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Food Product Recalls and Restaurant Insurance Solutions

Posted by David Ross on Tue, Oct 13, 2015

Restaurant-Insurance-Food-RecallsHaving the right type of restaurant insurance coverage is key to protecting your business in the event of a food recall. That's because food recalls have become a major concern for restaurant owners and others in the food businesses in recent years.

The number of recalls has nearly doubled since 2002, costing many of these affected businesses more than $10 million for each incident, with some going as high as $100 million. Most of that money is spent on product disposal costs, business interruptions, and customer reimbursements. And those figures do not include the reputational damage that lowers profits for food producers.

A 2013 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicated that nearly nine million people were sickened by contaminated food that year, costing the U.S. public health system a stunning $15 billion in hospitalization costs and lost wages.

Food recalls are triggered for several reasons, nearly half of which are for microbiological contamination. Another 25% come from incorrect or missing labelling. Defective packaging, physical and chemical contamination, and unapproved ingredients round out the list. 

Food Product Recalls and Restaurants

As a restaurant owner, it’s imperative that you keep on top of all food recall information – from both the FDA and the USDA. You can do that by regularly checking www.foodsafety.gov. You can also get recall information sent right to your email inbox or by uploading an app.

If you discover that there is a recall on a product that you serve, check to see if the items you have in stock are part of that recall. Then, find out the reason for the recall. As we mentioned, food can be recalled for everything from microbiological contamination to inaccurate ingredient labeling. If you do have recalled product, identify and separate those products. Finally, contact the manufacturer to determine whether to return or throw away the recalled product and to ask for a refund.

Restaurant insurance is a vital component of risk management

Contaminated foods can have a devastating effect on a food manufacturer or restaurant’s reputation. Also, consumers who have been poisoned by contaminated food can file claims for financial compensation. All of this points to restaurant insurance as a means of mitigating the financial impact of a recall. There are several possible solutions:

Product Liability Insurance provides compensation of justified third-party claims and defense costs for injury caused by a contaminated food product.

Product Recall Insurance reimburses expenses for the recall of any food product that was accidentally contaminated or labelled incorrectly and resulted in sickness, disease or death. It covers the company’s expenses related to the recall such as notification, testing, disposal, product replacement, and reimbursement of the purchase price.

Contaminated Product Insurance pays expenses that are associated with accidental contamination, malicious contamination, or product extortion demands. Specific losses that are covered include recall expenses, pre-incident consulting, post-incident crisis management, third-party expenses, loss of gross profit, and rehabilitation expenses.

Get the Right Restaurant Insurance for Your Peace of Mind 

Each of these types of insurance addresses a specific need. Click here to contact us or give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 to find the right insurance solution for your company based on your risk exposure and the level of protection that you need.

Tags: Restaurant Insurance, Restaurant Insurance Philadelphia PA, Restaurant Insurance Allentown PA, Restaurant Insurance Pittsburgh PA, Restaurant Insurance Reading PA

Homeowners Insurance Tip: What to Do After a Home Burglary

Posted by David Ross on Tue, Oct 06, 2015

Homeowner's insurance tips on what to do after a home burglary. Serving Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, Erie, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, PA and beyond with high quality house insurance for homeowners and renters.It's every homeowner's worst fear. Imagine… You pull into your driveway after a lovely evening with your spouse and as you approach your front door – key in hand - you see broken glass and notice that the door isn’t shut completely. For a few seconds, you’re confused. Then, you realize that someone has obviously forced their way into your house. Your heart starts pounding and your mind begins racing. Your home has been burglarized. What do you do now?

You are now a statistic—one of the 3.7 million home burglaries that happen each year. Regardless of how much homeowner's insurance you have you will be angry, anxious, or maybe even panic-stricken. But there are actions you must take to minimize the effects of the burglary…and the order in which you do them is critical.

  1. Call the police and file a report

In the above scenario, it is best to retreat into your car and dial 911. You can’t be certain that the burglars aren’t still in your house, and you don’t want to be the one to confront them. If you’re already in the house and certain that the burglars are gone, call the police, but don’t touch or disturb anything, as it might be key evidence. When the police arrive, walk through your house and make a list of the items that were taken, and take pictures of any damage that was done during the burglary. Make one copy of the list for your homeowners insurance company and give the other to the police.

Within 24 hours you will need to file a report with the police. This puts the incident on record, which is the first step in filing an insurance claim. The report is also needed in the investigation, and this may lead to apprehending the offenders and recovering your property.

