Bianchi Agency Inc.

Your 2012 winter home maintenance checklist

2012-01-13T11:16:00.002-05:00

Your 2012 winter home maintenance checklist

By: Ilyce Glink

It's December, and if you're like many Americans, you're kicking yourself right about now for putting off weatherproofing your home for winter. Freezing temperatures and snow are right around the corner (if you haven't experienced them already) and correctly winterizing your home can mean the difference between a peaceful holiday season and total disaster.
Check out this winter home maintenance checklist for tips on weatherproofing your house

Clean your gutters: If you haven't done so already, now is the time to remove the debris from your gutters and roof. Backed up gutters means water won't drain, and sitting water can lead to big problems - especially in cold weather climates.
Matt Bordonaro of Travelers Insurance says many water-damage claims are made after sitting water leaks down into the walls of a home. "Any backed up water can get under the shingles. The damage might not even be visible - the shingles can re-adhere after the water is already under them and into the house." Make sure your gutters are clean so they can divert water away from, instead of into, your home.

Inspect your heating system: According to Chris Nixon, vice president of property claims at Travelers Insurance, the leading causes of home fires are heating-system related. Whether you use a furnace, space heater or pellet stove, maintenance is important to keep it working properly. If you maintain your heating unit regularly, check for anything out of the ordinary. If not, call in an expert to make sure everything is in working order.
Another easy way to avoid total havoc this holiday? Follow the directions on all heating appliances. Nixon says this simple step is one of the most important things you can do to avoid home fires. Don't use space heaters near curtains, for example, and use wood-burning fireplaces for burning wood only.

Make sure your home is properly insulated: The benefits of proper insulation are substantial. Not only does a properly insulated home reduce heating costs, it also keeps water from damaging your home. If pipes are not properly insulated they can freeze and burst, causing considerable water damage throughout your home. This costs time and money - two things most people don't have enough of over the holidays.
A well-insulated attic is another key to avoiding major damage. According to Travelers, warm air can rise through the attic and cause ice on the roof to thaw when the attic is not properly insulated. The water then flows down the eaves and re-freezes, causing an ice dam. This dam prevents water from draining off the roof, and that water then backs up under the shingles and into your home.

Check out the EnergyStar website for the recommended level of insulation in your region of the country. These tips are helpful for winterizing your home this holiday, but year-round home maintenance is key to preventing disasters that could drain your bank account.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505145_162-57332309/your-2012-winter-home-maintenance-checklist/?tag=cbsnewsMainColumnArea

How to Provide Auto Insurance Information Online

2011-12-07T11:19:00.001-05:00

Go to

http://www.nysdmv.com/insproof/default.html

and follow the instructions...

Rand

NYS DMV Check Your Insurance Status

2011-12-07T11:15:00.001-05:00

NYS DMV Check Your Insurance Status

http://www.nysdmv.com/insStatus/default.html

A Happy & Safe Thanksgiving to all!!

2011-11-22T11:47:00.001-05:00

Remember the roads will be full, with stuffed and or drunk drivers....
Be extra careful and make sure you get to the dinner and then home afterwards!

Rand
Bianchi Agency

Frequently Asked Questions - Auto Insurance...

2011-10-07T09:51:00.001-04:00

How much insurance must I carry?

Ans: New York State law requires that motorists carry a minimum amount of liability insurance of $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to all persons, and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident. Mandatory "no-fault" coverage of $50,000 is also required. Many motorists carry higher liability limits and additional personal injury protection beyond these minimum benefits required by law. The law also requires all auto insurance policies to provide uninsured motorists coverage (for bodily injury), subject to the same minimums. In addition, SUM (Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists) coverage can also be purchased, in amounts up to the bodily injury liability limits of an insured's own policy. An insurer must offer SUM limits of $250,000 per person per accident and $500,000 per accident ($250,000/$500,000) if a person has bodily injury liability limits of that amount or higher. Insurers may offer higher SUM limits if they wish.

What is the difference between "cancellation" and "non-renewal" of a policy?

Ans: Under the Insurance Law, a personal automobile insurance policy must remain in effect for a required one year policy period. If an insurer decides not to renew the policy at the expiration of this period, this is a "non-renewal". However, if the insurer terminates the policy at any other time (which can only be done under limited circumstances), this is a "cancellation".

My policy has been canceled! Can the company do this?

Ans: For any new personal automobile insurance policy, an insurer may cancel for any reason within the first 60 days subject to the insurer’s established underwriting guidelines which are not required to be filed with the Insurance Department. Otherwise, a policy can only be canceled in mid-term (after 60 days on a new policy) for a few specific reasons: (1) suspension or revocation of a driver's license of the named insured or any other person who customarily operates an automobile insured under the policy (not including administrative suspensions); (2) discovery of fraud or material misrepresentation in obtaining the policy or in making a claim; or (3) nonpayment of premium. However, policies in the NYAIP (New York Automobile Insurance Plan a/k/a "assigned risk" plan) may be subject to certain additional criteria for cancellation.

My insurer says it won't renew my policy. What can I do?

Ans: Under the Insurance Law, when a non-commercial motor vehicle policy is non-renewed, a notice must be mailed to the policyholder between 45 and 60 days before policy expiration. In this way, the insured has time to take action to obtain other insurance, and may contact other agents, brokers or insurers writing direct business.

An insurer may non-renew up to 2% of its non-commercial motor vehicle policies, plus one policy for each two new policies written, during each calendar year. Any non-renewals by an insurer must be made according to the insurer’s established underwriting guidelines, which are not required to be filed with the Insurance Department. The Insurance Department closely monitors compliance with the aforementioned statutory 2% limitation via an annual report from private passenger automobile insurers.

From the

http://www.ins.state.ny.us/faqs/faqs_auto.htm

Comparing Apples to Apples

2010-07-26T12:30:00.000-04:00

1. Do your household drivers have a clean three- or five-year driving history?

2. Save 10% for the defensive driving course - Online at http://syraddc.com/

3. Have your homeowners with the same company as your auto?

4. Have glass coverage with a deductible? Don’t pay a dime for that broken windshield—we’ll waive the deductible with our glass buy-back plan (Full Glass).

