. Lyons of The Weather Channel.
Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico as well as the Atlantic demand our attention, as both can cause problems in South Carolina. For example, William Winn, director of public safety in Beaufort County, said his county has had more damage from storms making landfall in the Gulf. In 1998, Hurricane Earl, a Gulf storm, caused a major tornado on St. Helena Island.
Now, to get ready!
Ahead of hurricane season:
• Review your insurance coverage with your agent or company.
• Document, photograph or video your possessions for insurance records.
• Keep this inventory in a safe place away from your home.
• Trim shrubbery and trees to make them more resistant to wind damage.
When a hurricane is imminent, prepare your home and be ready to evacuate. Here are some tips:
• Cover all windows with pre-cut plywood or storm shutters.
• Bring in outdoor furniture, garbage cans and other items that could be blown about.
• Turn off utilities and propane tanks.
• Close interior doors.
• Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water for sanitary purposes.
• Take your insurance agent’s name and phone number and your policy information with you.
Be vigilant and pay attention to hurricane warnings and announcements, emergency management experts say. Sooner or later, another strong hurricane will hit South Carolina.
Read more about preparing for hurricanes and other catastrophes at www.scinsurance.net.
For more than 30 years, the South Carolina Insurance News Service, a nonprofit organization, has been providing free insurance information to consumers and the media about property and casualty insurance issues. The News Service is funded by insurance companies doing business in South Carolina.
South Carolina Insurance News Service
1301 Gervais Street, Suite 715
Columbia, SC 29201
Office: 803-252-3455
Fax: 803-779-0189
www.scinsurance.net
Monday, May 24, 2010
As another hurricane season fast approaches, it's time to take stock of your insurance coverage - Insurance - MiamiHerald.com
As another hurricane season fast approaches, it's time to take stock of your insurance coverage - Insurance - MiamiHerald.com
I hope you'll read this article. It's time to prepare!
I hope you'll read this article. It's time to prepare!
Homeowners Insurance Only Often Not Enough to Recover Losses - Yahoo! News
Homeowners Insurance Only Often Not Enough to Recover Losses - Yahoo! News
Interesting idea. I haven't used it but may try to see the value. It is always important to have documentation (invoices, receipts, photos) of your property in order to substantiate a claim.
Interesting idea. I haven't used it but may try to see the value. It is always important to have documentation (invoices, receipts, photos) of your property in order to substantiate a claim.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
Just how can you save on life insurance? Here's how.
Nice article on life insurance. Fortunately rates for term life plans are at an all time low right now. If you complete my Term Life quote form, I'll send you rates for multiple carriers. Or you can always call me at 843-556-6232.
Basics of Life Insurance Quote and Life Insurance Rates by Jack Bryans (submitted 2010-05-14)
Life insurance quote in general are the provisions which are not obligatory and is a regular form to recompense your debts, manage your family budget and educational loans. One of the simple methods to select a life insurance policy that at an affordable premium and at very low rate is having a good health but surprisingly in this modern time even the overweight, with smoking habit and health problems people can make out a high premium amount. Thus it is highly recommended to go always for a health evaluation and full medical examination to see if the individual is at a good health condition.
On the other hand, when people take the time to think about it vigilantly, they will realize that they are in fact capable to acquire life insurance rates at a low costs. There are a lot of life insurance service providers that they can probably find on the worldwide market these days. This makes the competition on the market of life insurance pretty tight. Therefore, in order to obtain more consumers, every life insurance service providers will typically try to present a large variety of eye-catching offers with low rates for the insurance plan.
It is feasible to acquire low rates on the different types of life insurance. The low rates can be achieved either for the term or for the whole life insurance plan. With the life insurance rates which is low on the term plan, there is a excellent prospect that the people who sign up for this plan will not have to be anxious regarding being unable to pay for the security which lasts up to a definite period of time. Yet, with low rates on the whole plan, they will be competent to get a financial security for as long as they live while all they have to pay is only a little amount of charge.
In order to get the low life insurance rates, those people can make telephone calls to the accessible providers and inquire for information in relation to the rates. And as another option they can also make schedule with the providers and then shell out a visit to them to get a number of information regarding the rates. Conversely, paying a visit to each of the existing providers or making telephone calls may not be helpful in terms of costs, time and efforts needed. As a result, there may only be a small number of people do this.
Luckily, with the advancements of today's technology, people now can get necessary information regarding the life insurance rates right from the comfort of their homes. All they required to carry out is to access the Internet and look for the different existing providers. This, they are capable to search the most affordable life insurance rates.
