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"Retro" is always in fashion with E&O insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:01:00 +0000

Retro is more than just a fashion statement. It is the beginning of time as far as E&O policies are concerned. Most E&O policies are "Claims-Made" policies, which means that the policy that is in force when the claim is made will be the policy that responds.

Often, E&O claims are not discovered until much later. For example, a consultant may forget to inform a client on a pertinent point in 2011, but the client doesn't incur damages as a result until 2013. Under "Claims-Made" the policy in effect in 2013 will be the policy that responds to the claim.

Your E&O policy declarations will show a "Retroactive Date" or "Retro date." The policy will not provide coverage for acts (or errors & omissions) that occurred before this date. In order to ensure continuous coverage, make sure the Retro Date doesn't change as your policy moves forward year after year.

From Hartford: Undocumented Worker Discrimination

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:24:00 +0000

This is an excerpt from an article on HartfordHelp, a website published by The Hartford Insurance Group, dedicated to educating companies about employment liability risks. It's a great resource for anyone with employees.

"Employers that demand documents proving citizenship or immigration status after hire risk discrimination claims. Demanding immigration or citizenship documents after the fact, combined with an adverse employment decision, gives the appearance of immigration-related national origin discrimination. This is one reason why employers should demand these documents at the time of hire and not later. Once an employee accepts an offer for employment, Section 1 of the 1-9 Form should be completed on the first day of work and Section 2 no later than the 3rd day"...More here.

The article discusses a recent case regarding Immigration Discrimination and offers these tips to help prevent such discrimination in your workplace (taken from the article):

Review your documentation requirements to ensure that they are practiced with consistency and do not require more or different documentation than required by law.

If documentation looks genuine, do not overly scrutinize it or demand different documents.

Train your managers, supervisors and all employees who participate in hiring, firing and working with immigrants that the discrimination laws, including the laws prohibiting national origin discrimination, extend to immigrants including non-citizens of the United States.

At the same time, establish standards to make certain to only hire authorized individuals, whether U.S. citizens or not. This would include making certain that all new hires complete I-9 forms properly. Document your due diligence when determining immigration status.

Retaliation against employees for exercising rights under the INA is prohibited. Make sure to train all employees about anti-retaliation laws. Take all complaints seriously and investigate immediately.

Investigate if termination or resignation of immigrants is high under particular managers.

Remember that employers must also comply with all applicable state laws protecting immigrants.

Liability from Breaches of Confidential Business Information

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 17:18:00 +0000

I came across a great article in the Business Ventures newsletter, published quarterly by the Fairfax County Ecomonic Development Authority. The article, "The Importance of Protecting Confidential Business Information" by Brian Darville of Brocadiant IP PLLC, discusses the value of trade secrets and the potential liabilities that result from theft, disclosure or misappropriation of such information.

The full article can be found at this link. It's a .pdf, so scroll to page 3.

I am a liability nerd, and information security is one of my hot buttons. This article naturally caught my attention. Security breaches expose information: Social Sec. numbers, Credit card numbers and potential Trade Secrets. Once the info is exposed, the affected parties can file claims against the company that was hacked for failure to properly secure it. The companies face fines, damages and attorney fees. If you are one of these unfortunate companies, your General Liability policy will not cover this. Electronic information is specifically excluded in most Liability policies.

Network Security or Cyber Liability policies will respond to such claims. I've included some information about these coverages in a previous post. Find it here.

If your company maintains this info. on your server (and all companies do), take steps to protect it. Have Tex, an IT service provider, recommends 10 best practices to lock up your information exposure. Read this and commit it to memory:

Top 10 Ways to Keep your Business Data Safe

Good luck! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

GRCC: Networking 101 Seminar, 8/24/11 @ 8:30 am

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 13:37:00 +0000

This is an invite to a good seminar on how to network properly. Kelly Jan of Corporate Wingman knows her stuff. She will help you learn how to make your networking events more productive.

Thanks,

Jimmy

Follow Jimmy: www.twitter.com/BrockNortonIns

From: Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce [mailto:communications@restonchamber.org]
Sent: Thursday, August 18, 2011 3:33 PM
To: Jimmy Norton
Subject: GRCC: Networking 101

"Networking 101" Workshop Presented by Corporate Wingman, LLC

Networking is not an event; it is a process in which you never know which contact will take you to your goal. There is really no secret to building your network of contacts. There are a lot of resources out there giving tips and tricks on building business networks and expanding your realm of influence, but there are some basic principles to follow that can have a significant impact on how successful networking events and strategies are.

