California Insurance News

Car Shopping With Safety in Mind

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 00:55:44 GMT

You’ve heard all the talk about driverless cars. Yet we’re still years away from living in a world where you can just tell your car where to go and then kick back and relax with a book or your phone.

Even still, technology already plays a big role in the way we drive. Nowhere is that more apparent than with the new features that make today’s cars safer than ever. That’s especially good news considering that drivers aren’t necessarily safer these days. In fact, 2015 came with the largest increase in traffic fatalities since 1966 – 7.2 percent more in 2015 than 2014, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

So, when you’re shopping for a new (or new-to-you) car, look for one that has some or all of these vehicle safety features. They might even help you save on your car insurance!

Forward collision warning: Sensors in the front of the vehicle will warn you of an impending collision, giving you a chance to brake or steer clear.
Automatic emergency braking: Working with forward collision warning sensors, this will automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision.
Lane-departure warning: This uses cameras to keep track of your car’s position on the roadway. If you begin to drift from your lane unintentionally, an alarm notifies you.
Lane-keeping support: Steers your vehicle back into the lane if you do begin to drift.
Backup camera: Allows you to see behind the vehicle. These cameras, which are becoming more and more common, automatically activate when the car shifts into reverse.
Electronic stability control: Helps you keep control in slippery conditions and on curves. According to the NHTSA, it reduces the risk of a fatal single-vehicle crash by about 50 percent and a fatal rollover by 80 percent.
Blind-spot detection: Illuminates when another vehicle is in either blind spot.
Adaptive headlights: Shift as you take curves to help you see better.
Pedestrian automatic emergency braking: Alerts you if someone is in your path and automatically applies the brakes.
Automatic crash notification: Notifies emergency responders in the event of a crash.

Finally, don’t forget the now-commonplace features, such as air bags and anti-lock brakes, as well as things that have little to do with technology but still have a big impact on safety. This can include size and weight, structure and restraint systems, and NHTSA car safety ratings. Compare cars you’re considering online with the help of NHTSA.

And, no matter how many bells and whistles your car has, remember they’re no substitute for good driving habits. You still need to buckle up, stay alert, mind the speed limit, avoid distractions, drive for the weather conditions, etc.

Happy car shopping!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Burglary Prevention: Should You Leave the Lights On?

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 18:35:42 GMT

It seems like a no-brainer to leave the lights on outside your home to deter burglars while you’re away (or even while you’re asleep). But does that really work? Or is it just a waste of electricity — particularly this time of year, when the days keep getting shorter and shorter?

Those answers can differ depending on a number of factors. However, one thing is clear: With more than 1.5 million residential burglaries in the U.S. in 2015, according to the FBI’s Crime in the United States report, it takes more than flipping a switch to prevent property crime.

So, if you are relying on lights as part of your home security routine, be sure to put some thought into how you’re using them. Here are recommendations about when to light things up — and some instances where it may be better to go dark. Contact your local law enforcement if you’re curious about recommendations specific to your area.

When to Keep Your Lights On

There are plenty of instances where it makes sense to leave your porch light on:

When you’re home (and awake). This doesn’t simply alert people to the fact that someone is home; it allows you to see anyone approaching or prowling around outside. Having a variety of interior lights on, of course, also shows that the home is occupied and not the best target.
When you go out at night. You’ll be able to get to the door easier and unlock it more quickly when you get home — which is nice, but also important if someone happens to be lurking nearby.
If possible, combine a porch light with other lights. If you have lighting in your back yard, for example, or by the garage, use those in conjunction with the one by your front door and interior lights. This can add to the appearance that someone is home.

When to Keep Your Lights Off

Despite what many people think, having your lights on all the time isn’t helpful. In fact, it may actually attract burglars. Here’s when you should think about leaving them off:

When it’s light out. Exterior lights left on all day can give the impression that nobody is home. After all, wouldn’t someone turn them off during the daytime?
When you’re on vacation. The same principle applies here — if a burglar notices lights on for several days at a time, that’s a pretty clear sign that you’re gone.
When you go to sleep. This seems counterintuitive, but most residential crime happens during daylight hours, according to SecurAmerica, a firm providing security personnel for businesses, schools and residential communities. So, that porch light at 3 a.m. might not make much of a difference.
If you live in a rural area. In this instance, lights might help burglars more than deter them by providing light to help them see. And, unlike in an urban area, there are few people around to spot them milling about suspiciously in the glow of that porch light.