  1. Contact your homeowners insurance company and file a claim

File an insurance claim with your carrier as quickly as possible, while the details are fresh in your mind. The list of stolen and damaged property that you supply should include a value for each item and receipts, if possible. There may be an insurance adjuster assigned to your case, and any documentation--in addition to the police report--will help him or her work through the details. While FBI statistics show that only about 13% of break-ins are solved by law enforcement, filing a well-documented claim should enable you to recoup a fair amount of your loss.

  1. Clean up

Once the burglary has been properly documented, you can clean up. Your emotional healing will begin with the physical act of putting things in order. Remove any appliances or furniture that can no longer be used, clean up anything that has been broken, and repair and paint over any damage to the walls. You might want to consider changing the previous look of a ransacked room by rearranging furniture or painting the walls a different color. All of this can be emotionally challenging, but these are important steps for moving on after a break-in.

  1. Plan for the future

Restoring order to your home, while difficult in itself, is easier than restoring your sense of security. Being burglarized causes emotional trauma, and being proactive about your future can help you recover. Here are some of the steps you can take:

  • Buy or upgrade door and window locks
  • Install motion-sensitive lights outside your doors
  • Put your lights on timers, both inside and outside
  • Consider a home security system with alarm monitoring—the system should include door and window alarms along with motion detectors

Having the Right Homeowner's Insurance Helps Your Peace of Mind

Contact us for help in buying the right homeowner's insurance for your peace of mind.To ensure that your valuables are properly protected in the event of a home burglary, click here to contact us, or give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 to review your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Tags: House Insurance Reading PA, Homeowners Insurance Lancaster Pa, House Insurance Allentown Pa, House Insurance Lancaster Pa, Homeowners Insurance Philadelphia Pa, House Insurance, Homeowners Insurance, Homeowners Insurance Allentown Pa, Homeowners Insurance Reading Pa, House Insurance Philadelphia Pa

What is Commercial Auto Insurance?

Posted by David Ross on Tue, Sep 22, 2015

Commercial auto insurance and personal auto insurance are two completely different things – mainly because a commercial vehicle faces more risks and needs more protection than a personal vehicle.

PA Commercial Auto Insurance requirements defined. Serving the car insurance needs of Philadelphia, Reading, Allentown, Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Lebanon, Erie, Pittsburgh, State College, PA and beyond.Commercial auto insurance is designed to protect you, your employees, your vehicle, your equipment, your business (in the event of a lawsuit), and other individuals. It has some of the same coverages as personal insurance, but usually includes higher liability coverage and additional add-ons not offered with personal auto insurance.

If you are conducting business in a vehicle that is only covered by personal auto insurance and that vehicle is involved in an accident, you risk having your claim denied.

State and Federal Insurance Requirements for Your Personal or Commercial Vehicle

Each state has different requirements, but nearly all of them require that any registered vehicle be covered by – at least – liability insurance, and some states require that you purchase uninsured motorist coverage and no-fault car insurance. Pennsylvania is one of those states, and these requirements – and often more - apply to your commercial vehicle.

If you transport hazardous materials or you transport goods or passengers from state to state, you are also subject to federal requirements for commercial auto insurance. For instance: a commercial vehicle carrying 16 or more passengers across state lines is required to have $5 million of insurance and a vehicle carrying less than 15 passengers across state lines is required to carry at least $1.5 million of insurance.

Often, you will find that insurance companies will only sell you policies that include coverage that is higher than the state’s minimum requirements for personal vehicles, because providing coverage for a commercial vehicle increases the risk. Plus, financial intuitions may require additional coverage.

Do you need commercial auto insurance?

If you own or lease a fleet of vehicles, you probably understand that you need commercial auto insurance, but even if you own just one of the following vehicles and use it for business purposes, you should have commercial vehicle insurance:

  • Trucks – dump trucks, refrigerator trucks, etc.
  • Vehicles outfitted with work equipment
  • Utility vans
  • Limousines
  • Taxicabs
  • Flatbeds

You might be surprised to learn that you should also have commercial insurance for a “regular” car, pick-up truck, or SUV if any of these circumstances apply:

  • You use a vehicle or vehicles for your profession or business (other than commuting to work)
  • The vehicle is owned or leased by a business, partnership, or other corporation
  • The vehicle is equipped with…
    • Snowplowing equipment.
    • Cooking or catering equipment.
    • Bathrooms.
    • Altered suspensions.
    • Hydraulic lifts.
    • Racing equipment.
  • The vehicle is consistently driven by you or your employees for both business and personal use.