There is a certain 'art and science' to networking. If you are a business owner or a salesperson, it is imperative to learn how to network effectively; your financial success may depend on it! You don't have to be a natural-born extrovert or even an expert in your field to be able to approach a stranger and make a connection!

This workshop was presented in May, but we have had MANY members request for the same workshop to done again. Kelly Jan of Corporate Wingman, LLC will walk through the basics of how to network more effectively. Learn tips regarding choosing the right events, what to wear, rules about food/drink, approaching a crowd and more. Once you learn, practice and eventually master a few basic techniques, you will realize networking can be fun and even very profitable! Stop wasting valuable time and money by attending events and walking away with nothing.

The Business Education Program is free to GRCC Members and a $10 fee for non-members. Space is limited and breakfast will be provided.

To register you must call the Chamber office directly by dialing 703.707.9045.

August 24, 2011
8:30am - 10:00am

GRCC Office
1763 Fountain Drive, Reston

About the Speaker:
Kelly Jan
Chief Marketing Officer
CG Marketing | www.cgmktg.com

Many people call Kelly Jan a “master networker.” As an active member of the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce for over three years, she has been involved in multiple lead roles of committees and Leadshare and also serves on the Board of Directors. At home her involvement includes everything from her home owners board to volunteering as the marketing director at a local not for profit golf club. Kelly has found that if she helps others succeed, in turn, she succeeds.

Kelly figured out that by asking “how can I help you?” instead of “how can I help myself?” she was able to build a referral network that increases her business on a daily basis. Recently, when asked what her favorite part of her “job” was, Kelly answered “connecting others.” With the help of her husband Andy, Kelly was able to form her newest venture, Corporate Wingman. Kelly is now able to assist small business owners and large corporations in growing their business through networking.

GREATER RESTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1763 Fountain Drive, Reston, VA 20190
T: 703.707.9045 | F: 703.707.9049 | E: davidc@restonchamber.org
www.RestonChamber.org

Keep in touch with our social networks:

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PHLY Loss Control: Pool Drain Cover Recall

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:03:00 +0000

I received this notice from Philadelphia Insurance Company, http://www.phly.com, and thought it would be of great interest to pool owners & managers.

Thanks,

Jimmy

Having trouble reading the email? Go Here.

On May 26th, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission issued a news release stating there is a voluntary recall of several retrofit or replacement drain covers that were installed new or as a result of the “Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Safety Act” which was effective on Dec 19, 2008.

Per the recall “The drain covers were incorrectly rated to handle the flow of water through the cover, which could pose a possible entrapment hazard to swimmers and bathers."

Visit CPSC Pool Drain Recall for more information. Each firm below has a website with photos of the recalled drain cover models. Please verify that your pool is not subject to this recall, or if your pool has a recalled drain cover, take immediate steps to have the drain cover(s) replaced.

Eight Manufacturers are cooperating with the recall:

Company	Model Information (websites)	Dates Sold	Remedy
A&A	aamfg.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
AquaStar	aquastarpoolproducts.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Color Match	poolfittings.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Custom Molded Products	c-m-p.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Hayward Pool Products	hayward-pool.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Pentair Water Pool & Spa	pentairpool.com	June 2009 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Rising Dragon	risingdragonplastics.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit
Waterway	waterwayplastics.com	December 2008 - April 2011	Replacement or Retrofit

IMPORTANT NOTICE - The information and suggestions presented by Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company in this e-brochure is for your consideration in your loss prevention efforts. They are not intended to be complete or definitive in identifying all hazards associated with your business, preventing workplace accidents, or complying with any safety related, or other, laws or regulations. You are encouraged to alter them to fit the specific hazards of your business and to have your legal counsel review all of your plans and company policies.

Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Manage Subscriptions | products & services | privacy policy

Philadelphia Insurance Companies is the marketing name for the insurance company subsidiaries of the Philadelphia Consolidated
Holding Corp., a Member of the Tokio Marine Group. Coverage(s) described may not be available in all states and are subject to Underwriting and certain coverage(s) may be provided by a surplus lines insurer. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds.

This transmission contains information from the Loss Control Department of the Philadelphia Insurance Companies which may be confidential and/or privileged. This information is intended to be for the exclusive use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, be advised that any disclosure, copying, distribution or other use of this information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify by e-mail to Mark Konchan or by telephone to 800.873.4552 and press 4 immediately.

On-Demand Webcasts on Important Risk Management Topics from Business Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 01:23:00 +0000

Below is a catalog of some very interesting and FREE Webcasts on topics such as:

Construction Defect claims

Social Media and Reputational Risks

Insurance Savings from Property Upgrades

Using Telematics to Improve Fleet Safety

These Webcasts are provided by http://www.businessinsurance.com.