5. Have a claim? Our claims staff for each company is on call around the clock, 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year at toll-free numbers.

And More!!!!

Evaluating Your Home and Personal Property

2010-04-29T16:20:00.000-04:00

The first step in determining how much insurance you will need is to make an analysis of the value of your home (excluding the value of your land) and your personal property within it. In determining the value of your home, you must calculate how much it will cost to replace it if your home were totally destroyed. You can enlist the help of your insurance agent in determining this figure. In fact, most insurance companies make a physical inspection of your home when they first insure it. Using formulas that take into account whether your home is of brick or wood frame construction, total area, number of floors, number of rooms, etc., the company will be able to give you an accurate replacement cost value. In addition, although it would be expensive, you could also get an estimate from a contractor.

Determining the value of your personal property will require an extensive analysis on your part. You should go through each room of your house and list every piece of furniture and fixture within it. Some insurance companies provide Household Inventory Schedules which can be quite helpful with this task. Items such as sofas, tables, beds, TVs, refrigerators, and lawn mowers would be included in such a schedule.

As you compile your inventory you should supplement it with receipts indicating the purchase price and date of purchase and photographs of major items. Your inventory should be updated on an annual basis, or at the very least, whenever you purchase a large appliance or piece of furniture.

Some people periodically make a video of all their possessions. If you do, make sure all the drawers and/or doors of your furniture are open so you have a record of what is stored. It would also be helpful if you are able to verbally describe major items on the video. When complete, you should make a back up and store your inventory list or video in a safe place away from your home, such as your safe deposit box. You might also want to store this information in the home of a friend or relative or in your workplace.
Structure

Once you have determined the approximate worth of your home and its contents, in most cases, your homeowners insurance coverage will be on the home’s replacement cost. Generally, if you purchase coverage on a replacement cost basis and insure your home for at least 80% of its replacement cost, your insurance will automatically be issued on a replacement cost basis. Then, when you suffer a loss, your insurer would pay you the amount it would cost to replace or repair your home without deducting anything for depreciation. Of course, this type of coverage is more expensive than actual cash value coverage.

If you do not insure you home for at least 80% of its replacement cost, you will not receive full payment of your loss as the following example illustrates:

Ms. Jones and Mr. Smith both own 15-year-old frame houses. The estimated replacement cost of each house is $100,000.

Ms. Jones is insured for $80,000 (80%) while Mr. Smith is insured for only $50,000 (50%).

Both homes suffer windstorm damage, which completely destroys both roofs. The cost to repair each roof is $5,000.

Since she was insured for at least 80% of her home’s replacement cost, Ms. Jones will be fully reimbursed for her loss, less any deductible.

However, because Mr. Smith did not have at least 80% coverage, his insurer will pay the greater of the actual cash value of the roof or the proportion of the cost to repair the roof which the total amount of insurance bears to 80% of the replacement cost of the building. The second method of payment reflects a co-insurance penalty since Mr. Smith did not maintain adequate insurance.

Assuming that the 15-year-old roof has an expected useful life of 25 years, its actual cash value is only $2,000, computed as follows:

1 – (15(age of roof)) X $5,000 = $2,000

(25 (expected life))

However the proportional cost of repairing the roof would be computed as follows:

$50,000 (insured amount) X $5,000 = $3,125

$80,000 (80% of replacement cost)

After calculating these two formulas, Mr. Smith’s insurer would pay him $3,125, the greater amount of $2,000 vs. $3,125.

The replacement cost of your home must be estimated at the time you take out a homeowners policy. In most cases, insurance companies will inspect your home and use formulas that take into account a house’s construction, size, quality, location, nationally recognized construction indices and other factors to approximate its current replacement cost. As a result of the increase in the value of homes, insurance companies have become more active in evaluating the replacement cost of homes that they insure and often require periodic updates of that cost.
Contents

Coverage for contents is usually issued on an actual cash basis in homeowners and tenants policies. Your insurance company will determine any amount payable to you as a result of a covered loss by taking the current replacement cost of the contents and subtracting an amount for wear and tear and/or depreciation. It should be pointed out that there is no set formula for calculating depreciation. Not only may different insurers use different formulas, but various formulas may be used depending on the item that has been damaged. This means that you probably will not receive the full amount needed to replace or repair the property that has been damaged or stolen. However, some insurance companies may sell you an endorsement that provides replacement cost coverage for the contents of your home. Replacement cost coverage generally costs an additional 10% - 15%.

http://www.ins.state.ny.us/homeown/html/hmhowmch.htm

How much auto insurance must I carry?

2010-04-20T09:14:00.002-04:00

New York State law requires that motorists carry a minimum amount of liability insurance of $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to all persons, and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident. Mandatory "no-fault" coverage of $50,000 is also required. Many motorists carry higher liability limits and additional personal injury protection beyond these minimum benefits required by law. The law also requires all auto insurance policies to provide uninsured motorists coverage (for bodily injury), subject to the same minimums. In addition, SUM (Supplementary Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists) coverage can also be purchased, in amounts up to the bodily injury liability limits of an insured's own policy. An insurer must offer SUM limits of $250,000 per person per accident and $500,000 per accident ($250,000/$500,000) if a person has bodily injury liability limits of that amount or higher. Insurers may offer higher SUM limits if they wish.

Age 29" Dependent Coverage Extension

2010-04-20T09:13:00.000-04:00

On July 29, 2009, Governor David A. Paterson signed into law Chapter 240 of the Laws of 2009, which extends the availability of health insurance coverage to young adults through the age of 29. This expansion will assist young adults who do not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance. This law is sometimes referred to as the “Age 29” law, because it permits young adults to continue or obtain coverage under a parent’s policy through the age of 29.

