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How to Minimize the Risk of Cargo Theft

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Jan 13, 2024

Reduce cargo theft and save on Truck Insurance in Philadelphia, Allentown, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lancaster, Reading, York, and throughout PA.Cargo theft can increase Commercial Truck Insurance and other costs, and 2023 was a good year for thieves but a lousy year for trucking companies when it comes to cargo theft. In the second quarter of 2023, there were 566 cargo theft incidents in the U.S., a “57% year-over-year increase compared to 2022,” according to FreightWaves. The total value of those thefts was $44 million in goods, with the average shipment value per event at $260,703.

What is Cargo Theft?

The FBI defines cargo theft as “The criminal taking of any cargo including, but not limited to, goods, chattels, money, or baggage that constitutes, in whole or in part, a commercial shipment of freight moving in commerce, from any pipeline system, railroad car, motor truck, or other vehicle, or from any tank or storage facility, station house, platform, or depot, or from any vessel or wharf, or from any aircraft, air terminal, airport, aircraft terminal or air navigation facility, or from any intermodal container, intermodal chassis, trailer, container freight station, warehouse, freight distribution facility, or freight consolidation facility.

For purposes of this definition, cargo shall be deemed as moving in commerce at all points between the point of origin and the final destination, regardless of any temporary stop while awaiting transshipment or otherwise.”

Cargo thefts can happen anywhere along the transportation process; however, according to FreightWaves, most cargo thefts occur near warehouses and distribution centers, unsecured parking lots, and company truck yards and premises. Any cargo can be targeted – from expensive electronics to beverages and food. Cargo thefts can be carefully planned by a sophisticated group of thieves or, on the fly, by inexperienced thieves.

3 Common Types of Cargo Theft

  1. Fictitious Pickup – “This type of cargo theft relies on subcontracting the shipment to a legitimate motor carrier and having the shipment misdirected to another address,” Tank Transport Fictitious pickups are on the rise, according to FreightWaves, with 127 more year-to-year in the second quarter of 2023.

  2. Pilferage – Pilferage or leakage occurs when only part of the shipment is stolen. A few boxes could be stolen, or the thieves could open a box, remove some items, and reseal the box. With this type of theft, the driver may not even realize they’ve been robbed.

  3. Grab and Go – With the grab-and-go method, criminals follow a shipment until the driver pulls into a truck stop or restaurant. When the driver leaves the vehicle, the thieves steal as much merchandise as possible. The grab-and-go method is most often used to steal high-value or high-tech cargo.

13 Truck Driver Tips to Minimize the Risk of Cargo Theft

  1. Stay alert by paying attention to your surroundings (especially at night), watching for occupied vehicles in parking lots, distribution centers, etc., watching for anyone following you, and being aware and looking for possible hijacking ploys.

  2. Try to keep an eye on the truck at all times, but if you need to leave it unattended, only do so for short periods.

  3. Park in safe, secure truck parking lots with good lighting and 24/7 security whenever possible.

  4. Subscribe to a reporting service that monitors area thefts., such as FreightWatch or CargoNet.

  5. Frequently communicate with your company and all members of the supply chain.

  6. Screen drivers to avoid entrusting your cargo to dishonest and untrustworthy drivers.

  7. Use technology, such as hidden GPS trackers in the shipment, intelligent routing, advanced locking technologies, etc.

  8. Preplan Your Route to help you identify safe places to stop and high-theft areas to avoid.

  9. Vary Your Route so you don’t become predictable.

  10. Arrive at the pickup location fully rested, fueled, and fed because it’s less likely that a thief will follow you for several hours.

  11. If picking up a loaded, sealed trailer, check that the seal number on the trailer and bill of lading match.

  12. Keep information, such as the license plate number, container number, and truck description, with you at all times.

  13. Don’t share information about cargo or trip details on social media, the radio, etc.

How to Get Affordable Commercial Truck Insurance

The right insurance helps protect your business from the loss resulting from cargo theft, injuries, damage, liability, etc. At American Insuring Group, our experienced agents help you get the right trucking insurance coverage at the lowest cost by comparing multiple competing insurance providers.

Call us today to start saving: (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Insurance, truck insurance, Trucking Insurance, Cargo Trucking Insurance, Commercial Auto Insurance

Effective Accident Investigations Can Lower Workers Comp Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Jan 06, 2024

Contact us to learn more about saving on Workers Comp Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Reading, Lancaster, Allentown, and throughout Pennsylvania.When a workplace accident occurs, it’s in the employer's best interest to investigate the accident. Investigations provide many benefits, including lower Workers’ Compensation Insurance costs.

What is Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

“Workers’ Compensation (WC) is mandatory, employer-financed, no-fault insurance which ensures that employees disabled due to a work-related injury or disease will be compensated for lost wages and provides necessary medical treatment to return them to the workforce,” the PA Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) explains.

