PIP in New Jersey: FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is PIP?

PIP stands for Personal Injury Protection. It covers your medical bills if you are injured in an automobile accident. PIP coverage must be included on every Auto insurance policy in New Jersey.

What is the amount of coverage under PIP?

The standard amount of PIP coverage is $250,000.

Are lower amounts available?

Lower amounts are available, but they are not recommended.

Is PIP “No Fault” and what does this mean?

Yes. This means that your own policy covers you for injuries sustained in an auto accident regardless of who is driving, whose car you are in, or who is at fault.

Will my health insurance policy cover injuries sustained in an auto accident if I select my health insurance as “primary”?

It depends on the type of health insurance plan you have. Therefore, it is important to find out if you have auto accident coverage under your health insurance, and how much coverage you have. If you want to select “health primary,” you must obtain written information on your health plan coverage for auto accidents.

Can I select Medicare or Medicaid as my primary health insurer for auto accidents?

No, you cannot select Medicare or Medicaid as your primary health insurer for auto accidents. Your auto insurance must be primary.

What if I select my health insurance as primary and they won’t pay?

If you have selected “health primary” and your health insurance won’t pay for treatment of injuries from an auto accident, you can file a claim under your auto policy. But you’ll have to pay back premiums to the insurance company, plus an additional penalty deductible of $750.

Where can I get more information about PIP or other insurance questions?

My website has a lot of additional information: www.farmersagent.com/drobinson1

And you can email or call my office with any questions: 973-232-5086 drobinson1@farmersagent.com

Sources: www.state.nj.us/dobi; www.personalinjurylawjournal.com

5 Things You Must Do to Protect Your Small Business

Uneasy is the head that wears the crown. Being in charge of your own business can be enormously satisfying, but it can also be a headache. Here are a few tips to keep your business safe from some dangers both inside and out.

1. Never Underestimate the Value of a Good Lawyer

Many small businesses avoid lawyering up, either because they don't think they need one or they don't think they can afford one. But finding a knowledgeable lawyer can save you far more than it costs. Especially when signing any kind of contract; have a lawyer review each one before you sign it. One of my clients saved thousands of dollars when their lawyer suggested a small change in their commercial lease agreement. It may not seem necessary at the time, but the payout can be well worth it.

2. Have an Employee Manual

Obtaining an employee manual is another task that may seem unnecessary, but will be enormously valuable over time. A well-crafted Employee Manual can set expectations for employees, illustrate the benefits they're offered, and ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Plus, setting the standards that are expected of your employees up front can help avoid or win lawsuits, should it ever come to that.

3. Make sure that you are properly insured.

Many employers overlook Employment Practices Liability insurance and Umbrella Liability insurance, and don’t understand who needs to be covered under Workers Compensation. These are issues that can be extremely costly if you're not prepared. Even if you're not necessarily sure that your business needs these coverages, be sure to discuss them with your insurance agent.

4. Pay attention to cyber security

From 2008 to 2010, a group of hackers preyed on and compromised more than 50 small businesses in Seattle, causing over $3 million in combined damages. Many hackers are now targeting small business, because they often have lax or no security measures in place. According to a 2012 study by the National Cyber Security Alliance, 71% of small businesses are dependent on the internet on a daily basis to conduct business, but 83% don't have any sort of formal cyber-security plan. Educate yourself on what is most valuable in your company, and what's most vulnerable, and take steps to protect it. Make sure all of your data is backed up regularly, and shred documents that may contain usable information before discarding (dumpster divers contribute to a large portion of financial crime).

5. Consider Outsourcing Your Bookkeeping

When you're pouring over the same information day after day, it's easy to get desensitized. But when it's something as important as your business's income and expenses, you can't afford to miss a thing. Having an outside set of eyes reviewing your finances can help to catch errors and prevent fraud; one more cost that could be well worth the money.

5 Everyday Objects You Didn't Know Are Fire Hazards

Only you can prevent forest fires, but what about laptops-in-your-bed fires? You can avoid those too - by knowing these 5 everyday objects that cause fires.

Laptops in Bed

I’m guilty of watching Netflix before bed, specifically while in bed with my laptop. But after a news story broke about a laptop left unguarded in bed for 16 hours that burned down a whole building, I never wanted to risk nodding off with a fire hazard in my lap again.

Since most laptops ventilate from fans on the bottom of the machine, it’s a good idea to elevate your computer to allow airflow. Not only will it avoid uncomfortable heat, but also dangerous accidents.

Dryer Lint

              

Another surprising fire-starter can be found in the dryer. Lint that wasn’t emptied (to the annoyance of the next user) often prevents the next batch of clothes from drying but can also start a fire. Leftover lint causes a reported 15,000 fires a year and should be taken seriously.