The law provides two distinct ways in which coverage may be extended: a “young adult option” and a “make available” option. Because both benefits are so different, they are described separately.

http://www.ins.state.ny.us/health/S6030_Age29.htm

National Survey Finds Many CONSUMERS MISSING OUT ON INSURANCE DISCOUNTS

2010-03-22T11:38:00.000-04:00

Trusted Choice® recommends consumers maximize little-known discounts to ‘nickel and dime’ their way to big savings.
Alexandria, VA, Nov. 12, 2009 —As millions of Americans look for ways to stretch their budgets to survive these tough economic times, too many are not utilizing all of the discounts that may be available to them in their homeowner and auto insurance, according to a new national survey conducted for Trusted Choice®.

The survey asked home and auto owners if they believed they are taking full advantage of all the discounts they qualified for on their homeowners and auto insurance policies. More than 34% of respondents, representing 53 million households, admitted they are probably not taking advantage of all homeowners insurance discounts or said that they simply didn’t know. Regarding auto coverage, more than 20% of car owners either didn’t know or said they were not maximizing all the car insurance discounts available to them.

And those who stand to benefit most from the discounts are often those who aren’t taking advantage of them: nearly 38% of respondents with a household income of less than $25,000 said they weren’t taking advantage of all possible homeowners discounts or said they didn’t know.

The survey also found that the largest percentage of respondents, about 26%, estimated they save 6-10% on their insurance premiums by using discounts. In reality, many consumers could be saving significantly more—as much as 30%.

“One of the biggest advantages to using an independent insurance agent is that they can explore the various companies and find the best possible coverage for each individual family or business,” says Robert A. Rusbuldt, Trusted Choice® president & CEO. “Finding specific discounts can be time-consuming and confusing, so we advise consumers to consult with their Trusted Choice® independent insurance agent and ask questions.”

Trusted Choice Agency - Bianchi agency

2010-03-22T11:15:00.001-04:00

What makes a Trusted Choice Agency Stand Out?
Choice, Customization and Advocacy in insurance and financial services.

A Trusted Choice® agency represents multiple insurance companies so we can offer you a variety of coverage choices and help you customize a plan that provides the protection you want.

The choice is yours.
• Choose your insurance policy
• Compare a variety of companies
• Evaluate financial services offered
• Customize coverage for your home or business
• Assist you when you have a claim

For helpful, easy-to-understand information about insurance for auto, home, life/health or business, click on one of the links above or use our online locator to find the right Trusted Choice® agency for you

Online Accident Prevention Class

2009-07-29T12:26:00.000-04:00

Sign up and take the course online today!

http://syraddc.com/

Completion of this New York DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP/IPIRP/Defensive Driving Course) provides a 10% reduction, for 3 years, of the motorist's liability, no-fault and collision insurance premiums. Point reduction benefits can be applied once within 18 months and reduce as many as 4 points from record. Reduced points remain on the driving record but are not counted by NYS DMV against the license. Point reduction does not remove, delete, subtract or erase violations, convictions or points, or prevent or cancel a mandatory revocation or suspension for violations such as DWI, DWAI or three speeding violations within 18 months.

The entire course is available 100% ONLINE.
You can work at your own pace and there is NO CLASSROOM REQUIRED.
There are NO HIDDEN FEES with our program.

Your course fee covers the course, issuance of your completion certificate and the automatic, electronic reporting of your successful completion of the course to the New York DMV.

This course requires successful completion of the 320-minute Internet course by principal operator of insured vehicle.

To gain immediate access to the course click here - http://syraddc.com/

Rand

U.S. Withheld Data on Risks of Distracted Driving

2009-07-22T12:55:00.002-04:00

By MATT RICHTEL

In 2003, researchers at a federal agency proposed a long-term study of 10,000 drivers to assess the safety risk posed by cellphone use behind the wheel.

They sought the study based on evidence that such multitasking was a serious and growing threat on America’s roadways.

But such an ambitious study never happened. And the researchers’ agency, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, decided not to make public hundreds of pages of research and warnings about the use of phones by drivers — in part, officials say, because of concerns about angering Congress.

On Tuesday, the full body of research is being made public for the first time by two consumer advocacy groups, which filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit for the documents. The Center for Auto Safety and Public Citizen provided a copy to The New York Times, which is publishing the documents on its Web site.

In interviews, the officials who withheld the research offered their fullest explanation to date.

The former head of the highway safety agency said he was urged to withhold the research to avoid antagonizing members of Congress who had warned the agency to stick to its mission of gathering safety data but not to lobby states.

Critics say that rationale and the failure of the Transportation Department, which oversees the highway agency, to more vigorously pursue distracted driving has cost lives and allowed to blossom a culture of behind-the-wheel multitasking.

“We’re looking at a problem that could be as bad as drunk driving, and the government has covered it up,” said Clarence Ditlow, director of the Center for Auto Safety.

The group petitioned for the information after The Los Angeles Times wrote about the research last year. Mother Jones later published additional details.

The highway safety researchers estimated that cellphone use by drivers caused around 955 fatalities and 240,000 accidents over all in 2002.

The researchers also shelved a draft letter they had prepared for Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta to send, warning states that hands-free laws might not solve the problem.

That letter said that hands-free headsets did not eliminate the serious accident risk. The reason: a cellphone conversation itself, not just holding the phone, takes drivers’ focus off the road, studies showed.

The research mirrors other studies about the dangers of multitasking behind the wheel. Research shows that motorists talking on a phone are four times as likely to crash as other drivers, and are as likely to cause an accident as someone with a .08 blood alcohol content.

The three-person research team based the fatality and accident estimates on studies that quantified the risks of distracted driving, and an assumption that 6 percent of drivers were talking on the phone at a given time. That figure is roughly half what the Transportation Department assumes to be the case now.

More precise data does not exist because most police forces have not collected long-term data connecting cellphones to accidents. That is why the researchers called for the broader study with 10,000 or more drivers.

“We nevertheless have concluded that the use of cellphones while driving has contributed to an increasing number of crashes, injuries and fatalities,” according to a “talking points” memo the researchers compiled in July 2003.

It added: “We therefore recommend that the drivers not use wireless communication devices, including text messaging systems, when driving, except in an emergency.”