Thanks,

Jimmy

Jimmy Norton, CPCU

Brock-Norton Insurance Agency, Inc.

703.631.4500 x119

Sent from my iPad

Begin forwarded message:

From: "Events@BusinessInsurance.com" <Events@BusinessInsurance.com>
Date: June 6, 2011 5:53:02 PM EDT
To: jimmy@brocknorton.com
Subject: Business Insurance Webcasts: Browse Our Library of Free On-Demand Webcasts
Reply-To: "Events@BusinessInsurance.com" <support-bx561zja9737pbau63djpc44thuyjz@e.ccialerts.com>

Business Insurance Webcasts & Webinars

Business Insurance Webcasts are developed by the editorial staff of Business Insurance to bring noted speakers and respected business leaders together with BI editors to discuss the latest and most pressing issues.

The following webcasts are available now for viewing on-demand immediately, or at your convenience. Free registration.

"Blueprint for Construction Defects: Managing the Risks and Coverage"

Construction defect issues are not getting any simpler for contractors, risk managers and insurers. Recent litigation has policyholders and insurers worried about the potential for liability to expand in defect cases. In addition, defect issues affect supply chains and can cause problems on uncompleted projects. And unexpected construction defects also have begun to arise in the new wave of green construction projects. Join Brian Casey, senior vp, head of insurance and risk management at Bovis Lend Lease Holdings Inc., and Michael Szot, executive vp and managing director of Aon Risk Solutions' Construction Services Group, as they navigate the complex issues surrounding construction defects. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Urgent Care: Managing Medical Liability Risks After Health Reform"

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will change how patients access health care, shifting how medical professional liability claimants target the industry. How will liabilities be parceled out, and what concerns does the changing landscape raise for health care industry risk managers? While most of the act's provisions are still a few years from implementation, this Business Insurance webcast will help risk managers and other health care industry professionals determine now what issues they need to consider. Kathryn A. Meyers, director of broking for Aon Risk Solutions' health care practice, and Edward M. Wrobel, a director at Towers Watson & Co., will discuss what is known today about new demands that will fall on health care systems, and what risk mitigation steps are necessary. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Bad Buzz: Social Media, Blogging and Reputational Risks"

In the information age, damage to your company's reputation is just a blog entry or Facebook post away. The nightmare scenario is having damaging information—whether true or untrue—go "viral," spreading widely and sweeping up the company into an overnight public relations disaster with a potentially significant bottom line impact. How do you control your message in the media when the media is everyone? To help risk managers understand the risks and how to manage them, join Simon Barker, west zone practice leader and senior consultant at Marsh Risk Consulting's Crisis Management & Reputational Risks Practice, and Scott Marticke, chief operating officer of new media analysis company Sentiment360, for this online webcast. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Get Retrofit: Insurance Savings from Property Upgrades"

While new buildings are constructed to meet the highest standards of safety and stability, older commercial properties can lack such protections, making them difficult and expensive to insure. In some cases, building regulations will determine what work needs to be done. But in the absence of codes, how does a property owner assess the hazards of an older property, whether it is recently acquired or one that is due an upgrade? To explore the insurance costs and benefits of upgrading older properties, join Janice Ochenkowski, managing director and head of global risk management at real estate services firm Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. in Chicago and Robert J. Smith Jr., global property risk consulting practice leader with Marsh Inc. in Chicago. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"An Inconvenient Risk: Climate Change Liability and Coverage"

Climate change is a significant emerging risk for companies, as individuals, corporations and government entities use the tort system to try to recover damages for alleged contributions to global warming. And some legal experts predict climate change-related insurance coverage battles will be as lengthy and hard-fought as the fights over coverage for environmental and asbestos claims. Join William F. Stewart, partner in the National Insurance Coverage Group of Nelson Levine de Luca & Horst L.L.C., and John G. Nevius, a partner and chair of the Environmental Law Group in Anderson Kill & Olick P.C., as they explore these and other climate change issues. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Value in Enterprise Risk Management: Making ERM Pay Off"

Enterprise risk management is much talked about but not widely understood, as there are a multitude of differing approaches. Some are compliance-based, while others regard ERM as a tool to improve organizational performance. What's not debated is the idea that implementing an effective program can contribute to organizational value—the distinguishing feature that makes ERM more than just risk management. ERM is about creating value for the enterprise. Join Laura L. Brooks, vp of risk management and chief risk officer for Public Service Enterprise Group, and John J. Hampton, KPMG Professor of Business and dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Studies and Graduate Business Programs at St. Peter's College, as they explore the performance-based aspects of ERM and how to make it pay off for various organizations. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Eyes on the Road: Using Telematics to Improve Fleet Safety"

