SAV-ON Blog

A Windstorm Causes a Tree to Fall on Your House. Who is Responsible?

2012-01-16T14:48:00.000-08:00

With all the wintry weather we’ve been hit with lately, not only is it hazardous to drive in, but it takes a toll on large trees in the heavily-wooded Northwest. You see trees down all over, some on the roads, others sprawled across people’s property. With all the tall trees surrounding homes in this heavily-wooded part of the country, there is the ever-present danger of one of these large trees toppling over and causing damage to buildings, cars or property, or even injury to its occupants.

Many homeowners don’t realize that, without proper coverage, they are liable for damages to their property, even if it’s from a tree on a neighboring property!

A recent PEMCO Insurance poll found that 82% of the people surveyed falsely believe that a neighbor’s insurance policy is at least partially liable for damage if a tree planted in the neighbor’s yard harms your house, fence or other structures. In addition, a full 60% believe it’s strictly the neighbor’s insurance company that will need to pay for the damages. In reality, unless negligence is a factor, homeowners are responsible for any structural damage to their own property!

“With so few homeowners knowing the right answer, and windstorms so common in the Northwest, we have a great opportunity here to educate consumers,” said PEMCO spokesperson Jon Osterberg.

While most homeowners policies will cover this type of damage, and for debris removal, too, if it can be proven that the damage stems from neglecting to maintain the health or safety of the tree, the neighbor (or you!) can be held responsible for the problem.

PEMCO recommends that you cut dead or rotting branches on all trees on your property to prevent them from falling on your house, or your neighbor’s house.

Also, if you have a tree that is beginning to lean or looks like it might topple, it is best to hire a professional to have the tree removed before it falls over and causes damage. As the old saying goes, "It's better to be safe, than sorry."

Child Under 13 in Your Car? Washington Law Requires They Ride in Back Seat

2011-12-28T00:05:00.000-08:00

A recent poll by PEMCO Insurance has found that, although a vast majority of Washington drivers understand that the safest place to have a child passenger is in the back seat, just 43 percent say they see other drivers in compliance.

Children's car seat, properly used.

Washington is one of 14 states that require a child under the age of 13 be seated in the rear of a vehicle "where it is practical to do so", according to the Revised Code of Washington.

Not only are front-end crashes the most prevalent type of auto accident, the added threat posed by air bags, which are designed for adult passengers, makes the front seat a dangerous place for youngsters. Air bags can severely injure or even kill small children seated in the front seat, even in an approved car seat.

This is a disparity of opinion among drivers as to what should determine when a child can ride in the front seat. Nearly half the poll respondents said height should be the primary criteria, and another 21 percent believed that weight should be the determining factor. Only 25% of respondents agreed with the state age requirement that the age of 13 was the key factor.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), placing kids in back instead of in front reduces injury risk by 64 percent for infants and kids up to age 8, and 31 percent for children 9 to 12.

While age is the determining factor in where children should ride, height and weight are more important in deciding when a youngster is ready to move from a child safety seat to a booster seat, or just be restrained with a seat belt.

The general rule of thumb is that children under 40 pounds should be in a car seat. As kids outgrow the height and weight requirements of a car seat, the recommendation is that they first graduate to a booster seat that allows cross-body seat belts, then eventually to just using an adult seat belt.

Although car seats and booster seats can be inconvenient and expensive, the protection they provide for small children is vital. Besides, it's the law.

To learn more about the PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll and view a summary of the results, visit www.pemco.com/poll, where the public is invited to participate in an informal version of the poll to see how their own responses compare with those collected by FBK Research of Seattle.

Child in booster seat.

About the PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll
PEMCO Insurance commissioned this independent survey that asked Washington drivers several questions about driving habits and attitudes toward current Northwest issues. The sample size, 826 respondents in Washington, yields an accuracy of +/- 3.5 percent at the 95 percent confidence level. In other words, if this study were conducted 100 times, in 95 instances the data will not vary by more than +/- 3.5 percent.

Tips for Driving in the Rain

2011-12-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

Western Washington in the winter is a pretty rainy climate, and combined with occasional freezing or near-freezing temperatures, this can make for hazardous driving conditions.

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your chances of having an accident in the inclement winter weather.

Tires: Where the rubber hits the road

First, you should check your tire treads for wear. Even though you didn’t notice a difference this summer, now that wet weather is here worn tires may suddenly lose their grip on the road, and you could go sailing into another car or the ditch! Have your local tire center check to see if the tread is adequate.

Tires that are overinflated not only wear out faster, but can’t hold the road as well in wet or snowy weather. Reducing the air pressure in your tires will help you keep your car under control in treacherous conditions. By slightly reducing the pressure from 32 psi to 28 psi, you will make your tire have a little more rubber on the road surface, providing additional stability. Of course, when winter is over you will need to inflate your tires to the proper levels to avoid excessive tire wear.

Limited Visibility

Now is the time to make sure your windshield wipers are in good working condition, your windshield is clean and you have washer fluid in the reservoir. When it rains, worn wipers will streak your windshield, making it difficult to see, especially at night. Headlights of approaching vehicles will reflect this residue and make visibility even worse. Also, it is important to keep your windshield clean. Mud or leaves that get on your windshield can be smeared by your wipers, making it very difficult to see clearly, and if you get spattered by a passing car or truck, your windshield washer fluid can get it cleared off quickly.

If, for any reason, your windshield will not clear, leave the roadway as soon as safely possible and use a cloth and some clear water to thoroughly clean the window. Do the same for your other windows and side view mirrors, too.

Driving in a downpour

Usually, Seattle rain is fairly light, but occasionally a weather front will come in and dump rain in buckets. It’s best to avoid driving until it tapers off, but if you are caught in a deluge, here’s something that may help -- put on your sunglasses! Even at night, putting on your sunglasses in the pouring rain will help you see much more clearly. You will see drops on the windshield, but not the rain that's pouring down in front of your car. It also helps eliminate the sudden blindness from getting sprayed with a wall of water by a passing semi truck.

Don’t use cruise control in the rain

When you’re driving in rain, turn your cruise control off. The problem is when your tires begin to hydroplane in slippery conditions and lose contact with the road, cruise control can suddenly cause your car to accelerate to a higher rate of speed, and cause you to lose control of your car! Some cars are designed to shut cruise control down in wet or icy conditions, but yours may not be one of these.

Finally, slow down!

The speed limit may read 60 mph, but that is only applicable in optimum driving conditions. If it’s wet or icy, slow down. If you are involved in an accident in bad weather conditions, and it is found that you were going within the speed limit, that won’t help you in court if the conditions warranted slowing down. When weather conditions make driving hazardous, posted speed limits are not in effect, and motorists must drive at a safe speed or be liable for damages that they cause.

Northwest Drivers Think They Can Exceed the Freeway Speed Limits Without Getting a Ticket

2011-10-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

A recent PEMCO Insurance poll found that drivers in both Washington and Oregon believe a driver can exceed the speed limit and not get stopped by the state patrol, but Oregon drivers are considerably bolder when it comes to how far over the limit they think they can go without getting ticketed.

As many as two out of every three Northwest drivers think that they can go a few miles per hour over the posted speed limit -- even if witnessed by the patrol -- and get away with it. But drivers in Oregon are convinced that they can go as much as nine miles-per-hour over the legal limit and not get pulled over.

That’s significantly higher than Washington, where about half the drivers think there’s some lenience on freeway speed the state patrol will allow before they turn on the blue lights. The survey found that about 60 percent of Washington drivers think the threshold is four miles-per-hour, less than half what Oregon drivers believe is allowable.

“Oregon’s lower freeway speed limit, set at 65, may explain why Oregon drivers think there’s a higher tolerance for speeding,” said PEMCO spokesperson Jon Osterberg. "Regardless, data shows that speeding causes more crashes and fatalities."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that nearly one-half of all fatal speeding-related crashes in 2009 occurred on roads with posted speed limits of 55 mph or more.

According to the Washington State Patrol, speeding is one of three areas where data shows motorists are most likely to be killed or injured when drivers violate posted speed limits. Other fatal behavior includes driving while impaired and failure to wear a seatbelt.

Despite the State Patrol’s emphasis on catching speeders, nine out of 10 Washington drivers admit they’ve exceeded the speed limit at least once, and half of all Washington drivers say they speed at least some of the time. The same holds true for Oregon drivers, according to the PEMCO poll.

Oregonians, however, are more likely to push speed limits, with 61 percent saying they should be quick to slow down before reaching 9 mph above the posted speed. That compares with 71 percent of Washington drivers who slow down before hitting 9 mph over the speed limit.

In either state, of those who admit to speeding, a majority say they’re simply keeping up with the flow of traffic, and a smaller fraction say they speed without realizing they’re exceeding the limit.

What’s also true for both states is the more you earn, the more likely you’ll speed. Nearly 60 percent of drivers with incomes of more than $50,000 per year admit to sometimes speeding.

Younger drivers also demonstrate less caution for slowing down. About two-thirds of drivers under age 35 admit to speeding at least some of the time, while less than half of drivers over age 35 say they sometimes speed.

"Although most of us speed at least once in a while, the major takeaway here is to remember that increased speed equals increased danger of physical harm, whether the police catch you or not," Osterberg said.

To learn more about the PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll and to view a summary of the results, visit www.pemco.com/poll, where the public is invited to participate in an informal version of the poll to see how their own responses compare with those collected by FBK Research of Seattle in April 2011 and July 2011.

Source: PEMCO Insurance

Tips to Keep Your Home From Being a Target for Burglars

2011-09-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

Advice from Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

A home is robbed every 14.6 seconds and the average dollar loss per burglary is $2,119, according to statistics just released by the FBI. And that's the good news because burglaries were down slightly in 2010 compared to 2009. Sure you lock your doors and windows when you're not home (you'd be surprised how many people don't). But here are ten things that you're probably doing that make your home a target, and what you should do instead:

1. Leaving your garage door open or unlocked. Once inside the garage, a burglar can use any tools you haven't locked away to break into your home, out of sight of the neighbors. Interior doors between the garage and your home often aren't as strong as exterior doors and may not have deadbolt locks.
Instead: Always close and lock the garage door. Consider getting a garage-door opener with random codes that automatically reset.

2. Hiding spare keys. Burglars know about fake rocks and leprechaun statues and will check under doormats, in mailboxes, and over doorways.
Instead: Give a spare set to a neighbor or family member.

3. Storing ladders outdoors or in unlocked sheds. Burglars can use them to reach the roof and unprotected upper floor windows.
Instead: Keep ladders under lock and key.

4. Relying on silent alarm systems. Everyone hates noisy alarms, especially burglars. Smart thieves know that it can take as long as 10 to 20 minutes for the alarm company or cops to show up after an alarm has been tripped.
Instead: Have both silent and audible alarms.

5. Letting landscaping get overgrown. Tall hedges and shrubs near the house create hiding spots for burglars who may even use overhanging branches to climb onto your roof.
Instead: Trim any bushes and trees around your home.

6. Keeping your house in the dark. Like overgrown landscaping, poor exterior lighting creates shadows in which burglars can work unobserved.
Instead: Replace burned out bulbs promptly, add lighting where needed, and consider putting fixtures on motion sensors or light sensors so that they go on automatically.

7. Not securing sliding doors. These often make tempting targets.
Instead: When you're out, put a dowel down in the channel, so that the door can't be opened wide enough for a person to get through.

8. Relying on your dog to scare away burglars. While barking my deter amateurs, serious burglars know that dogs may back away from someone wielding a weapon, or get chummy if offered a treat laced with a tranquilizer.
Instead: Make your home look occupied by using timers to turn lights, radios, and TVs on and off in random patterns.

9. Leaving "goody" boxes by the curb. Nothing screams "I just got a brand new flat-screen, stereo, or other big-ticket item" better than boxes by the curb with your garbage cans.
Instead: Break down big boxes into small pieces and bundle them together so that you can't tell what was inside.

10. Posting vacation photos on Facebook. Burglars troll social media sites looking for targets.
Instead: Wait until you get back before sharing vacation details or make sure your security settings only allow trusted "friends" to see what you're up to.
Copyrighted 2009, Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Taking Energy Efficiency to the Next Level: Furnace-less Homes!

2011-07-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Want to save a bunch on heating and cooling costs in a home, even in cold climates? Build the house without a furnace. It’s possible now, and a the Cleveland Museum of Natural History has just built one. In fact, thousands of furnace-free homes have already been built in Germany, but only 15 U.S. buildings have this same level of extremely low energy use.

The house in Cleveland has walls that are more than a foot thick, big triple-pane windows, doors that resemble bank vaults and engineering that cuts heating and cooling costs, as well as pollution, by 90 percent.

These futuristic dwellings are known as “passive houses”, and cost about 20 percent more than conventional housing to build. The museum decided to give its visitors a look at what the future may hold as energy costs skyrocket.

“We have to get beyond incremental improvements to get a dramatic breakthrough,” said David Beach, the museum’s director of sound urban practices. This houses, he said, is “an example of a new way of living.”

Special Insulation is the Key

The house has an insulation system with a sealed air barrier that makes it work like a thermos. A ventilator exchanges the heat from the stale, outgoing air with the fresh incoming air, allowing very little heat to be lost. Two ductless heat pumps, one upstairs and one down, supply all the heating and cooling necessary no matter how hot or cold the outside air is.

The doors are extremely think to insulate well.

The house features huge south-facing windows which allow maximum solar heat in winter, when the sun is low in the sky. A ridge over the windows blocks much of the sunlight in the summer months, when the sun is higher in the sky.

Cleveland endures some of the harshest winters in the U.S., so if this house can achieve certification here, chances are it can do it anywhere.

A certified passive house must meet the same stringent energy-saving standards as in Germany. To qualify, a house must meet or beat 80 to 90 percent reduction of heat-trapping gases, the amount needed by mid-century to avoid creating dangerous climate shifts.

Return on Investment

The Department of Energy estimates it costs more than $900 a year to heat and cool an average house in the Ohio area. A passive house is approximately 15 percent more energy efficient than homes built to code. The cost of building a passive house is about $10,000 more, so the point at which the extra cost is offset by the energy cost savings is about 10-11 years. Of course, as energy prices increase, the efficiency of passive homes will make it pay off in even less time.

Source: Renee Schoof, McClatchy Newspapers

Are Washingtonians Gullible or are the Legends True?

2011-06-14T15:34:00.000-07:00

Nearly 4 in 10 Washington Residents Believe Sasquatch Exists

Washington may be home to Microsoft, Boeing and a raft of cutting-edge companies that focus on modern technology, but it might surprise you that will all that, brainpower and intellect residing here, a recent PEMCO Insurance poll found that nearly 40% of residents said they believe that it’s possible that Sasquatch does exist.

In case you aren’t familiar with the creature, Wikipedia describes Sasquatch, also known as “Big Foot”, as “…an ape-like cryptid that purportedly inhabits forests, mainly in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Bigfoot is usually described as a large, hairy, bipedal humanoid. The term "Sasquatch" is an anglicized derivative of the word "Sésquac" which means "wild man" in a Salish Native American language.

You won’t have to convince a Spokane woman of its existence. She swears she snapped a photo of the purported creature with her cell phone while walking along the Spokane River with her family. She didn’t even notice it at the time, but realized it when she looked at the video, and posted it on YouTube. You can see it here: Sasquatch YouTube video.

Washington residents didn’t stop there. A full 13% of those surveyed in the PEMCO Northwest Poll say they’ve either seen one or know someone who has!

Washington is home to other controversial sightings, too. For instance, many people don’t know that the first purported sighting of UFOs was not in Nevada or New Mexico, but right here in Washington state, by pilot Kenneth Arnold, who was flying near Mt. Rainier in 1947 when he reported seeing nine “flying discs” that “moved like saucers across the water.” The “flying discs” reference eventually turned into the popular term “flying saucers”.

Another Northwest legend surrounds an airplane hijacker who commandeered a Northwest Airlines jumbo jet in November 1971. On the flight manifest he was listed as “Dan Cooper” (later referred to as D.B. Cooper), and he successful demanded $200,000 in ransom money while the plane sat on the tarmac in Seattle. The plane, with only Cooper and the flight crew aboard, then took off and flew south towards Oregon. At some point in time while over the Columbia River, D.B. Cooper jumped from the plane with a parachute and his loot, never to be seen again. In 1980, a boy playing along a Columbia River sandbar found $5,800 dollars of the ransom money partially buried in the sand. Did Cooper die while parachuting from that altitude, or did he lose some of his ill-gotten gains while making his escape? We may never know, but the speculation never ceases. Many believe that somewhere – maybe right here in the Northwest -- D.B Cooper is living off the ransom money, smug in the knowledge that he got away with it.

As for Sasquatch, he has found Northwest fame in a variety of ways. In the years that Seattle had a professional basketball team, the SuperSonics, their mascot was a hairy ape-like creature named “Squatch”. Recently, a beef jerky company has been creating television commercials about people who are “Messin’ with Sasquatch”, a large, hairy creature that is as dumb as a, well, Sasquatch.

SAV-ON Crew Continues Tradition of Volunteering at Northwest Harvest

2011-04-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

SAV-ON employees and family after helping out at Northwest Harvest.

Again in March, SAV-ON Insurance management, employees and even some of their children volunteered their time helping prepare food for the hungry at the Northwest Harvest warehouse in Seattle. They were put to work on the assembly line, scooping oats and putting them in bags, then placing the bags on the carousel where the bags were sealed and tossed onto a table. From there, other volunteers loaded boxes with the bags and weighed them. From there the bags are sent out to food banks around the area, helping to feed some of the thousands of hungry people that Northwest Harvest helps each month.