An Even Better Option: Automate Your Lights

The goal of lighting, at least from a security standpoint, is to make burglars think someone is home. The most effective way to do that is through lights, both inside and out, that turn on and off at varying times. You can accomplish this through systems that automatically turn lights on after sundown, or even new options that allow you to control lights from your phone or other mobile device.

And, don’t forget motion-sensing lights. They’re affordable, and they can startle burglars and even impair their vision in the moments after they illuminate.

Other Things to Consider

However you use your lights, it might not matter if you don’t take other security measures. For example, are your trees and shrubs trimmed, or do they instead provide cover for someone casing your home? Do you have a good relationship with your neighbors? Will they notice if someone suspicious is outside? Do they even know when you’re going out of town?

Remember, turning on your lights may only be truly effective as part of an overall strategy to keep your home secure.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Four-Legged Friends

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 20:49:27 GMT

As a nation, our pets are like family, so let's make sure they enjoy the holidays with us while staying safe. As a general rule of thumb, always keep pets on a regular routine, even during the holiday season. Don't let regular feeding, exercising and playing times fall by the wayside as you go about your merry way shopping, entertaining and enjoying the festivities.

That being said, the holidays bring about special circumstances, from houseguests to decorations, that can be unsafe for pets. With a little extra diligence, you can help keep pets safe from these seasonal dangers. Here are some holiday safety tips to keep in mind for pets:

Trees

Anchor your tree securely so it doesn’t fall over on people or pets.
Ensure pets can't get to the water keeping your tree lush and green. It may contain fertilizers and bacteria that can make them sick.
While trimming your tree, forgo the tinsel. It's too tempting for pets, and they may accidentally swallow it, causing internal damage that could require surgery. Also keep any ornaments, lights and electrical wires that may interest pets out of reach.

Decorations

Place lit candles on a non-flammable surface, away from the areas your pet frequents. And never leave burning candles unattended.
Skip the mistletoe. And the holly. And the lilies and poinsettias. While these plants are often synonymous with the season, they can also be dangerous - even deadly - if pets decide to nibble on them.
Be careful where you place edible decorations, such as popcorn garland and gingerbread houses. They shouldn't be within reach of your pets.

Presents

Keep any food items you're giving as gifts tucked away so pets can't tear into them. Under the tree is no place for these – especially if it's something toxic, such as chocolate.
If any of the goodies under the tree require batteries, don't leave extra ones sitting out where pets can get to them and chew on them.
Clean up thoroughly after the present opening extravaganza. Any ribbons or silica gel packs left out could look like a toy to your pet.

Parties

Ensure pets don't sample the holiday treats – keep human food and adult beverages out of reach, as well as a tight lid on the trashcan.
Have guests, whether they are staying for a few hours or several days, keep their bags tightly zipped so pets can't get into medications and other hazards.
Prepare a quiet room or a kennel with fresh water where pets can relax away from the noise and crowds of any celebrations you're hosting.

Take your pets' safety and well-being into account when you're preparing for and celebrating the season so the entire family – furry or not – can enjoy the holidays together. If your pets do become ill despite your efforts, seek emergency help. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals operates a 24-hour Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

Contact Us!

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable.

Call us at 714-490-0500 or send us a note at Athene [at] CCIA [dot] us. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Your Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 17:35:55 GMT

Fall brings more than just changing leaves and shorter days. In many areas, it also comes with a shift in weather conditions that can have a serious impact on your home. And, don’t forget, winter is right around the corner, too.

Before the rain and cold take over, it’s time to do some routine maintenance to get things in shape for the months ahead. Besides, preventative maintenance can help you save money and keep you and your family healthy. That’s well worth your time.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

Fall Maintenance Outside Your House

Check your roof: Remove moss from sloped areas and clear any debris from gutters and downspouts. Additionally, look for signs of damage/wear and make repairs as soon as possible. Use binoculars if you need to. Fall is no time for a leaky roof!
Look out for critters: Rodents and other animals might be looking for warm places to hide out, and they can cause big problems if one of those places happens to be in your home or garage. Watch for termites, roaches and other insects as well, and call a professional if you need assistance. (And, be sure to check the basement and crawlspace, too!)
Get hoses ready for the cold: When the weather starts to turn, drain water from outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems. Place covers on faucets as necessary.
Inspect your vents and ducts: Attic vents, dryer vents and exhaust ducts should be clear (check inside and out).
Watch those windows: Clean window wells and check drainage.
Walk around: If you have cracks in your driveway or other walkways, address them now — freezing weather will only make them worse.