If an employer does not have WC Insurance and an employee files a WC claim, the employer will be required to reimburse the Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund in relation to the claim, including costs, interests, penalties, attorney fees, and fees under section 440 of the Worker’s Compensation Act. Failure to carry WC coverage can also result in “grave civil and criminal risks.”

What is an Accident Investigation?”

The PA DLI defines an accident (incident) Investigation as “An organized process using written procedures that are applied every time an accident occurs regardless of its severity.” According to the PA DLI, “The purpose of the accident investigation is to determine the direct cause of the incident and to prevent similar occurrences by documenting facts, providing cost data, and reinforcing the joint labor-management commitment to safety in the workplace. Identifying the causal or contributing factors in a workplace accident provides the opportunity for these facts to be evaluated in order that corrective actions may be taken.”

Benefits of an Accident Investigation

Yes, an accident investigation will take time and resources, but the benefits it provides far outweigh the costs. And remember, the sole purpose of the investigation is not to lay blame but to determine the root cause of the accident.

Here are some benefits of an accident investigation:

  • Detects and prevents any violations or misconduct, including WC fraud
  • Ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations
  • Helps identify hazards and shortcomings in a business’s safety and health programs and allows for corrective measures to avoid future accidents.
  • If an insurance company questions a Workers’ Compensation Insurance claim, they will launch an investigation. A thorough accident investigation performed immediately following the accident can help expedite the insurance company’s investigation and get the claim closed more quickly, which is in everyone’s best interest.

Accident Investigation Procedures

“The amount of action will depend on the severity of the accident. Follow established company procedure. Begin your investigation as soon as possible,” according to the PA DLI.

Experts recommend the following steps immediately after a workplace accident:

  1. Provide Medical Care – Address minor injuries with a first aid kit. For more serious accidents, call 911 immediately.

  2. Secure the Scene – Keep the scene as intact as possible to ensure an accurate investigation.

  3. Collect Evidence – Collect physical evidence, record or photograph the scene, study conditions and environment, and take notes.

  4. Interview Involved Parties – Interview the injured employee and any witnesses. Ask questions such as, what did you witness? Do you know the cause of the accident? Who else witnessed the accident? Is any PPE required for this task, and was the employee wearing it?”

  5. Identify the Root Cause – Remember that an accident may have multiple causes.

  6. Prepare an Investigation Report to communicate the findings to management.

  7. Implement a Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) Plan to prevent future accidents. The plan should include corrective and preventative actions

  8. Follow Up to ensure the CAPA Plan is being implemented.

Lower Your Workers’ Compensation Insurance Costs

At American Insuring Group, Ltd., we offer cost-effective Workers’ Compensation Insurance from multiple competing insurance companies. It's our mission to get you the best price on quality insurance to protect your employees and your business!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp, workers comp costs, Workers Compensation Insurance Fraud

Toolbox Talk: Dangers of Benzene

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Dec 23, 2023

Avoid benzene dangers and save on Contractor's Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Erie, Allentown, Lancaster, Lebanon, York, and throughout Pennsylvania.To lower Contractor's Insurance costs, you need to lower the risk of exposure to hazards such as benzene. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and hematological effects. Exposure can occur occupationally, in the general environment, and in the home as a result of the ubiquitous use of benzene-containing petroleum products, including motor fuels and solvents."   

What is Benzene?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes benzene as "a chemical that is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is highly flammable." It is formed naturally – in volcanoes and forest fires – and created through human activities. It is found in oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke and evaporates into the air quickly.

Benzene is widely used in the U.S. and is ranked in the top twenty chemicals for production volume. It is used to make glues, paints, synthetic fibers, detergents, pesticides, and more. Most exposure to benzene occurs through inhalation, but it can also be consumed in water or food. Exposure to tobacco smoke (either smoking yourself or from secondhand smoke) accounts for about half of all exposure to benzene in the U.S.

What are the Dangers of Benzene?

"Benzene works by causing cells not to work correctly. For example, it can cause bone marrow not to produce enough red blood cells, which can lead to anemia," the CDC explains. "Also, it can damage the immune system by changing blood levels of antibodies and causing the loss of white blood cells."

According to the American Cancer Society, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified benzene as "carcinogenic to humans." The U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) has classified benzene as "known to be a human carcinogen," and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified benzene as "a known human carcinogen."

Carcinogens are substances capable of causing cancer. Research has linked benzene exposure to acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Exposure to benzene in your eyes, skin, or lungs can cause irritation and tissue injury.

What are the Symptoms of Benzene Exposure?