Volunteer work at Northwest Harvest has become a tradition for folks at SAV-ON, and employees and their families are eager to help as much as possible. This time, after a day’s work, they arrived at Northwest Harvest at 5:30 p.m. for their shift, and worked so diligently that they finished their work 15 minutes early!

One of our youngest volunteers, Breanna, was a big help, grabbing as many bags of oats as she could hold as soon as they were in the bags, and quickly delivering the bags to the waiting bag sealers. Breanna’s mother also volunteered, and she is the Des Moines agent Melodi Wheeler’s sister. Quite a family!

A special thanks to all the volunteers for their wonderful service to the less fortunate in our community!

SAV-ON is committed to helping Northwest Harvest in other ways, too. Every time someone refers a friend or family member to SAV-ON Insurance for a quote, we donate $1 to Northwest Harvest. We raised $216 in the first quarter of 2011, and that brings our total donation to more than $2,200 since we began the program a little more than a year ago!

Remember, every time you refer someone to SAV-ON Insurance for a rate quote, you’re contributing to Northwest Harvest! It's easy, just have them go to www.sav-on.com for a Quik Quote!

Wearing Lap and Shoulder Belt Saves Lives

2011-03-08T18:45:00.000-08:00

In the past 40 years, new vehicle safety standards and more sophisticated safety equipment in U.S. automakers has saved an estimated 300,000 lives! One and only one of those safety features saved more than half of those lives – seatbelts!

We all know people who refuse to wear their lap and shoulder belts, either because it’s uncomfortable, or it’s some sort of governmental intrusion into our lives. But, the fact is that seat belt use is not only the law (Click it or Ticket), but also a very smart, life-saving piece of equipment.

Most Washingtonians understand this, as a national Seatbelt Safety Study in 2006 found that only 10 states achieved seatbelt useage of 90 percent or higher, and Washington state had the highest number of individuals who used their seatbelts at 96.3 percent!

While technology keeps bringing us new safety features designed to protect us while on the road, the good old seatbelt continues to be the number one safety feature you can have in your automobile. Use it, and insist that every passenger use theirs before leaving your driveway!

Children and Seatbelts

Auto accidents are the number one killer of children ages 4-14. In 2005, and average of five children died each day and another 640 were injured!

The main reason for these awful statistics is the improper use of seatbelts, booster seats and child restraints. Almost everyone buckles up their infants and small children when in the car, but problems occur when they are not buckled properly. When purchasing a children’s car seat or booster seat, make sure to read the instructions carefully. For instance, an infant or small child should never be placed in a front seat, regardless of the type of car seat they’re in. In the event of an accident, an air bag will deploy at around 200 miles per hour, and will severely injure or kill a small person.

All infants should be securely strapped in their car seat – facing towards the rear of the car! In an accident, the back support of the car seat will help protect them from catastrophic injury, especially to the head and neck area. Even children who have outgrown a car seat, but are less than 80 pounds, should remain in the back seat in a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt securely fastened.

A recent study found that only 10-20 percent of children who should be in a booster seat actually use them. A child in a booster seat is 59 percent less likely to be injured than a child restrained by a seatbelt alone!

Courts Rule U.S. Automakers Liable for Lack of Automotive Safety

The Supreme Court ruled recently that United States automakers can be sued for failure to install the most effective safety equipment in their vehicles.

The court’s decision means a California man can now sue Mazda Motors after his wife died after the lap belt she was wearing caused her body to jackknife in an accident in which she was a passenger in the middle of the back seat. The Mazda she was riding in had no shoulder restraint in that seat, and she died from severe abdominal injuries and internal bleeding.

The Supreme Court’s decision was a surprise reversal of a lower court’s ruling that said automaker’s were protected against lawsuits for failing to install immediately install air bags in all their vehicles.

The court’s reasoning was that lawsuits filed by injured motorists can lead to safer products. This ruling indicates a clear change of direction regarding automaker safety requirements. Every lower court had determined that federal rules pre-empted lawsuits by accident victims over seat-belt design. As of 2008, there are more than one million cars on the road that have at least one lap-only belt.

Sources: http://safety.lovetoknow.com, http://www.fairwarning.org

Jaywalking: Is It Worth the Risk?

2011-02-23T23:07:00.000-08:00

Jaywalking is both illegal and dangerous -- a pedestrian is killed every 3-1/2 minutes in the U.S. -- yet many people admit to doing it frequently, a recent PEMCO Insurance poll has discovered.

What exactly is jaywalking? It occurs when a pedestrian crosses a street or highway outside of a marked crosswalk, or uses a crosswalk before the walk signal indicates it's safe to proceed. It is illegal in Washington state, and can result in a fine of between $50 and $100, depending on the circumstances.

With more than 622 pedestrians killed in traffic-related accidents in Washington in the past decade, you would think people would be more wary, but the recent PEMCO poll found that nearly one-third (31%) of Washington drivers admitted to jaywalking, despite national data that shows 20 percent of pedestrian deaths are due to illegal crossing attempts.

Even though many of the respondents admitted to jaywalking, 70 percent of drivers surveyed agree that jaywalkers should be ticketed for failure to obey the law when crossing streets or intersections.

The PEMCO poll also revealed that while 33 percent of respondents think the law favors pedestrians over drivers, a vast majority (81%) favored consequences for drivers who fail to yield for pedestrians legally crossing the street.

According to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), vehicles must stop for pedestrians crossing roadways within both marked and unmarked crosswalks. When turning through a crosswalk, vehicles must also yield to pedestrians until they are a safe distance away. Drivers who fail to yield under those circumstances can be cited with a traffic ticket and fine, according to the law.

Offenders Typically Younger

Drivers under 35 wanted more lenient laws against jaywalking, according to the PEMCO poll. It revealed that 43 percent of these younger drivers admitted to jaywalking at least some of the time. Predictably, about one-third of these same drivers thought jaywalkers should go unpunished if caught.

Men were more likely than women to cross illegally, 37 percent to 26 percent. The poll also found a possible correlation between jaywalking and aggressive driving. Those who often or sometimes jaywalk are more likely to speed, tailgate or fail to yield than others.

Source: PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, 2011

Be Aware: You May Not Be Covered When Using Your Personal Car for Business Purposes

2011-02-10T17:58:00.000-08:00

There are lots of drivers out there who are driving around with personal auto insurance, but making money doing it, either by delivering something or someone, or providing a service that they get paid to do. They may not know it, but if they have an accident while doing this, their insurance company probably won't cover their claim!

Why? Because they don't have a commercial auto policy, which is required for any driving that is done for "business purposes".

If your employer lets you use a company car, then they are responsible for paying to insure it. You have nothing to worry about, since you are covered in the event of an accident while on the job. However, some companies expect employees to use their own vehicles when they’re on company business. This gray area between business and personal use raises a number of questions, and you don’t want to be without the proper coverage if you are involved in a car accident. It can get expensive!

If you don’t actually deliver a product, what constitutes “business purposes”? Some insurance companies define it as transporting goods for money. That could include activities such as:

Daycare/church bus or van services
Door-to-door consulting services
Catering
Landscaping or snowplowing services

Some companies even consider real estate agents as using their cars for commercial purposes. You need to ask your insurance agent now, so you don’t get denied if you file a claim down the road.

A good rule of thumb is if you’re using your car more than 50 percent of the time for business (to make money), then you probably need a commercial auto policy.

If you drive around all day making sales calls, you may only need to increase the liability limits on your personal auto policy. However, if you get direct compensation from the use of your car, such as making deliveries or using it as a taxi service, then you need a commercial auto policy. It may mean higher rates, but if you fail to divulge this to your insurance company and then you’re involved in an accident, the company may deny your claim if it discovers you withheld that information.

Using a Personal Car on Company Business

Big companies typically have commercial auto policies that cover employees while they’re traveling on company business. If you have an accident in this situation, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance company, but it’s also possible your employer’s insurance will pay. Check with your employer AND your personal insurance agent in advance so that you know where to turn in the event of an accident. You don’t want to be caught in the middle while the two companies point fingers at each other!

If you have an accident while on a business trip in your own car, make sure the insurance adjuster is aware that was a business-related trip. Your personal auto insurance provider shouldn’t deny your claim just because you were on a business, although it may try to recover the money from your employer’s insurance company.

How do you know if you need commercial vehicle insurance?

Here are some important questions:

• What are your limits on liability? A commercial auto policy offers higher liability limits because a company has more assets to protect than most individuals, so the limits need to be higher. In addition, most commercial vehicles are larger than passenger vehicles, so they can cause more damage. If you have a large commercial-type vehicle that you use for work purposes, then you probably need a commercial automobile policy.

• Will your insurance policy cover damage your vehicle causes while you’re on the job? While a personal policy won’t, a commercial policy will.

• Do you have employees who drive your vehicle? If other people drive your vehicle for any work purposes, you need commercial insurance.

You also need a commercial automobile policy if the vehicle hauls tools or equipment weighing more than 500 pounds, makes deliveries or requires filings for interstate for-hire trucking businesses.

Don’t be caught driving a personal car for business-related activities while only carrying a personal auto insurance policy. The cost may be less, but if you are in an accident and it is determined to be work-related, your claim will be denied. That will end up costing you many times more than the commercial rate you would’ve been paying!

If you would like to find out if you need commercial auto insurance, one of our SAV-ON Insurance agents would be happy to help. Call 1-888-867-2866.

Sources: www.carjunky.com, www.insure.com, www.irs.gov

Cell Phones: Both a Blessing and a Curse

2011-01-17T19:46:00.000-08:00

The Blessing

Cell phones have become a standard equipment for many of us, as calling or texting has improved communication greatly. Not only do Mom and Dad have cell phones, but most of the kids do, too. Parents can keep track of their kids, business people can stay in touch with their customers -- whether they're sitting at their desk or out in the field -- and low-cost long-distance plans keep people in touch with distant friends and relatives that in the past was impractical and costly.

The Curse

Of course, there is a downside to the ubiquitous cell phone, such as when people in restaurants, movie theaters, or on public transportation loudly converse on anything and everything about their lives in public, ignoring the fact that most people don't care to hear it, or worse, are offended by it. Like most new technology, it's a lack of etiquette and courtesy on the part of the user that causes the problem, not the device itself. If you use a cell phone, please be aware that people around you may not want to hear your conversation, and find someplace private to talk. Just because you can talk just about anywhere, it doesn't mean you SHOULD. We don't want to know what you're planning for dinner. Really.

Hands-Free

For drivers, there are now bluetooth earpieces for cell phones that allow for hands-free driving, enabling commuters to conduct business while on the road, and friends and family to communicate. Now they can carry on conversations in their car, with their hands full, grocery shopping, or pretty much anywhere they choose. The convenience is liberating, but, once again, this can make it less than appealing to the people subjected to a bluetooth user's conversation, such as when they are in a public place and are seemingly talking to themselves. This can disturb people around them, and many times the device cannot be seen, so others mistakenly think someone is talking to them. This can be annoying or downright embarrassing!

Social etiquette aside, cell phones have brought an incredible amount of communication to our fingertips. The latest cell phones have everything but hot and cold running water. Most of it is just fun and games, but cell phones can perform some very important functions. Getting to know these features could come in very handy someday.

Features and Handy Tips:

GPS Technology
Disney has a cell phone with GPS technology that allows the parent to track the location of the handset. This was designed for parents with children between 10 and 15 years old. Parents can control the times and days the children use the cell phone, and the child can feel safer knowing that their parents know where they are when they're not at home.

Mobile Emergency # 112
(Finds existing network. Can be used even if keypad is locked)

If Keys Get Locked in Car

Call home and spare keyless entry button can be pushed on cell phone. You hold your cell phone about a foot away from car door and it will open it!

For Reserve Battery Power:
If cell battery runs out, push *3370# and you will get 50% power. Will recharge the reserve when recharged

Write Down Cell Phone Serial Number:
Push *#06# and a 15-digit code will display. Write down and keep in safe place. If phone gets stolen, give code to phone company and phone will be disabled.

Free Mobile Directory Assistance:
Instead of 4-1-1, which is a charged call, dial 800-FREE411 (800-373-3411) and there is no charge for directory assistance.

You may know of other tricks and tips in addition to the ones listed here. We'd love to hear about them!

Driver Alert: Washington's New "Emergency Zone Law" Increases Safety Zone for Emergency Vehicles

2010-12-22T00:28:00.000-08:00


Drivers must slow down and move over for Emergency vehicles.

Washington state's "Emergency Zone Law", which takes effect on January 1st, is even more stringent than the existing "Move Over Law", which has been on the books since 2007.

The new law creates a 200-foot zone around stationary emergency vehicles that have their lights activated. This includes Medic One, fire engines, police cars, tow trucks and even Department of Transportation vehicles.

The reason for the increased safety zone is to protect first responders. Fines for speeding in these zones will double, and tickets for failing to slow down and move over will also double, from $124 to $248.

Currently, the "Move Over Law" requires motorists traveling on a road with at least two lanes in their direction to move over one lane from the shoulder when approaching an emergency vehicle with its lights activated. Drivers are also required by law to slow down and proceed with caution.

On roads with one lane in each direction, motorists must slow down and pass to the left of the emergency vehicle if it is safe to do. But, they must yield the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic before proceeding.

The new law has similar wording, but increases the safety zone in front and behind active emergency vehicles to 200 feet, and doubles the fine for failing to slow down or move over.

The increased safety zone was voted into law due to the injuries and fatalities suffered by emergency personnel by drivers who failed to yield or give a wide berth to emergency vehicles. Recently, a couple police officers responding to a disabled vehicle were injured when they had to jump off the road to avoid being hit by an inattentive driver. In another recent case, a tow truck driver was killed while tending to a disabled vehicle on the southbound lanes of Interstate 5.

Between April 2009 and December 2010, the "Move Over Law" has resulted in 2,940 drivers being warned by Washington State Patrol officers, with 592 tickets issued.

This law increases the safety zone around emergency vehicles, and is likely to result in more citations in an effort to reduce the injuries and fatalities suffered by police, medics and tow truck drivers while they're trying to do their job.

Please slow down and make sure you give these workers plenty of room when approaching them on the road. If not, you're looking at a hefty fine beginning January 1.

Sources: Washington State Patrol, Seattle Times

Holiday Travel by Car Takes a Little Planning

2010-12-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

With Christmas and New Year’s both falling on the weekend this year, the holiday season will be more of a challenge than usual. With airfares more expensive, and the security at airports at unprecedented levels of intimacy and aggravation, you might be set on getting to Grandma’s house by automobile this year.

With the price of gas fairly stable and plentiful, combined with the continued steep rise in airfare and lack of available flights, a road trip may be more attractive to many travelers this season.

But, if you are considering going over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house this year, here are some things to consider:

Pre-plan your route

Even with a GPS system, it’s good to have a backup plan, as road construction will not always show up on the GPS. Going online and checking the cities and states along your intended route for scheduled maintenance and delays will allow you to plan alternative routes ahead of time. An alternative route that might normally have taken an extra 45 minutes might be actually much faster if the major route has construction that narrows the roadway or even shuts it down periodically. If you don't have a GPS system, go to your local AAA office and pick up maps of the area. Getting lost can ruin even the most well-planned road trips.

Allow plenty of time

The most common reason why things go wrong is bad route planning. If you expect to get there without delays and average 60 miles an hour for the entire trip, you’re bound to be frustrated or upset. Even moderate expectations can be wrong when things such as snowfall, flat tires, road construction or heavy traffic slows you down. Don’t try to drive ‘straight through’ if the drive is going to be longer than eight or nine hours. Fatigue from driving too long puts you and your family at a higher risk of getting in an accident. Plan on stopping after a day of driving, and call for reservations before you leave on the trip. If you just arrive at your planned destination and try to find lodging, there may be no room at the inn, and you may be faced with either driving late into the night to other lodging, or settling for someplace that is either not very nice or very expensive. In either case, it isn’t a good start.

Consider when to leave and arrive

During your trip you will inevitably travel through some large cities. Plan your route pass through these areas to avoid rush hour driving, which will slow you down considerably and make the drive very stressful. Also, you don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere when it’s mealtime. If possible, drive through mid-size towns during that time so you can stop and have a good meal. It will be fun and relaxing, and you’ll be ready for more driving.

Stay hydrated while traveling

Drinking plenty of water keeps you alert and rested, and makes you a better driver. It will also help you avoid fatigue after you arrive. It may mean a few more bathroom stops, but a quick stop doesn’t make you lose much time, and will definitely make you feel better.

Keep the kids happy -- and busy -- during the trip

Letting the children know in advance how long the trip will take, and plot out some stopping points that they can look forward to during the drive. Let each one of them have a “car bag” that they can choose what to put in it. Suggest their favorite blankets or stuffed animals if they’re small, so they can have a familiar item to play or snuggle with. You may all be trapped in a car for the better part of the day, but if you try to keep it fun with little games like spotting license plate from other states, or finding the alphabet, in order, on highway signs or cars it will help break the monotony. Keep favorite snacks handy to keep them from getting hungry between meal stops, and point out interesting landmarks or points of interest along the way. Listen to music the entire family likes (if that’s possible), and invest in a portable DVD player for watching movies if your car doesn’t have one built in.

Traveling by car can be a great time for a family, or even a couple, to reconnect. The trip may take hours, and with everyone in the same ‘room’ for a change, conversations can take place that would not happen on an airplane with strangers present. Who knows, by the time you get to Grandma’s house, the entire family may be closer then ever!

All it takes is a little planning.

Sources: msnbc.com, Projector123.com and fonsecashow.com

Are You Prepared If There's a Power Failure?