(Source GoArticles.com)
Basics of Life Insurance Quote and Life Insurance Rates by Jack Bryans (submitted 2010-05-14)
Life insurance quote in general are the provisions which are not obligatory and is a regular form to recompense your debts, manage your family budget and educational loans. One of the simple methods to select a life insurance policy that at an affordable premium and at very low rate is having a good health but surprisingly in this modern time even the overweight, with smoking habit and health problems people can make out a high premium amount. Thus it is highly recommended to go always for a health evaluation and full medical examination to see if the individual is at a good health condition.
On the other hand, when people take the time to think about it vigilantly, they will realize that they are in fact capable to acquire life insurance rates at a low costs. There are a lot of life insurance service providers that they can probably find on the worldwide market these days. This makes the competition on the market of life insurance pretty tight. Therefore, in order to obtain more consumers, every life insurance service providers will typically try to present a large variety of eye-catching offers with low rates for the insurance plan.
It is feasible to acquire low rates on the different types of life insurance. The low rates can be achieved either for the term or for the whole life insurance plan. With the life insurance rates which is low on the term plan, there is a excellent prospect that the people who sign up for this plan will not have to be anxious regarding being unable to pay for the security which lasts up to a definite period of time. Yet, with low rates on the whole plan, they will be competent to get a financial security for as long as they live while all they have to pay is only a little amount of charge.
In order to get the low life insurance rates, those people can make telephone calls to the accessible providers and inquire for information in relation to the rates. And as another option they can also make schedule with the providers and then shell out a visit to them to get a number of information regarding the rates. Conversely, paying a visit to each of the existing providers or making telephone calls may not be helpful in terms of costs, time and efforts needed. As a result, there may only be a small number of people do this.
Luckily, with the advancements of today's technology, people now can get necessary information regarding the life insurance rates right from the comfort of their homes. All they required to carry out is to access the Internet and look for the different existing providers. This, they are capable to search the most affordable life insurance rates.
(Source GoArticles.com)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
A Brief Explanation of Short Term Insurance
by Ray Sandeo (submitted 2009-10-02)
The short term health insurance is a excellent choice for people residing in the United States who are between jobs, waiting to take up another health insurance, waiting for Medicare, newly graduated, or are on COBRA.
Temporary insurance can provide insurance against possible illnesses or injuries and do not typically include benefits such as preventive care, physicals, immunizations, dental or vision care and pre-existing medical conditions.
Temporary insurance is usually valid for U.S citizens who are under the age of 64, their spouses and children. People who want to take up temporary insurance need to complete a short health qualification questionnaire which is necessary for coverage approval.
Temporary insurance covers costs such as Hospital & Surgery Fees, Outpatient Doctor Office fees, Diagnostic & lab fees, Organs, tissue or bone marrow transplant. Short Term Health Insurance provides insurance for a minimum period of one month to a maximum period of 12 months. The maximum coverage offered under this plan is up to one or two million dollars.
Temporary insurance provides insurance for a minimum period of one month to a maximum period of 12 months. The maximum coverage offered under this plan is up to one or two million dollars.
There are several companies that provide short term medical insurance plans and depending on the duration and the benefits you require, you can choose an appropriate plan.
Assurant Short Term Health Insurance, Secure Short Term Medical Insurance, Golden Rule United Healthcare Short Term Insurance and Secure 12x3 Short Term Medical Insurance are a few of the many plans available. .
Assurant short term medical insurance plan can be bought for a minimum time period of 30 days and a maximum time period of 360 days and offers coverage for U.S citizens and their spouses who are under the age of 65 and are not eligible for Medicare. Coverage is also available to their children who are under the age of 19. Non US residents must have resided in the US for at least 12 months. The other Short Term Health Insurance plans also have similar terms and conditions.
(Source: GoArticles.com)
The short term health insurance is a excellent choice for people residing in the United States who are between jobs, waiting to take up another health insurance, waiting for Medicare, newly graduated, or are on COBRA.
Temporary insurance can provide insurance against possible illnesses or injuries and do not typically include benefits such as preventive care, physicals, immunizations, dental or vision care and pre-existing medical conditions.
Temporary insurance is usually valid for U.S citizens who are under the age of 64, their spouses and children. People who want to take up temporary insurance need to complete a short health qualification questionnaire which is necessary for coverage approval.
Temporary insurance covers costs such as Hospital & Surgery Fees, Outpatient Doctor Office fees, Diagnostic & lab fees, Organs, tissue or bone marrow transplant. Short Term Health Insurance provides insurance for a minimum period of one month to a maximum period of 12 months. The maximum coverage offered under this plan is up to one or two million dollars.