Someone who has inhaled high levels of benzene may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Unconsciousness
  • Tremors
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Headaches
  • Death

Someone who has eaten foods or drank beverages with high levels of benzene may experience the following symptoms:

  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Irritation of the stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Convulsions
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Death

If exposed to airborne benzene, leave the area, remove your clothing, wash with soap and water, and get medical care immediately. If you swallow benzene, don' drink fluids or try to induce vomiting. Also, CPR should not be performed as it may cause you to vomit, which can be sucked into and damage your lungs. 

How Can I Minimize Exposure to Benzine?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) limits airborne exposure. "The maximum time-weighted average (TWA) exposure limit is 1 part of benzene vapor per million parts of air (1 ppm) for an 8-hour workday, and the maximum short-term exposure limit (STEL) is five ppm for any 15-minute period."

Here are steps to minimize your exposure to Benzine:

  • Don't breathe in gasoline vapors
  • Use a well-ventilated area to fuel vehicles and equipment
  • Avoid areas with excessive auto exhaust
  • Don't smoke or be in places where you can be exposed to secondhand smoke
  • Regularly wash your hands
  • Use engineering controls to limit exposure to benzene
  • Wear a respirator if needed

Don't Overpay For Contractor Insurance!

At American Insuring Group, we do more than provide you with affordable contractor insurance. We perform an in-depth review of your business, compare the costs and types of liability insurance with many competing carriers, provide you with multiple contractor insurance quotes, and share our recommendations on the best choice for your business.

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Construction Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Contractor Safety Management, Safety Programs

8 Tips to Keep Renters From Trashing Your Property

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Dec 16, 2023

Tips to maintain your rental property and to save on insurance for landlords in Philadelphia, Reading, Erie, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, and throughout Pennsylvania.Rental properties are an investment, and the right Landlord Insurance can help protect that investment. Normal wear and tear on a property is… well… normal; however, discovering a tenant has trashed your property is frustrating as you consider all the wasted time, money, physical and emotional energy, and other resources to replace and repair damaged items.

Today, returning a damaged property to a rentable space takes more time and effort than ever. Supplies cost more and are harder to come by. Finding a good contractor to do the repairs can be more challenging. Therefore, the best approach – as is so often the case – is to be proactive by minimizing the risk of a tenant trashing your rental property.

8 Tips to Keep Renters From Trashing Your Property          

  1. Screen Potential Tenants
    All potential tenants should be thoroughly screened. Screening includes running credit, rental history, background checks, talking to current employer, landlord, and references, interviewing the applicant, etc. Always remember to treat potential tenants equally and fairly and to follow all local, state, and federal fair housing laws. Typically, tenants who are responsible with their finances, employment, previous rentals, etc., will be more responsible with your property.

  2. Collect a Security Deposit
    "A security deposit is money that belongs to the tenant but [is] held by the landlord for protection against damages," the Housing Equality Center of PA "The tenant is responsible for the rental payments for the entire length of the lease. When the lease has expired, the tenant should have the security deposit returned to them minus any damages to the property." Currently, Pennsylvania law allows a maximum of two month's rent for a security deposit for the first year. Knowing they could lose that money incentivizes many renters to take care of your property.

  3. Take Photos Before Tenants Move in
    Document the condition of your property before a tenant moves in with photos and a written document that the tenant signs to show they agree on the move-in condition of the property.

  4. Draft a Thorough Lease Agreement
    To help avoid future issues, draft a thorough lease (or rental) agreement and review it with your new tenant before you both sign it. A lease agreement is a binding contract that lays out the rights and responsibilities of you and the tenant. It should include security deposits and fees, repair and maintenance policies, your right to enter the rental property, rules and policies, etc.

  5. Schedule Inspections
    Include a provision for regular inspections in the lease agreement so you can regularly check the property to ensure that tenants are taking care of it and keep a minor issue (like a small leak under the sink) from becoming a bigger, more expensive repair.

  6. Keep the Rental Property Maintained
    As we said, minor issues can become bigger, more expensive repairs. Therefore, regular inspections and maintenance can go a long way to minimizing property damage. Plus, if the renter sees that you are doing your best to maintain and provide the best living conditions, they may be more likely to do the same.

  7. Take Immediate Action if a Tenant Stops Paying Rent
    Failure to pay rent is an obvious red flag that the tenant may not be as responsible as you had hoped and may be causing damage to your property. Don't hope the issue goes away. Instead, take immediate action.

  8. Get the Right Landlord Insurance
    Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a tenant will damage your property. It's best to consult an experienced insurance agent to ensure you have the right landlord insurance to protect your property. Due to the increased risk inherent in a rental property, a homeowner's insurance policy will not cover damage to a rental property.

Don't Overpay For Landlord Insurance!

At American Insuring Group, we offer comprehensive landlord insurance policies that cover a range of risks, from property damage to liability claims. Our affordable policies protect your investment and give you peace of mind.

You can rely on our independent agents p to provide the protection you need at the best price because we compare pricing and coverage from competing insurance companies to find the right protection at the right price.