Dr. Jeffrey Runge, then the head of the highway safety agency, said he grudgingly decided not to publish the Mineta letter and policy recommendation because of larger political considerations.

At the time, Congress had warned the agency not to use its research to lobby states. Dr. Runge said transit officials told him he could jeopardize billions of dollars of its financing if Congress perceived the agency had crossed the line into lobbying.

The fate of the research was discussed during a high-level meeting at the transportation secretary’s office. The meeting included Dr. Runge, several staff members with the highway safety agency and John Flaherty, Mr. Mineta’s chief of staff.

Mr. Flaherty recalls that the group decided not to publish the research because the data was too inconclusive.

He recalled that Dr. Runge “indicated that the data was incomplete and there was going to be more research coming.”

He recalled summing up his position as, the agency “should make a decision as to whether they wanted to wait for more data.”

But Dr. Runge recalled feeling that the issue was dire and needed public attention. “I really wanted to send a letter to governors telling them not to give a pass to hands-free laws,” said Dr. Runge, whose staff spent months preparing a binder of materials for their presentation.

His broader goal, he said, was to educate people about the dangers of distracted driving. “Based on the research, there was a possibility of this becoming a really big problem,” he said.

But “my advisers upstairs said we should not poke a finger in the eye of the appropriations committee,” he recalled.

He said Mr. Flaherty asked him, “Do we have enough evidence right now to not create enemies among all the stakeholders?”

Those stakeholders, Dr. Runge said, were the House Appropriations Committee and groups that might influence it, notably voters who multitask while driving and, to a much smaller degree, the cellphone industry.

Mr. Mineta, who left as transportation secretary in 2006, said he was unaware of the meeting.

“I don’t think it ever got to my desk,” he said of the research. Mr. Ditlow, from the Center for Auto Safety, said the officials’ explanations for withholding the research raised concerns. He said the research did not constitute lobbying of states.

And he said it was consistent with the highway safety agency’s research in other areas, like seat belts.

Mr. Ditlow said that putting fears of the House panel ahead of public safety was an abdication of the agency’s responsibility.

“No public health and safety agency should allow its research to be suppressed for political reasons,” he said. Doing so “will cause deaths and injuries on the highways.”

State Senator Joe Simitian of California, who tried from 2001 to 2005 to pass a hands-free cellphone law over objections of the cellphone industry, said the unpublished research would have helped him convince his colleagues that cellphones cause serious — deadly — distraction.

“Years went by when lives could have been saved,” said Mr. Simitian, who in 2006 finally pushed through a hands-free law that took effect last year.

The highway safety agency, rather than commissioning a study with 10,000 drivers, handled one involving 100 cars. That study, done with the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, placed cameras inside cars to monitor drivers for more than a year.

It found that drivers using a hand-held device were at 1.3 times greater risk of a crash or near crash, and at three times the risk when dialing compared with other drivers.

Not all the research went unpublished. The safety agency put on its Web site an annotated bibliography of more than 150 scientific articles that showed how a cellphone conversation while driving taxes the brain’s processing power, impairing reaction time. But the bibliography included only a list of the articles, not the one-page summaries of each one written by the researchers.

Chris Monk, who researched the bibliography for 18 months, said the exclusion of the summaries took the teeth out of the findings.

“It became almost laughable,” Mr. Monk said. “What they wound up finally publishing was a stripped-out summary.”

Mr. Monk and Mike Goodman, a division head at the safety agency who led the research project, theorize that the agency might have felt pressure from the cellphone industry. Mr. Goodman said the industry frequently checked in with him about the project and his progress. (He said the industry knew about the research because he had worked with it to gather some data).

But he could offer no proof of the industry’s influence. Mr. Flaherty said he was not contacted or influenced by the industry.

The agency’s current policy is that people should not use cellphones while driving. Rae Tyson, a spokesman for the agency, said it did not, and would not, publish the researchers’ fatality estimates because they were not definitive enough.

He said the other research was compiled as background material for the agency, not for the public.

“There is no report to publish,” he said.

Online Defensive Driving Course is Available NOW!!

2009-05-28T12:46:00.001-04:00

IPIRP - Online Defensive Driving Classes!! - In NY State

2009-04-15T09:53:00.003-04:00

We will soon be offering the Defensive Driving Course Online!!

This course will offer the same 10% off of your Auto Insurance and will offset up to 4 points like the classromm course!

Email me at cnyins@gmail.com and I will send you a note when this is live!

Rand

DEFICIT REDUCTION PLAN - SECTION 332 ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENT

2009-02-26T10:04:00.001-05:00

As part of the State's Deficit Reduction Plan, Chapters 1 and 2 of the Laws of 2009 were signed into law by Governor Paterson on February 4, 2009. Those provisions increase the Insurance Department's appropriation by $180 million, and authorize the Superintendent of Insurance to assess domestic insurers for the total value of the enacted appropriation for fiscal year 2008-09. The enacted appropriation for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2009 is $443.0 million.

Click on the link for the rest of the article from the NY Department of Insurance's website!

This seems to a major cause for the rate increases that most insurers are taking!

Rates are going Up!

2009-02-25T10:27:00.002-05:00

Virtually all of the Companies we represent have filed and or implemented a rate increase. They state that claims have soared and they are raising the rates to account for the increased expense of claims.

If you get an increase, it is the time to get a fast free quote with us!

Call Rand and I will help you personally!

Rand

Snow Today!!!

2009-02-20T16:11:00.000-05:00

Be extra careful. The other drivers don't know how to drive!!!!

This may be Winters last gasp.....I hope!

Rand

Winter Driving

2009-02-17T14:54:00.002-05:00

As we sit here in Central NY waiting for more snow, I find it interesting that there is no real requirement to learn how to drive in the snow...before you can get a license.

I have a 16 year old daughter. Unless I take her to a large parking lot in the Winter and let her slam on the brakes and do doughnuts, the first time she slams on her brakes in the winter...she will skid wherever she does not want to go!

Think about it and let me know what you suggest!