Temporary insurance provides insurance for a minimum period of one month to a maximum period of 12 months. The maximum coverage offered under this plan is up to one or two million dollars.
There are several companies that provide short term medical insurance plans and depending on the duration and the benefits you require, you can choose an appropriate plan.
Assurant Short Term Health Insurance, Secure Short Term Medical Insurance, Golden Rule United Healthcare Short Term Insurance and Secure 12x3 Short Term Medical Insurance are a few of the many plans available. .
Assurant short term medical insurance plan can be bought for a minimum time period of 30 days and a maximum time period of 360 days and offers coverage for U.S citizens and their spouses who are under the age of 65 and are not eligible for Medicare. Coverage is also available to their children who are under the age of 19. Non US residents must have resided in the US for at least 12 months. The other Short Term Health Insurance plans also have similar terms and conditions.
(Source: GoArticles.com)
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
South Carolina third-most-affordable state in which to own a car
Charleston Regional Business Journal
May 5, 2010
South Carolina is the third-most-affordable state in which to own a car, according to a study by Edmunds.com.
The survey shows that it costs an average of $40,763 over a five-year period to own a car in the Palmetto State. Only New Hampshire and South Dakota are more affordable.
Owning a vehicle in Alaska, California or Hawaii costs about $10,000 more per year than it does in South Carolina.
The Edmunds study examines regional five-year ownership costs, consisting of depreciation, financing, taxes and fees, insurance premiums, fuel costs, maintenance and repairs for new and used vehicles.
States with the lowest average vehicle ownership costs in the country:
States with the highest average vehicle ownership costs in the country:
The True Cost to Own calculations use the following assumptions:
Source
May 5, 2010
South Carolina is the third-most-affordable state in which to own a car, according to a study by Edmunds.com.
The survey shows that it costs an average of $40,763 over a five-year period to own a car in the Palmetto State. Only New Hampshire and South Dakota are more affordable.
Owning a vehicle in Alaska, California or Hawaii costs about $10,000 more per year than it does in South Carolina.
The Edmunds study examines regional five-year ownership costs, consisting of depreciation, financing, taxes and fees, insurance premiums, fuel costs, maintenance and repairs for new and used vehicles.
States with the lowest average vehicle ownership costs in the country:
 |
| Click to enlarge |
States with the highest average vehicle ownership costs in the country:
 |
| Click to enlarge |
The True Cost to Own calculations use the following assumptions:
- Ownership expenses are for a five-year time span.
- Vehicles are driven an average of 15,000 miles per year.
- Vehicles are financed using traditional financing and not leased.
- Buyers are paying 10% down on the vehicle.
- Buyers are in the “gold” credit tier for the purpose of determining the finance rate.
- The loan term is 60 months.
- Buyers represent the average demographic for insurance rates.
Source
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Hartford's Bicentennial
The Hartford's Bicentennial
Congratulations to one of our partners, The Hartford which is celebrating 200 years of business. Their history is an interesting journey. The Hartford insured Abraham Lincoln's home before he became President. Triest Agency has been a Hartford partner for over 60 years.
Congratulations to one of our partners, The Hartford which is celebrating 200 years of business. Their history is an interesting journey. The Hartford insured Abraham Lincoln's home before he became President. Triest Agency has been a Hartford partner for over 60 years.
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Should You Buy Term Life Insurance? - Personal Finance - Insurance - SmartMoney.com
I've offered term life insurance for over 20 years and for many clients it is a smart decision. If you're not sure, I can help explain the differences in plans and most importantly find one that fits your particular situation.
Should You Buy Term Life Insurance? - Personal Finance - Insurance - SmartMoney.com
Should You Buy Term Life Insurance? - Personal Finance - Insurance - SmartMoney.com
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Consumers Worry About Health Info Online - DailyFinance
Consumers Worry About Health Info Online - DailyFinance
Do you really want your private information about your health published online? I fully understand the benefits of having this information available in case of a medical emergency and the hospital or doctor needs your records quickly. Otherwise I hope we don't digitize our medical records on the internet. Internet information is hacked every day. I don't want my medical information hacked. Do you?
Do you really want your private information about your health published online? I fully understand the benefits of having this information available in case of a medical emergency and the hospital or doctor needs your records quickly. Otherwise I hope we don't digitize our medical records on the internet. Internet information is hacked every day. I don't want my medical information hacked. Do you?
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
Monday, May 03, 2010
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