Fall Maintenance Inside Your House

Keep things dry in the crawlspace, basement and attic: If you have a sump pump, make sure it is in good working condition, and check for wet spots or puddles in the crawlspace.
Look for leaks: Give your water heater (have you drained it lately?) and boiler a quick exam, and don’t forget your water main/meter or well pump.
Do some fall cleaning: Clean and tune your furnace, boiler and/or water heater, along with your oven and range.
Seal things up: If you feel any drafts around windows or doors, now is the time to address them. And, check your attic insulation, too.
Check your smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors: Even ones that are powered through your home’s electrical system typically have a backup battery that might need replacing.
Get ready for fireplace season: Make sure there’s no soot or creosote accumulation, and consider having a chimney sweep do an inspection.
Speaking of fires... do you have fire extinguishers in your home? You should (one per floor, at least). The pressure indicator should show a charge, and the lock pin should be intact.

One final tip: Since these lists largely are about keeping your family safe and comfortable, this also is a fine time to revisit (or create) your family emergency escape plan and emergency kit. Make sure everyone knows how to get out of their room, and where to meet once they’re out of the house. Your home is replaceable, of course — your family isn’t.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Keep Cool While Keeping Your Energy Costs Down

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 19:19:03 GMT

Two thirds of households in America have air conditioners, according to the U.S. Department of Energy — and they spend a total of $11 billion each year running them.

Our guess is that most of those households (which may include yours) wouldn’t mind spending a little less to keep their homes cool. Because, as great as it feels to escape the heat of summer, having some extra money in your pocket might feel even better.

Here are five tips to help you beat the heat without having the AC on — and the meter running — all day long:

Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate. The Department of Energy says that ventilation is the least expensive and most energy-efficient way to cool your home. One of the best ways to do this is to open windows to create a cross-wise breeze indoors. It’s best to do this in the mornings or evenings when the outside air is coolest. After all, flooding your home with hot afternoon air isn’t going to appease anyone.
Get those fans going. Ceiling fans can provide enough cooling power for you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without noticing the difference. Smaller ones can help as well, but make sure you turn fans off when you’re not around — they cool people, not rooms. Finally, whole-house fans, which bring in air and exhaust it through the attic, can help cool things down even on the hottest days. They should be installed by a professional, though.
Don’t unwittingly turn the ‘heat’ on. Are you making something in your oven? Cooking something on the stove? You’re also adding heat to your house. Even clothes dryers and dishwashers can create unwanted warmth, so use those appliances in the morning or evening. When it’s time to cook, try grilling outside — or eating more cold foods. They can help lower your internal body temperature.
Remember the little things — they add up. Keep your curtains closed on the sunny side of your home. Turn off lights whenever you can, because they produce heat. And, if it’s warmer outside than inside, keep your windows closed.
Bigger projects can have big benefits, too. Make sure your attic and walls are insulated well, with cracks and openings sealed so warm air doesn’t leak into your home. Check your ducts, too. Air loss through ducts can account for as much as 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption, according to the Department of Energy. And, if you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, installing and setting one can help you save up to 10 percent on heating and cooling costs, says the Department of Energy.

If you’re already following all of these tips and you’re still too hot, here are a couple more options: Put on a cool, damp shirt or apply a cold pack (a sandwich bag of ice cubes or a bag of frozen vegetables inside a towel work well) to your forehead and wrists.

Of course, you could just bite the bullet and turn the AC back on. We won’t judge — we promise. Just be sure you’ve replaced the air filter and serviced your unit so it’s running efficiently.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Getting Your Boat Out of Storage and Into the Water

Fri, 01 May 2015 19:23:36 GMT

Spring is here, and you’re ready to get out on the water. But is your boat ready?

Even if you’ve kept it properly stored for the winter and protected from the elements, there are still a number of things you need to do before hitting the local lakes and rivers.

While much of your focus will be on the boat itself, don’t forget other important things, such as your trailer, your vessel registration and, of course, your insurance coverage. We can help you with that. As far as the boat and trailer, check out these tips from Discover Boating, which provides boating information and public outreach on behalf of the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Engine and Electric

Your boat’s been sitting for a few months, so it’s not ready to zip across the water just yet. Here are a few things to check before firing up the ignition:

Make sure fuel hoses are not soft, brittle or cracked and check the system for leaks or damage. Also verify that fittings and clamps are secure.
Check all other belts, hoses and cables as well. Replace if needed.
Inspect electrical connections for corrosion and verify your battery is holding a charge.
Check all fluid levels and change or top off as needed.
Test for proper ventilation.