Add-on insurance to consider for your commercial vehicle:

  • Collision: This covers your vehicle for damage incurred in a collision/accident.

  • Comprehensive Insurance: This covers you if your vehicle is damaged by something other than a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.

  • PIP and medical payments coverages: Personal injury protection (PIP) and medical payments coverages help take care of expenses, such as the loss of wages, incurred when you and/or your passengers are injured in an accident.

  • Emergency roadside insurance: If you’re battery dies, you get a flat tire, need your car towed, run out of gas, or lock yourself out of the car, this insurance can come in handy.

  • Personal effects insurance:  This insurance covers your personal belongings in the event of a theft.

Contact Us for the Right Commercial Vehicle Insurance 

Contact us for all your commercial vehicle insurance needs in PA and beyond.If you want to protect your employees, your vehicle, your equipment, your business, and other individuals, give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or click here to contact us.

As independent insurance agents, we can help determine the right auto insurance at the right price for your vehicle by shopping among competing insurance carriers. Click or call today.

Tags: Car Insurance Harrisburg PA, Van Insurance, Car Insurance Lancaster PA, Commercial Vehicle Insurance, Car Insurance, Car Insurance Reading PA, Car Insurance Allentown PA, Car Insurance Philadelphia PA, Affordable Car Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

Business Insurance in the Event of a Death or Disability

Posted by David Ross on Thu, Sep 17, 2015

Do you know your business insurance needs in the event of death or disability? We're a PA business insurance agency who can help. Serving Reading, Philadelphia, Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh, Erie, PA and beyond.When you start a business, you’re full of hope and dreams. The last thing you want to think about is what would happen to your business if you, a co-owner, or a key person within the business were to become disabled or – God forbid – die.

But, as a business owner it is your responsibility to think about these things and plan how you will protect your business, your employees, and your family in the event of one of these tragedies. In order to do that, you need to ask yourself these two questions and then get the proper business insurance to meet your needs:

What will happen to my business and family if I die or become disabled?
What will happen if certain key employees die or become permanently disabled? 

Here are 4 Types of Business Insurance to Consider:

Disability Buy-Out Insurance

You may think that if something were to happen to you that your family could jump in and run the business or hire someone to handle the day-to-day management of your business. Unfortunately, that rarely happens. Usually, they don’t have the skills or the where-with-all to make that happen. So, it’s important to create a buy-sell agreement - a contract that would allow remaining owner or owners to buy a deceased, disabled, or retired owner’s share of the business (at a pre-determined agreed upon price). A properly structured and funded buy-sell agreement will ensure that your business partners know exactly what needs to be done and that your family is fairly and promptly compensated.

There are several ways to fund this type of agreement in the event of such a tragedy. You (or your remaining partners) can use cash (assuming you have access to enough cash), pay in installments from current earnings (which could become a financial burden to the business for years to come), take out a loan (assuming you could obtain a business loan after an owner’s death or disability), or use disability buy-out insurance (the only way to guarantee that the cash will be available when needed).

Business Overhead Insurance

If an owner were to become disabled, this insurance would reimburse the business for overhead expenses – such as salaries, taxes, employee benefits, rent, mortgage, utilities, etc. – for one or two years. This often means the difference between a business surviving or closing until the owner can get back on his or her feet.

Individual Life Insurance

What if you or one of the owners were to die? What would happen to your business? You might assume that your family or remaining owners could sell or liquidate the business to ensure their financial security. Unfortunately, this doesn’t usually work. First, who wants to think about selling a business while grieving for the loss of a loved one? Second, when the family is forced to sell the business quickly, they may have to sell at a discount or during market conditions that make the business less attractive. In other cases, the business may be worth very little without the proprietor or partner. Individual life insurance can protect your family by providing funds to cover debts, ongoing living expenses and future plans, in the event that something happens to you. Life insurance can also be structured to fund a buy-sell agreement.

Key Person Insurance

This is another essential component of a smart business continuation plan. Key person insurance is life or disability insurance purchased by the business on an employee/owner that is essential to the running of the business. It is payable to the business. When a key person dies or becomes disabled, insurance can help make up for lost sales or earnings or cover the cost of finding or training a replacement.

Need Help Finding the Right Business Insurance?

Contact us for help in finding the best PA commercial insurance for your business in Philadelphia, Reading, York, Lancaster, Lebanon, Harrisburg, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh, Erie, PA and beyond.Don’t take chances. It’s your responsibility for protecting your family, employees, and your business. Make sure that you plan for the unexpected with the right business insurance and individual life insurance.