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Landlord Insurance

Safe Truck Driving in Any Weather

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Dec 09, 2023

Safe truck driving can save on truck insurance in Philadelphia, Erie, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Reading, Allentown, State College, and anywhere in PA and surrounding states.Knowing how to prepare for and drive in any weather is crucial to lowering Commercial Truck Insurance costs. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), “On average, there are over 5,891,000 vehicle crashes each year. Approximately 21% of these crashes - nearly 1,235,000 - are weather-related.”

Bad weather comes in many forms – rain, snow, sleet, fog, wind, etc.; however, any can affect driver capability, vehicle performance, visibility, pavement friction, traffic flow, and more. Approximately 70% of weather-related crashes occur on wet pavement. Rain causes 46%, snow and sleet cause 18%, icy pavements cause 13%, and fog causes 3% of weather-related crashes, according to the FHWA.

Tips for Safe Driving in Any Weather

Monitor the Weather

Always know what type of weather is predicted and monitor weather conditions, as they can frequently change. This way, you can prepare for whatever comes your way without being caught off guard.

Inspect Your Truck

A pre-trip inspection checklist is crucial (and is the law for CDL vehicles) to your safety at any time, but it is particularly vital in bad weather. According to Smart Trucking, the minimum DOT Pre-Trip Inspection requirements include the following:

  • Service brakes, including trailer brake connections
  • Parking brake
  • Steering mechanism
  • Lighting devices and reflectors
  • Tires
  • Horn
  • Windshield wipers
  • Rear vision mirrors
  • Coupling devices
  • Wheels and rims
  • Emergency equipment

Prepare Your Truck

In addition to the pre-trip inspection, take steps to prepare your truck if you know there is a good chance that you are heading into bad weather. For example, chains for your tires, anti-gel for your fuel tank, balancing the load correctly, etc., can decrease the risk of accidents or other issues in treacherous weather.

Watch Your Speed

“The Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS) reported that 23 percent of large-truck crashes occurred when commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers were traveling too fast for conditions,” according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA recommends that you “reduce your speed by 1/3 on wet roads and by 1/2 or more on snow-packed roads (i.e., if you would normally be traveling at a speed of 60 mph on dry pavement, then on a wet road, you should reduce your speed to 40 mph, and on a snow-packed road you should reduce your speed to 30 mph).”

Allow for Adequate Stopping Distance

“The average stopping distance for a loaded tractor-trailer traveling at 55 mph (in ideal conditions) is 196 feet, compared with 133 feet for a passenger vehicle,” according to the FMCSA. On slippery surfaces, a truck needs even more stopping distance. Therefore, to avoid collisions, you must adjust the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you based on weather conditions, road conditions, visibility, and traffic.

Improve Visibility

Rain, fog, snow, etc., can significantly decrease visibility. Do what you can to improve visibility and ensure other drivers can see you by clearing your windshield and windshield wipers, cleaning off and turning on your headlights, etc. Blind spots are always a concern for truck drivers, but bad weather conditions can make it even harder to see vehicles in your blind spots. Therefore, be even more careful when changing lanes in poor visibility.

Carry a Survival Kit

Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst! A survival kit can help keep you safe and/or get you back on the road. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to survival kits. Think about emergencies you may run into, and consider what you or your truck may need. Here are some suggestions:

  • Nonperishable Food
  • Bottles of water
  • Extra clothing
  • Winter clothing, such as hats, gloves, etc.
  • Blankets
  • Medication
  • Warning flag
  • Snow shovel
  • Ice scraper
  • First-aid kit
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Jumper cables
  • Portable phone charger
  • Ice cleats
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand and feet warmers
  • Safety vest
  • Cash
  • Wheel chocks

How to Save More on Truck Insurance

At American Insuring Group, we go beyond providing you with affordable truck insurance. We carefully analyze the needs and risks associated with your business and match you up with the best trucking insurance policy by carefully analyzing many competing insurance companies.

The result? You get high-quality Commercial Truck Insurance coverage at a very affordable price. Get a free quote today by calling (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Insurance, truck insurance, Trucking Insurance, Safe Driving Tips, Winter Driving Tips

Mental Health in the Workplace and Workers' Comp Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Dec 02, 2023

Mental health can impact workers comp costs. Contact us to save on Workers Comp Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Harrisburg, Allentown, Lancaster, Reading, and throughout PA.Many businesses focus on physical health and overlook the impact mental health can have on their employees, the success of their business, and Workers' Compensation Insurance costs. However, one in five U.S. adults (22.8%) experience mental illness each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

The Cost of Mental Illness in the Workplace

In the workplace, mental illness can negatively impact employee morale, performance, communication, productivity, and physical capabilities. It can also increase absenteeism and employee turnover. Untreated mental health concerns cost businesses $60,000 annually and $105 billion nationwide, according to Modern Health.