Reckless behavior or a miscalculation by a driver can be costly—not just to your employee and others on the road, but also to the company's safety record and reputation. Advances in fleet technology, including GPS and sophisticated vehicle monitoring systems, give risk and fleet managers valuable new tools in their efforts to keep a close eye on driver behavior and to boost fleet safety and performance. To help understand how the use of such telematics tools can help protect your company—its drivers, vehicles and other assets—and the public, please join Herbert Mayo, vp, senior loss control consultant-specialist in transportation and general industry safety with Lockton Cos. L.L.C., and Jim Anderson, vp of safety with Florida Rock & Tank Lines Inc., for this webcast. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Dangerous Data: Perils of eDiscovery and How to Manage Them"

Is your company prepared to comply with electronic data discovery rules and the potentially huge exposure those rules create? Many companies spend millions of dollars a year on information technology systems that capture data, but they may face big liability and compliance costs with eDiscovery. A strong risk management approach to preserving—and producing—electronic data is critical. Join Ann Longmore, senior vp in Willis Group Holdings P.L.C.'s Executive Risks practice for North America, and John McCarrick, partner in the commercial litigation department at law firm White & Williams L.L.P., for expert advice on how to reduce exposure in the eDiscovery process and apply risk management to enterprisewide electronic data. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

"Energy Security: Protecting Your Business from Energy Supply Disruptions"

The 2010 oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico—and more recently the Japanese tsunami and earthquake—focused attention on the security of energy supply. Energy security is a significant link in the supply chain, as manufacturing and distribution cannot take place without a consistent supply of energy. To help risk managers and loss control personnel understand their energy security exposure and how to address it, join Phillip Ellis, CEO of Willis Structured Risk Solutions in London, and Barry Franklin, a managing consultant of Towers Watson and a director in the company's corporate risk management practice, for this webcast. To view this complimentary webcast, register here.

"Retaliation Claims: What You Need to Know About This Growing Risk"

Retaliation claims against U.S. employers accounted for a greater number of charges filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission than any other type of complaint filed with the commission last year. And the number of these claims is growing. Retaliation complaints tied with racial discrimination for the biggest increase among the various types of employment discrimination claims, according to the EEOC. Join Gerald R. Maatman Jr., a partner at Seyfarth Shaw in Chicago, and Michael R. Buchanan, a shareholder with Ogletree Deakins in Dallas, for an examination of retaliation claims and answers to your questions. To view this on-demand webcast, register here.

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Browse these and other webcasts and webinars at www.BusinessInsurance.com/webinars

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Enroll in Travelers IntelliDrive(TM) and Save 5% on your Auto policy

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 06 May 2011 01:15:00 +0000

Concerned about what your Teens are doing out there on the road? Wish you could be with them at every milepost? Want to save some $ on your Auto policy?

Travelers may have an answer for you. Read on and contact me if you have any questions.

Introduce Travelers IntelliDrive^TM and Save Customers 5% Today!

How does IntelliDrive work?

IntelliDrive uses a small device that installs easily into a vehicle. This device, along with GPS & GSM technology collects the vehicle's mileage, fuel efficiency, speed and location information, all which can be accessed through the secure IntelliDrive portal.

IntelliDrive is a great option for customers who…

Are looking for savings on their auto insurance;
Want peace of mind on how their children are driving; or
Don't drive as much as they used to.

Simply by signing up with IntelliDrive, customers get an immediate 5% discount on their auto insurance. Low mileage drivers may be eligible for an additional discount at renewal – up to 20%.

Plus, it may be an important ally for parents of Teen drivers:

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, auto accidents are the leading cause of death among teens age 15 – 20, as teens are more likely to engage in risky behaviors like speeding or overestimating their driving abilities.*
IntelliDrive may be able to help.

Through the IntelliDrive online portal, parents can find tools to help teens take accountability of their actions behind the wheel.

With IntelliDrive, parents have the ability to:

• Set up speed and location alerts

• Create an "electronic" driving boundary

• View driving trips through our easy to use maps

• Review speed and braking patterns

Click on the following link for more information:

http://imgp.travelers.com/imgs/travelers/oeodaa/IntelliDriveEBrochure.pdf

*National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics found at http://www.nhtsa.gov/Teen-Drivers

Discounts are subject to underwriting eligibility and are taken at the vehicle level.