Contact us at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848; we can help you determine the right insurance to protect your assets. As independent insurance agents, we'll shop among competing insurance providers to find you the right insurance at the best price. Call or click today.

Tags: Business Insurance Reading PA, Business Insurance Berks, Business Insurance Philadelphia Pa, Business Insurance Lancaster Pa, Business Insurance Harrisburg Pa, Key Person Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance Allentown PA, Business Insurance, Pennsylvania Business Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Overhead Insurance, Disability Buy-Out Insurance

Workers Compensation Insurance & Pre-Claim Nurse Triage

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Sep 12, 2015

Workers compensation insurance savings are possible by implementing a pre-claim nurse triage program. Call us to learn more. Providing workers comp insurance to Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Allentown. Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh, Erie, PA and beyond.Businesses today face challenges in managing a workers compensation insurance program, and these challenges can seem daunting immediately after a job-related injury.

Supervisors must make decisions for which they are not trained. Complicated medical questionnaires and claims forms must be filled out, leading to late and inconsistent reporting. These delays can create an opportunity for injuries to be embellished and, therefore, to become more costly.

Once an injured employee enters the medical system, the cost of a claim will escalate. A pre-claim nurse triage program addresses these issues and can provide help for rising workers’ comp costs.

What is Workers Compensation Pre-Claim Nurse Triage?

Telephone triage consists of specially trained nurses who are available 24/7 to receive calls following a worksite accident. This is a pre-claim activity in which the injured employee and a supervisor speak with a nurse who, in turn, assesses the injury and determines medically appropriate treatment. All recommendations come from an evidence-based medical protocol that ensures objectivity and uniformity. If the injury is minor, the nurse will provide first aid instructions that are specific to the injury. More serious injuries are referred to an off-site care facility. All information is recorded at the time of the accident, and the nurse collects all of the necessary data for reporting.

Workers Comp Benefits to the Employer

  • The nurse triage system is easy to use.
  • Company supervisors are no longer responsible for making decisions on injuries.
  • The process is handled in a timely manner, leaving less chance for an employee to exaggerate the injury.
  • Workers with minor injuries avoid unnecessary and costly treatment.
  • Employees return to work sooner.
  • Detailed reports of the incident are completed by the nurse and sent to the company.
  • Typically, the money saved from claims reduction is substantially greater than the cost of the triage service.

Workers Comp Benefits to the Employee

  • Immediate access to a medical professional who is trained to assess injuries.
  • Medical attention is given sooner, resulting in better health outcomes.
  • Early medical attention alleviates fears and concerns.
  • Medical information acquired by the triage nurse prepares the employee’s primary care physician to determine a course of treatment, if needed.
  • The employee is given self-care advice and instructions.

Your Workers Compensation Insurance Program Can Gain a Competitive Advantage

Today, business owners must be proactive and address the risks they face in injury management. In the past, costly trips to the hospital emergency room or unnecessary visits to urgent care and clinics may have adversely affected your bottom line. Pre-claim nurse triage can eliminate many of these trips and make your workers’ compensation program more efficient.

Typically with the use of a nurse triage, half of all sprains, strains, contusions, and lacerations, which collectively comprise about 70% of total injuries, are never entered into the medical system. Instead, a triage nurse is able to direct appropriate first aid treatment, resulting in significant savings.

This valuable program is not only for Fortune 500 companies. Any company, regardless of size, can take advantage of 24/7 nurse triage. Businesses report an average return on investment of 6:1 after one year in the program. Overall, workers comp claims are reduced by 44%. Less time off from work means greater productivity from employees. Add to this the decreased probability of fraud and lawsuits from disgruntled workers, and you have savings that find their way to your bottom line and give you a competitive advantage.


We Can Help Create a Better Workers Comp Insurance Plan

Contact us for PA workers compensation insuranceWorkplace injuries occur in the safest companies.

Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or click here to contact us for help in creating a better workers compensation plan. 

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp, workers comp insurance, PA Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp costs, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

8 Auto Insurance Myths Debunked

Posted by David Ross on Tue, Sep 08, 2015

Car insurance myths. Learn more from American Insuring Group, providing auto insurance in Reading, Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Lebanon, Pittsburgh, Erie, PA and beyond.Most drivers are aware that the rates they pay for auto insurance are a result of factors such as their driving record, the type of car, van, truck or RV they own, the distance of their commute, and various demographics like their age and gender.