Rand

Safer Texting and Calling While Driving

2009-02-03T12:11:00.001-05:00

Operating a vehicle while using a cell phone can be distracting, potentially dangerous and increasingly illegal. New technology aims to address this problem.

By Salvatore Salamone

Posted Jan. 19, 2009

Most of us are wed to our mobile phones these days. Unfortunately, many of us can't bear to be out of contact with friends or work, even while driving. And increasingly, that means people are texting while driving — an incredibly distracting practice that diverts at least one hand, and both eyes, from the road. Even if we are careful, it's a natural instinct to check an incoming message.

For those who want to curb such potentially dangerous behavior, a number of technology solutions are starting to emerge that leverage the GPS, accelerometer or other capabilities of mobile phones to provide a level of control.

The offerings are aimed at two groups: parents who want to control their teenagers' use of mobile phones while driving and adults who simply want a reminder or mechanism in place to help ensure they follow safer driving practices.

Some solutions are software-only and work in conjunction with the phone; others are service offerings from mobile phone carriers. The common element in all of the offerings: Communications can be cut off when a phone is determined to be in motion and traveling at the speed of a moving car (versus, say, a person walking or running with their phone). Here's how and why this safer texting and calling technology came about.
Cell Phone Use While Driving: a Growing Problem

For years, people have talked on their cell phones while driving, and accident rates spiked. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that drivers using phones are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. As a result, many states put laws into place that required use of a headset or speakerphone to enable "hands-free" usage.

Now, there is a growing problem with people texting while driving, and many states are passing laws that ban the practice altogether.

New York State High Risk Pool

2009-01-30T08:07:00.003-05:00

Bianchi Agency will write the NY State High Risk Pool, and it is not the same as it used to be.

They are year long policies with 25% down. We do not offer financing. If you take a policy and your car only lasts 2 Months, you will still owe the full years finance charges. A Finance Company also creates a third party involved with your policy.

The Risk Pool is 25% down payment and then 5 Monthly payments. You will have paid the year policy in 6 Months and be paid in full until the 1 year renewal.

The Risk Pool seems to be extremely competitive in the 21 year old and younger female category.

For a fast free quote go to our website www.cnyins.com or call Randy at 315-488-5451 and tell him you want Risk Pool Quote.

MetLife Auto & Home® Customer Claim Bill of Rights

2009-01-15T09:57:00.002-05:00

• You have the right to 24/7/365 good faith claim-handling service.

• You have the right to courteous, honest and nondiscriminatory service from people who care about your needs.

• You have the right to choose a repair shop or rental company. If you need assistance, we can recommend one convenient to you.

• You have the right to an appointment for a vehicle inspection that is convenient for you (when your car is safely drivable, i.e., at your place of business, residence, etc.)

• You have the right to guarantee of vehicle repairs made at a Guaranteed Repair Shop (even if you move out of state) as long as you own the vehicle.

• You have the right to request assistance in locating a home repair contractor.

• You have the right to a two-year warranty on any home repairs completed by our General Contractor Network.

• You have the right to the service of a dedicated National Catastrophe Response Team following a natural disaster.

• You have the right to a complete explanation of your settlement.

• You have the right to voice your compliments and concerns about your claim handling.

• You have the right to leverage partnerships we have formed that promote safety awareness and product discounts.

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its Affiliate, Warwick, RI

People want eco-friendly cars, but only if the price is right

2008-11-19T12:04:00.001-05:00

Affordability is key when it comes to super fuel efficient vehicles,according to a survey by the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE

In light of higher overall gas prices, it should come as no surprise that many of us would like to buy super fuel efficient vehicles. In light of the current state of the economy, it should also be no surprise that most would like those vehicles to be affordable.

In a recent survey by the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE, these common assumptions were driven home by data. Of the drivers who responded, 74 percent said they would like to buy vehicles that get 100 miles per gallon or its energy equivalent (MPGe). The majority also answered that they would like those vehicles to be affordable.

Today, the closest the market has come to meeting both of these demands is with a car that delivers only deliver 45 miles per gallon and costs around $24,000. Other cars in the works, though not yet available, could get a higher MPG rating, but could cost as much as $40,000.

The Progressive Automotive X PRIZE is a multi-million dollar competition designed to inspire a new generation of viable, super fuel efficient vehicles that offer consumers more choices. Ten million dollars will be awarded to teams that win a stage race for clean, production-capable vehicles that exceed 100 MPGe. Winners will be announced in 2010.

“Remember when pocket calculators first came out and they cost close to $400?” says Brian Silva, Progressive’s director of special projects. “Now that the technology is readily available and mass produced, they cost about $10. That’s what we’re trying to spur in fuel-efficient vehicles.”

Other interesting factoids according to the survey from the Progressive Automotive X PRIZE:

When asked why they’d buy a 100 MPGe vehicle, most say to “save money on fuel costs” (81 percent); other responses include “to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle” (17 percent), “to be trendy” (1 percent), and “other” reasons, including “to reduce our dependency on foreign oil.”
Men are more likely than women to buy a 100 MPGe vehicle if one were available today (42 percent versus 30 percent).
Drivers in the West South Central U.S. are most likely to buy a 100 MPGe vehicle compared to New England drivers who are least likely (44 percent versus 25 percent).

Progressive Offers Tips to Prepare your Boat for Winter

2008-10-10T13:53:00.002-04:00

MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio (Sept. 18, 2008) – As the summer boating season comes to a close, many boaters are preparing their vessels for winter storage. Leading boat insurer Progressive wants to remind boat owners about a number of steps they can take to make sure their boats are properly protected during the off season.

“Taking the right steps now to protect your boat will not only provide you with peace of mind through the long, cold winter months, but can help you avoid a hefty maintenance bill in the spring ,” says Dominic Mediate, Progressive’s boat product manager.
Some slip-proof tips for winterizing your boat include:

Get your engine winter-ready – First drain the water from the engine completely and fill the cooling system with environmentally safe antifreeze. Remove spark plugs and fog cylinders, and wipe down engine with fogging oil or similar moisture displacing lubricant.