Please note that IntelliDrive applies to Quantum Auto policies only.

Fwd: Southern Storms: Overview of Response and Support Efforts by FEMA and the Federal Government Updates During Disasters)

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Sun, 01 May 2011 16:48:00 +0000

Southern Storms: Overview of Response and Support Efforts by FEMA and the Federal Government
Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:17:32 -0500

*Since the deadly tornadoes first struck parts of the country earlier this week, the federal government has been in constant contact with all of the impacted states as they responded to and began recovery efforts from these devastating storms. At the request of the respective governors, FEMA currently has personnel on the ground in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, and commodities strategically pre-positioned in the region to support the states. President Obama joined Administrator Fugate, the Governor and other state and local officials on the ground in Alabama yesterday. On Sunday, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Donovan, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack, Small Business Administrator Mills, and FEMA Administrator Fugate will travel to Alabama and Mississippi to survey the damage and meet with state and local officials. The following timeline provides an overview of these and other federal activities, to date, to support the impacted states, families and communities.*

Receive FEMA Updates During Disasters

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FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472

Lawsuit Filed Against Washington Harbor Managers After Flood

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 20:00:00 +0000

Lawsuit Filed Against Washington Harbor Managers After Flood

The first of many more to come. This suit is being brought by employees of the businesses who had to close their doors due to the flood. The employees are alleging loss of income resulting from the Property Managers' failure to put the Flood walls into place to prevent the flooding. Cleanup and property replacements costs plus loss of revenue claims are sure to follow.

River overflows banks at Washington Harbor - Washington Times

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 01:45:00 +0000

River overflows banks at Washington Harbor - Washington Times

The water rose and seeped into the restaurants lining Washington Harbor. The Washington Times article in the above link indicates that a flood wall was not raised in time to stop the water from flowing in. These restaurants will have to close to dry out and restock. They are going to lose thousands of dollars in revenue as they will be closed just as the warm Spring evenings are arriving.

One might assume that a waterfront restaurant will have adequate Flood coverage. I certainly hope that these restaurants do. However, who was responsible for raising the flood wall? It's possible that the responsible party will be liable for the damages suffered by these businesses.

If it's the Property Management company at fault, then their Liability policy might be the primary responder. OR, the businesses may turn the claims into their Flood Insurance carriers, and those carriers MAY subrogate against the Liability policy of the responsible party.

This is an interesting case to the insurance nerd. I'll be watching.

Collapse

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:50:00 +0000

This is amazing video. Who would've thought they'd ever see the Metrodome collapse? What are the owners looking at with regard to this type of loss?

For one, the damage to the Building and indoor Business Property should be covered as most Property policies do cover loss due to weight of rain, ice or snow. However, a policy written in Minnesota may contain certain limitations for snow losses. Their insurance company might have them to take certain precautions to prevent such a loss. If those precautions weren't taken, then the policy may not pay for the damages. An insurance nerd like me is interested in this.

Two, this is direct physical damage to the property, and it will be some time before they can host events in the Metrodome. Therefore, they will need coverage for Loss of Income. Loss of Income normally pays for the loss of net income plus ongoing expenses incurred when a business can't operate after this type of loss. The NFL had to move the Vikings/Giants game to Detroit. How much revenue is lost there?

UPDATE: With Hurricane Warnings In Effect for Parts of East Coast, FEMA Urges Preparedness

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:54:00 +0000

See below for FEMA Hurricane warnings...

Thanks,
Jimmy

What does Jimmy do all day? Follow him: www.brocknorton.com/followjimmy

--------------------------
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From: Daily NewsFlash <postmaster@programbusiness.com>
To: Jimmy Norton <jimmy@brocknorton.com>
Sent: Wed Sep 01 16:56:46 2010
Subject: Breaking News - UPDATE: With Hurricane Warnings In Effect for Parts of East Coast, FEMA Urges Preparedness

Breaking News - : With Hurricane Warnings In Effect for Parts of East Coast, FEMA Urges Preparedness
ProgramBusiness.com - Daily NewsFlash
If you are having issues viewing this e-mail, click here <http://broadcaster.programbusinessmail.com/t?r=105&c=4081&l=2931&ctl=C19A:226DCCD5EF9DC5A42C9F430FDBD0A411&> to see it in your browser.