Mental illness also impacts our physical health and can cost businesses even more. "People with depression have a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population. People with serious mental illness are nearly twice as likely to develop these conditions," NAMI reports.

Work and Mental Health

As of October 2023, 134.82 million Americans worked full-time, spending about one-third of their lives at work. An employee's work environment can have a positive or a negative effect on their mental health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports. "All workers have the right to a safe and healthy environment at work. Decent work supports good mental health by providing:

  • a livelihood;
  • a sense of confidence, purpose, and achievement;
  • an opportunity for positive relationships and inclusion in a community and
  • a platform for structured routines, among many other benefits."

Satisfaction at work can also improve recovery, confidence, and social functioning.

On the other hand, "Poor working environments – including discrimination and inequality, excessive workloads, low job control, and job insecurity – pose a risk to mental health," WHO reports.

Workplace mental health risks include the following:

  • Excessive workloads
  • Understaffing
  • Long or inflexible hours
  • Being over or under-qualified for a job
  • Unclear job role
  • Lack of control related to job
  • Unsafe physical working conditions
  • Negative organizational culture
  • Limited support
  • Violence, harassment, or bullying
  • Discrimination or exclusion
  • Job insecurity
  • Inadequate pay
  • Lack of investment in career development
  • Conflicting home and work demands

Tips to Improve Employee Mental Health

If you want to improve employee morale and production and lower absenteeism, employee turnover, and Workers' Comp Insurance costs, there are steps you can take to improve employee mental health.

  • Properly train both managers and workers in mental health literacy and awareness
  • Increase employees' options regarding when, where, and how they work
  • Ensure health insurance that focuses on employee mental health and provides low out-of-pocket costs for depression medication and counseling
  • Include employees' input in decisions
  • Look at your business culture, including diversity and inclusion policies
  • Make mental health tools – brochures, self-assessments, clinical screening, counseling, etc. - available to employees
  • Host seminars that cover depression and stress management

Are You Paying Too Much for Worker's Compensation Insurance?

Worker's Compensation Insurance is a type of small business insurance that is mandatory in most states, including Pennsylvania. It covers employees for work-related injuries. A typical "workers comp" insurance policy pays lost wages and medical expenses incurred due to a work-related accident while protecting the employer against accident-related lawsuits. 

At American Insuring Group, Ltd., we offer cost-effective Worker's Compensation Insurance from various competing insurance companies, so we can get you the best price on quality insurance to protect your employees and your business!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp costs

Construction Worksite First Aid

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Nov 25, 2023

Create a first aid program and save on Contractor and Construction Insurance in Philadelphia, Allentown, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lancaster, Reading, Lebanon, York, and across the state of Pennsylvania. Creating a safer worksite is every employer's responsibility and one of the best ways to save on Contractor Insurance. At a minimum, you should follow all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety standards to avoid penalties and minimize the risk of injury. However, construction worksites are hazardous by nature, and injuries are always possible.

One of OSHA's safety standards is medical and first aid to help ensure that injured employees receive the best medical care as quickly as possible. "First aid refers to medical attention that is usually administered immediately after the injury occurs and at the location where it occurred. It often consists of a one-time, short-term treatment and requires little technology or training to administer," OSHA states. "First aid can include cleaning minor cuts, scrapes, or scratches; treating a minor burn; applying bandages and dressings; the use of non-prescription medicine; draining blisters; removing debris from the eyes; massage; and drinking fluids to relieve heat stress."

First Aid Assessment

Every job site is different; therefore, every site should be assessed to ensure proper first aid is available. First, identify and mitigate potential hazards. At the same time, identify the types of injuries possible and the first aid that may be required for those injuries. Develop your first aid program based on that assessment and OSHA's standards and regulations. Continue to reassess throughout the project as job sites, conditions, hazards, and first aid needs can change.

First Aid Training

OSHA states. "In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician that is reasonably accessible in terms of time and distance to the worksite, which is available for the treatment of injured employees, a person who has a valid certificate in first-aid training from the U.S. Bureau of Mines, the American Red Cross, or equivalent training that can be verified by documentary evidence, shall be available at the worksite to render first aid."

But what is considered "reasonably accessible in terms of time and distance to worksite"? "Medical literature establishes that, for serious injuries such as those involving stopped breathing, cardiac arrest, or uncontrolled bleeding, first aid treatment must be provided within the first few minutes to avoid permanent medical impairment or death," OSHA states. "Accordingly, in workplaces where serious accidents such as those involving falls, suffocation, electrocution, or amputation are possible, emergency medical services must be available within 3-4 minutes…"

One way to ensure that you follow OSHA's standards and provide prompt medical attention for injured employees is to have at least one employee trained in first aid on each worksite (regardless of the location of the closest medical facility). That training should include basic first aid, CPR, and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Additional training may be required depending on your assessment of potential injuries on the worksite. And don't forget to have those individuals recertified as needed.