Check your fluids – Change the oil and filter, and ensure fuel tanks contain stabilizer and are filled to the desired level. And don’t forget the lower unit! If there is any water left in the lower unit, it can freeze and cause the unit to crack.

Keep your boat sufficiently covered – If you are using a standard canvas or plastic cover make sure it is properly secured and sturdy enough to handle any snow-build-up. For added protection against the winter wind and snow look no further than trusty shrink wrap, which can be used to cover exposed areas of the boat. If possible, apply shrink wrap or other covering to the tongue, trailer jack, and winch.

Don’t forget the trailer – To be sure your trailer is ready to roll when spring comes back around put it up on blocks, oil the rollers, trailer jack and winch; and grease the bearings.

Remove the battery – Maintain the battery’s charge and keep it conditioned through the winter by removing it from the boat and storing it properly.

Keep your boat from “going condo” – To keep birds, rodents or other vermin from using your boat as their winter residence make sure there are no possible entrances, and spread a deterrent like moth balls through the vessel.

Show your love – Check on your boat periodically during the winter months.

Check your insurance policy – Make sure you’re properly protected in case your boat is stolen or damaged in the off season. A stand-alone boat insurance policy can give you that protection.

The Secret Priorities of Boaters

2008-05-09T09:35:00.000-04:00

Survey by leading boat insurer, Progressive, reveals boaters put their vessel ahead of major milestones in their lives and are happier for it

MAYFIELD VILLAGE , Ohio (April 17, 2008) – Are you worried about the value of your home or the cost of your daily commute? Well, maybe its time to rethink your priorities. In a recent survey of more than 1,000 boat owners conducted by Progressive, a leading boat insurer and the number one seller of personal watercraft insurance in the country, nearly half of boaters surveyed said they bought their boat before they purchased a car or a home.

The result is some pretty happy boaters. While some may believe a “boat owner's two greatest days are the day he buys his boat and the day he sells it,” most boaters surveyed (38 percent) disagree. In fact, 66 percent of boaters say they “love boating” and describe their overall experience as “smooth sailing.” One in four boaters surveyed even said their biggest worry was simply finding time to use their boat.

So what could be behind all this glee? It seems that many boaters surveyed got into boating during more carefree times in their lives. Nearly a third of boaters surveyed said they bought a boat before they got married (28 percent), had children (30 percent) or even graduated college (19 percent).

Unfortunately, the carefree nature of boaters surveyed may be affecting their practical side. While 70 percent of boaters say they know should have insurance, even in the off-season, 29 percent admit to having no boat insurance at all.

“A great experience with your boat can quickly turn bad if you're not properly insured,” said Progressive's Dominic Mediate. “Things like 24/7 claims service and specialized coverages such as Emergency Towing and Labor and Total Loss Replacement are designed to help get boaters back on the water fast in the event of a loss.”

And you better believe that boaters are not so willing to give up the good thing they have going. Twenty percent of boaters said that they would NEVER sell their boat and six percent went as far as to say they would only sell if threatened with physical harm.

The allure of the water also seems to create a kinship and loyalty among boaters. So much so that 15 percent of boaters say they're more likely to vote for a political candidate if he/she is a boater. This is especially good news for the GOP, as Republicans are more likely to vote this way (19 percent) compared to Independents (16 percent) and Democrats (15 percent).

For more information, go to www.watercraft.progressive.com .

Brokers Fees and Service Charges...?

2008-03-17T10:18:00.004-04:00

Who Charges...

$50 Brokers Fee,
Rewrite your Policy
Reinstate
Add Vehicle or Driver
MVR Report
Certified Mail Fee.

Bianchi Insurance charges none of these fees*

We are Agents for all of our Auto Insurance Companies...not Brokers.
A broker get his fee and minimum earned commission up front and has little incentive
to provide the kind of service that Agents do. Many will let you cancel and rewrite your for more fees.

Also watch out for 3rd party billing, Premium Finance Companies that will lower your payments but add FINANCE CHARGES.
If you start one of these policies and then the cancel early, you will be charged for the full year of FINANCE CHARGES.

Make sure you get a copy of the "Broker Fee Agreement" and a payment list and the amount of the FINANCE CHARGES you will incur.

Rand
Bianchi Agency Inc.

*except on NY State High Risk (Pool) Policies

Homeowners Insurance - Top Ten Questions

2008-03-11T11:25:00.003-04:00

Reprinted From New York State Insurance Department

http://www.ins.state.ny.us/que_top10/que_hom_print.htm

1) Are there discounts available?

Discounts are available if you have higher deductibles, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, dead bolt locks, hurricane shutters, or laminated glass.

2) Are there deductibles and under what circumstances do they apply?
The policy comes with a deductible that you can request to be higher or lower and there are windstorm, or hurricane deductibles for policies issued in certain areas.

3) Are the rates different in different locations, or how close the house is to a fire department effect premiums? The rates are affected by local fire protection, age and type of building, and use of the building.

4) Are the rates affected by the type of construction?
The rates are affected by the kind of construction, such as brick vs. frame.

5) Is mold covered under certain situations and is there a limit for mold damage?
Mold damage is covered if it is due to a covered event. Many policies have a mold limitation for the payment of remediation services. Your policy has to be reviewed for the specific language.

6) What exactly is covered? Please explain the different kinds of coverage.
The building and its’ contents are covered for the named perils. If it is an all risk policy every event is covered except for listed exclusions.

7) What is excluded in the policy?
Some exclusions include flood, wear and tear, earth movement and acts of war.

8) Are certain items such as computers limited in coverage? Do you have samples of policy language with regard to these items?

9) Certain items such as computers, silverware, jewelry, guns, money, securities and others listed have monetary limitations. You maybe be able to buy a rider for these items.
What optional, additional, or extended coverage can I purchase?
You can purchase an umbrella policy, or rider, if available; flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program in many communities, higher levels of liability coverage, lower deductibles, earthquake, coverage for business pursuits on the premises. Just ask the producer concerning any type of coverage you may need.

10) Is umbrella coverage available? Is it discounted in any way?
An umbrella policy or rider provides additional higher limits for liability coverage for your home, auto and watercraft. It may also provide coverage for events not covered by your homeowners policy.