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UPDATE: With Hurricane Warnings In Effect for Parts of East Coast, FEMA Urges Preparedness - Source - FEMA
Hurricane Earl <http://www.programbusiness.com/emailblasts/images/DailyNewsFlash/BreakingNews/images/earl2.jpg>
As Hurricane Earl moves toward the East Coast of the United States, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is taking aggressive actions to prepare for the storm and is coordinating closely with state and local officials along the East Coast to help support their response as needed. FEMA is also encouraging all East Coast residents to take steps now to prepare for possible severe weather in the coming days.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Earl is currently a Category 3 hurricane, and a hurricane warning has been issued for the North Carolina coast from Bogue Inlet, N.C. north to the North Carolina-Virginia border. In addition, a hurricane watch is in effect from the North Carolina-Virginia border north to Cape Henlopen, Del. and a tropical storm warning is in effect from Cape Fear, N.C. to west of Bogue Inlet N.C. As the storm moves closer, FEMA is closely coordinating.

Local officials in North Carolina have issued mandatory evacuations for visitors to Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Islands. As is always the case, state and local officials make decisions on issuing evacuation orders. FEMA encourages all residents and those visiting the East Coast to pay close attention to local updates and heed evacuation orders should they be issued.

"We continue to monitor Hurricane Earl and remain in close contact with state and local officials from North Carolina to Maine to ensure they have the resources to respond if needed," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "I encourage everyone along the eastern seaboard to visit Ready.gov and take steps now to keep their family safe and secure. The most important thing for people to do right now is to listen to and follow the instruction of their local officials. If you are told to evacuate, evacuate."

Information on what individuals and families can to prepare for an emergency, including flash flooding and other severe weather that frequently accompanies hurricanes, is available at www.Ready.gov <http://broadcaster.programbusinessmail.com/t?r=105&c=4081&l=2931&ctl=C19B:226DCCD5EF9DC5A42C9F430FDBD0A411&> . A Spanish version of the website is available at www.Listo.gov.

Since this weekend, FEMA has been in constant contact with the White House and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide regular updates on the storm's developments. Earlier today, Administrator Fugate briefed President Obama on FEMA's preparations for potential impacts of Hurricane Earl on the East Coast and New England, and close coordination with state and local officials in potentially affected states from North Carolina to Maine. FEMA is continuing to monitor the storm's movement in conjunction with the National Hurricane Center, and has deployed teams to North Carolina and other East Coast states to support storm preparations as well as response and recovery efforts as needed. FEMA has also prepositioned commodities for rapid delivery, including water, meals, tarps, blankets, generators and other essential items.

Administrator Fugate also briefed the President on the impacts from Hurricane Earl on Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, both of which have had FEMA teams on the ground since the weekend supporting the Governors' efforts related to the storm.

The National Weather Service forecasts the center of Hurricane Earl will move well east and northeast of the Bahamas today, and approach the coast of North Carolina by Friday morning. Officials are closely monitoring the areas from the Carolinas to New England, and FEMA is coordinating with the Governors and local officials along the East Coast to aggressively prepare for possible severe weather. Even if a hurricane does not make landfall, severe weather and flash floods can occur miles inland. In addition, dangerous surf conditions and rip tides are expected along the cost, and swimmers are encouraged to follow closely the instructions of local officials and lifeguards.


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Seat Belt Stats

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:34:00 +0000

Each day, I check out a Daily Insurance Calendar for interesting insurance facts. I don't just make this stuff up, people. I do have my sources! Here's an interesting seat belt stat:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported U.S. seat belt rate
at 82%. Hawaii led the nation with 95.3%, followed by Washington state and
Nevada. Mississippi had the lowest rate at about 60%, followed by Massachusetts
and Kentucky. According to estimates by the Department of Transportation, the
82% national seat belt rate saved 15,700 lives and prevented 350,000 serious
injuries.

So be sure to buckle up. The odds are in your favor.

Deepwater Horizon and Its Effects on Fiduciary Liability

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:36:00 +0000

Fiduciary Liability describes a company's exposure to employee claims concerning their retirement plans. For example, employees may allege that their employer did not provide access to successfully-performing funds, thereby reducing the amount of the employees' potential pensions. The employee must prove that their employer did not fulfill their duty to allow the employee every opportunity to grow their company retirement plan.

What do employers do when employee retirement accounts buy heavily into company stock and that company stock takes a dive?

BP is going to find out... HartfordHelp: ERISA and The Deepwater Horizon Disaster

Data Destruction: The Only Way To Be Sure

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:09:00 +0000

Sure, you've emptied your Recycle Bin, but is the data really gone? PC Recycler shows us the only way to be sure that no one can access data on your old hard drive. Click the following link to behold the destruction!