In addition to at least one worker trained in first aid, all workers should understand their role in worksite first aid. They should understand the hazards and potential injuries. They should also know the protocol if someone is injured and requires first aid, including who to contact, where to find that person, how to explain their location, and where first aid kits and emergency equipment are located. And finally, they should know not to administer first aid themselves unless they are trained because they could cause more harm than good.

First Aid Kits

What good is someone trained in first aid if they don't have the tools and supplies they need to treat an injured worker? One or more first aid kits should be readily available on every worksite. The contents of that first aid kit should be based on the first aid assessment and the worksite size. OSHA's recommendation for "the minimally acceptable number and type of first-aid supplies for first-aid kits" for a small worksite of two or three workers includes the following:

  • Gauze pads (at least 4 x 4 inches).
  • Two large gauze pads (at least 8 x 10 inches).
  • Box adhesive bandages (band-aids).
  • One package gauze roller bandage at least 2 inches wide.
  • Two triangular bandages.
  • Wound cleaning agent such as sealed moistened towelettes.
  • Scissors.
  • At least one blanket.
  • Tweezers.
  • Adhesive tape.
  • Latex gloves.
  • Resuscitation equipment such as a resuscitation bag, airway, or pocket mask.
  • Two elastic wraps.
  • Splint.
  • Directions for requesting emergency assistance.

Lower Your Contractor Insurance Bill the Easy Way

Keeping workers as safe as possible and ensuring proper medical treatment is available is a smart business move.

So is working with the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group. We will perform an in-depth review of your business to ensure you have the right contractor or construction insurance and compare the cost of that insurance among many competing carriers to ensure you get the best price for the right coverage!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Construction Insurance, Construction Risk Insurance, Contractor Insurance, Contractor Safety Management

5 Steps to Choosing the Right Landlord Insurance

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Nov 18, 2023

Follow these 5 steps to save on Landlord Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Allentown, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Lebanon, and throughout Pennsylvania.How to Choose the Right Landlord Insurance

If you rent out a property – whether a single-family house or a 50-unit apartment complex – the right Landlord Insurance can help protect your property and so much more.

Homeowner's Insurance vs. Landlord Insurance

"A standard homeowners insurance policy insures your home's structure (house) and your belongings in the event of a destructive event, such as a fire," the Insurance Information Institute (III) explains. "In addition, homeowners insurance policies are generally 'package policies.' This means that the coverage includes not only damage to your property but also your liability—that is, legal responsibility—for any injuries and property damage to others caused by you or members of your family (including your household pets)."

One of the biggest mistakes many new landlords make – especially if they're renting out a single-family home – is to assume their homeowner's insurance policy will protect them if the rental property incurs damage or someone is injured on the property. Insurance is all about risk, and renting your home to someone else increases risk; therefore, most standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover damage or injuries if you rent your property to someone else.

That is where landlord insurance comes in. Landlord Insurance is a type of homeowner's insurance that covers damage to your rental property and helps protect you against any lawsuits related to the property. Your coverage may vary, but Landlord Insurance typically covers property damage caused by risks such as fire, lightning, windstorms, vandalism, etc. It also helps cover liability claims, legal expenses, and sometimes loss of rental income.

Because insuring a rental property involves more risk, landlord insurance is typically about 25% more expensive than standard homeowners insurance; however, it is essential to protect your property from damage and yourself from lawsuits. 

5 Steps to Choosing the Right Landlord Insurance

  1. Determine Your Property Type - There are many types of properties you can rent out, such as non-owner-occupied residential homes, condos, multi-unit properties, apartment buildings, multi-use properties, and commercial properties.

  2. Understand the Types of Landlord Insurance – There are three basic types of landlord insurance:
    • Dwelling Fire Insurance Policy – Each policy is unique, but this type of insurance typically covers damage caused by fire, vandalism, wind, hail, etc.
    • Business Owner Policy (BOP) – BOPs typically cover property damage and general liability.
    • Commercial Packages Policy (CPP) – This type of insurance is typically best for larger complexes with 150 units or more.