Next laundry day, remember to empty the lint trap for your clothes and your safety.  

Clutter in the Closet

Cleaning out your closet doesn’t just mean you’re starting a new way of life. It means you’re starting a new habit to avoid unintentional fires.

12% of house fires start in a closet, so if you have a closet that is stacked from floor to ceiling with junk, it’s time to let the fresh air in. Closet fires often begin when stored items touch a bare light bulb and catch fire. Whether or not it’s the season for spring-cleaning, get an early (or belated) start by reorganizing your closet and donating some old clothes.

9 Volt Batteries

There are probably some 9 volt batteries cluttered somewhere in my house. I image they’re resting peacefully, forgotten in a junk drawer or two. Dead batteries or alive ones should be treated equally and with care since fires caused by 9 volt batteries are on the rise.

Because 9 volt batteries can cause a spark if they touch something conductive, and that spark can start a fire if it lands on something flammable, in a junk drawer or trash can, always keep unused batteries in their original containers or wrap dead ones in electric tape before you toss them.

Batteries also require special recycling, so pick a drop off spot where you’ll likely get in the habit of recycling old batteries instead of hording them. You can find nearby recycling spots for batteries by clicking here.

Cooking Fires

Last, but certainly not the least dangerous, cooking is the number one cause of home fires. Thanksgiving is the most common day for home cooking fires, but that doesn’t mean other days are less flammable.

If you love to cook, your brain may be focused on the food but not always mindful of the ignition source on your grill or stove top, which is responsible for two-thirds of cooking fires. Always turn off burners when they’re no longer needed. It’s easy to forget burners if they’re left on a low setting, but triple check after cooking and before leaving the house. I literally do this every day.

With the exception of home cooking, this list covers some surprising culprits for fire hazards but there are plenty of others just waiting to cause a freak accident. Where there’s heat or open flames, there’s risk for fire, so take proper precautions and follow our blog for more tips on protection and insurance!

Rebuilding our Community, One Year at a Time

In 2012, the state of New Jersey (along with much of the East Coast) took a huge hit from Superstorm Sandy. The large number of homes and businesses affected was heartbreaking. Although it has been two years since the storm hit, there is still much damage that has yet to be fixed.

I have been fortunate enough, on multiple occasions, to be able to help to rebuild some of the damaged homes in New Jersey. I periodically volunteer with the St. Bernard Project, and will continue to do so as long as help is needed. They work in collaboration with AmeriCorps, Sea Bright Rising, and Farmers® Insurance to help rebuild the homes of those affected by Superstorm Sandy.

               Volunteering with these wonderful organizations is very rewarding. It feels great to be able to help my community here in New Jersey. As tragic as the storm was for so many people, it is extremely uplifting to see people and organizations banding together and help their neighbors in need.

               Are you interested in helping out? Consider donating to the St. Bernard Project or SeaBright Rising. I have included links below to these wonderful organizations that help many people in need.

Also, if you are interested in helping out with reconstruction, or any other projects, please feel free to contact me. I really can’t explain how rewarding an experience it is to help.

Links:

St. Bernard Project http://www.stbernardproject.org/

AmeriCorps http://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps

Sea Bright Rising http://seabrightrising.org/

Farmers® Insurance http://www.farmers.com/news/2014/superstorm-sandy-second-anniversary/

Disclosure: I am a Farmers® agent but these posts are my own and are not statements by or on behalf of Farmers.

My Path to Farmers®

Why I Chose Farmers®

I started my insurance journey 25 years ago with the idea of opening my own agency engraved in my mind. In April of 2012, the opportunity I was waiting for presented itself. Farmers Insurance was calling my name, and I couldn’t have been happier. Although Farmers had been around since 1928, and had grown to be one of the leading multiline insurance companies in the industry, they surprisingly had no agencies open in New Jersey. I took this as a sign, and jumped at the opportunity to begin the journey of owning my own agency.

Where it all Began

The idea of owning my own business was implanted in my head at an early age. Watching the growth and success of my father’s small business, and knowing that both of my grandfathers were small business owners as well, created a spark of passion in me that grew as time went on. Coincidentally, my wife and both of her parents own their own businesses as well. As you can see, it definitely runs in the family. The decision to choose Farmers was not a difficult one. With the extensive training they provide, along with the reputation of the company itself, it was nothing but an easy choice.