Blog - Hard Drive Shredding Video

Driver Distraction of the Furry Kind

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:42:00 +0000

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety issued a report detailing the dangers of driving with your dog in your lap. I've done it lots of times. I'm sure you have, too. However, this common practice poses dangers for you, your passengers and your best friend.

From CNN Money: Caution: Dogs Behind Wheel

Here's an excerpt:

One third of dog owners admit that their pets sometimes distract them while they're driving, according to a AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety survey of people who say they have driven with their dog in their car within the past year.

More than half admit to petting the dog while driving. And 21% say they allowed their dog to ride in their lap. A few said they've done things like playing with their dogs or giving their their dogs water, all while driving.

More Flood Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:37:00 +0000

In yesterday's post (I LOVE INSURANCE! Do You?: Fairfax VA Redraws Its Flood Map), I referenced a Washington Post article about Fairfax County, VA's redrawing of its flood zones. I also mistakenly stated that the article was incorrect in stating that some independent insurance carriers can charge higher rates than those dictated by the NFIP. Companies can charge their own rates when they issue Excess Flood policies. Details below.

I found a great summation of some of the Flood Insurance basics today by the Insurance Information Institute. For the full article, click here. Here's an excerpt describing the pertinent facts:

Flood insurance covers direct physical losses by flood and losses resulting from flood-related erosion caused by heavy or prolonged rain, coastal storm surge, snow melt, blocked storm drainage systems, levee dam failure or other similar causes. To be considered a flood, waters must cover at least two acres or affect two properties.

Homes are covered for up to $250,000 on a replacement cost basis and the contents for up to $100,000 on an actual cash value basis. Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild the structure as it was before the damage. Actual cash value is replacement cost minus the depreciation in value that occurs over time. Coverage for the contents of basements is limited. Coverage limits for commercial property are $500,000 for the structure and another $500,000 for its contents.

Excess flood insurance is available from some private insurers for NFIP policyholders who want additional coverage or whose communities do not participate in the program.

Previous Flood Posts:

Fairfax, VA Redraws Its Flood Map

Flood Insurance Facts

FEMA's Statement Regarding Damage Caused By Oil in Flood Waters

Fairfax VA Redraws Its Flood Map

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 18:34:00 +0000

Flood Insurance is rarely in the news. So, imagine my surprise when I see it on the front page of Saturday's Metro Section of The Washington Post.

The County of Fairfax in VA recently redrew its Flood maps. This revamp caused some areas to now be considered flood zones. Owners of properties in flood zones are often required to purchase flood insurance by their lenders. If you live in one of the new flood zones in Fairfax County, you might be getting a call from your lender soon.

Here's a link to the full article on The Washington Post's site:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/13/AR2010081306067.html?sid=ST2010081400317

Flood & Water damage are standard exclusions on Homeowners & Commercial Property policies. Individuals and businesses purchase Flood insurance through insurance carriers approved by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The insurance companies collect the premiums, issue the policies and adjust the claims; but the NFIP pays the claims. All rates, zones, & coverages are dictated by the NFIP. The article mistakenly states that private insurers can charge more. As I understand it, carriers can only charge the federally-dictated rates.

For more on Flood Insurance, see my prior post: Flood Insurance Facts.

PC Recycler Receives AAA Certification

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 01:35:00 +0000

For the 6 people who read this blog, you know that I write a lot about Information Security and the liability exposures that many businesses face. One of my clients is in the Information Destruction business, and they were recently recognized by their industry for being so good at it.

Congratulations, PC Recycler, in Chantilly, VA! They shred and wipe old hard drives, then send electronic parts off to be recycled. It is a very necessary and earth-friendly service. Keep crushing those hard drives!

Here's a blurb about it:

PC Recycler Receives AAA Certification

PC Recycler, Inc. received AAA certification from the National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) for Computer Hard Drive destruction. PC Recycler sought to achieve this goal of certification for the protection of your business and the environment. NAID is a nationally-recognized authority on secure data destruction with hundreds of members across North America. NAID's mission is to promote the information destruction industry and the standards and ethics of its member companies.

Heat Wave Preparedness Tips from the American Red Cross

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:29:00 +0000

The heat in the DC area this Summer has been OPPRESSIVE. Many of us trudge forward, knowing that it's just another DC Summer. However, we need to pay attention to the warning signs of Heat Stroke, Heat Cramps, and Heat Exhaustion.

Penn Millers Insurance Company posted a link to the American Red Cross's recommendations on what to do during a heat wave (link below). The ARC's page also includes a Heat Wave Safety Checklist that defines the 3 main heat-related ailments and offers tips for general care. This is recommended reading for yourself, your family and your employees.