Propellers and Hulls

Damage to your propeller or hull can make for an unpleasant day on the water. Here are some things to look for:

Propellers that have dings or distortion. This can lead to not only an unpleasant ride due to vibration but can also damage your drive train. While securing your propeller, check that the bearings are not worn out.
Hulls with blisters or cracks. Cleaning the hull (use an environmentally safe solution) gives you a good opportunity to check for damage. While you’re at in, clean above deck, too.

Trailer

You should treat your trailer with as much care as your boat. After all, you can’t go boating if you can’t get your boat to the water.

Inspect the grease fittings on the hubs and reapply grease as needed.
Test the lights on your trailer each time before you get out on the road.
Rinse thoroughly after exposure to salt water.
Ensure your car jack will work to lift the trailer and that you will be able to loosen and tighten the lug nuts. You don’t want to be surprised when you’re on the side of the road.
Look over the trailer bunks once your boat is in the water to ensure the padding isn’t worn.

Safety Equipment

No matter how well your boat runs, you should never run it without the proper safety equipment. So take inventory of what’s on board to be sure you have:

Enough life jackets for all potential passengers. Make sure they’re in good condition, too.
Fire extinguisher. Be sure it’s the correct classification for your boat and is in working order.
Emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) so you can be found if you get lost.
Carbon-monoxide detector if there’s an enclosed area on your boat.
Working navigation lights.

Proper preparation can mean the difference between a great day on the boat and a disastrous one. So take a little time to make this boating season a happy and safe one. Hope to see you out on the water!

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Make Home Safety a Priority While You’re Away for the Holidays

Wed, 19 Nov 2014 19:36:22 GMT

The holidays can be a great time to get out of town to visit family you rarely get to see, hit the slopes or flee to the beach. Regardless of how you spend your time away, you need to ensure your house stays safe while you’re gone.

A house left empty can be an opportunity for burglars, so before you pack your bags, prepare to protect the stuff that’s staying at home in California.

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we want to make it a little easier for you to get out of town with peace of mind and return to everything you left behind, so here are some pointers for prepping your home before you travel.

Lock it up. Check and double-check that you have locked all the doors and windows.
Check under the mat. If you store an extra key outside your house, remove it. Instead, give the key to a trusted friend or neighbor in case someone needs to enter in an emergency.
Communicate. Inform a friend or neighbor that you will be away. Ask them to keep an eye on the house, and give them a way to reach you to report any suspicious activity. But don’t communicate your absence on social media!
Forego deliveries. Make sure to stop delivery of packages, mail, newspapers, and anything else that could pile up on your porch. Ask your trusted friend or neighbor to pick these items up every other day.
Remove temptations. Do not leave wrapped gifts or expensive electronics visible through windows and doors.

From Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we wish you, your family (and your home and belongings) a very safe and joyous holiday!

Contact Us!

For further questions and assistance with any of your insurance needs, please contact Cornerstone Insurance Agency at 714-490-0500 or Athene [at] CCIA [dot] us.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance.

Home Security Tips

Mon, 17 Nov 2014 17:46:08 GMT

Everyone wants to keep their home safe from burglars or intruders, but not everyone wants to have an alarm system installed. There are plenty of people who prefer the do-it-yourself route, whether it’s home improvement or home security.

And nowadays, there are more options than ever when it comes to home security, so we here at Cornerstone Insurance Agency want to help you sort through those options with a few tips.

Do-it-yourself options

The widespread availability of electronic tools means that homeowners can set up their own monitoring systems if they choose, without the help of a home-security company.

Cameras: Smaller and more inexpensive than ever, cameras can be placed nearly anywhere on the exterior of your home and monitored from inside wirelessly – or set to record footage for review later. Available software even allows you to point your laptop camera in a particular direction (say, at the front door) and check the images from a remote location.
Lights: Motion-detecting floodlights are an excellent deterrent to thieves, because they don’t want to be seen. If you add these, make sure they’re installed near entryways, and that they aren’t easily reached from the ground. And using timers for interior lights is a good way to give the appearance that your home is occupied.
Alarms: Vibration alarms are available for windows, alerting you if someone is trying to get in. Similarly, other monitors can be installed near doors and programmed to sound if a person comes within a set distance. Some even emit barking sounds to make it sound like a dog is in the house.

Even if you aren’t interested in installing security equipment around your home, there are a number of things you can do to increase safety:

Keep your home locked. It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many people leave windows or doors unlocked. Make sure that sliding doors and windows have extra security, such as a track lock or dowel in the track.
Don’t leave a key outside. If you need to provide access to your home while you’re away, leave your key with a trusted neighbor or friend, not under the doormat
Watch the landscaping. Thick shrubs and bushes around your porch or yard can give thieves a good place to hide. Keep them well-trimmed and ensure that problematic areas can be illuminated with your outdoor lighting.
Use common sense. If you’re going away on vacation, cancel your newspaper and other deliveries. Ask a neighbor to keep watch, and park a car out front. Don’t post publicly on social media or leave a message on your answering machine or voicemail indicating that you’ll be away for an extended period.