But there are also lots of myths about vehicle insurance that, in some cases, could end up costing them substantially more than the premium.

Let's shine the light of truth and dispel all 8 myths right now!

 

Auto Insurance Myth #1:
A Red Car is the Most Expensive to Insure

Although this myth has persisted for many years, there is no basis for it. The sticker price of your car, its safety record, the cost to repair it, and the likelihood of theft are all considered in the premium. The color makes no difference. Simply put, the premium on a silver Mercedes 260E will be higher than on a red Honda Civic.

Auto Insurance Myth #2:
Older Drivers Pay More to Insure their Vehicles

The truth is that senior drivers (usually 55 and over) have the opportunity for discounts that may not be available to younger drivers. Both AAA and AARP offer defensive driving courses for mature drivers. These may be taken online and, upon successful completion, could result in as much as a 10% reduction in your vehicle insurance premium.

Auto Insurance Myth #3:
When it Comes to Car Insurance, Credit Score is not Important

Actually, it is very important. Almost every insurance company uses a credit-based insurance score to determine eligibility and premium rates, and it is based, in whole or in part, on the information found in your consumer credit report. For most people, a good credit score will translate into lower insurance rates and vice versa.

Auto Insurance Myth #4:
If Your Car is Stolen, Damaged, or Vandalized, You Will be Covered

Not necessarily. Comprehensive vehicle insurance, which covers theft, vandalism, and an array of non-collision damages to your car, is optional coverage. Many drivers choose not to carry this on an older car as a way of saving money. Keep in mind that if a car is to be fully protected, both collision and comprehensive coverage need to be in force.

Auto Insurance Myth #5:
The Minimum Amount of Auto Liability Insurance Required by Law is Sufficient

State minimum liability requirements don’t come close to covering the cost of a serious accident. The old idiom “penny wise and pound foolish” applies here. Saving a few dollars a year on inadequate coverage may end up costing thousands more. Actual liability coverage limits should be four to six times higher than the state minimum.

Auto Insurance Myth #6:
If Someone Else Drives Your Car, Their Insurance Will Cover Them in an Accident

In most states, car insurance travels with the vehicle. So remember, if you’re loaning out your car, you’re agreeing to take responsibility for that driver. Your rates may be at risk if the driver has an accident.

Auto Insurance Myth #7:
Members of the Military Pay More for Insurance

This is not the case. In fact, many insurance companies offer savings to active members and veterans of the armed forces and their families. This makes sense since, statistically, members of all branches of the armed services are responsible, law abiding and safe – all traits that make them a lower risk.

Auto Insurance Myth #8:
Personal Insurance Covers Both Personal and Commercial Use of Your Vehicle

Proceed with caution here. If you are self-employed and use your vehicle under a personal policy, you risk having a claim denied. The rules that determine what constitutes commercial vehicle insurance vs. personal insurance use are complex. Make sure you are covered under the proper policy for your situation.


Get the Facts - Get the Best Car Insurance to Meet Your Needs and Budget

Contact us for the right PA auto insurance at the right price.Now that we've dispelled some common myths of auto insurance, give us a call to learn more at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or click here to contact us. We'll help you obtain reasonable premiums without sacrificing vital coverage.

We're independent agents who offer car insurance policies from competing insurance companies. That means we can find you the best insurance at the best price. We've been serving the vehicle insurance needs of Reading, Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, Erie, PA and beyond for over 25 years. Call today. 

Tags: Car Insurance Harrisburg PA, Van Insurance, Car Insurance Lancaster PA, Commercial Vehicle Insurance, RV Insurance, Car Insurance, Car Insurance Reading PA, Car Insurance Allentown PA, Car Insurance Philadelphia PA, Affordable Car Insurance

5 Surprising Things Life Insurance Can Do While You’re Alive

Posted by David Ross on Thu, Sep 03, 2015

The right life insurance policy can benefit you during your lifetime. Serving Reading, Philadelphia, Allentown, Lancaster, Pittsburgh, PA and beyond.Life insurance is a key component in any financial plan. Its death benefit creates an immediate estate for beneficiaries that will provide them with income, cash for college or other capital needs, and funds to pay taxes, funeral expenses, or administrative costs. It can pay off a mortgage or retire other debts.

In its simplest form, it pays cash when an insured individual dies, but did you know that a life insurance policy can be set up in such a way that it is beneficial during a policyholder’s lifetime?