What should I do during a heat wave?

How do you get out of the heat?

Schedule Your Valuable Items on their own Policy

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:50:00 +0000

Super Fantastic Insurance Fact:

Homeowners' policies have sublimits for valuable items, like jewelry, antiques, firearms, fine art, etc. These valuable items should be scheduled on an Personal Articles Floater to ensure that you'll get the proper replacement value in the event of a claim.

Make Sure Your Auto is Comped!

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:47:00 +0000

Super Fantastic Insurance fact of the Week:

On your Auto policy, Comprehensive coverage pays for physical damage to your car when it's parked, i.e. falling tree, hail, theft, vandalism. Insurance companies also pay claims for windshield damage and animal strikes under Comp. Collision coverage is physical damage caused by anything you hit while moving (except animals).

Seven Manufactures announce crib recalls

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:43:00 +0000

Good information received from our day care provider. See below.

Good Evening Parents:

Two million cribs are being recalled today.

http://cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10270.html

Please check out the link above and double check the crib that your povider is using as well as your cribs at home. I have forwarded this same recall notice to the providers since we all need to work together. During my visits I will be checking for these as well! The recalling firms are providing consumers with free repair kits to immobilize the drop down sides. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Have a great evening!

Shauna Skerman, BA
Child Care Resource and Referral Specialist
Infant/Toddler Family Day Care
11166 Fairfax Blvd., #206
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
sskerman@infanttoddler.com
703-352-3449 x118
Toll Free: 877-321-0997
Fax: 703-352-7730

http://infanttoddler.com/child-care-resource-referrral/about-ccr-r.html

Become a Part of Our Family

FEMA's Statement Regarding Damage Caused By Oil in Flood Waters

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 15:17:00 +0000

We have been receiving many questions regarding the potential for oil in the flood waters. FEMA has posted a bulletin on their position in this matter. Please read the attached bulletin.

Oil in Flood Water

Why's My Auto Rate So High?

noreply@blogger.com (Jimmy Norton) — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 15:27:00 +0000

Well, there could be 20 different answers:

Insurers use as many as twenty factors to underwrite auto insurance policies. All things being equal, an auto policy holder will pay less if any of the following conditions apply: clean driving record, reside outside an urban area, credit rating is high, age 25 or older, female, married, make and model of vehicle is not prone to theft or is not considered high-performance.

Today's quote from the Insurance Daily Calendar.

I LOVE INSURANCE! Do You?

"Retro" is always in fashion with E&O insurance

From Hartford: Undocumented Worker Discrimination

Liability from Breaches of Confidential Business Information

GRCC: Networking 101 Seminar, 8/24/11 @ 8:30 am

PHLY Loss Control: Pool Drain Cover Recall

On-Demand Webcasts on Important Risk Management Topics from Business Insurance

Business Insurance Webcasts & Webinars

"Blueprint for Construction Defects: Managing the Risks and Coverage"

"Urgent Care: Managing Medical Liability Risks After Health Reform"

"Bad Buzz: Social Media, Blogging and Reputational Risks"

"Get Retrofit: Insurance Savings from Property Upgrades"

"An Inconvenient Risk: Climate Change Liability and Coverage"

"Value in Enterprise Risk Management: Making ERM Pay Off"

"Eyes on the Road: Using Telematics to Improve Fleet Safety"

"Dangerous Data: Perils of eDiscovery and How to Manage Them"

"Energy Security: Protecting Your Business from Energy Supply Disruptions"

"Retaliation Claims: What You Need to Know About This Growing Risk"

Enroll in Travelers IntelliDrive(TM) and Save 5% on your Auto policy

Fwd: Southern Storms: Overview of Response and Support Efforts by FEMA and the Federal Government Updates During Disasters)

Lawsuit Filed Against Washington Harbor Managers After Flood

River overflows banks at Washington Harbor - Washington Times

Collapse

UPDATE: With Hurricane Warnings In Effect for Parts of East Coast, FEMA Urges Preparedness

Seat Belt Stats

Deepwater Horizon and Its Effects on Fiduciary Liability

Data Destruction: The Only Way To Be Sure

Driver Distraction of the Furry Kind

More Flood Facts

Fairfax VA Redraws Its Flood Map

PC Recycler Receives AAA Certification

Heat Wave Preparedness Tips from the American Red Cross

Schedule Your Valuable Items on their own Policy

Make Sure Your Auto is Comped!

Seven Manufactures announce crib recalls

FEMA's Statement Regarding Damage Caused By Oil in Flood Waters

Why's My Auto Rate So High?