What I learned Afterwards

Attending the University of Farmers® was a great experience, to say the least. They strive to go above and beyond in educating their agents to help make sure we aren’t just selling our clients products, but that we also help make them smarter about insurance.  The thing I love the most, however, is that the training never really stops. They have a team of people working behind the scenes to help with many of the questions we may have, which I think it a great plus! We have also received great feedback from some of our clients about our wonderful claims department. A customer whose home was severely damaged during Super Storm Sandy told me: “Dave, we feel blessed that we have Farmers…Our neighbors were shocked at how quickly a team from Farmers arrived at our home to take care of everything.” It makes me proud to work for a company that takes care of our customers the way Farmers does.

Communicate with us!

 I love meeting with new people, and educating them about insurance. Have any questions you need answering? I’d be happy to help you. Please feel free to reach out to me through the comment section below, give me a call, or head on over to my website!

Testimonial disclosure: “These testimonials are based on the experiences of a few people and you may not have similar results.” Disclaimer: “I am a Farmers® agent but my posts are my own and are not statements by or on behalf of Farmers.”

5 Tips on How to Protect Valuables in Your Home

Here are some steps you can take to protect the valuables in your home. Below are five tips you can use to keep your most precious items safe from theft and harm.

1. Get a fireproof safe.

To protect valuables and important documents kept in your home, invest in a fireproof safe. If possible, choose a model that can be bolted to the floor to prevent the easy removal of the safe from your home.

2. Lock your doors.

Leaving your doors unlocked makes your home an easy target for thieves. Always keep your doors secured with deadbolt locks, especially when you won't be at home.

3. Install an alarm system.

Even if your doors are locked, some thieves will still attempt to break into your home. To deter them further, consider installing an alarm system in your home. Many of the systems available today offer the option of connecting the system with the police department so that they will be alerted as soon as a break-in occurs. You can also discourage robberies by installing exterior lights with motion detectors, as well as by setting timers on some of the lights inside your home so that they will be lit even when you aren't there.

4. Take inventory of your possessions.

Even when you take all of the necessary precautions, thefts and damage may still occur. Unfortunately, it may be difficult for you to remember all of your missing or damaged items in the wake of an incident. To make home insurance claims and/or property recovery easier, consider creating a comprehensive list of all of the items inside your home.

5. Review your insurance policy.

To ensure that you will be able to recover the full value of your items if they are taken or destroyed, review your homeowners or renters insurance policy carefully to make sure that it covers the “replacement cost” of lost items, as opposed to their “actual cash value,” which will be much less.

Want to see more posts like this one? Leave a comment and let us know!

What Risks Do You Face When Serving on a Board?

“Community banks having tough time filling boards – Personal liability risks scaring away candidates” says a headline on the front page of today’s issue of NJBIZ (njbiz.com), February 9, 2015. 

Personal liability risk is a serious concern, not only for community banks, but for any business or non-profit with a Board of Directors. It should also be of concern to anyone serving on a Board, or considering doing so.

Fortunately, there is a solution: it’s called Management Liability (or Directors and Officers Liability) Insurance.

A directors and officers liability policy (D&O) can provide insurance for negligent acts, omissions or misleading statements committed, or allegedly committed, by directors and officers of a company that result in lawsuits being filed against the company. D&O coverage can be purchased to reimburse the company when it indemnifies directors or officers, to specifically cover directors or officers when the company doesn't indemnify them or to provide entity coverage to cover claims made specifically against the company.

Public and private U.S. companies, as well as non-profit organizations, can apply for coverage. Punitive and multiple damages may be covered where insurable by law. Legal costs are generally paid in addition to policy limits. A policy may respond to suits naming only the company and may include coverage for past, present and future executives.

So if you serve on a Board in NJ, or you are considering joining a board, contact us today to discuss D&O.

5 Must Have Tools for Your Roadside Breakdown Kit

Roadside breakdown kits are essential to have in any car. However, many people aren't sure what's important to keep in them. No fear! I’m here to help you create your own top of the line roadside breakdown kit.

Here are the five essential tools I believe everyone should have in their breakdown kit:

1. A portable cell phone charger with flashlight and/or beacon OR a fully charged "emergency phone" stashed in the car: Since we all have had our cell phone batteries run low, a portable charger can be very beneficial, especially if it has the flashlight/beacon feature. There is no such thing as too noticeable when you’re sitting in the emergency lane or the shoulder of a remote two-lane road.
2. Emergency LED Flashers OR Flares (9+) OR Beacons OR Triangle Warning Signs (3): Most professional emergency kit builders recommend at least 3 triangle signs spaced 50 feet apart to give oncoming traffic better information about where the trouble is. Emergency flares can also signal your troubled situation. Much like triangle signs, you should place three flares 50 feet apart to warn oncoming traffic. The cost of flares is low enough to warrant buying boxes of 12 or 24. 
3.  LifeHammer Auto Escape Tool: Made in the Netherlands, LifeHammer® allows people to escape from being trapped in vehicles by cutting jammed seat belts and breaking car windows. www.lifehammer.com, Smittybilt Recovery Strap: You never know when you might need to give or receive a tow. www.smittybilt.com
4. Portable Battery Jumper/Charger OR Jumper Cables OR The Schumacher SpeedCharge: SpeedCharge is a fully automatic battery charger that uses advanced technology to charge up to twice as fast as conventional chargers. While it is important to have a pair of jumper cables in your car, they may not be the best choice if you are stranded on a two-lane back-road with little or no traffic. However, in many cases, insurance companies have "Jump Start / Battery Charge" included in their auto policies' Roadside Assistance.
5. Emergency Space Blankets: Low-weight, low-bulk blankets designed to reduce your body’s heat loss. Space blankets are perfect for emergency breakdowns, especially if it’s in the middle of the cold New Jersey winter! www.nitro-pak.com.

While these are what I consider the 5 most important items to have in your emergency kit, there is a multitude of other items you should consider adding as well. What are your must-haves in your emergency kit? Let me know by leaving a comment below!

Sources

1) www.farmers.com/auto/optional-coverage

2) www.cbsnews.com/news/worst-case-scenarios-8-biggest-car-breakdown-headaches/

How to Keep Your Pipes from Freezing

If you live in New Jersey, you  know that we can get hit with nasty winter storms, that can drop temperatures below freezing, dump piles of snow, and coat everything with ice during the winter months. This can lead to power outages and frozen pipes. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is a frozen or busted pipe. Luckily, your Homeowners or Renters insurance should cover any damage. But how do you avoid the damage in the first place?

The best way to keep your pipes from freezing is prevention. Many people refer to this as home safeguarding. Let’s face it, no one wants to deal with insurance claims or cleaning up watery messes. Here are some helpful tips to help safeguard your home during this winter season:

Prevention  

●       Be sure to keep your outside hose valve open so any remaining water in the pipelines can expand without cracking or breaking the pipes.

●       Insulate your water pipes. Insulating pipe sleeves are very useful and easy to install. They can be found in hardware stores and many home improvement stores.

●       Open cupboard doors under the sinks in your kitchen and bathroom(s) to allow warm air to get to the pipes.

Preventing Your Pipes From Freezing During a Prolonged Power Outage

A power outage can be a real winter safety problem for you, your family, and your pipes. Doring a prolonged outage, you have no heat in your home to help keep the pipes warm, nor do you have any electricity, so you may have to depend on your trusty flashlight to perform the following preventative measures:

●       During a short power outage a steady trickle of water from both the hot and cold pipes can prevent them from freezing. When the temperatures fall below freezing, turn both the hot and cold water faucets on in your home to allow a small stream of water to flow from the pipes. You should do this with all your sinks and bathtubs/shower stalls. The running water will prevent the pipes from freezing.

●       During a longer power outage, you will need to drain your water system. Always remember to unplug your water heater before draining it just in case the power comes back on unexpectedly. Not only could you damage your water heater, if not unplugged, there is also a danger if electrocution. 

●       When draining your furnace be sure to turn off the emergency switch. Drain your furnace by opening the valve at the bottom, it’s not hard to miss, it looks like your garden faucet. Next, open all the furnace’s radiator vents.

●       The water in your electric water heater will stay warm for two to three days after a power outage. After the third day, if your power is still out, you will need to drain the heater.

Winterizing Your Drainage System

 These simple things will help prevent frozen pipes and lots of headaches:

●       Shut off all the valves that allow water to enter your home.

●       To winterize the drain traps in your sinks, showers/tubs, washing machine, toilets, and other areas where a drain trap is located, pour a small amount (about ¼ cup) of recreational vehicle antifreeze in the drains. NEVER use regular (automotive) antifreeze: it is toxic. When using in the toilets, flush first.

●       You can also use denatured alcohol (highly recommended compared to any type of antifreeze).

The winter months can be difficult for a lot of people and winter safety is always a priority; so make sure your home insurance coverage is up to date just in case you need it. If you found the information in this blog post useful please click the like button and feel free to share your comments and suggestions below!

Sources: http://www.rp-l.com/outageprep.php, http://www.safeelectricity.org/information-center/library-of-articles/62-storm-preparation-fallwinter/318-what-to-do-during-an-electrical-outage, http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm/preventing-thawing-frozen-pipes, http://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/new-jersey/united-states/3200