2010-11-18T16:27:00.000-08:00

Cold, wintry weather is in the forecast, and in recent years these storms have consistently caused power failures, some of which have lasted more than a week. With our dependence on electricity at historic levels, this has caused hardship and even death to those who aren’t prepared.

Since almost every year brings some period of time without any power, it’s important for every family to prepare for inevitability of just such an occurrence. With a little bit of forethought and preparation, most people can weather the storm without any assistance. And, during a power outage, government and police assistance is in short supply, with most struggling with multiple emergencies. Rather than burden the already strained safety net, be stocked up and ready when the power goes out.

Be Prepared for the Cold and Darkness

• Make sure you have multiple flashlights with plenty of spare batteries.
• Have a battery-powered clock in the house to keep track of the time and as a wake-up alarm for work or school (if it is open).
• A battery-powered radio will allow you to keep in touch with weather forecasts and other important information that is being broadcast. It will also serve to entertain you with news or music during the long, dark wait.
• If you have a fireplace, store a rick of seasoned (dry) firewood
• Never operate generators, grills or other heat-producing appliances inside. They create carbon monoxide gas, which is poisonous and can be fatal.
• If you’re using a power generator, make sure you have the gas tank filled up, and a spare gas. Gas stations cannot pump gas without electricity.
• Wear multiple layers of warm clothing to help keep in body heat.
• Avoid downed power lines. Report a downed line immediately to your local utility. Touching one of these lines could result in electrocution.
• When sleeping, wear lots of clothes and multiple blankets or comforters.

The CDC recommends that you have a disaster supply kit, which contains enough water, dried and canned food, and emergency supplies (flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, medicine and a digital thermometer) to last at least three days.

Food Safety

If the power is out for more than a few hours, avoid opening the refrigerator door or freezer. This will keep the cold trapped inside, and prevent the food from warming up.

Check refrigerated items and throw away food that has a temperature higher than 40 degrees. Freezer food is safe for at least 48 hours, as long as the freezer doors are not opened.

The following resources provide additional information on preparing for emergencies and determining if your food is safe after a power outage:

Food Safety After a Power Outage, American Red Cross  Provides tips on safely storing your food and a chart to help you determine if your food is still safe.
Keeping Food Safe in an Emergency, United States Department of Agriculture  Fact sheet and FAQs on food and water safety including guidance on when to discard perishable foods.
Being Prepared, American Red Cross  Comprehensive site on preparing for emergencies including power outages.
Food Safety Office, CDC  Comprehensive food safety information.

Safe Drinking Water

Have plenty of bottled water on hand. When power goes out, water purification systems can be compromised. If you must use tap water, boil it first to kill off any harmful bacteria. Bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute will kill most organisms.

Emergency Shelters

If you must leave your house for any reason, the radio will let you know about community shelters in your area that are opened for people who aren’t prepared to stay at home without electricity. Shelters may start out without cots, chairs, blankets, food or water, so bring your own. Be aware that shelters have no privacy, and may not let you enter with your pets or any defensive weapons, such as pepper spray.

It's much better to be prepared, not burden the emergency services during the outage, and wait out the storm in your own home. It may seem like a hassle now, but when the time comes, you'll be thankful that you were ready.

Be Cautious When Driving in Fog

2010-10-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather has turned wet and cold, drivers need to be more cautious then ever when traveling on roads and highways. Wet roadways, combined with the colder temperatures, means you could encounter heavy fog, and road surfaces will be more slippery, especially in shaded areas. Visibility goes down and gives drivers less time to respond to something in the road ahead. Fog can be the most visually limiting driving condition you face.

Tips for Driving in Fog:

• Take all fog-related weather warnings seriously. They are there for a reason!

• Turn off the radio and open your window a little to listen for car horns or engines. You may hear something before you see it.

• Turn on wipers, defroster and low-beam headlights. Never use high beams, as they only light up the fog and make seeing more difficult. Moisture in the air can accumulate quickly on the windshield, so adjust your windshield wiper speed and defroster fan as needed.

• Slow down! Pay close attention to the road ahead, increasing the distance between you and the car in front of you from two to five seconds. In case they have to slam on the brakes, you want to avoid a collision. It doesn’t matter what the posted speed limit is, slow it down and be ready to stop at a moment’s notice.

• Use your fog lights. If you have fog lights, use them. They help with site distance, since they're mounted lower and illuminate more of the road surface. Yellow fog lights work better than white fog lights, as they don't reflect off the fog as brightly.

If it gets too foggy and conditions are too dangerous, it’s best to stop at a rest area or exit the road and go to a protected area. If there is no exit readily available, pull safely off to the right side of the road and turn your emergency flashers on. Once conditions improve, then continue cautiously on your way.

Uninsured/Underinsured Insurance Coverage

2010-09-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

Washington's insurance laws make Uninsured/Underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage an excellent bargain and an important benefit that can save you from a financial disaster if you are involved in a traffic accident.

All states, except New Hampshire, require liability insurance as part of your auto insurance coverage. It is considered good policy, because if you cause an accident, the person you hit should be able to recoup their expenses from you.

But the high cost of auto insurance forces some drivers to forego even basic liability coverage. They're out there driving, and have no means to pay for any damage they would do to your vehicle! The Insurance Research Council estimates that about one out of every six drivers is driving without any insurance coverage. That's 16 percent of the U.S. population!

Protect Yourself From Irresponsible Drivers

This is where UM/UIM coverage can really help. This coverage pays for your injuries when someone without insurance causes the accident or when you're hit by a hit-and-run driver. UM/UIM coverage also pays off when someone else causes the accident, but doesn't have ENOUGH insurance to cover your costs. UM/UIM will also help if you're injured and forced to miss work by paying your lost wages.

If you are in an accident which is cause by an uninsured motorist and you don't have UM/UIM coverage, your health insurance will generally pay for your medical bills related to that accident. That can be very expensive, however. If you have UM/UIM coverage, it will pay for the medical expenses until your limits are reached, then your health insurance will kick in to cover the amount over that.

But health insurance won't pay a dime for lost wages if you're injured and miss work, or for pain and suffering from the crash. That is paid by the at-fault driver's liability insurance, but if he or she doesn't have any liability coverage or it is insufficient, you're out of luck unless you go to court and try to recover the costs. However, if you have UM/UIM coverage, it will reimburse you for the lost wages and any pain and suffering that is caused by the accident.

Save on Deductibles

As in all auto insurance policies, there are deductibles. If you obtain the at-fault driver's information, your deductible would be $100. Then your insurance company can go after them for reimbursement of damages. In addition, if they can recover the full amount of what they paid out to you for fixing your car, then they will give you your $100 back. If, however, you are involved in a hit-and-run, or a "phantom" type vehicle collision and there's no driver to go after, then the deductible is $300. This is another benefit of UM/UIM coverage, since a regular collision deductible is at least $500.

'Stacked' Coverage in Washington

What makes Washington an even better place to have UM/UIM coverage than, say, Oregon, is that the customer gets the coverage they pay for. For instance, if a Washington citizen buys $100,000 of UM/UIM coverage, they get up to an additional $100,000 of insurance benefits, above and beyond whatever amount of coverage the at-fault driver may have. This is called "stacking" -- the UM/UIM policy "stacks" on top of the at-fault driver's coverage. In other states, such as Oregon, if someone buys $100,000 of UM/UIM coverage, they may not get some or all of that coverage if they are hit by another driver. It depends on the amount of insurance carried by the at-fault driver. For example, if the at-fault driver carried $25,000 of liability coverage, the Oregon $100,000 UM/UIM policy would only pay a maximum of $75,000. If the negligent driver had $100,000 worth of coverage, the Oregon UM/UIM policy would pay nothing. That policy in Washington would pay up to an additional $100,000, or $200,000 total!

Regardless of what state you're in, UM/UIM insurance is very important. It protects you and your family from huge medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering costs if you are involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver. And for less than a dollar a day, it is an incredible bargain! Without it, you're either at the mercy of the other driver's coverage or looking for a lawyer and a lawsuit. Which would you rather have?

For more information on Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage, please contact us toll-free at 888-867-2866, or contact your SAV-ON Insurance agent.

Permanent Life Insurance Growing in Popularity Among Middle Class Consumers

2010-09-15T00:24:00.000-07:00

One in Four Likely to Purchase It in the Near Future

As the economic downturn rolls into its third year, middle-class consumers are showing a growing interest in managing financial risk through the use of permanent life insurance products.
The August survey of the First Command Financial Behaviors Index® reveals that 39 percent of middle-class Americans own some form of permanent life insurance coverage. And among those who don’t own a permanent life policy, one in four say they are likely to purchase this type of coverage in the future.

“After years of following the popular pitch to ‘buy term and invest the difference,’ consumers are now seeing how a market downturn can threaten a seemingly sound financial strategy,” said Scott Spiker, CEO of First Command Financial Services, Inc. “These numbers support findings by others in the industry who note that Americans are turning to permanent life coverage as a time-tested tool for managing long-term risk.”

The most popular permanent insurance product is whole life, which is owned by 26 percent of middle-class families. Other permanent life products held by survey respondents include universal life and variable life, which are owned by 10 percent and 4 percent, respectively.

Term life insurance remains the go-to product for many consumers. Term policies are owned by 45 percent of middle-class families. Interestingly people who own term life policies feel less comfortable with their coverage than those who own whole life and other permanent products. The survey reveals a 5-point gap between those who feel “extremely” or “very” comfortable with their permanent life insurance coverage (49 percent) and those who feel the same way about their term life insurance coverage (44 percent). Also, consumer satisfaction levels are highest for whole life (60 percent), followed by term (55 percent), universal life (53 percent) and variable life (50 percent).

“We are not surprised to see that whole life is associated with high consumer satisfaction,” Spiker said. “This seemingly old-fashioned product remains popular because of its long-term value, flexibility and stability. The guarantees offered by these policies make it an especially appealing choice during the uncertainties of the current economic crisis.”

At SAV-ON Insurance Agencies, we have an experienced agent who is an expert in life insurance, whether it be term, permanent life or long-term care insurance. Call Steve today at 1-888-867-2866 and find out what's available for you!

Source: Business Wire

Eight Tips for a Safe Road Trip

2010-08-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

Whether you're traveling alone, with a buddy or with your spouse and a car full of kids, there are few things more "American" than the long-distance road trip. Countless vacation travelers will drive the highways looking for fun and making memories with every mile. If traveling down the "holiday road" is in your plans, take the time to prepare for your trip. You'll have a more enjoyable vacation if you plan carefully. Here are a few driving tips:

1) Make sure your vehicle is well maintained.

Make sure your vehicle is up to date on its maintenance schedule, and be sure to check the battery and tires. A dead battery or tire blow-out in the middle of nowhere is dangerous and expensive. By making sure your tires have good tread left and are properly inflated, and your battery is fully charged, you'll save yourself a lot of headaches down the road.

2) Plan your trip and know where you’re going.

Call ahead for proper and safe directions to get you to your destination safely and have maps of the area on hand to help you navigate once you are off the main road. You’re more likely to make good decisions, even in dangerous situations, if you’re clearheaded and know where you’re going.

3) Stay focused on the road ahead.

Seems obvious, but driver inattention is the cause of a lot of accidents. If you stay focused behind the wheel and not let kids or electronic devices such as music players or cell phones divert your attention, you will have a much safer summer road trip.

4) Take precaution with a cell phone.

Cell phones can be a lifesaver when you need immediate access to emergency services after an accident. Keep your phone within easy reach and get to know its features. However, use it prudently. Reports have shown that driving while talking on the phone increases accident rates.

5) Wear your seat belt.

Whether or not it’s required by law in the state through which you’re driving, always wear your seat belt as a safety precaution.

6) Protect your car against theft.

Help deter criminals from taking your car by always locking your doors, using steering wheel locks, switches that disable fuel or ignition systems, and electronic tracking devices. Put any valuables you cannot carry with you hidden out of view in the trunk.

7) Know what to do if you’re in an accident.

Taking immediate steps if you’ve been in an accident can protect your family and your car from further damage. Stop immediately and make sure your car is not blocking traffic. Turn off your car to keep it from overheating or catching fire. Warn oncoming cars using road flares or orange triangle reflectors. After you have protected yourself and your family, call your insurance company immediately.

8) Make sure your auto insurance is up to date.

Before you even leave the driveway, you want to be sure you’re protected when you’re on the road and far from home. An independent insurance agent or broker can provide the personal service and advice you need to travel in confidence.

Source: Progressive Insurance Company

Move Over For All Emergency Vehicles

2010-08-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

You’ve undoubtedly been driving when you hear the wail of the siren and see the flashing lights of an approaching emergency vehicle in your rear view mirror. Should you slow down and pull over, even if the emergency vehicle is in the oncoming lanes, or is it just required when it is attempting to pass you? Similarly, if you approach a stationary emergency vehicle on the side of the road with its lights flashing, what is the proper thing to do?

Many motorists don’t understand the “Move Over” law, and what they need to do. But it is important for safety reasons that motorists give all emergency vehicles a wide berth. The personnel in these vehicles, whether they are paramedics or police officers, are busy trying to help someone, and are not paying attention to the cars that are approaching. It is the motorist’s responsibility to proceed on the side of caution.

Emergency Vehicles Approaching

When being approached by an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing, section 46.61.210 of the Revised Code of Washington states requires motorists to yield the right-of-way in all cases. It states that drivers “shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection and shall stop and remain in such position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer.”
When the roadway is a divided highway, a motorist who is moving in the opposite direction can continue on, but if the road is not divided, even if it has more than one lane in each direction, the driver is required to stop the vehicle on the right-hand edge or curb until the emergency vehicle has passed. Failure to yield carries a maximum fine of $1,062 in the State of Washington.

Stationary Emergency Vehicles

On the other hand, when a motorist is approaching a stationary emergency or police vehicle with its lights flashing, the motorist must yield to the emergency vehicles by:
- Proceeding with caution
- Changing lanes, if possible
- Reducing speed

Conversely, if an emergency vehicle is parked by the side of the road, or traveling down the highway with no lights flashing, they are treated as any other vehicle, and it is not necessary to yield to them.

The bottom line: It’s always better proceed with caution when police and emergency vehicles are within sight. It avoids potential collisions and allows law enforcement and emergency personnel to do their job without worrying about the traffic.

Be Careful When Sharing the Road with Cyclists

2010-08-16T23:57:00.000-07:00

A recently released poll of Washington drivers found that many are uncomfortable sharing the road with cyclists. While the PEMCO Insurance poll found 87% of respondents understand that cyclists can be ticketed for violating the same laws that govern drivers, only 45% thought the laws were generally fair for both drivers and cyclists.

In 2007, 58% of drivers knew they had to give cyclists several feet of room when passing them on the road. Compare that to 2010, where only 40% now think they need to provide that much space.
The Revised Code of Washington may be vague about distance (they mandate drivers pass cyclists at a "safe distance"), however the Washington Driving Guide recommends at least three feet of space between the vehicle and the cyclist.

Driver Misconceptions

The poll found that drivers have many misconceptions when it comes to sharing the road with bicycles. This can lead to dangerous situations, as many drivers think it's the cyclist's responsibility to stay out of the way of motorized vehicles, or use the sidewalk. This is not the case, as bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities on roadways as automobiles (although they are not allowed on freeways and other controlled-access highways).

The PEMCO poll also found that:

• Only 23% of drivers are aware that it's legal for cyclists to ride two abreast in a lane of traffic.
• 62% of drivers are aware it's illegal for bicycle riders to ride in lanes used by oncoming traffic.
• 54% of drivers thought that a cyclist could get ticketed for riding on a sidewalk. (Washington law allows cyclists to use most sidewalks for riding).

Bike Helmets Prevent Injuries

Even though there's no statewide requirement to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, most Washington cities and counties have helmet laws, and enforce them rigorously. The PEMCO poll found that more than a quarter of the respondents (27%) think it's legal to ride without at helmet.

Men are more likely than women to wear their helmet, and use their bike regularly to commute. Women drivers, on the other hand, tend to be more uncomfortable with cyclists on the road, the poll found.

More disturbing is the fact that young people -- those under age 35 -- are much more likely to bike without a helmet than their older counterparts. 36% of those under 35 say they only wear their helmets sometimes or never, compared with 17% of older cyclists. This is exacerbated by the fact that 48% of younger cyclists use their bike to commute at least once a month, much of the time without a helmet.

While wearing a helmet can eliminate most serious head injuries, many cyclists don't like to wear them or forget to wear them. It's especially difficult to convince younger people that riding without a helmet can result in serious injury, as many young people think that it's more of a hassle then it's worth, and, after all, nothing is going to happen to them.

If you get on a bike, wear your helmet and obey all traffic laws. When it comes to accidents involving a car and a bicycle, the bicyclist rarely comes out ahead.

Source: PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, 2010

Older Drivers can improve and save money too

2010-08-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

PDF (248K)

Spanish Version

Older Drivers

At age 78, Sheila thinks she’s a good driver, and she would like to stay that way. But lately, she has been in minor accidents. Sheila wonders how she can stay safe behind the wheel. Will taking a class for older drivers help?

You may have asked yourself this question, or maybe a family member or friend has asked about your driving. Getting older doesn’t make you a bad driver. But you should know there are changes that may affect driving skills over time.

Your Body

As you age, your joints may get stiff, and your muscles may weaken. This can make it harder to turn your head to look back, turn the steering wheel quickly, or brake safely.

What you can do:

•See your doctor if you think that pain or stiffness gets in the way of your driving.

•If possible, drive a car with automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and large mirrors.

•Be physically active or exercise to keep and even improve your strength and flexibility.