Two Types of Life Insurance

Term life insurance pays a predetermined amount of money when a person dies. It is in force for a specified period (term) and may be renewed if needed. It provides a death benefit only.

Permanent life insurance, as the name implies, is set up to last a lifetime. Like term insurance, it too provides a death benefit, but that is where the similarity ends. Whole life insurance (the more common designation for permanent insurance) accumulates tax-sheltered cash values that can be accessed by the insured. Although not guaranteed, there may also be dividends that are similar to those paid to stock owners. Also, unlike the premiums on term insurance, which increase at the end of each term, the premiums for whole life remain level.

How Can the Accumulated Cash From a Life Insurance Policy Be Used?

The short answer is that it can be used for anything. After cash has accrued inside a whole life policy, it is available for withdrawal as a policy loan. While it is not a requirement to pay the loan back, any amount that is not repaid will be subtracted from the death benefit. That said, here are some creative ways in which others have used the living benefits of their whole life policies:

  • Help with college tuition. If the cash value is large enough, all of the hassles of applying for bank loans or filling out financial aid forms can be eliminated. Using the money in your policy is probably preferable to tapping retirement savings or home equity, but it’s best to consult your agent to be sure.

  • Start your own business. Starting a business may be your dream, but your bank may see it as their nightmare. If your savings and private borrowing from friends and family aren’t enough to get your venture moving forward, using your cash value might be sufficient to fill the gap.

  • Take time off to attend to family matters. An untimely accident or illness to a family member may require you to take an unpaid leave of absence from your job. Aging parents are especially vulnerable and may need help for weeks or even months during their recovery. The accumulated cash in your whole life policy can replace lost income.

  • Get funds to sustain you during a chronic illness. If you are chronically ill and unable to perform all of the activities of daily living, some permanent policies will allow you early access to your death benefit. If yours doesn’t, the accumulated cash value can still be used until you recover sufficiently. Whether you access your death benefit or cash value, the money taken out will reduce the amount your beneficiaries receive.

  • Use your cash value to fund the early years of retirement. Your 401(k) and IRA can continue to grow tax-deferred if you live off your cash value early in retirement. The relative safety of your insurance money allows you to take on more risk and growth potential in your other sheltered accounts for several more years.

Finding the Life Insurance Policy That's Right for You

Contact us to find the best term or whole life policy. Serving Reading, Philadelphia, Allentown, Lancaster, PA and beyond.These examples are not appropriate for everyone. A professional insurance advisor from American Insuring Group can analyze your circumstances and help you find the term or whole life insurance policy that's right for you.

Click here to contact us, or give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848.

Tags: Life Insurance Berks Pa, Life Insurance Philadelphia Pa, Life Insurance Lancaster Pa, Life Insurance Reading PA, Life Insurance Allentown Pa, Life Insurance Harrisburg Pa, Life Insurance York Pa, Life Insurance

Handling Mental Injury Workers Compensation Claims

Posted by David Ross on Sat, Aug 29, 2015

Mental injury workers compensation insurance claims. Here's information you should know.In the early 1990’s when many states began passing workers compensation insurance acts, there was a prerequisite that any compensable injury had to have a physical impact. That has changed over the years.

Today most states accept that mental injuries can occur and, therefore, can be classified as a compensable injury. Mental injury workers comp claims can be expensive to defend, and expensive if found to be compensable.


3 Types of Mental Injury Cases Affecting Workers Compensation Insurance 

Pennsylvania workers compensation law distinguishes between three (3) types of mental injury cases:

 

  • Mental / Physical
    A work-related mental or emotional experience causes physical consequences. Sometimes a heart attack or cardiac condition can qualify as a compensable event under this standard. In this case, most courts apply a two-part test. The first part is the need for an accumulation of workplace stress beyond the ordinary day-to-day stress employees are exposed to. The second part is the need for legal causation between the stress and the alleged work injury.

  • Physical / Mental
    A physical stimulus causes a mental injury. A good example of a “physical/mental” case involves an amputation or orthopedic injury of sufficient severity to necessitate later psychological counseling or psychiatric treatment for a condition such as depression or PTSD. Although the physical injury need not be the only cause of the mental injury, the element of “contact” is required.

  • Mental / Mental
    A mental or emotional stimulus causes purely emotional sequela (an aftereffect of a disease, condition, or injury).  There is no physical impact or harm. This applies to any employee that is subjected to “abnormal working conditions.” Typically a verbally abusive boss is not sufficient grounds, but a store clerk who has been robbed at gunpoint, is traumatized by the event, and can no longer function normally may be.