Why Choose Bianchi For Insurance?

2008-03-10T14:10:00.003-04:00

You can of course go many places for quotes and to get your Insurance.

What sets us apart from many of those other Agencies is simple. We care, we want you
to pay as little as possible for top rated coverage from top rated companies.

We service your policies and look out for your interests. We do not work for the Insurance Companies...we are Independent Agents.

We offer the Defensive Driving Course right here in the Bianchi Insurance Building in sunny Solvay. We understand the claim process and will advise you and then guide you through
any difficulties you may encounter. Remember you may be dealing wioth the "other guys" Insurance Company ...not your own.

We offer virtually any kind of Insurance you may need. Aslo available are a wide aray of
business products to service your commercial needs!

We can accept payments for most Companies right over the phone and are Web Email Savvy enough to scan and send whatever you need or just Fax it to you. Snail mail is of course still available!

Rand

Solvay & Mattydale hours

2008-03-07T10:55:00.002-05:00

Solvay is Monday Through Friday 8:30 AM To 4:30 PM
Phone 315-488-5451 Fax 315-488-2577

Mattydale is Monday, Tuesday 10:30 AM To 2:30 PM
Wednesday, Thursday 10:30 AM To 4:30 PM
Phone 315-455-5084

Call Travelers To Pay By Check

2008-03-07T10:49:00.005-05:00

Call 1-800-550-7716 to make your payments to Travelers.
Have your Check and Travelers policy number handy.

Credit Scores and Insurance...

2008-03-02T11:30:00.002-05:00

Did you know that virtually all Insurance Companies include your credit score as a factor
in how much they will charge for your Auto (and Homeowners) Insurance.

We are independent Agents and represent multiple Companies and if you have a great driving record and not so great credit we can offer you at least one very good Company that will offer you competitive rates!

So give me a call and I will do my best to earn your business and save you money.

Rand

315-488-5451

January 2008 Driving Update

2008-01-10T11:03:00.001-05:00

Hello,

This weather is fantastic, Global warming will make this the future vacation for all Southerners... the worm has turned!

Auto rates seem to have leveled off from Insurance Companies at this point. We watch the claims rising and rising unlike any time in our memory.

Notice the dangerous drivers that go through the red lights routinely and also speed excessively.
There are now more than ever.

If you have any strange stories ...be sure to post them here!

Remeber to call for all of your Insurance needs!!

Rand

Homeowners Insurance - Top Ten Questions

2007-11-21T11:38:00.000-05:00

Are there discounts available?
Discounts are available if you have higher deductibles, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, dead bolt locks, hurricane shutters, or laminated glass.

Are there deductibles and under what circumstances do they apply?
The policy comes with a deductible that you can request to be higher or lower and there are windstorm, or hurricane deductibles for policies issued in certain areas.

Are the rates different in different locations, or how close the house it to a fire department effect premiums? The rates are affected by local fire protection, age and type of building, and use of the building.

Are the rates affected by the type of construction?
The rates are affected by the kind of construction, such as brick vs. frame.

Is mold covered under certain situations and is there a limit for mold damage?
Mold damage is covered if it is due to a covered event. Many policies have a mold limitation for the payment of remediation services. Your policy has to be reviewed for the specific language.

What exactly is covered? Please explain the different kinds of coverage.
The building and its’ contents are covered for the named perils. If it is an all risk policy every event is covered except for listed exclusions.

What is excluded in the policy?
Some exclusions include flood, wear and tear, earth movement and acts of war.

Are certain items such as computers limited in coverage? Do you have samples of policy language with regard to these items?

Certain items such as computers, silverware, jewelry, guns, money, securities and others listed have monetary limitations. You maybe be able to buy a rider for these items.
What optional, additional, or extended coverage can I purchase?
You can purchase an umbrella policy, or rider, if available; flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program in many communities, higher levels of liability coverage, lower deductibles, earthquake, coverage for business pursuits on the premises. Just ask the producer concerning any type of coverage you may need.

Is umbrella coverage available? Is it discounted in any way?
An umbrella policy or rider provides additional higher limits for liability coverage for your home, auto and watercraft. It may also provide coverage for events not covered by your homeowners policy.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE BEFORE REACHING THE CAR RENTAL COUNTER