Your Vision

Your eyesight may change as you get older. At night, you may have trouble seeing things clearly. Glare can also be a problem—from oncoming headlights, street lights, or the sun. It might be harder to see people, things, and movements outside your direct line of sight. It may take you longer to read street or traffic signs or even recognize familiar places. Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, as well as some medicines, may also change your vision.

What you can do:

•Have your vision checked every 2 to 4 years if you are age 40 to 64 and every 1 to 2 years if you are 65 or older, as recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. There are many vision problems your doctor can treat.

•Talk to your eye doctor if you can’t see well enough to drive because you have a cataract. You might need surgery to remove the cataract.

•If you need glasses to see far away while driving, make sure your prescription is correct. And always wear them when you are driving.

•Cut back on night driving if you are having trouble seeing in the dark.

Your Hearing

Your hearing may change, making it harder to notice horns, sirens, or noises from your own car. That can be a problem because these sounds warn you when you may need to pull over or get out of the way. It is important that you hear them.

What you can do:

•Have your hearing checked. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends doing this every 3 years after age 50. Your doctor can treat some hearing problems.

•Get a hearing aid to help—don’t forget to use it when you drive.

•Try to keep the inside of the car as quiet as possible while driving.

•Pay attention to the warning lights on the dashboard. They may let you know when something is wrong with your car.

Your Reactions

In order to drive safely, you should be able to react quickly to other cars and people on the road. You need to be able to make decisions and to remember what to do. Being able to make quick decisions while driving is important so you can avoid accidents and stay safe. Changes over time might slow how fast you react. You may find that your reflexes are getting slower. Stiff joints or weak muscles can make it harder to move quickly. Your attention span may be shorter. Or, it might be harder for you to do two things at the same time.

What you can do:

•Leave more space between you and the car in front of you.

•Start braking early when you need to stop.

•Avoid high traffic areas when you can.

•If you must drive on a fast-moving highway, drive in the right-hand lane. Traffic moves more slowly there. This might give you more time to make safe driving decisions.

•Take a defensive driving course. AARP, American Automobile Association (AAA), or your car insurance company can help you find a class near you.

•Be aware of how your body and mind might be changing, and talk to your doctor about any concerns.

Your Health

Some health problems can make it harder for people of any age to drive safely. But other conditions that are more common as you get older can also make driving difficult. For example, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and arthritis can interfere with your driving abilities. At some point, someone with health problems may feel that he or she is no longer a good driver and may decide to stop driving.

People with illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or other types of dementia may forget how to drive safely. They also may forget how to find a familiar place like the grocery store or even home. In the early stages of AD, some people are able to keep driving safely for a while. But, as memory and decision-making skills worsen, driving will be affected. If you have dementia, you might not be able to tell that you are having driving problems. Family and friends may give you feedback about your driving. Doctors can help you decide whether it’s safe to keep driving.

What you can do:

•Tell a family member or your doctor if you become confused while driving.

Your Medications

Do you take any medicines that make you feel drowsy, lightheaded, or less alert than usual? Medications can have side effects. People tend to take more medicines as they age, so pay attention to how these drugs may affect your driving.

What you can do:

•Read the medicine labels carefully, and pay attention to any warnings.

•Make a list of all your medicines, and talk to a doctor or pharmacist about how they may affect your driving.

•Don’t drive if you feel lightheaded or drowsy.

Are You A Safe Driver?

Maybe you already know that driving at night, on the highway, or in bad weather is a problem for you. Older drivers can also have problems when yielding the right of way, turning (especially making left turns), changing lanes, passing, and using expressway ramps.

What you can do:

•When in doubt, don’t go out. Bad weather like rain or snow can make it hard for anyone to drive. Try to wait until the weather is better, or use buses, taxis, or other transportation services available in your community.

•Look for different routes that can help you avoid places where driving can be a problem. Left turns can be quite dangerous because you have to check so many things at the same time. You could plan routes to where you want to go so that you only need to make right turns.

•Have your driving skills checked. There are driving programs and clinics that can test your driving and also make suggestions about improving your driving skills.

•Update your driving skills by taking a driving refresher course. (Hint: Some car insurance companies may lower your bill when you pass this type of class.)

Prescription 'Drugged Driving' a Growing Problem

2010-07-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

As Americans get hooked on more and more prescription drugs, then clamor behind the wheel of their automobiles while dazed or sleepy, more auto accidents can't be far behind.

Turn on the TV, open a newspaper, or go online and you'll find the pharmaceutical industry is making a killing pushing pills. There are pills to wake you up, calm you down, get you excited, lower your blood pressure, ease your hypertension, and get you back to sleep again. While many of these prescription drugs do help with certain ailments, the side effects can be deadly when someone affected by these powerful drugs tries to drive. Many of these drugs cause a reduction in mental alertness and physical responsiveness, both of which are necessary to safely operate a motor vehicle.

An accident caused by a drugged driver.

Unlike drunk driving, which has definitive limits, and can measure blood alcohol levels, drugged driving has no limits to measure. If you're blood alcohol level is .008 or higher, you can be convicted of DUI, but there are no tests to determine improper levels of prescription drugs. There are so many different legal drugs legally prescribed, with each one having a different effect on the user, that it is very difficult to set legal limits. In addition, prescription drugs can linger in the system for days or even weeks, making it hard to determine when it is safe for the patient to return to the road.

How commonplace is driving while drugged? According the the National Highway and Safety Administration's 2007 National Roadside Survey, more than 16 percent of weekend, nighttime drivers tested positive for illegal, prescription or over-the-counter medication.

Lately more attention has been given to drugs other than alcohol, as law enforcement has begun to recognize the hazards it poses to traffic safety.

What Makes Drugged Driving Hazardous?

Drugs acting on the brain can alter perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination, reaction time, and other faculties required for safe driving. The effects of specific drugs of abuse differ depending on their mechanisms of action, the amount consumed, the history of the user, and other factors.

Many medications (e.g., benzodiazepines and opiate analgesics) act on systems in the brain that could impair driving ability. In fact, many prescription drugs come with warnings against the operation of machinery -- including motor vehicles -- for a specified period of time after use. When prescription drugs are taken without medical supervision (i.e., when abused), impaired driving and other harmful reactions result.

Enforcement Lacking

Police and Highway Patrol personnel are trained to spot, test and arrest persons under the influence of alcohol, but people affected by prescription drugs are more difficult to prosecute. Breathalyzer tests will only show if the person has been drinking, even though the motorist's ability to drive is clearly compromised. With defense lawyers quick to point out that many of these drivers are taking legal medication, in proper doses that are prescribed by a doctor, police are reluctant to pursue punishment due to the ambiguity of the law.

Canada Gets Tough

Yet some countries are getting tougher. In 2008, Canada passed a drugged driving law which makes it illegal for drivers to drive under the influence of drugs, legal or not.

Prior to this legislation, police were allowed to ask drivers for a urine, blood or saliva sample if they were suspected of being under the influence of drugs. However, officers had to inform drivers that they were not obligated to take the test.

“There was no monitoring in place for us to make this demand at all,” said Toronto Police Sgt. Tim Burrows, “New ground has been broken.”

Under this new legislation, drivers suspected of drug use are taken to traffic services and tested by a specially trained drug recognition expert. The test involves looking at indicators such as pupil size, blood pressure and the ability of the driver to multi-task. The final part of the test is a bodily fluid swab test.

Those caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will face at least a $1,000 fine for a first offense, a minimum of 30 days in jail for a second offense and 120 days in jail if they are caught a third time.

In the U.S., many states are starting to pass 'per se' laws, making it illegal to operate a motor vehicle if there is any detectable level of a prohibited drug, or its metabolites, in the driver's blood. Other state laws define "drugged driving" as driving when a drug "renders the driver incapable of driving safely" or "causes the driver to be impaired."

But, persuading a jury to convict someone of drugged driving is difficult, as it doesn't have the stigma that drunken driving has, thanks to the efforts of groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

"Because most people on the jury will also likely be taking prescription drugs for some ailment," said Douglas Gansler, the attorney general in Maryland, "whether it's Lipitor or allergy pills or whatever it might be, they might think, 'I don't want that to become criminal.'"

Sources: DrugFreeWorkplace.com, The New York Times, National Highway and Safety Administration.

Red Light Cameras Help Reduce Traffic Accidents

2010-07-19T18:01:00.000-07:00

As more and more cities install cameras at busy intersections to catch drivers who run red lights, the debate rages as to how effective they are in reducing traffic accidents.

How Do Red Light Cameras Work?

Red light cameras are mounted at selected signalized intersections, and automatically photograph vehicles whose drivers run red lights. A red light camera system is connected to the traffic signal and to sensors that monitor traffic at the crosswalk or stop line. The camera is triggered by any vehicle entering the intersection above a preset minimum speed and following a specified time after the signal has turned red. Many red light camera programs provide motorists with grace periods up to 1/2 second, but it is up to each municipality to determine what grace period, if any, will be allowed. Cameras record the date, time of day, time elapsed since the beginning of the red signal, vehicle speed and license plate. Tickets are typically mailed to the registered owner, based on a review of the photographic evidence.

Effective Accident Reduction

Accident statistics support the contention that these cameras are effective in substantially reducing traffic accidents. Highway Safety Institute evaluations in Fairfax, Virginia and Oxnard, California, showed that camera enforcement reduced red-light-running violations by about 40 percent. In addition, this effectiveness carried over to other signalized intersections not equipped with red light cameras, indicating community-wide changes in driver behavior. An Institute evaluation of red light cameras in Philadelphia found that after red light violations were reduced by 36 percent following increased yellow signal timing, and the addition of red light cameras further reduced red light violations by 96 percent. In the Oxnard, Calif. study, injury crashes were reduced by 29 percent after red light cameras were in operation. Front-into-side collisions -- the crash type most closely associated with red light running -- were reduced by 32 percent overall, and front-to-side crashes resulting in injuries were reduced by 68 percent!

Success Rates of Red Light Cameras

New Orleans, LA -- Red light cameras led to an 85% drop in red light running and speed cameras led to an 84% drop in speeding.
Council Bluffs, IA -- 90% reduction in red light running crashes.
Washington, DC -- Red light running fatalities were reduced from 16 to 2 in the first two years of red light cameras.
Fairfax, VA -- 44% reduction in red light running crashes.
Oxnard, CA -- 22% reduction in red light crashes citywide.
New York City -- 34% reduction in red light violations.

Who is Responsible for the Ticket?

Each state has its own set of rules determining who is responsible for running a red light. 25 states currently have red light camera enforcement, and each has its own set of rules and limitations. In Washington state, which is one of the states that does, it is the registered owner's responsibility, whether or not they were driving the car. A ticket for running a red light can mean up to a $250 maximum fine, but does not go on the violator's driving record. It is treated like a parking ticket.

Red Light Cameras are Popular with the Public

A 2002 nationwide survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and conducted by the Gallup Organization found that 75 percent of drivers favored the use of red light cameras. a 1996 survey by the Insurance Research Council found that the highest support for red light cameras was in large cities, where 83 percent of respondents supported their use. There are opponents of this kind of enforcement, but so far its legality has stood up in court challenges.

References: Insurance Industry for Highway; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; Wikipedia; National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running

Driving Drowsy is as Dangerous as Driving Drunk

2010-07-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

Nice summer weather and long days of sunshine mean putting the top down on the convertible and going out for nice long drives. It can also mean taking the family on a car vacation.

But, before venturing out on the road, make sure you've had enough sleep. A recent poll found that 54 percent of Americans say they have driven drowsy at least once in the last year, while one quarter admit to doing so at least once a month. This can have very dangerous consequences.

A National Sleep Foundation survey revealed that a full 37 percent of the drivers they polled had actually fallen asleep at the wheel!

"Most people know the dangers of drinking and driving," says Troy Green of the American Automobile Association. "However, driving drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving drunk."

Like drugs or alcohol, sleepiness slows reaction time, decreases awareness, impairs judgment and increases your risk of an accident. However, it is difficult to attribute crashes to sleepiness because there is no standardized test for drowsiness, like there is for intoxication. This lack of criteria for determining when a driver is too sleepy to drive may be one reason there is little or no police training in identifying drowsiness as a crash factor.

How many highway crashes are attributable to drowsiness?

Since police-reported crash data is unreliable due to the difficulty in detected fatigue or drowsiness, the accident reports tend to minimize the frequency of this. Based on police reports, about one percent of all crashes and about three percent of all fatal crashes are due to the driver falling asleep. The actual percentage is probably much higher, and some experts estimate that there are about 56,000 accidents involving a drowsy driver, and at least 1,500 deaths a year.

What are the warning signs of fatigue?

Failure to remember the last few miles driven; wandering or disconnected thoughts; difficulty focusing, keeping eyes open, keeping head up; drifting from lane; yawning repeatedly; tailgating or missing signs; jerking car back into the lane.

How best to prevent drowsy driving

Get a good night's sleep before heading out on a long car trip; don't drive alone; schedule regular stops; avoid alcohol or medications that impair performance.

Experts also warn that old remedies such as opening a window or turning the music up in the car do not help a drowsy driver maintain alertness. It may temporarily wake them, but will not last more than a minute or two before drowsiness overcomes the mild stimulus.

The best idea when fatigue sets in is to pull over to the side of the road and take a brief (20 to 30 minute) nap, and then drink coffee or a cola drink to provide short-term alertness. Getting there a few minutes later is better than not getting there at all!

AAA Commends Delaware as it Becomes the 30th State to Prohibit Text Messaging While Driving

2010-07-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

AAA is more than half way to the goal!

AAA Commends Delaware as it Becomes the 30th State to Prohibit Text Messaging While Driving
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Nearly a dozen states have enacted texting while driving bans this year
WASHINGTON, July 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AAA applauds Delaware on becoming the 30th state to outlaw text messaging by all drivers. Governor Jack Markell signed the bill into law today, making Delaware the 11th state in 2010 to ban text messaging while driving. Last September, AAA launched its campaign to pass texting bans in all 50 states.

"By passing a law banning texting while driving, Delaware continues the momentum in statehouses across the country in outlawing this dangerous form of driver distraction," said Robert L. Darbelnet, AAA president and CEO. "In the last two years alone, almost half of all states – 12 in 2009 and 11 this year – have enacted text messaging bans for all drivers. AAA is encouraged by the recent and rapid progress toward our campaign goal of passing texting bans in all 50 states.

"Too many people are being injured and killed in vehicle crashes that are preventable. AAA will continue to educate the public about the mental and physical distraction associated with text messaging while driving and continue to advocate for texting bans in states without such laws."

Delaware's new law also makes it illegal to talk on a handheld cell phone while driving. Delaware joins California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia in permitting drivers to talk on a cell phone only with a hands-free device.

"AAA Mid-Atlantic congratulates the Delaware Legislature and Governor Markell on the passage of this new law to combat distracted driving, and we commend their efforts to improve highway safety in the state of Delaware," said Don Gagnon, AAA Mid-Atlantic president and CEO. "AAA Mid-Atlantic has long advocated for comprehensive distracted driving legislation and this is a major step forward in combating texting and other distracted driving in Delaware."

Legislation to establish or improve an existing ban on text messaging while driving is currently being considered in the following states: California, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

The following states and the District of Columbia now prohibit text messaging by all drivers: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Delaware's law will become effective January 3, 2011. Delaware joins Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming in enacting text messaging bans for all drivers in 2010. The effective dates for those new laws are as follows:

WASHINGTON, July 6 --

Delaware – January 3, 2011

Georgia – July 1, 2010

Iowa – July 1, 2010; penalties effective July 1, 2011

Kansas – Effective immediately when signed on May 24; warning citations to be issued until January 1, 2011

Kentucky – Effective immediately when signed on April 15; penalties effective January 1, 2011

Massachusetts – October 1, 2010

Michigan – July 1, 2010

Nebraska – July 15, 2010

Vermont – Effective immediately when signed on June 1

Wisconsin – December 1, 2010

Wyoming – July 1, 2010

Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2010/07/06/2311689_p2/aaa-commends-delaware-as-it-becomes.html#ixzz0swGYnN4G

Tips for Saving Vacation Costs on the Road

2010-06-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

Now that the summer travel season is upon us, it's time to think about piling the kids in the car and heading for some warm weather fun. But, with the economy still down and gas prices up, you may be worried about your vacation budget. Here are some ways you can save money and still have a great time.

Take some food and beverages with you. Put a cooler filled with water and other thirst-quenching beverages in the car with you. Bring some non-perishable snacks like granola bars or potato chips, too. That way everyone can keep hydrated and not hungry during the car ride. It saves you from a car full of grumpy passengers, cuts down on expensive restaurant meals, and allows you to reach your destination in less time.

Stick to a budget. If you haven't saved up for the vacation, it's not a good idea to run up your credit cards while on the trip. It may not seem like it at the time, but when you're paying big credit card bills each month for the rest of the year and beyond, it might keep you from having enough for the next vacation. Decide how much you can afford to spend, then live within that limit. If that means one less amusement park for the family, you can spend a day at the beach or at a nice park. Variety is the spice of life!

Save on gas. When you're travelling long distances by automobile, slow down a little. Even a small reduction in vehicle speed will mean rather substantial fuel savings. Driving 62 mph vs. 75 mph will reduce fuel consumption about 15 percent.

Drive efficiently. Don't be a lead-foot, and keep a steady rate of speed. If traffic is light, and you have it, use cruise control. This reduces your gas consumption, and also makes it easier on the driver, who doesn't need to constantly use the gas pedal or the brake. Anticipate traffic ahead and give yourself distance between the car ahead of you, so you can slow down or speed up without using the brake as much, increasing your fuel efficiency by as much as 20 percent.