  3. Choose Additional Coverages
    Beyond the basic property damage and liability protection most standard Landlord Insurance policies provide, you may want to consider one or more of these additional coverages:
    • Flood
    • Sewer and water line backup
    • Rent guarantee (Aka tenant rent default)
    • Pet
    • Loss of income
    • Builders risk
    • Umbrella liability insurance

  4. Choose Your Settlement Option
    • Replacement Cost Value (RCV) – If you choose RCV and make a claim, you will be reimbursed based on how much it will cost to replace, repair, or rebuild at today's costs.
    • Actual Cash Value (ACV) – If you choose ACV and file a claim, you will be reimbursed at the current value, factoring in depreciation and normal wear and tear.
    • Modified Replacement Cost Value – "If you own an older home or one that is historically or architecturally significant, you may have to purchase dwelling insurance that comes with modified replacement value coverage," US News explains. "Let's say you own a home built in 1892, and it includes the original ornate crown molding, lath and plaster walls, and custom stained glass. Whether your home is damaged or completely destroyed, modified replacement cost value coverage focuses on functional replacement rather than accurate restoration. You will only receive as much money as it takes to rebuild or repair with current-day materials, including standard molding, drywall, and modern fixtures."

  5. Set Your Policy Limits – Most insurance policies have a limit – the most they will pay if you make a claim. Anything above that limit will be paid out of your own pocket. You may want to lower your limits to save on premiums, but you must ensure you can cover the difference. Or, you may want to increase your limits to ensure you are covered for just about any event.

Work With an Experienced Independent Insurance Agent

Landlord Insurance can be complicated, but the experienced agents at American Insuring Group can help you find the right insurance for your specific needs. Plus, as independent agents, we will compare the cost of your coverage with multiple insurance companies to ensure you get the best price and the right coverage!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Landlord Insurance, Homeowners Insurance

Driver Fatigue and Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Nov 11, 2023

Avoid driver fatigue and save on commercial truck insurance in Philadelphia, Reading, Allentown, Pittsburgh, Erie, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and throughout PennsylvaniaDriver fatigue could be costing your company higher Commercial Truck Insurance costs and so much more. Why? Because fatigued drivers mean more accidents (see below), and the average cost of a large truck crash with a fatality is $3.6 million, and a crash with injuries is $200,000, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

So, if you want to lower Truck Insurance and other administrative costs, retain good drivers, and make our roads safer for everyone, you need to address the issue of fatigue with your drivers.

What is Fatigue?

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), “Fatigue describes the feelings of tiredness, sleepiness, reduced energy, and increased effort needed to perform tasks at a desired level.”

“In addition to the dangers of falling asleep behind the wheel, drowsiness has serious effects on a driver’s attention, judgment, decision-making, coordination, vigilance, and reaction time,” according to the Sleep Foundation. “Drowsy drivers may find themselves weaving back and forth between lanes. They may have trouble maintaining the right speed and keeping an appropriate distance from other vehicles and may be unable to react in time to avoid an obstacle. A significant proportion of drowsy driving accidents involve a single driver driving off the road or into another lane at high speed.”

Statistics on Driver Fatigue

If you don’t believe driver fatigue is an issue, consider the following statistics:

  • According to the Truck Safety Coalition, 65% of truck drivers report that they often or sometimes feel drowsy while driving, and nearly half of truck drivers admit that they had fallen asleep while driving in the previous year.
  • According to Fatigue Science, the principal cause of 13-40% of trucking accidents is fatigue.
  • “In the United States alone each year, there are approximately 100,000 fatigue-related motoring accidents per year, resulting in 71,000 injuries and 800 tragic, largely preventable deaths,” Fatigue Science states.
  • Fatigue Science states, “The total cost of trucking accidents involving driver fatigue is approximately $20 billion per year. This includes costs such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost productivity.”

Causes of Driver Fatigue

Time of Day – According to the NSC, “People are physiologically programmed to sleep at night and be awake and active during the day.” Therefore, it’s no surprise that drowsy driving crashes typically occur at night or early morning.

Driving Long Hours – Our ability to focus on a task is limited. Driving for long periods can cause fatigue and affect performance.

Sleep Deprivation Experts recommend that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep daily. Not getting enough sleep can cause a lack of alertness, excessive daytime sleepiness, impaired memory, and more.

Sleep Disorders – The Sleep Foundation reports50 million to 70 million people have ongoing sleep disorders. The most common among them are insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy.” Sleep disorders cause daytime impairment in functioning and more.

Medications – Many medications - such as antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure, and anti-anxiety medications - can make you drowsy and impair your ability to drive safely.

Lifestyle Factors – Certain lifestyle factors, such as poor diet, stress, a sedentary lifestyle, etc., can contribute to fatigue.

Medical Conditions –Lyme disease, HIV, heart disease, emphysema, depression, MS, Type 2 diabetes, and more can contribute to fatigue. 

Tips to Minimize Driver Fatigue

  • Get enough sleep
  • Get screened for sleeping disorders
  • Try not to drive for more than eight to ten hours a day
  • Take regular breaks every two hours
  • Eat healthy and avoid heavy meals and fatty foods that can make you feel drowsy
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid alcohol and medications that make you drowsy
  • Avoid driving between 12 and 6 am and between 2 and 4 pm if possible
  • Maintain good posture
  • Stay hydrated
  • Take a nap if possible. Even ten minutes can make a difference.
  • Recognize the signs of fatigue – headache, blurred vision, frequent yawning, etc.
  • Don’t rely on “tricks,” such as turning on loud music, smoking, or opening the windows, which may give you a temporary boost but won’t fight fatigue in the long run.