The categorization determines the burden of proof.  In physical/mental and mental/physical cases, the claimant needs to provide evidence that establishes that his or her injuries arose in the course and scope of employment.  Mental/mental injuries require a higher burden of proof. The Claimant needs to demonstrate the presence of “abnormal working conditions.”

Proper Handling of Workers Compensation Insurance Claims

In addition to understanding the laws in your state regarding mental injury workers’ compensation claims, you also need to learn how to work with medical experts. Here are three tips when choosing and working with medical experts.

  1. Prior to the independent medical/psychological evaluation by your medical expert, provide a complete set of medical records  - including review of all pre- and post- injury medical records related to the employee’s conditions - if you want your expert’s opinions to be accepted.

  2. You never know how a court may respond to a medical expert. It may accept your expert’s opinions based on a rational explanation that the employee’s condition is affecting their recovery or they may be more receptive to the medical expert’s opinion when the report is detailed and supported by deposition testimony. Therefore, provide a detailed and logical explanation for an expert’s opinions to help prove your theory or position.

  3. Accurate and concise reporting is essential when it comes to the acceptance of an expert’s opinions. If your expert makes the slightest error or omission, all of his opinion could be disregarded.

Learn More About Your Workers' Compensation Insurance Options

Workers-Comp-Insurance-Mental-Health-InjuryTo learn more about saving on workers’ compensation insurance costs and all your workers comp insurance options,  click here to contact American Insuring Group or call us at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp, PA Workers Compensation Insurance, workers comp costs, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance

3 Types of Restaurant Insurance Coverage

Posted by David Ross on Tue, Aug 25, 2015

The best restaurant insurance for PA businesses in Philadelphia, Reading, Allentown, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Lancaster, PA and beyond.All businesses are at risk for some type of damage, liability or loss, and need to ensure that they have the right commercial insurance to protect themselves, their business, and their employees from those risks. 

Food service businesses – whether it’s a café, diner, or gourmet restaurant - are no different and actually present some unique risks that need to be addressed.

Often the most cost-effective way to protect a restaurant is with a Business Owners Policy (BOP) that is tailored specifically to the needs of the restaurant business. That's what we mean by  restaurant insurance.

Here are the Three Main Categories of Business Insurance for Your Restaurant

Restaurant Insurance Category #1: Property Insurance

Property insurance protects… well… property. That could include the actual building that your restaurant is located in if you own the property and all of the property within the building (whether you rent or own), such as equipment, dishes, food, and furniture. In the event of a fire, flood or other damaging event, property insurance allows you to replace those items so that you can resume business.

Many BOPs also include Business Interruption Insurance and Business Income Insurance. Interruption insurance helps you recover as quickly as possible by paying extra expenses caused by the interruption in your business —such as rent for temporary quarters.    Business Income Insurance helps pay for ongoing expenses – such as rent - incurred while your business is closed. 

As a food service business, you carry the added risk that your food could cause food poisoning or transmit a communicable disease, which makes a Food Contamination Endorsement Insurance a good idea for many restaurant owners. Typically, this endorsement helps pay for lost income if the business is shut down by a government authority, clean up expenses, food replacement, and additional advertising expenses required to restore your restaurant’s reputation.

Other property insurance coverages you may want to consider as a food service business owner include…

  • Spoilage
  • Mechanical Breakdown
  • Outdoor Signs
  • Burglary and Robbery
  • Employee Dishonesty

Restaurant Insurance Category #2: Business Liability Insurance  

Commercial liability insurance helps protect your business against lawsuits – from someone breaking their leg walking up your steps to claims of libel or slander. We live in a very litigious society, and you never know what your restaurant could be liable for. Remember the woman who sued and won the lawsuit against McDonalds because she spilled hot coffee on herself? Even if you win the lawsuit, the cost of defending yourself can seriously affect your bottom line. Liability insurance helps protect you and your business.

If your restaurant has a liquor license, you should also include a Liquor Liability Endorsement to help cover the cost of your defense in the event of a lawsuit and any damages awarded if you are found liable.

Restaurant Insurance Category #3: Workers Compensation Insurance

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

Need Better Restaurant Insurance?
We Can Help! 

Contact us for help in finding the best restaurant insurance in Pennsylvania and beyond.Whether you own a sandwich shop or an elegant restaurant, the independent insurance agents at American Insuring Group can help find the right insurance at the right price for your food service business. Because we're independent, we're free to shop around for the best deal among many competing providers of restaurant insurance based on your particular needs.