Have good tires. Keep tire pressure at the manufacturer's recommended level. Over- or under-inflated tires will reduce your gas mileage, and will wear out your tires much faster. A single tire, underinflated by 2 pounds per sq. inch, increases fuel consumption 1 percent. Worn tires are more prone to blow-outs or flats, causing delays on your trip.

Use air conditioning sparingly. If it's not hot, roll down the windows or just have the fan on. Air conditioning is a drag on your engine and reduces fuel efficiency.

Service your car before the trip. Regular maintenance helps fuel economy, and adds to engine life. Dirty fuel filters, air filters and low fluid levels can make your engine labor unnecessarily, and could mean breakdowns in remote, unfamiliar areas.

Travel light. The heavier your car is weighted down, the more gas you will use. Pack as light as possible, and avoid dragging trailers behind your car if possible. This can reduce fuel efficiency by more than 25%.

By doing a little pre-trip planning, you can avoid a lot of problems while on the road. Happy motoring!

New Cellphone Law May Not Reduce Accidents

2010-06-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

A new law went on the books that makes using a handheld cellphone a primary offense while driving. If you get a ticket, it won't become part of your driver's permanent record or be reported to your insurance company, but it's gonna cost you. The fine is $124 for texting or talking without a headset.

If you're under 18, the law is even tougher. You can't use a cellphone at all, even with a hands-free device, while behind the wheel.

There are some exemptions, such as transit and emergency vehicle personnel, tow truck operators and drivers with hearing aids. And if you're calling or texting to report illegal activity or summon emergency help, you will not be cited.

With distracted drivers causing more and more accidents, legislators are trying to crack down on the distractions. But does this new law actually help make the roads safer? Surprisingly, lots of research says no. Many drivers have invested in expensive hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets, but many researchers are saying that the problem is not that your hands are busy, but that your mind is distracted when talking on the phone.

"It's a 'feel-good law'. It makes people think we're trying to do something to address the problem," says professor David Strayer, of the University of Utah's psychology department.

He has been involved with the research that shows that cellphone-using drivers can be just as impaired as drunken drivers. And he's not alone in that conclusion. Other research institutions, notably the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine show that there is no difference in driver impairment between talking while holding the phone and a hands-free device.

When driving and talking at the same time, the brain gets overloaded with processing information, and the chances for an accident in that situation are many times greater.

So, before you go out and buy an expensive hands-free device, keep in mind the safest thing to do while driving is to keep both hands on the wheel and your mind focused on the road ahead.

SAV-ON Records Third Straight Month of Incredible PEMCO Policy Sales

2010-06-10T11:43:00.000-07:00

For the third month in a row, SAV-ON Insurance is on a record-setting pace for selling PEMCO policies.
After establishing a new record of 84 new policies in March, SAV-ON obliterated that total, writing 111 policies in April. Continuing that torrid pace, they wrote 85 policies in May, for a total of 280 policies in three months! (These counts include not only auto insurance, but all lines of business that PEMCO insures.)
"We've been amazed at the number of PEMCO policies that SAV-ON has sold, and we hope they're able to continue this trend," said PEMCO Community Agent Supervisor Steve Milliren. "I can't say enough about the commitment, the loyalty, and the direction of the SAV-ON leaders, as well as the fantastic work done by their dedicated front-line staff. With their help, we're moving closer to meeting our customer growth goal."
In appreciation of SAV-ON's exceptional work, PEMCO sent balloons and congratulations to all the SAV-ON offices. They also treated SAV-ON employees to a Sounders FC soccer game on June 10th in an executive suite at Qwest Field, complete with catered food and beverages. In addition, each SAV-ON Insurance office will get a PEMCO lunch at the restaurant of their choosing!

How do they do it? With a focus on customer service, ongoing staff training and incentive programs to build customer referrals. Central to all this is the new "Client Care Center", which strives to contact customers nearing their renewal period, finding out if their insurance needs have changed, and making sure they have the best coverage at the lowest price. SAV-ON's biggest goal is to move customers from high-risk to preferred status drivers. Once they are preferred, they can become PEMCO customers.
"Our ultimate goal is to sell policies in the triple digits for PEMCO each month," Phil states. "We have a strong sales team, and we're excited about selling PEMCO policies. We really appreciate our partnership and the way PEMCO has helped us reach these heights."
June already has the makings of another big month, which would add to the lofty sales figures for a fourth straight month. With a dedicated team, and good, low rates from a terrific insurance company, who knows how long this could continue?

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent?

2010-06-01T13:24:00.000-07:00

Some people think it doesn't really matter where they buy their insurance. But this misconception could be costing them money, service and protection. Buying insurance isn't like buying bread or milk. Insurance is an important safety net for your family, your home, your car or your business. Don't treat the purchase lightly!
There is a difference in where you buy your protection. Many people don't realize there are three sources for insurance:

•Captive Agents, who can sell you the insurance of only one company.

•Telephone Representatives, who can offer you the insurance of one company, and only on the telephone.

•Independent Insurance Agents, who represent an average of eight insurance companies, and research with these firms to find you the best combination of price, coverage and service.

Your Independent Insurance Agent:

•Is a licensed professional with strong customer and community ties.

•Gives you excellent service and competitive prices because your agent can access the insurance coverage from more than one company.

•Unlike other agents, is not beholden to any one company; thus, you don't need to change agencies as your insurance and service needs change.

•Assists you when you have a claim.

•Is your consultant, working with you as you determine your needs.

•Offers you a choice of insurance plans and programs.

•Is a value hunter who looks after your pocketbook in finding the best combination of price, coverage and service.

•Offers one-stop shopping for a full range of products-home, renters, auto, business, life and health.

•Can periodically review your coverage to keep up with your changing insurance needs.

•Treats you like a person, not just another number.

•Customer satisfaction is the key to an independent agent's livelihood. So, serving you is your independent agent's most-important concern.

There Is A Difference !

Compliments of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Washington

Washington State intends on running its own temporary federally funded High risk Health Insurance Program

2010-05-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

We here at Sav-on like to help spread the word regarding Insurance related news affecting the Pacific North West. This was a news release sent out by Washington State Insurance Commissioner's Office.

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler and Gov. Chris Gregoire have notified Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius that Washington state intends to run its own temporary, federally-funded high risk health insurance program.

“We cannot afford to miss this opportunity to provide much needed coverage to our uninsured,” said Kreidler. “There are many details that need to be worked out, but we plan to leverage the administrative framework and experience of the Washington State Health Insurance Program (WSHIP).”

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act designated $5 billion in federal funds to create temporary high risk pool programs to provide health insurance to currently uninsured individuals with preexisting conditions from July 1, 2010 to Jan. 1, 2014. States could either let the federal government run the program or contract with the federal government to set up the high risk pools through state programs or private non-profit entities.

“Signaling our intent to run the new program ourselves is the first step in the process,” said Kreidler. “We expect to receive more details before formal applications are due at the end of May.”

Under the new law, there are specific requirements for the high risk pools regarding eligibility, benefits, and funding. For instance, participants must:
■be a citizen or national of the U.S. or lawfully reside in the U.S.,

■must have been uninsured for at least six months,

■and must have a preexisting health condition.

“Many of the details regarding benefits still need to be determined, but once the formal application has been made we intend to hold a public meeting to share information about the new program,” added Kreidler.

Her Last Call Was From a Cell Phone

2010-05-17T23:24:00.000-07:00

Cell phone use is a dangerous practice and many states -- including Washington -- have outlawed the use of a hand-held cell phone. Why? Because a distracted driver is a danger to themselves and everyone on the road.
The photos you see are of a deadly crash between a speeding motorcycle and a compact car. The woman driving the VW was talking on her cell phone when she pulled out from a side street, apparently not seeing the speeding motorcycle racing towards her.

The rider's reaction time was not sufficient enough to avoid this terrible accident. The bike rider was found INSIDE the car with the occupants of the car. All had been killed instantly.
The Volkswagen actually flipped over from the force of the impact and landed 20 feet from where the collision took place.
This graphic wreck was displayed at at motorcycle show by the police, in order to remind people what can happen when a driver is distracted while talking on a cell phone.

Please do not talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel of a car. Either use a hands-free device or pull safely off the road, away from traffic, and make your call. Better yet, wait until you have exited your vehicle, then make the call. If you try to talk or text while driving, it may be the last call you ever make!

40% of Workplace Fatalities are Transportation Related

2010-05-10T10:56:00.000-07:00

Transportation incidents continue to be the No. 1 cause of on-the job deaths, a trend that has been the case since 1992, according to the American Society of Safety Engineers' (ASSE). In fact, in 2008, 40 percent of all workplace fatalities were transportation related, the association noted.

"These crashes are preventable. With roadway construction up and the summer travel season just around the corner we must all do our part to prevent roadway crashes," said Portland, Oregon's Lee Briney, ASSE Columbia-Willamette Chapter President. "What is stunning is that the overall price tag for transportation crashes in the U.S. each year is $170 billion dollars (NHTSA) and we all end up paying for it. Those costs represent about $1,000 per person each year for property damage (streets, lampposts, guardrails, emergency services, court costs, insurance administration and much more). This figure doesn't take into account the extreme grief caused by the loss of a loved one. There is no way to calculate that cost."

Briney recently met with several trucking, state and federal officials to discuss the high, tangible and intangible costs of car crashes . She joined several officials including ASSE's David Parsons, Oregon's May Trucking Company Senior Vice President David R. Jostad, Oregon Department of Transportation's Motor Carrier Division's Investigative/Safety/Federal Programs Department Head David McKane, Jubitz Travel Center COO Mark Gram and Sgt. John Naccarato of the Clackamus, Ore., police department, to address this issue.

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Briney went on to note that businesses alone pay about $60 billion per year in medical care, legal expenses, property damages, lost productivity and increased workers' compensation, social security, and private health and disability insurance costs as well as for the administration of all these programs. The average vehicle crash cost to an employer, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), is $16,500. When a worker is involved in an on-the-job crash with injuries the cost to the employer is $74,000. Costs can exceed $500,000 when a fatality is involved -- many times the employees did not cause these accidents, they were the victims.

A recent Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) report estimates that the cost of a police-reported crash involving trucks with a gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds averaged $91,112; a crash with trucks with two or three trailers involved were the rarest, but their cost was $289,549. The cost per nonfatal injury crash averaged $195,258 and fatal crashes cost an estimated $3,604,518 per crash.

"Many businesses have driver safety programs that protect their workers," Briney said. These programs not only make good business sense but also help reduce the risks faced by employees and their families while protecting the bottom line."

Those programs include: garnering senior management commitment and employee involvement; developing written policies and procedures (including seat belt use); regularly checking the safety of the motor vehicles; crash reporting and investigation; vehicle selection, maintenance and inspection; driver training and communication; not requiring workers to drive irregular hours or far beyond their normal working hours; developing work schedules that allow employees to obey speed limits and to follow applicable hours-of-service regulations; enforcing mandatory seat belt use; and banning cell phone use or texting while driving; not allowing employees to conduct work while driving, and more.

Safety professionals also provide information on:

•Securing materials for transport. L oose objects can slide around or come out of the vehicle and become airborne;
•Requiring seat belt use. Each year seatbelts save more than 12,000 lives and prevent 325,000 serious injuries;
•Distracted driving is a factor in 25 percent to 30 percent of all traffic crashes;
•Driving under the influence. DUIs are involved in 40 percent of all fatal crashes;
•Fatigued driving causes about 100,000 crashes a year;
•Aggressive driving -- speeding, tailgating, failure to signal, and running a red light -- can be deadly;
•Young drivers. Under federal law 16-year-old workers are not allowed to drive as part of their job;
•17-year-olds may drive for work but only under strictly limited circumstances. Some state laws may be more restrictive.
Founded in 1911, the Des Plaines, Ill.-based ASSE is a professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property and the environment. Its more than 32,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members lead, manage, supervise, research and consult on safety, health, transportation and environmental issues in all industries, government, labor, health care and education.

Sharing your car for profit? Insurance Companies frown?

2010-05-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

Sharing cars in one way or another has grabbed quite a few headlines lately. From iPhone apps that help you line-up carpooling buddies to private companies that find vehicles available for use, several options exist to help you either find a ride or share your vehicle with someone else. All of these programs are great, but when it comes down to the simplest method of car sharing, handing the keys over to someone in return for cash, the law frowns.

You see, insurance companies don't like this idea of offering up your car to someone else for dough. In fact, they can legally deny coverage of your vehicle if you do so. Current laws In California, and many other states, prohibit the private rental of your vehicle to somebody else, but that could change soon. A bill (AB 1871) written up by Assemblyman Dave Jones (D-Sacramento) aims to change the state's car insurance laws to allow personal vehicles to be rented out without the risk of losing insurance.

You may be wondering why anyone would want to rent out their ride to a stranger. It makes sense if you look at a heavily congested city like San Francisco (pictured). Many residents of the Bay Area do not own personal vehicles and must rent one for trips outside of the city limits. On the flip side, people who do own vehicles rarely use them. In situations like this, private car sharing could be a perfect answer, if the law allowed it.

How To Get An Immediate 10% Savings On Your Car Insurance ? Maybe......

2010-04-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

How To Get An Immediate 10% Savings On Your Car Insurance

Insurance can be confusing at the best of times, but here are some of the most common misconceptions about auto insurance coverage. The colour of your car affects your insurance rate. Most people may not know it, but the insurance industry is colour-blind. It doesn't matter if your car is blue, red, silver, white, or black, your insurance rate for that make and model of car will always remain the same. A 2-door car is more expensive to insure than a 4-door. Not true. In fact a 4-door is often more expensive. This is because insurance companies look at the price of the car, repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history when determining your rate.

Getting a parking ticket means your insurance rates will go up. If that were the case, we'd all be singing the blues. Parking tickets by themselves do not count against your driving record or your insurance, but unpaid fines could affect your ability to renew your driver's licence or worse result in a licence suspension - which will affect your rate. Getting a speeding ticket means your insurance rates will go up.
Not necessarily. Your first minor speeding ticket (up to 15 mph over the speed limit) will probably not affect your insurance rate. But accumulate two or three convictions and you'll probably be paying more to be insured. A major speeding ticket (more than 15 mph over the speed limit) and your rates go up for sure.

You don't have to pay your deductible if the police said the accident was not your fault. The police may not have deemed you criminally responsible for the accident, but it's your insurance company who has the final decision as to whether you pay your deductible or not. If they investigate the accident and rule that it's not your fault, they have the right to waive your deductible. Until then, you better be prepared to pay...

Cheaper cars cost less to insure and luxury cars more to insure. Not necessarily. The premium you pay for your auto insurance is based on many factors including the price of the car, its repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history. When these factors are combined, a cheaper car could cost more to insure than a luxury model. It doesn’t matter which insurance company I have auto insurance with, I’ll end up paying the same rate. Not true. Auto insurance rates vary from company to company - sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year!

Car Cloning don't be a victim

2010-04-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Car Cloning: The Stolen Car Makeover. This is a relatively new phrase for most of us. Find out more about what can happen when your license plates are stolen.

(NAPSI)-If you're shopping for a used car, experts say it's worth remembering the old adage: "If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is."

A growing number of these "deals" turn out to be part of a con involving stolen vehicles and thousands of dollars. This scam-known as "VIN cloning" or "car cloning"-uses a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a legally registered car to mask the identity of a stolen one. Unfortunately, these stolen vehicles often end up in the hands of unsuspecting consumers.

The FBI recently broke up one of the largest car theft rings in the country with the help of CARFAX. Car thieves in Florida, Illinois and Mexico cloned more than 1,000 vehicles worth $25 million.

"Scam artists can make off with as much as $30,000 of your hard-earned money and leave you paying off a loan for a car you no longer own," said Larry Gamache, communications director at CARFAX. "What's worse, you may become part of a criminal investigation as well."

Car thieves obtain VINs by simply swiping the plate or the number from vehicles sitting at dealerships or in parking lots. They then use the counterfeit numbers to alter existing ownership documents using the stolen vehicle identity. Or, they just forge new documents.

The best way to make sure your car is legitimate is with thorough research. A vehicle history report, such as those offered by CARFAX, can be part of the solution to help car buyers avoid becoming victims.

Consumers are also advised to follow these steps to help identify a potential clone:

• Ask the seller to provide the title, service receipts and any other documents for the vehicle. Closely examine each document to make sure the VIN and names all match.

• Tell the seller to show you a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. Pay close attention to where and when the vehicle was registered. Registrations in multiple states over a short time should raise a red flag.

• Check if the mileage readings on all documents are consistent with the current odometer display.

• Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted, professional mechanic prior to purchase.

You can learn more at www.carfax.com.

A vehicle history report could help used-car buyers avoid a scam known as "car cloning."

9 Things That Make Allergies Worse

2010-04-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

With Allergy season upon us, we here at Sav-On found these findings a wealth of information for our readers. Keep healthy!