2007-11-21T11:31:00.000-05:00

A large percentage of U.S. consumers are confused about whether to buy insurance when renting a car, according to new research by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and the New York State Insurance Department. In fact, many people purchase insurance at the rental counter without knowing whether their existing auto policies or credit card benefits already cover their needs.
“When renting a car, many consumers purchase unnecessary insurance and end up wasting money. Meanwhile, other drivers inadvertently underinsure their rental car, placing themselves at risk,” said New York State Insurance Superintendent Eric Dinallo. “As travel increases around the holiday season, the New York State Insurance Department encourages consumers to investigate whether their existing auto insurance provides sufficient protection for car rental.”
The New York State Insurance Department and the NAIC’s national survey of 632 consumers, conducted from Sept. 19-30, 2007, revealed these findings:
Approximately 42 percent of respondents said they were either thoroughly confused or had only a rough idea about insurance coverage when renting a car.
34 percent of respondents said they purchased the rental company’s insurance just to make sure they were covered.
24 percent of consumers were not sure whether their credit card provided insurance coverage when renting a car.
“Drivers should educate themselves before they reach the auto rental counter,” Dinallo said. “Carefully review your auto insurance policy and check with your credit card issuer about auto insurance benefits. Protect yourself and save money by taking a few precautions and asking the right questions.”
Prior to renting a car, Dinallo recommends that renters ask the following questions:
Ask your insurance agent: Are there any situations in which my existing auto policy would not cover a rental car?
Ask your credit card company: What are the limitations on rental car coverage?
The New York State Insurance Department’s Consumer Guide to Auto Insurance offers comprehensive information on auto insurance. This free booklet is available by calling the Department at 1-800-342-3736 or visiting the Department’s website at www.ins.state.ny.us.________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Car Rental Insurance Tips from the New York State Insurance Department and the NAIC’s Insure U Web Site
Review your auto insurance policy or call your insurance agent before you reach the rental car counter.
Many credit cards include some level of collision and theft protection. In most cases, these benefits are secondary to your personal auto insurance or the car rental company’s insurance, meaning the credit card company will only pay claims after other insurance coverage has been exhausted. Call your credit card company and ask about benefits.
If you lack personal auto insurance and your credit card does not provide benefits, it might be wise to purchase the liability insurance and collision damage waiver at the car rental counter.
Keep in mind that if it is a longer-term rental (e.g., a week, a month or more), there might be limitations on the coverage your existing auto insurance policy provides. Check with your insurance company or agent for details.
If you don’t own a car, you might want to consider purchasing a non-owner auto insurance policy, because it provides benefits in addition to coverage for a rental car.
When traveling on business, a personal auto policy will generally not apply, so check with your employer for guidance.
Know that you are not alone if you find car rental insurance confusing. If you are unclear about the car rental insurance options, or are concerned that a rental company is misrepresenting information, check with the New York State Insurance Department at 1-800-342-3736 or www.state.ins.ny.
Get more information about the types of insurance products car rental companies tend to provide, as well as additional auto insurance information by visiting www.InsureUonline.org and the New York State Insurance Department’s website at www.ins.state.ny.us. You can also get extensive information, tips and considerations regarding life, health and home insurance by life stage. The entire site is available in Spanish at www.insureuonline.org/espanol.
ABOUT THE NAIC
Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is a voluntary organization of the chief insurance regulatory officials of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. The NAIC’s overriding objective is to assist state insurance regulators in protecting consumers and helping maintain the financial stability of the insurance industry by offering financial, actuarial, legal, computer, research, market conduct and economic expertise. Formed in 1871, the NAIC is the oldest association of state officials. For more than 135 years, state-based insurance supervision has served the needs of consumers, industry and the business of insurance at-large by ensuring hands-on, frontline protection for consumers, while providing insurers the uniform platforms and coordinated systems they need to compete effectively in an ever-changing marketplace. For more information, visit NAIC at www.naic.org/press_home.htm.

Why Choose a MetLife Auto Policy?

2007-10-11T12:47:00.000-04:00

With a MetLife Auto & Home® insurance policy, you get more.

Discover how MetLife Auto & Home’s Auto Advantage1 is designed to protect you and your wallet with features such as:

Rewards for Being a Claim-free DriverWith our Deductible Savings Benefit, it pays to be a safe driver. Our Deductible Savings Benefit2 rewards you with a $50 benefit for each year of claim-free driving, up to $250. Every year your household is claim-free, you can earn a $50 benefit to reduce your deductible in the event that you have a loss. MetLife Auto policies3 also include Coverage Plus, three core benefits designed to reduce coverage gaps and hidden costs should you sustain a loss.

1. Replacement Cost for Total LossesNew auto owners, take notice! If your new car were totaled, you'll get back a new car. We don't charge depreciation for the total loss of your new auto within its first year or first 15,000 miles, whichever comes first.4 Compare your current policy with the standard benefits you'd receive from us. With a MetLife Auto policy, you get more.

2. Replacement Cost for Major PartsOur Auto Advantage goes the extra mile to protect you against depreciation, even in partial losses. You will be protected for the replacement of certain major damaged parts, such as tires, brakes, battery, and shocks, despite their wear and tear condition at the time of the accident.
Most other companies would only pay the depreciated value (Actual Cash Value or ACV) for such parts, which could be negligible in many cases, and burden you with the rest. MetLife Auto & Home pays to replace these damaged parts with no deduction for depreciation. Compare your current policy with the standard benefits you'd receive from us. With a MetLife Auto policy, you get more.

3. Enhanced Rental Car Damage CoverageOnce again, a MetLife Auto policy would protect you from hidden costs, so you can enjoy peace of mind along with the convenience of rental cars. We protect you from these "surprise" costs, which the rental company may demand from you:
Rental income lost while the rental car was being repaired
Claim handling expenses
The decrease in the market value of that auto
Expenses, such as towing and storage of the damaged rental auto
We don't believe you should have to pay for hidden costs, and we'd protect you against having to pay for them out of your own pocket.
Compare your current policy with the standard benefits you'd receive from us. With a MetLife Auto policy, you get better protection. Now, that's insurance.SM

Travelers Provides Coverage Like No Other Insurance Company

2007-10-11T12:36:00.000-04:00

For over 140 years, Travelers has been looking out for families and property, protecting them from losses while earning the reputation as one of the best and most experienced insurers in the industry.

We offer:
More competitive price points to save you money.
A comprehensive range of products and price points to serve all of our customers.

Flexible insurance packages that offer a high degree of customization. Our unmatched selection of coverage options allows you to design the insurance package that best meets your needs today and offers the flexibility you'll need for the years ahead.

Superior financial stability. You can count on Travelers to fulfill its financial commitment when a loss occurs.

Fast, efficient claim handling supported by our toll-free, 24-hour claim hotline.
A national presence with over 10,000 agency locations to serve you. Plus 2,000 claim professionals in 39 claim offices across the country.

A constant commitment to innovation for consumers seeking more from their insurance company! More products. More services. More conveniences. More peace of mind!

Free Insurance Quotes at www.cnyins.com

2007-08-13T09:38:00.000-04:00

Did you know you can get fast free insurance quotes at our website.

http://www.cnyins.com

I handle all of the quoting personally and want to save you money and
make sure you have the coverage's you really want!

Rand

Insurance Talk

2006-06-28T11:14:00.000-04:00

This is the place to talk about Insurance!

Have you ever wondered why Insurance Companies do what they do ,
I will do my best to explain what they are thinking and why.
At the very least I will give you my opinion.
I have been an Agent since 1988 and encounter new questions virtually every week.

I would be pleased to be your Insurance guide.

Rand Rudolph
Bianchi Agency
2301 Milton Ave
Solvay, NY 13209
315-488-5451
www.cnyins.com