Burglars really do consider deterrents such as alarms, cameras, dogs, etc. when looking at targets, according to a study released by the University of North Carolina. So a small investment in security can make a big difference!

Contact Us!

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you’ve got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable. Just give us a call at 714-490-0500 or send us a note at Athene [at] CCIA [dot] us. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what’s important to you is protected!

A Little Extra Caution Can Go a Long Way While Driving at Night

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 17:42:16 GMT

While fall and winter have their own pleasures, longer nights mean increased danger on the roads.

You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23% of vehicle miles traveled, more than 50% of fatalities for vehicle occupants 16 and older occur between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., according to the National Safety Commission (NSC).

Because we're big advocates for safety at Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we thought it would be helpful to take a look at why night driving is more dangerous, and what you can do to decrease that danger.

What's dangerous about night driving?

Decreased vision. We won't go into all the biological details, but different parts of the eye (such as iris, pupil and retina) work differently at night. Your peripheral vision is actually slightly improved, but it's more difficult to focus on objects ahead of you. And traveling between well-lit areas and darker roads creates issues as well.
Driving too fast for your headlights. Depending on vehicle speed and headlight setting, many people “over-drive” their headlights. That means, by the time they see something on the road, it's too late to stop in time to avoid it.
Impaired judgment. Whether due to drowsiness or the use of alcohol or drugs, it appears that drivers at night often don't use good judgment. According to the NSC, 66% of fatalities at night involve vehicle occupants who weren't wearing seat belts.

So what do you do?

Sometimes, there's no way around driving at night. So, whether you're just running to the store or driving a long distance, here are some tips to help you make a safe trip.

Make sure your vehicle's lights are in good working condition. And not just headlights, but turn signals, taillights, etc.
Avoid speeding. Leave a bigger cushion between you and other cars than you would during daylight hours. Leave yourself more time for the trip.
Be more aware of your surroundings. You shouldn't be using your phone, messing around with the radio or trying to find something on the floor while you're on the road anyway – and distractions are even more deadly at night.

Of course, if you're not comfortable driving at night, the best thing is to avoid it altogether if possible. There's nothing wrong with asking for a ride from a trusted safe driver or waiting for the sun to come out!

We're open all day!

When you're driving around during the day, stop in to visit us at Cornerstone Insurance Agency for a review of your coverage. We won't keep you after dark, we promise. Just give us a call at 714-490-0500 or send us a note at Athene [at] CCIA [dot] us. We're here to help!

Keep Water from Going Where it Shouldn't

Fri, 07 Nov 2014 17:46:38 GMT

One of the most disheartening experiences is to find flooding or extreme water damage to your treasured home.

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we know you want to protect what's important. That's why we're offering these tips to help you prevent many of the most common causes of water damage.

Just a little time and some effort can prevent a lot of heartache and hassle.

Make sure your water pressure is not set too high. For just $6 or so, you can purchase a gauge that will help you test your pressure for the appropriate level, which should be set between 60 and 80 PSI.
Standard hoses on new appliances are not as durable as they used to be. So check your appliances. If you find rubber hoses, either replace them with longer lasting stainless steel braided hoses or replace them every three years.
Keep water from leaking into the walls or floor of your bathroom by replacing cracked tiles and re-grouting when it's needed.
Examine the shingles on your roof. Worn, curled, or missing shingles allow water to get in, so replace these as soon as you notice them.
Consider buying a water alarm, which can help you find leaks, or automatic shut-off mechanisms, which can help avoid bursts.
A lot of water damage occurs when nobody is home. Make a practice to avoid running the washing machine or dishwasher while you're out.
When you leave for vacations, turn off the water supply to appliances.
Keep up maintenance on all appliance hoses, because slow leaks from worn out hoses can cause major damage.

We here at Cornerstone Insurance Agency hope these pointers will ensure your house stays nice and dry this year!

Contact Us!

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we can work with you to make sure you've got the coverage you need, while at the same time using all possible credits and discounts to make that coverage affordable.

Call us at 714-490-0500 or send us a note at Athene [at] CCIA [dot] us. We want to help you meet your goals, and make sure what's important to you is protected!

This article provided courtesy of Safeco Insurance