1.Stressful work deadlines
Researchers at Ohio State University College of Medicine found that allergy sufferers had more symptoms after they took an anxiety-inducing test, compared with when they performed a task that did not make them tense. Stress hormones may stimulate the production of IgE, blood proteins that cause allergic reactions, says study author Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, PhD. If you’re under stress, get enough sleep. A sleep deficit can worsen both allergy symptoms and stress, she says.
2. An extra glass of wine with dinner
Alcohol can raise the risk of perennial allergic rhinitis by 3% for every additional alcoholic beverage consumed each week, Danish researchers found. One potential reason: Bacteria and yeast in the alcohol produce histamines, chemicals that cause telltale allergy symptoms like stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Avoid alcohol when your symptoms are acting up, says Richard F. Lockey, MD, director of the division of and immunology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine.
3. Waiting too long to take meds
Medications that block histamines work best before you’re even exposed to allergens, says allergist James Sublett, MD, a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Start medication a couple of weeks before the season commences or before you’ll be around allergens (if you react to grass, before a golf game, for example).
4. A not-hot-enough washing machine
If you find yourself sniffling in bed, crank your washing machine to the hottest setting. In a South Korean study, laundering cotton sheets at 140°F killed 100% of dust mites, while a warm 104°F wash destroyed just 6.5%. A machine's "sanitize" setting is likely hot enough; check the manual if your model lacks this option. Some units heat water internally, but others use what flows through the pipes, so you may need to boost your water heater. (Caution: This temp can scald in 5 seconds.)
5. Houseplants that make you sneeze
Your innocent orchid could bring tears to your eyes. More than 75% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to at least one common houseplant, found a Belgian study. Allergens in plant sap can diffuse into the air and set off your sniffling. Though any potted greens can be trouble, researchers found that ficus, yucca, ivy, palm, orchid, and fern varieties are most irritating to allergy-prone people.
6. Skipping medication in the evening
One time not to forget your allergy med? Before bed—so the medication will be circulating in your bloodstream early the next day. Symptoms such as sneezing, weepy eyes, and runny nose peak in morning, says Richard J. Martin, MD, chair of the department of medicine at National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver. Choose regular (instead of nondrowsy formulas) for extra help falling asleep promptly.
7. Water workouts in an indoor pool
Chlorine-filled lap lanes can wreak havoc on your system. Used to disinfect, chlorine is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, says Prevention advisor Andrew Weil, MD. And a recent study in the journal Pediatrics found that teens who log more than 100 hours in a chlorinated pool have a 3 to 7 times higher risk of developing hay fever, compared with swimmers who dunk in chlorine-free pools.
8. Friends who smoke
Cigarettes—with their numerous toxic chemicals and irritants—are nasty for everyone, but allergy sufferers may be especially sensitive, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. In fact, one Japanese study of teenage students found that more than 80% of those who came from homes where family members smoked heavily showed signs of nasal allergies.

Even if you don’t hang around smoky bars or other areas, particles on the clothing of smoking friends or coworkers can pollute the air in your home or office
9. Showering in the AM only
Hay fever sufferers would benefit from a quick rinse as soon as they get home from work or after being outside for a while, says allergist Stanley Fineman, MD, a physician at the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic. That’s because hidden pollen particles can get trapped on your body, hair, clothes, and shoes—continuing to trigger symptoms after you’ve returned indoors.

If you’re prone to pollen allergies, slip off your shoes, throw your clothes in the hamper, and shower as soon as you get home to avoid dragging particles all over your home.

2010-04-13T12:39:00.001-07:00

A personal message from one of our agents at Sav-on Insurance

2010-04-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

This week, we here at Sav-On wanted to share the thoughts of one of our Insurance agents, Evelyn Morales. Evelyn works in our Des Moines Office and very recently was informed of a tragedy in her family, involving her cousin's seven year old daughter.

The following was sent via email to all the staff here at Sav-On, please read and pass it on!

Hello everyone, I just wanted to ask everyone of you, that if you are ever driving or riding with children under 10, and they cry b-cuz, they don't want to be in their car seats, or they don't want the seat belt on,, pleaseeeeeee,, please don't let them get away it, don't think that by giving in, you're been cool, or saving your selves a headache,, I was just inform that one of my cousin's daughter lost her life, in a horrible car accident. Her life could have been saved if she was in a car seat. She was 7yrs old and she had only a lap seat belt on. The SUV rolled over 4 times & because she wasn't in the appropriate car seat, she was not able to survive her injuries. Her parents were not allowed to see her because her fatal injuries were so unimaginable. So the next time your child or children in your car are whining,crying or complaining about being a car seat, think about life without them.

I just thought I share this with all of you, b-cuz,, we all have a lil ones that we love so much, it's either our niece, nephew, daughter, son, grandkids, or a lil friend who looks up to us... take care of them by being responsible..

Some facts about SB 6345

2010-03-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Chief of the Federal Way Police Department, was checking his e-mail with his cell phone while behind the wheel of a police cruiser when he rear-ended the motorist in front of him.
Imagine his embarrassment. No injuries. No damage, but a lesson for all of us.

Chief Wilson called Sen. Tracy Eide, D-Federal Way, a long-time champion of legislation to ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. The chief confessed his mistake and promised to come to Olympia to testify in support of Eide’s legislation — Senate Bill 6345.

With the support of Wilson, State Patrol Chief John Batiste and a slew of other people, the Legislature has passed Eide’s bill to ban texting while driving and ban the use of hand-held cell phones by drivers. The bill goes one step further and says drivers under the age of 18 may not use a cell phone at all — even a hands-free device.

Gov. Chris Gregoire signed SB 6345 into law on Friday. Law enforcement officers should start writing tickets June 11. Under the bill, police could immediately pull over someone for texting or talking without a headset and give them a $124 ticket.

A ticket will not become part of a driver’s record and dialing a phone is not considered text messaging. The measure exempts emergency vehicle personnel, as well as anyone who is text messaging or calling and not using a headset to report illegal activity or summon emergency help.

People who are using a hearing aid or operating a tow truck also are exempt.

Passage of the cell phone bill has been a long-standing goal of Eide who introduced her first cell phone bill in 2000. It took until 2007 to get a bill through the Legislature.

That made use of a hand-held cellular phone while driving a secondary offense. In other words, a police officer had to observe a driver breaking another traffic law before the officer could cite the driver for breaking the cell phone law.

Washington was the only state in the union to make its cell-phone ban a secondary offense. As a result, you see people everywhere driving while holding a phone to their ear.

Now, with the new legislation making texting or use of a hand-held phone a primary offense. “Patience is a virtue, but I was close to running out of patience,” Eide admits.

Her bill passed the House on a vote of 60-37 and the Senate 33-15.

“The time has finally come,” Eide said. “People finally recognize it’s a safety issue, and people finally recognize that lives will be saved.”

Eide said a driver traveling on the freeway at 60 miles per hour who glances down at a text message for five seconds will travel one and a half football fields without looking at the road. “People know when they pick up a phone and they’re going 60 miles an hour on the freeway, it’s not a good idea,” Eide said. “Banning this practice is simply common sense.”

Eide is right.

Those who testified in the House and Senate hearings, made some excellent points:

• Driving while using a cell phone is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.

• Distracted drivers miss up to 50 percent of their visual cues.

• Drivers who text have a 23 percent higher risk of being involved in an accident.

• Bicyclists are at risk of being hit by drivers who are not paying attention to the road.

• There are many examples of people who have lost loved ones because of distracted drivers on cell phones and many more of near misses.

• Seventy-six percent of drivers in Washington support a ban on texting and cell phone use while driving.

• Distracted driving needs to be made as socially unacceptable as drunken driving is today.

Eide said that it took her three years to convince her legislative colleagues to pass the graduated driver license law that requires teens to get more driving experience before they can have unrestricted driving privileges.

In the first year the graduated license law was in place, teen traffic fatalities were down 48 percent, Eide said.

Now that the governor has signed SB 6345 into law, let’s hope banning texting and hand-held cell phones while driving will have a similar effect on public safety in the state of Washington.

Prius Fixed Under Recall Still Speeds Out of Control

2010-03-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

James Sikes was driving his 2008 Toyota Prius last week when unintended acceleration hit. Before calling 911, he reached down to pull up his stuck accelerator pedal, but it didn't move.

"My car can't slow down," he began when a California Highway Patrol dispatcher answered his call.

Dispatcher Leighann Parks, repeatedly told him to throw the car into neutral but got no answers, later found out he had to set the phone on the seat next to him in order to apply both hands to the wheel.

Finally, Todd Neibert, the CHP officer caught up with him and gave instructions to Sikes over a loudspeaker as they went east on mountainous Interstate 8 in San Diego County Monday afternoon, stating he smelled burning brakes when he caught up with the Prius.

Neibert told Sikes to shift into neutral but the driver shook his head no, later telling reporters he was afraid his car would flip. Sikes did, however apply his brake; straightening his body and lifting off the seat in order to press it down fully and applied the emergency brake.

Both cars maneuvered around two trucks going uphill to a clear, open road giving Neibert about 15 miles to stop the Prius before a steep downgrade and even considered spike strips to puncture the tires as a last resort.

The wild ride lasted 23 minutes, and finally, the Prius rolled to a stop.

Ironically, James Sikes' Prius was one of the vehicles serviced in the recall for floor mats.

Toyota has recalled around 8.5 million vehicles worldwide (over 6 million in the U.S. alone) due to acceleration problems in multiple models and for braking issues in the Prius. Regulators link 52 deaths to crashes caused by accelerator problems. And there are over 60 more reports of sudden acceleration in cars "fixed" under the recall.

Alternative Tires Made of Orange Oil

2010-03-09T14:59:00.000-08:00

Yokohama has created a sustainable tire made with 80% petroleum alternatives-- a majority of it being oil from orange peels.

“The eco-focused dB Super E-spec mixes sustainable orange oil and natural rubber to drastically cut the use of petroleum, without compromising performance,” Yokohama vice president of sales Dan King said. “It also helps consumers save money at the gas pump by improving fuel efficiency via a 20-percent reduction in rolling resistance.”

However, Yokohama hasn't stated whether the orange oil will biodegrade over time. When burned, the current petroleum based tires smolder for months and can be difficult to extinguish. Will the same be true of the orange oil tires?

Yokohama tires are sustainable (green) and the Yokohama plant in Shinshiro, Japan is zero-emissions. This will expand to other facilities around the world.

"Highlighting our efforts will be tires that exemplify environmental virtues," said Norio Karashima, Yokohama Tire Corporation CEO and president. He added that Yokohama's manufacturing plants around the world will aim for zero-waste output. "We'll work to reuse or otherwise recycle all waste and will introduce cogeneration systems to raise all resource efficiency. We'll work in all our operations to reduce waste and the output of carbon dioxide. Globally, this is our moral obligation."

Many of the ratings and reviews on the web are positive for the Yokohama tires, too. Consumer AND environmentally friendly! Why aren't these getting more press?

Cell Phone Use Growing

2010-03-02T15:11:00.001-08:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release today, March 2, that shows more and more Washingtonian drivers admit to using hand-held devices while driving. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that the number of drivers using hand-held cell phones has more than doubled in the past 20 months, from 17% to 41%. Texting while driving also is growing, jumping from 3% of Washington drivers just 20 months ago to 22%.

Thank you to PEMCO Insurance Company

Anti-Theft Devices: What Works, What Doesn't

2010-03-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know a vehicle is stolen every 26 seconds (according to the FBI's 2007 Crime Reports.) There's ways to prevent theft but first, you should decide if you need an anti-theft device, if you should just take steps to reduce the chance of theft through other means, or both! It's also smart to do the research-- find out if you're in a hot theft area or is your vehicle one of the most stolen! The following may help...

Newer cars are more appealing, and they are usually more secure

The Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles
The following cars and trucks were stolen most frequently in 2008, according to the NICB.

1994 Honda Accord
1995 Honda Civic
1989 Toyota Camry
1997 Ford F-150
2004 Dodge Ram
2000 Dodge Caravan
1996 Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee
1994 Acura Integra
1999 Ford Taurus
2002 Ford Explorer

Vehicle Theft Hot Spots
The following 10 metropolitan statistical areas had the highest rate of vehicle theft per 100,000 residents in 2008, according to the NICB.

Modesto, Calif. 1
Laredo, Texas 6
Yakima, Wash. 9
San Diego/Carlsbad/San Marcos, Calif. 3
Bakersfield, Calif. 15
Stockton, Calif. 4
Las Vegas/Paradise, Nev. 2
Albuquerque, N.M. 7
San Francisco/Oakland/Fremont, Calif. 5
Fresno, Calif. 11

Anti-Theft Options
There's a number of different things you can do to protect your vehicle from theft. Among some of these things are:

Brand parts with your VIN Number

You have have this etched on the windows, under the hood, trunk, battery, etc. May be especially appropriate with aftermarket parts.

You can have it done by a professional or get a DIY kit for about $20.
Steering-Wheel Lock

The Club is probably the most popular and well-known brand. Prices range from $25 to $100, depending on brand.
Kill Switch

When this gets activated, the device shuts down part or all of the engine's electrical system. Some models have one built in, if not, they're relatively easy to install. But check with your warranty first because installation may make it null and void.

These range in cost from $10 to $125.
Alarm System

Alarm systems have a range of features. Make sure it is installed with a back-up battery or invest in a hood lock to deter car thieves from simply unplugging the battery (rendering your alarm useless).
Hood Locks

Bar thieves access under the hood to your battery or parts. Costs range between $20 to $50.
Tire Locks

Similar to "the boot", they're quite visible to thieves but aren't easy to install. Probably best for stored vehicles.

Cost? Between $80-$200.
Vehicle Tracking System

LoJack, OnStar, etc. LoJack, for example works directly with law-enforcement if your vehicle is stolen. The transmitter is hidden (even from the owner) and is activated when a thief is reported. LoJack is highly successful with a 90% return rate.

OnStar is similar and comes standard in all GM's new models, as well as some Acura, Audi, Isuzu, and Volkswagen.

LoJack retails for $695. Depending on the desired features, OnStar starts at $18.95 per month or $199 per year.

Thank you to Cars.com

Toyota Has Repaired 500,000 Vehicles

2010-02-22T12:48:00.000-08:00

Toyota Motor Co. has repaired around 500,000 of the 2.3 million vehicles of their more recent recall over a sticky gas pedal causing unintended acceleration.

Last fall, Toyota recalled millions of vehicles for floor mats that can pin down a car's gas pedal. Sales sank last month after the company stopped selling eight of its most popular models to fix a separate defect that can make the gas pedal stick. But surprisingly enough, general manager of the U.S. division, Bob Carter said Toyota doesn't appear to be losing any market share this month due to the recall.

But the U.S. sales chief James Lentz, today said the massive recall may "not totally" solve frightening problems of sudden, unintended acceleration. And that the changes Toyota is making probably aren't the end of the story.

House members listened to Lentz today and to a woman's near death experience when her vehicle surged to 100 MPH. The government has received complaints of 34 deaths linked to sudden acceleration of Toyota vehicles since 2000.

Toyota president Akio Toyoda is prepared to confront angry U.S. lawmakers tomorrow. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," Toyoda will tell the House Government Oversight Committee. "My name is on every car. You have my personal commitment that Toyota will work vigorously and unceasingly to restore the trust of our customers."

Toyota plans to win back consumer confidence once repairs have been completed. Carter declined to unveil the possiblities, but dealers have admitted to a potential new incentive program or enhanced warranty protection.

LeaseTrader to the Rescue

2010-02-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

LeaseTrader, "the Most Recognized Name in Car Leasing", offers secondary leases for buyers looking for shorter lease terms and $0 down and for sellers looking to give up their lease to responsible buyers.

The highest listed vehicle in Washington State?... 2008 BMW M6 Convertible at $1800 per month with a remaining 13 months.

Sound steep? That doesn't even compare to the 2008 Mercedes S63 AMG listed for $3457.62 for the next 6 months...or the 2007 Mercedes S600 listed at $3177.34 for the next 23 months. Both in Texas.

But the website is a savior to those caught in economic whoas and the cost isn't bad (after considering your $2300 monthly payment) starting at $89.95 to advertise your vehicle and then a seller transaction fee of $149.95 (after $100 rebate).

There has been an 18% increase in the secondary lease market among drivers 55 and older. And LeaseTrader has found that the average age of lease holders is 43.2 in the Northwest; up from 38.5 10 years ago.

How much are YOU willing to spend on a monthly lease?

PEMCO News Release: Alcohol Tolerance

2010-02-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release today, January 27, that shows Washingtonian drivers generally understand their limits for alcohol consumption before it becomes unsafe to drive. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that only one in 10 respondents reported they had driven after drinking too much in the past year. Respondents said they believe a 130-lb. female could have no more than two drinks before reaching a .08 blood-alcohol level, and a 175-lb. male could not exceed 2.5 drinks.

SAV-ON's Involvement with Northwest Harvest

2010-02-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

We received a wonderful e-mail today from Northwest Harvest--

Your service is deeply appreciated, particularly during the holiday season when many of us have extra demands on our time. This year, you have every reason to be especially proud. In December alone, volunteers contributed a record-breaking 9,793 hours of time to help Northwest Harvest be successful. One month into the New Year, it looks as if 2010 could be just as busy for all of us at Northwest Harvest as 2009 was. Currently, volunteer hours are up 33 percent over this time last year.

Because of your generosity, thousands of our neighbors in need have food on the table during some of the winter's coldest and darkest days. We are deeply grateful to each of you for the work you do!

SAV-ON volunteered time and efforts at the Kent Warehouse last December. And it doesn't stop there. Every location has a donation bin and for every referral we get that we provide an insurance quote for, whether or not the policy is written, we donate $1 to Northwest Harvest. In 2009, we contributed a total of $1,076 to this worthwhile organization, and this year we're determined to do even better!

We're volunteering again this month. Anyone and everyone is welcome so let us know if you'd like to join us!

Government Bans Texting By Truck And Bus Drivers

2010-01-26T17:15:00.000-08:00

The Transportation Department decided January 26th that it is prohibiting truck and bus drivers from sending text messages on hand-held devices while operating commercial vehicles.

The prohibition applies to interstate buses and truckers over 10,000 pounds and is effective immediately. Truck and bus drivers who violate the new ban may be subject to civil or criminal penalties of up to $2750.