So give us a call at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or click here to Contact Us today.

Tags: Workers Compensation Insurance, Restaurant Insurance, Business Insurance Reading PA, workers comp, workers comp insurance, Commercial Liability Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance, Pennsylvania Business Insurance, Commercial Insurance Philadelphia PA, commercial property insurance

Business Insurance Tip: Reduce Vulnerability to Theft

Posted by David Ross on Thu, Aug 20, 2015

Business insurance tips for protecting against theft. Serving the business insurance needs of Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, Allentown, Lehigh Valley, Pittsburgh, Erie, Lebanon, Berks County, PA and beyond.While business insurance is your safety net for financial loss from theft, it's better to minimize the chance of your business becoming a victim of theft in the first place.

Unfortunately, most businesses become victims of theft at some point.  In fact, the most serious thefts can drive them out of existence.

Business owners and their managers need to first acknowledge that it can happen and then take the necessary steps to prevent it…or at least to minimize the loss.

Insuring Against Four Types of Theft

There are four types of theft: burglary, robbery, theft by employees, and identity theft. Each of these has its own set of challenges and preventive measures. Check with your independent insurance agent to be sure your commercial insurance coverage adequately protects you against each of these categories of business theft.

#1. Insuring Against Burglary:
Unlawful Entry with Intent to Steal

Burglars enter your business when no one is there. They mainly target your cash, merchandise and equipment, but they may also commit a host of other felonies.

Thieves like to work in the dark, so visibility is your first line of defense here. Bright interior lights deter illegal entry, especially if your building can be seen from the street. Exterior lights, protected with metal cages, may discourage them from approaching at all. This is a good start, but there are other equally important steps you can take to prevent a break-in:

  • An alarm system with motion detectors
  • Steel doors with dead bolt locks
  • A see-through fence (i.e., chain link)
  • Windows with safety glass and locks
  • Padlocks on overhead doors

#2. Insuring Against Robbery:
Taking Cash or Valuables from a Person

If your business deals in cash or smaller valuables, you are susceptible to being robbed. This could happen either by force or the threat of force. To keep it from happening at all, there are things you can look for and actions you should take:

  • Keep cash to a minimum
  • Post signs indicating the maximum amount of cash on the premises
  • Be alert – look for signs of danger
  • Recognize potential hiding places near your business
  • Provide bright lights and good visibility to deter robbers

Being robbed will be traumatic. Your managers and employees need to be trained to react properly if all preventive measures fail. Here are some guidelines to remember during and immediately after a robbery:

  • Cooperate with the robber
  • Obey orders quickly
  • Don’t argue or fight
  • Don’t use a weapon
  • Don’t chase or follow the robber
  • Call the police

#3. Insuring Against Employee Theft:
An Insidious Crime

Business owners don’t want to believe that a trusted employee is stealing from them. As a result, most of this theft goes undetected. It is estimated that businesses may be losing as much as forty billion dollars each year to this crime. It is crucial that you work with your accountants regularly to spot the following signs:

  • Changes in sales and inventory without a corresponding increase in profits or cash flow
  • Shipping records that are not consistent with inventory
  • Unauthorized changes in paperwork or established procedures

As a business owner, you need to be aware that loyal employees may steal, as do well-paid executives and workers who have been with you for many years. Encourage all employees to report their suspicions and concerns. Tell them what to report and how to do it. Work diligently with your accounting staff to catch inconsistencies early.

#4. Insuring Against Identity Theft:
Not Just a Consumer Problem

Business identity theft is growing, and the consequences are enormous. It affects your entire business, including employees, customers, and suppliers. Identity thieves can tap into your credit lines, change your contact information, then order supplies or obtain credit cards. They can also go after your customers. Defend against them by doing the following:

  • Securely lock up any paper data and shred it when it’s outdated
  • Make sure networks are password protected and have a firewall
  • Install security software on any mobile devices that contain confidential company data

Protect Your Business From Theft - Get the Right Commercial Insurance

Contact us to obtain business insurance to protect against all types of theft: burglary, identity theft, employee theft, and more.If, in spite of all these measures, your business is still a victim of theft, the right business insurance can help.

Don't wait until your business takes a hit. Be proactive: Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or click here to contact us.

Tags: Business Insurance Reading PA, Business Insurance Berks, Small Business Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Business Insurance Allentown PA, Business Insurance, Pennsylvania Business Insurance, Commercial Insurance Philadelphia PA