Lower Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

Understanding and minimizing the risk of driver fatigue will help reduce the risk of accidents and help lower Commercial Truck Insurance and other costs. Another way to lower Commercial Truck Insurance Costs is to work with one of the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group. We compare rates among competing insurance providers to get you the right policy at the best price.

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Insurance, truck insurance, Trucking Insurance, Safe Driving Tips

Common Workplace Injuries and How to Avoid Them

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Nov 04, 2023

Avoid Workplace Injuries and Save on WC Insurance in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Erie, Allentown, Reading, Lancaster, Lebanon, Harrisburg, and across the state of Pennsylvania. Call us.The best way to lower Workers' Compensation (WC) Insurance costs is to create a safer work environment, thereby reducing the number of injuries and the number of WC claims. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 2,607,900 nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the private industry in 2021 and 5,190 fatal injuries.

"The total cost of work injuries in 2021 was $167.0 billion. This figure includes wage and productivity losses of $47.4 billion, medical expenses of $36.6 billion, and administrative expenses of $57.5 billion," according to the National Safety Council (NSC). "This total also includes employers' uninsured costs of $13.8 billion, including the value of time lost by workers other than those with disabling injuries who are directly or indirectly involved in injuries, and the cost of time required to investigate injuries, write up injury reports, and so forth. The total also includes damage to motor vehicles in work-related injuries of $5.4 billion and fire losses of $6.3 billion."

One way to minimize these costs in your workplace is to create a safer work environment. First, you need to understand the most common causes and the most common types of injuries. Then, you can take steps to eliminate those causes and minimize injuries.

Most Common Causes of Workplace Injuries, Accidents, Illnesses, and Fatalities:

Falls, slips, and trips – Falls, slips, and trips can result in sprains, strains, bruises, fractures, cuts, etc. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 18% of nonfatal work injuries that resulted in days away from work in 2020 were related to slips, trips, and falls.

Transportation incidents - According to the CDC, 1,038 U.S. workers died in work-related crashes involving motor vehicles (22% of all deaths) in 2020.

Overexertion and bodily reaction – Common activities that can cause overexertion and bodily reaction injuries include lifting, pushing, turning, carrying, and throwing. According to the NSC, in 2020, overexertion and bodily reaction were the second leading nonfatal injury or illness event involving days away from work, representing 22% of all such injuries.

Contact with objects and equipment – According to the NSC, "Prior to 2020, contact with objects and equipment was the third leading cause of injury and illness involving days away from work and accounts for 16.7% of cases in 2020."

Exposure to harmful substances or environments – This can include exposure to electricity, radiation, noise, extreme temperatures, harmful substances, etc. "Because of illness cases related to COVID-19 (coded as Other diseases due to viruses, not elsewhere classified [n.e.c.]), the leading cause of work-related injuries and illnesses involving days away from work in 2020 was exposure to harmful substances or environments," according to the NSC. Still, exposure to harmful substances or environments was the sixth-ranked cause before 2020.

Fire and Explosions – According to the NSC, in 2020, 1,770 workplace injuries resulted from fire and explosions.

Most Common Workplace Injuries:

  • Ligament Sprains and Tears
  • Tendon and Muscle Strains and Tears
  • Herniated Discs
  • Repetitive Use Injuries
  • Cuts, Lacerations, Punctures
  • Lacerations
  • Bruises and Contusions
  • Broken Bones
  • Neck and Back Injuries
  • Shoulder Injuries
  • Burns
  • Electrocutions

Tips to Minimize the Risk of Workplace Injuries:

  • Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
  • Conduct physical assessments for demanding roles
  • Provide safety and wellness training
  • Hire qualified workers
  • Hire enough workers
  • Keep workspaces clean and walkways clear
  • Post proper signage
  • Provide adequate lighting
  • Practice good equipment and vehicle maintenance
  • Provide appropriate PPE
  • Require employees to dress appropriately for their roles
  • Discourage employees from taking shortcuts
  • Understand Safety Standards and Regulations
  • Consider workplace ergonomics to reduce the risk of Repetitive Stress Injuries

Lower Your Workers' Compensation Insurance Costs

Understanding the most common causes and types of injuries and taking steps to minimize the risk of those injuries is one way to lower WC costs.

Another way is to work with the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group, Ltd. We offer cost-effective Worker's Compensation insurance from various competing insurance companies. We'll work hard to get you the best price on quality insurance to protect your employees and your business!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp, Safety Programs