Nineteen states and the District of Columbia already prohibit all drivers from texting behind the wheel, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. Another 10 states restrict texting by novice (i.e. teen) drivers.

Research by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows that drivers who send and receive text messages take their eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds out of every 6 seconds while texting, the department said. At 55 miles per hour, this means that the driver is traveling the length of a football field, including the end zones, without looking at the road, the department said.

Thank you to NPR.

Oprah Winfrey and Progressive's "No Phone Zone"

2010-01-22T10:50:00.000-08:00

During her show today (Jan. 22), Oprah Winfrey announced that Progressive is sponsoring the No Phone Zone campaign, an awareness campaign designed to educate drivers on the dangers of cell phone use while driving. Drivers are encouraged to visit www.oprah.com/nophonezone to sign a pledge to not use cell phones while driving.

Ms. Winfrey launched the campaign January 15, and already, over 45,000 people have signed the pledge.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, close to 500,000 people are injured and 6,000 are killed each year as a result of drivers talking, texting, or e-mailing while behind the wheel.

“This sponsorship fits well with our brand. We encourage all drivers to operate their vehicles safely,” states Karen Barone, Agency Distribution leader. “In fact, we feel so strongly about this that Progressive employees are prohibited from using any electronic equipment, including cell phones, while driving on behalf of Progressive.”

For more information--or if you'e like to sign the pledge yourself--please visit www.oprah.com/nophonezone.

A Tax Credit for Current Homeowners

2010-01-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

With tax season coming up, are you bummed you didn't qualify for that $8000 tax credit the first-time homebuyers are receiving?

Did you know that there is a tax credit for current homeowners? Current homeowners looking for a replacement residence may qualify for a tax credit of up to $6500 ($3250 if married filing separately) under the new "long-term resident" provision. They must have lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the replacement home is purchased. This new provision also only applies to homes purchased after Nov. 6th 2009.

And now for the exclusions...no homes that cost more than $800,000, you must be over 18 years of age (dependants cannot claim the credit). Those who sell their new home or stop using it as their main residence within three years would have to repay the credit. You cannot claim the credit if acquired your home by gift or inheritance OR if you acquired your home from a related person.

For more information, check out the Federal Housing Tax Credit's FAQs

CarMax Launches Car Giveaway on Twitter

2010-01-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Prizes Include $250 Gas Cards

RICHMOND, Va. (January 4, 2010) - CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX) the nation's largest retailer of used cars, has launched a contest on the social networking site Twitter, to award one lucky winner $25,000 towards the purchase of a used vehicle from CarMax's nationwide inventory. Contestants are encouraged to visit http://www.carmax.com/tweet to find the specific phrase to tweet, which will automatically enter them in the contest.

The "Tweet Yourself to a New Ride" contest will run for eight weeks and, in addition to the grand prize, will award gas cards valued at $250 each to eight separate randomly selected entries. A full list of rules and regulations, as well as frequently asked questions can be found on the contest page, www.carmax.com/tweet.

"Giving away a late-model, fully-reconditioned CarMax vehicle is an excellent way to draw attention to both our great cars and our efforts on Twitter," said Joe Kunkel, senior vice president of marketing and strategy. "This Twitter contest is a fun way to promote our brand and to share our story with car shoppers who haven't previously heard about us."

Twitter is a free, social networking website that enables its users to send and read 140 character messages known as tweets. CarMax uses Twitter to share information about CarMax, car buying tips and auto industry news.

Elderly Drivers a Possible Danger on the Road Too

2009-12-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Back in 2005, Boston Senator Brian A. Joyce attempted to pass Senate Bill 1914, aka an Act to Promote Safe Driving. But in the end there was very little support. No audience attended the legislation in October for Joyce's bill, but there were many people at a hearing the same month for stricter teen driving standards.

Although teen driving is an issue, Joyce sees the issues with elderly driving too.
In 2001, AAA found in a study that drivers over 65 were 25 percent more likely to get in an accident than middle-aged drivers. Seniors were more prone to intersection crashes and can have troubles making left turns, driving in heavy traffic or at night.

Seniors have the second highest crash death rate per mile next to teenagers, according to AAA. The association’s Web site projects that by 2020, there will be more than 40 million licensed drivers over 65 in the United States, up from 18.9 million in 2000.

Christmas Party Photos

2009-12-22T16:22:00.000-08:00

Some photos from our Christmas party compiled by our very own Jose Terrazas. Thanks Jose!

Olive Way Closed For Tunnel Preparation

2009-12-22T10:34:00.000-08:00

Wondering why the Olive Way exit has been closed for months?

The long-awaited light rail is underway! U-Link (University Link) will connect downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, and the University of Washington.

Then in early 2011, tunnels will be created working south from Capitol Hill. When the Pine St. area is reached, the ground under I-5 will need to be prepared.

The Olive Way exit will be closed for approximately one year.

Get all the details on SoundTransit.org

15 Tips to Shopping Online, Securely this Holiday

2009-12-10T10:10:00.000-08:00

Make sure you have installed and updated antivirus, anti-malware and personal firewall software on your computer. Your operating system and Internet browser should be updated with the latest security
patches.
Only shop on secure sites. To see if a Web site is secure, look for “https” in the address bar. Also, there’s usually a small yellow padlock logo at the right of your Web browser address bar. If you double-click on the lock, a digital certificate of the Web site will appear. It’s a good idea to review these certificates on the sites that you are not familiar with.
Make sure that you enter the correct URL. There are cases where hackers have purchased misspelled domains.
Shopping Web sites have no reason to ask for your Social Security number, or passwords to your e-mail or bank accounts as part of the buying process. Never provide them.
If you suspect a Web site is not what it claims, leave it immediately. Do not click any buttons on the site, run any content or download any software.
Use different “strong” passwords (those that are more secure) for online retailers and your personal e-mail accounts. A strong password is composed of numbers, upper- and lower-case letters and symbols. For example, a password like “3dogz$$!” is a better option than “1006.” The longer and more unique the password the better, but make sure it’s also something you can remember.
Before purchasing anything on a Web site, read site reviews or blog comments by other people. Use sites such as Pricegrabber.com or Froogle.com (Google shopping) for comparing prices and to read users’ reviews of the retail Web site.
Retailers may try to lure you into saving your personal information on their Web site in return for more convenience or better deals. Don’t do it. So
many Web sites have had their customer databases breached by identity thieves lately that it’s just not worth the risk.
Read each Web site’s return and privacy policy before making your purchase.
Be aware of phishing e-mail scams that include Web site links advertising incredible deals. Rather than clicking on them, type the link of known sites by
hand into your browser.
Use credit cards for online purchases, not debit cards. That’s because debit cards automatically deduct money from your bank account. Try to use cards with low credit limits to minimize the damage in case someone steals your information to take over the account. Or, use a “one-time” credit card number from payment processors such as PayPal.
Do not send your payment information via regular e-mail; these communications are not secure.
As a general rule, uncheck boxes advertising “additional offers.” These services are sometimes offered for a low initial fee that later increases to a
high, recurring charge on your credit card.
Save records of all your purchases either in an electronic document or on paper.
Don’t forget to power off your computer completely
when you are finished using it.

10 Auto Winterizing Tips

2009-12-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

CarMax's automotive service technicians offer these ten winterizing tips:

Check your anti-freeze. The best ratio of anti-freeze to water is 50/50. The No. 1 cause of engine-related breakdowns is cooling system failure. To prevent those breakdowns, have your cooling system flushed every two years.
Replace your windshield wiper blades twice a year. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with freeze resistant wiper fluid (plain water and standard windshield washer fluid will freeze) and keep an extra gallon in the trunk.
Check your battery. If the battery is more than three years old, have a technician test its capacity. Have the alternator tested at the same time. Make sure the battery terminal ends are corrosion-free.
Check your tire pressure. Check the pressure when the tires are cold, and set the pressure to the car manufacturer's recommendations for your specific tires. When the weather turns cold, the air inside the tire will contract and the pressure will drop.
Look at the tread depth on your tires. Put a penny headfirst between the treads. If you can see the top of Lincoln's hair, it's time to replace the tire.
Check your spare tire. Make sure it has the proper air pressure and tread depth and that all the proper tire-changing equipment is in the vehicle.
Make sure your lights, heater and defrosters are working properly.
Check all rubber hoses and belts to ensure they are not damaged. Coolant hoses wear from the inside out. Inspect for heavy cracks or chunking in the belts. Alternatively, have a professional inspect all hoses and belts.
Have your car's brake system checked. If you haven't had the system inspected in the last six months, have this performed.
Assemble a winter emergency kit for the trunk of your vehicle. It should include a blanket, extra boots and gloves, an ice scraper, windshield washer fluid, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, flares, a small snow shovel, a flashlight, kitty litter (for traction when stuck in snow) and bottled water.
"It's a good idea to have a full gas tank," Damon said. "You never know when you will be caught in a storm or need to change routes."

Along with following these tips, it's also important to read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. Not only will these tips keep you safe in the winter months but they can also improve your vehicle's mileage while also preventing future repairs down the road.

Only 1-in-4 Have Flood Coverage

2009-12-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

With only 1-in-4 homes covered in the Green River Valley, WA area, insurance commissioner Mike Kriedler is urging residents to purchase now, especially with the 30 day waiting period.

“Recent work on the Howard Hanson Dam has lowered the risk of catastrophic flooding in the valley. That’s the good news,” Kreidler said. “But the risk of flooding is still significantly higher than normal. Getting this relatively low-cost coverage can protect against major losses.”

FEMA will be revising their flood zone in the Green River Valley and these maps will likely broaden the area considered high-risk. These new maps take effect in September 2010.

Many don't realize that renter's can get contents-only coverage starting at only $39 for the year. However, we are suggesting that they consider building coverage too in case the building does not have a master policy for flood.

Kriedler adds, “renters shouldn’t assume that their apartment owner’s insurance will cover their losses, because it generally doesn’t,” said Kreidler. “A flooded apartment can easily lead to thousands of dollars in damages. Renters have to protect themselves, too.”

Log on to our website: www.sav-on.com for a quick quote or call us 1-888-867-2866.

PEMCO Addresses Car Maintenance

2009-12-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release today, December 1, that shows Washingtonian drivers understand changing their oil and filter can prevent costly breakdowns. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that 53% said changing the oil and filter is the single most important step they can take, more important than regular tune-ups, changing air filters, changing the transmission fluid, back-flushing the radiator, or responding to the check-engine light. PEMCO’s network of auto shops agrees.

Thank you PEMCO

FREE Santa Photos!

2009-11-30T05:00:00.000-08:00

Come in for your FREE photo with Santa. Please bring a donation for Northwest Harvest (non-perishable food items or monetary donations). Limit one per family please.

Hosted by SAV-ON Insurance
22815 Pacific Hwy S
Des Moines WA 98198
Sunday, December 13th
11am and 2pm

Protecting Your Stored or Classic Vehicle Against Mice

2009-11-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

What’s the best way to keep mice out of my car while in storage during the winter?

First, try to store your car in a location that is free of rodents. Second, remain vigilant in visiting, cleaning, and running your vehicle as often as possible. Many collectors suggest surrounding the outside of the car with mothballs placed a few inches apart. Mice hate the smell and usually will not walk through this "barrier." And just to be safe, consider putting shaved pieces of Irish Spring soap on foil or in small open containers inside the vehicle. The odor from the soap is less objectionable than that from the mothballs, but will still help you deter the rodents. You can also consider one of the electronic deterrent devices available for your garage, but the ultimate protection may just be a "car cocoon" device (www.classiccarcocoon.com), which completely encloses the vehicle and can assist with controlling moisture as well.

Thank you to Hagerty Insurance Company

Donate to Local Charities by Voting

2009-11-25T12:06:00.000-08:00

Our friends over at McClain Insurance have done something extra special this year! Vote for your favorite local charity and PEMCO NW Profile.

Check out their website McClainThanksgiving.com to place your vote. They will donate $2 for every vote among 8 fantastic charities until December 15th.

Flood: Get The Facts

2009-11-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Living in a low-risk flood area doesn't guarantee no or little flooding. Just like living in a high-risk area doesn't always mean that there will be a lot of flooding! But either way, flooding damage will almost always mean a lot of damage...and we know a lot of damage means a high cost of repairs.

In 2008, flood damage in the United States exceeded $1.8 billion with paid flood insurance claims averaging $27,974.

Flooding destroys your walls, floors, furniture, electrical system...and your savings! And the effects of a flood will remain long after the water is gone.

Heavy rains, clogged or inadequate drainage systems, and broken water mains can cause flooding putting your home and belongings at risk. Flood insurance is the only way to protect yourself from the financial devastation that even a small amount of water can cause. Don't take it from us, use FloodSmart.gov's interactive tool to find out what a little or a LOT of water can do to your home!

And then contact us!!
Call: 1-888-867-2866
info@sav-on.com
Request Flood Insurance Quote

Construction in Des Moines

2009-11-20T12:48:00.000-08:00

Midway Sewer District and Highline Water District will be replacing about 2 miles of under-sized and aging water mains in an area between Pacific Hwy South and 20th Ave S between S 248th St and S. 252nd St. Also, all sewer mains and laterals in approximately the same location will be replaced to improve system reliability and reduce inflow and infiltration into the sewer system. After replacements, all affected roads will be resurfaced with new pavement.

Construction is anticipated to be completed late this year.

FYI, Homeowners Policies DO NOT Cover Flooding

2009-11-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

Your regular homeowners policy does not cover flooding. But a flood insurance policy does.

Flooding is the #1 natural disaster.
Flood damage is not covered by most homeowners insurance policies.
25% of flood claims are filed by people living in low-to-moderate risk areas.
In high-risk areas, 1 in 4 homes will experience a flood over the course of a 30-year mortgage.
Only 2 inches of water in your home can cost $7,800 or more in damage. (Can you guess what 1 foot would be? Find out the cost with this interactive tool from FloodSmart.gov.)
Disaster assistance- if it's available- is usually a loan you must repay with interest.
Flood insurance is mandatory if you live in a high-risk area and have a mortgage from a federally regulated lender. Check with your lender for details.

Aren't those enough reasons to protect yourself from flood?
If you haven't already, now is the time. Call us 1-888-867-2866, e-mail us, or request a flood quote from the web today.

Flood insurance rates are all federally regulated by FEMA which means, it's the same cost anywhere you go. So why not shop with the Agency that cares, the agency you trust?

Remember, all flood insurance policies have a standard 30 day waiting period!

Thanks to FloodSmart.gov

Veterans & Military Personnel? Enter CARSTAR's Contest!

2009-11-12T15:40:00.000-08:00

All veterans & military personnel are invited to come in to Bob Bjorneby’s CARSTAR Federal Way Collision & place their name in an appreciation drawing for gift certificate for dinner at the Space Needle and one night’s accommodation at the Westin Hotel in downtown Seattle.

No Purchase Necessary
(must show military ID or proof)

Drawing to be held November 30th, 2009.

Note: this drawing is being held in partnership with Federal Way, Des Moines and Kent CARSTAR stores. CARSTAR employees and immediate family members are not eligible.

Bob Bjorneby's CARSTAR Federal Way Collision
1750 So. 327th St
Federal Way WA 98003
Phone : 253-874-9330

Chance of Flooding Decreased, Residents Jubilant but Vigilant

2009-11-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

ELLEN M. BANNER / THE SEATTLE TIMES
Sandbags are lined up around the Green River to prepare for potential flooding.

The Army Corps of Engineers has been working hard to make secure adjustments and repairs on the Howard Hanson Dam and good news arrived last Friday...the chances of flooding have been lowered from a 1 in 3 chance to a 1 in 25 chance!

Since January, they've pumped a half a million gallons into the damaged abutment to hold back water during days of heavy rain. This last Thursday, Corps of Engineers Col. Anthony Wright said that it is, indeed, doing it's job. The grout bonded with earthen materials to slow seepage enough that he was able to increase the capacity of the reservoir behind the dam of about 33% to about 50% of its normal capacity.
Therefore, reducing the risk of causing forced flooding in the Auburn valley region to about 1 in 25 with an overall risk of 1 in 33 with the sandbags and other security features to be installed.

Col. Wright maintains, however, that if we again experience Pineapple Express (a series of storms carrying heavy moisture from the subtropics) like we did in January, he would have to cause flooding by releasing water from the dam.

The new numbers are are fantastic improvement, but residents are still staying on guard.

King County Executive Kurt Triplett stated "the new percentage sounds great, but the reality is we had just that type of storm event 10 months ago. I'm definitely going to be sleeping easier..., but we're not out of the woods."

When the dam is fully restored with a concrete wall built within the abutment, there will only be a 1 in 140 chance of flooding. This could be 3 to 5 years away.

New Radars and Gauges to Fight Flooding

2009-11-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

More rain gauges and an experimental weather sensor will be installed in the Green River basin to help boost the odds that federal officials can predict which storms might lead to flooding.

These systems, which are already used in California, measure water vapors in the air and wind speed and direction several miles above Earth's surface. Forecasters may be able to use this information to better predict whether impending storms will have enough rainfall to cause flooding within 24 hours in advance.

The new rain sensors are not foolproof, though, Colman said. They are still experimental, and one of the weather service's most difficult tasks, technologically, is gauging how much rain will fall during a given storm.

"But if before we were calling for 2-4 inches of rain and this lets us refine that to say 2-3 inches ... even removing that bit of uncertainty will be helpful," Colman said.

Thank you to Seattle Times.

H1N1 Tips

2009-11-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

Here's a great e-mail regarding Swine Flu...if you haven't gotten it, it's going around! (The e-mail, not the flu :))

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you need to eat or bathe).

3. Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt).
H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similar to #3 above, clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga "asanas" to clean nasal cavities), but blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.

5. Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (i.e. citrus fruits). If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can.
Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

SAV-ON Halloween Contest Update

2009-10-30T17:41:00.001-07:00

Our original Dopey was out sick, but we had a great stand in...meet Kid's Club Secretary, Donny!

When the Evil Queen found out where Snow White was hiding, she came to drop off an apple.
Careful Snow White!

AND NOW THE RESULTS!

The Des Moines office as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs first place, the "Best Costume" trophy, and pizza next week!

The Kent office won 2nd place, the "Most Original" trophy and will also be enjoying pizza next week.

And Normand in our Lynnwood office gets a consolation prize for his awesome rendition of Jack Sparrow; a McDonald's Big Mac Meal!!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween! For tips on trick or treating, check out our latest newsletter.

Halloween Office Contest!

2009-10-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Halloween, 3 offices compete for the pizza lunch!
Which is your favorite??

Kent Office

Des Moines Office

Lynnwood Office

Bellevue Office
Freeze, POLICE! .... Somebody isn't insured with SAV-ON ...

Homeowners, Time to Winterize!

2009-10-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

Conduct a Roof Inspection: A professional roof inspection can identify roof damage while it still costs hundreds, instead of thousands, of dollars to fix. This inspection should also tell you the condition of your attic ventilation, key in preventing the formation of destructive ice dams. If you simply can't come up with the $200-$300 fee, at the very least conduct your own visual inspection to look for signs of wear-and-tear.

Make it Green: The most energy-efficient roof really depends on your location. Metal roofing works best for warmer climates, but an upgrade to roof insulation is universally green and a great idea before winter hits.

Clean your Gutters: Probably the most common and least neglected task of the bunch, don't take your gutter cleaning for granted. Proper cleaning involves more than just throwing easy-to-reach leaves out of the channel. Flush your downspouts and keep an eye out for any signs of gutter deterioration.

Make it Green: Retrofit your gutters to collect rainwater and snow melt next spring and summer to aid your lawn irrigation.

Insulate and Seal Windows: If you don't already have double-pane windows, it's time to jump on the bandwagon. With heating costs, few home improvements pay for themselves as quickly as replacement windows. If you simply can't afford it, use thick plastic covers or blankets to help out in the meantime. And regardless of the number of panes, take a look at your window frame. It may need new sealant.

Make it Green: Truly green windows are more than just double-paned. Different glazes will allow you to use daylighting techniques, and window treatments will allow you to block the heat gain of next summer's mid-afternoon sun.

Seal and Inspect Doors: Some homeowners pay so much attention to their windows that they forget their doors. Take a look at your entry door for air leaks and use weatherstripping to help seal the joints. Take a look at your garage door, too, for both insulation and home security value.

Make it Green: A new wood door for the entry, garage, or both will increase your home's curb appeal and it's insulating R-value simultaneously.

Evaluate the Furnace/Heating System: This one has a ton of upside. Catching problems with your heating system before winter hits almost always saves a bunch of money and will give you some time to plan for a replacement system, if necessary. If nothing else, at least change the filter, no matter the age or condition of your system.

Make it Green: For replacement systems, start with the big ideas first. Get an estimate for geothermal heating and cooling. If that doesn't pan out, take a look at split-system heat pumps or furnaces with an Energy Star label.

Winterize Your Landscaping: Just because you'll be spending most of the winter indoors doesn't mean all your maintenance is on the home itself. Properly close your swimming pool, winterize your sprinkler system, and prepare your garden for next year's planting.

Make it Green: Take the winter to grade your personal landscaping conservation practices. Is it time to start composting? How much water would you save with a fully-automated sprinkler system? Is there a good spot to plant a new tree in the spring?

Miscellaneous and Emergency Preparation: For most homes, winter means the looming possibility of snow and/or ice storms. A back-up generator is a great idea, but still no substitute for an emergency kit, complete with food and water, a reliable radio, and first-aid kit. Investing in a snow blower isn't a bad idea, either, especially for older homeowners who are vulnerable to heart problems.

Make it Green: Don't worry about saving the planet, until you've first saved yourself and your loved ones. Still, a back-up generator will, among other things, help make sure plumbing lines don't freeze and burst. After all, burst pipes harm both your household and your local environment.

Thanks to ServiceMagic.com

Flood Insurance, Time is Running Out!

2009-10-19T13:54:00.000-07:00

For people that wait too long for a flood insurance policy, you may be in for a rude awakening when companies stop offering it!
With the high volume of policies being issued, companies are starting to see that they could be in for some catastrophic financial losses.

Attention homeowners, renters, & mobile owners! Flood is not included in your regular policy. Flood works a little differently and we're always here to explain how flood coverage, exclusions, and deductibles work.

It's also VERY important to remember that there is a 30 day waiting period for flood policies. Which essentially means that if you take out your policy on 10/20/09, your policy will not go into effect until 11/20/09. Any flood occurring before that date will not be covered.

So just call us or e-mail us for a quote TODAY! You will be surprised at how inexpensive flood coverage can be.

For Flood Quotes & Questions
E-mail: info@sav-on.com or call 1-888-867-2866

Career Changes & Children Likely to Prompt Women to Purchase a Car

2009-10-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

For women, purchasing a car can often be triggered by major life events, particularly changes in employment and family, according to a recent survey conducted for CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars.

Sixty percent of women surveyed indicated that a change in their career, whether it was a new job (37 percent) or retirement (23 percent), would be most likely to initiate the purchase of a vehicle. However, for women between the ages of 18 and 34, forty-one percent responded more likely to purchase a car when they become pregnant or welcomed another child into the family, a similar percentage as those surveyed who chose “new job” in the same age group.

“Many personal factors affect women shopping for a car,” said Donna Wassel, Southwest region vice president of CarMax. “Changes in family and employment create an opportunity to evaluate your current driving situation. If a car purchase is right for you, shopping at a no-hassle, no-haggle car retailer such as CarMax can make the experience a fun and enjoyable one.”

The following are the results of the recent poll that asked women: Of the following life events, which is most likely to prompt you to purchase a car?

The survey was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. The national sample consisted of more than 500 U.S. women, aged 18 and older who were interviewed online August 17 through August 19, 2009.

Holiday Hosts Need a Personal Umbrella

2009-10-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

Nearly 29 million American s will plan to host a party between Halloween and the Super Bowl. More importantly, over 21 million of those party hosts do not have Personal Umbrella Insurance, leaving them open to lawsuits and potential financial ruin.

If a party guest drinks, drives and causes an accident, the hosts can be held responsible. The high dollar value of jury awards combined with skyrocketing health care costs means one lawsuit can easily exceed the liability limits provided by the average homeowner policy.

SAV-ON has multiple companies which offer Personal Umbrella policies to cover you in the event of such a claim.

Call us today at 1-888-867-2866, e-mail info@sav-on.com, or request a Quik Quote!
For only 50 cents a day, you won't regret it!

Thank you to Mutual Insurance Company!

Energy Efficiency Improvements Tax Incentive

2009-10-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

The $8,000 New Home Buyer Tax Credit (along with the Cash-for-Clunkers) may have dominated the headlines recently, but some energy efficiency Tax Credits offered by the federal government could be even more useful for the average homeowner. You may be eligible for a tax credit equal to 30 percent of the cost of materials (up to $1,500) for certain products purchased between January 1, 2009 and December 31st, 2010.

Click below for the rating specifications for eligible energy efficiency products or request the document from us: info@sav-on.com.

Thanks to Prudential

PEMCO news release offers water-damage tips

2009-10-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release October 1, that reveals Washington residents’ perceptions of the most-frequent causes of homeowner claims. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that only 14% of people correctly identified water leaks as the leading cause of homeowner claims, while more than one-fourth incorrectly believe bad weather causes most claims. The news release also offers tips on how to prevent common leaks, such as with ice-makers, dishwashers, washing-machine hoses, and outdoor faucets.

CarMax Advises How to Avoid Flood-Damaged Cars

2009-10-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

In the wake of recent flooding, CarMax, Inc., (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, is advising consumers on how to avoid purchasing flood-damaged vehicles.

"Consumers should be aware that some businesses and individuals may try to sell salvaged and flood-damaged cars without revealing the vehicle history," said Jason Day, Atlanta region vice president of purchasing for CarMax.
Flood-damaged cars that are not structurally or mechanically sound could be repaired, re-titled, and sold to unsuspecting buyers."

CarMax’s purchasing team offers these ten tips for identifying a vehicle with possible flood damage. If any of these signs are identified, ask further questions to determine if flood damage occurred:

Check for a moldy smell inside the car and feel the carpet for dampness

Be suspicious of an older car with a brand new interior or carpeting

Check for rust under the brake or gas pedals

Look for dirt or rust under the dashboard and floor mats

Inspect the bolts and screws under the seats for evidence of rust

Check the undercarriage for excessive rust

Check inside the trunk under the carpet and in the spare tire well area for rust, dirt or sand

Look for corrosion, water marks, or a thin brown line on the exterior of the vehicle

Check to see if the electrical system works

Check the VIN number with AutoCheck or Carfax to see whether a flood claim has been filed or a salvage title has been issued on the vehicle

Buying a Car is a Hassle For Women

2009-09-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Buying a car is a hassle for women, according to a recent poll conducted for CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars.
When asked about their last car buying experience, a fourth of the women who responded felt a quick and effortless transaction was most missing, according to a new survey of more than 500 women. Fair, low pricing and having a trustworthy salesperson were also cited as the other top factors missing when buying a vehicle.

“Now more than ever, women want a car buying experience that is straightforward and fair,” says Donna Wassel, Southwest regional vice president of CarMax. “Finding a car retailer with low, no haggle pricing that offers an easy transaction with integrity can help take away the hassle.”

The following are the results of the recent poll that asked women: Thinking about the last time that you bought a car, which of the following was most missing?

Results of the Survey
A quick, effortless transaction - 25%
A fair trade-in value - 19%
A trustworthy salesperson - 15%
Low, fair pricing - 13%
A reasonable finance rate - 13%
Respect - 2%
I have never bought a car - 13%

CarMax offers the following tips for women car shoppers:

Go online to research vehicle types, makes, models, options, features, and prices. Visit websites such as carmax.com to search thousands of cars, see actual prices, view multiple photos, obtain vehicle history reports, read customer reviews and more.
Print out fact sheets or information about the vehicles you are interested in, and have them ready when you step onto the lot.
If you plan on selling your car, bring key paperwork items with you, including title and registration for your current vehicle, your driver’s license, and insurance card.
If you have been pre-approved for a car loan, bring the approval letter with you.
Find a car retailer and salesperson you like and trust by asking friends and family for referrals.
Try a retailer that offers no-haggle prices and a la carte pricing on each part of the car buying transaction – the vehicle price, the extended service plan, the trade-in, and the financing.
Think about selling your car separately from your car purchase. You can bring your car to CarMax for an appraisal – it’s fast, free and convenient.
Have confidence in your car shopping abilities. You have done your research and are prepared to make a smart car buying decision.
Do not hesitate to ask lots of questions—as many as you need so that you understand exactly what you are paying for.
Be prepared to walk away if you are unhappy with your car buying experience.

The survey was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. The national sample consisted of more than 500 U.S. women, aged 18 and older who were interviewed online August 17 through August 19, 2009.

Seattle: Best Fall Destination

2009-09-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

MSN named Seattle as one of the 14 best Fall destinations!

It’s true that Seattle gets rainier in the fall, but it’s still an enchanting city to visit in autumn; be sure to leaf-peep in the Washington Park Arboretum. If it does rain, Seattle’s renowned arts scene has plenty to keep you occupied, with fall openings in theater, opera and fine art. Also delightful: Hotel rates are down 20 percent this fall from a year ago, while airfares have dropped 13 percent. (MSN)

Take a stroll through Discovery Park or hike Mount Rainier! Whatever your fancy, see the top 10 Best Seattle Park Attractions for more fun jaunts this Seattle Fall!

One that didn't make the list (and a personal favorite of mine), is the somewhat hidden Parsons Gardens (see photo) located on Queen Anne hill on the corner of 7th Ave. W and W Highland Dr.

Flood Resources

2009-09-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

The time will soon be here when the Green River will likely flood. Now is the time to prepare (and to purchase flood insurance!)

The following are some helpful websites if the day comes. SAV-ON will continue to update on the flood watch and provide information or tips as necessary.

Want more details on the Green River flooding? Read our prior post 4 Major Seattle Cities at Flood Risk

FEMA Map Service Center
Plug in your address and view a map for flood zone information.

King County iMAP Interactive Mapping Tool
More user friendly but limited to King County residents. Choose Stormwater from the drop down box and get detailed information regarding flood risk. Most detailed but longest to load. You can also use the Parcel Viewer version which is quicker but requires your parcel number.

FEMA Map Viewer
Plug in your address and view a map for flood zone ifnormation! Very user friendly and provides information for the entire country.

How To Prepare For a Flood
Quick information from King County and a few resource websites and phone numbers.

Important Phone Numbers for Flooding (King County)
Important phone numbers and resources regarding flood information. Limited to King County.

Are You At Risk For Flooding?

2009-09-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

How do I get a copy of the National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) map for my area?

Call the FEMA Map Service Center at 1-800-358-9616. If you are looking for information regarding a specific piece of property it is important to know the community number and panel number. Less specific maps for counties, cities or towns do not require this information. Each map is $.50 and each order is $2.50 for shipping and handling.

From FEMA.gov

Unemployment Rate Rises Again

2009-09-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

The unemployment rate has risen back to 9.2% here in Washington State after seeing a drop in rates in July, to 8.9%, (originally calcuated at 9.1%).

Washington lost about 8000 agricultural jobs last month after gaining 11,800 but the biggest decline was seen in professional and business services with a loss of 2500 jobs.

Retail trade and education and health services were also down 2400 and 1800 jobs, respectively, but government saw growth of 1800 new jobs, leisure and hospitality with 800, transportation, warehousing, and utilities, up 700, and construction with a gain of 200 jobs.

Economists say that the small gain in construction is a first since January 2008.

More than 319,000 people in Washington are still looking for work according to the Employment Security Department.

Last year at this time, Washington's unemployment rate was 5.4%. The state lost 126,100 jobs from August 2008 to August 2009, a 4.2 percent decrease. Nationally, employment declined by 4.3 percent over the past year.

However, Washington state's unemployment rate is lower than the national rate, which was 9.7% for August.

Thank you to KIRO News

New Spanish Commercial Airs this Month!

2009-09-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Our latest commercial to air this month on a few Spanish channels. Here's the sneak peek! Marque ya!

Uncovering the Common Cold

2009-09-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

With Summer going strong, the word "cold" may not be what you expected to see this month...Did you know that getting a cold is actually quite common, even in warm weather? Whether they hit you in Winter or Summer, colds are such an exhausting fact of life that we can't help but wonder: why haven't they come up with a cure?

Well, the most common answer is that there is no cure available, but the reality is that what we term a "cold" may refer to any one of hundreds of different varieties of disease. Some are contagious viruses, some are infections and some are influenza (the flu).

Since it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint the source, here are some helpful tips for you...

What DOES NOT cause a cold:

Being cold--no proof that winter or cold or rain makes us more susceptible to getting a cold.

What MAY cause a cold:

Lack of sleep. In many tests it has been shown that those with less than 7 hours of sleep were more likely to catch a cold.

Lack of Vitamin D. There have been studies that show that colds can be associated with low levels of Vitamin D.

What TREATMENT WORKS:

Well, none actually.

There are plenty of drugs and cures that aim to make you feel better but these medicines treat your symptoms to make them less noticeable.

There is no known medicine that can reduce the length of an infection.

Antibiotics have no effect on a common cold.

The best thing to do is to wash your hands frequently and to avoid those who knowingly have a cold. The virus often comes in through your nose and eyes, so avoid touching your face as much as possible.

All of us here at Sav-on Insurance Agencies wish you and your family continued health.

PEMCO news release addresses politeness while driving

2009-09-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release today, September 10, that reveals Washington drivers’ perceptions of how polite – or aggressive – their fellow motorists are. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that women drivers consider themselves more polite, male drivers consider themselves more aggressive, and Western Washington drivers consider themselves slightly more polite than do Eastern Washington drivers. Also, it's amusing to note that all drivers see themselves as more polite than "the other guy," saying they witness other drivers being erratic or rude nearly 10 times as often.

Fake Air Bags Lead to Death

2009-09-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

A lengthy KIRO Team 7 Investigation exposes a widespread, dishonest and deadly secret: You may not know if your car really has airbags until it's too late.
Investigative Reporter Chris Halsne discovers something no federal or state agency has ever attempted: how often phony airbags play a role in killing drivers.

Vik Lim is the Van Gogh of fake airbags. Our undercover investigation discovered his shop specializes in repairing wrecked car interiors, cutting out previously deployed airbags, then gluing the shells back together.

Read the remainder of this shocking article, Fake Air Bags, Fatal Consequences

When are Booster Seats Required?

2009-09-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

"Age 4 to 8, unless they're 4-feet 9 inches tall," State Patrol Trooper Cliff Pratt said. "Anything 4 feet 9 inches or taller should be in a safety belt."

In a booster seat, the "shoulder belt should cross the shoulder and the chest," Pratt said. "It should never be under the child or behind the back. The lap belt should rest low across the lap or upper thigh area, not across the stomach."

RCW section 46.61.687 has more details, available here.

Thank you to the Seattle PI's "Seattle 911"

SAV-ON Proudly Sponsors Youth Sports Teams

2009-09-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

SAV-ON is proud to support the local community and youth sports teams. Enjoy the team photos!

Co-Owner Rick Devitte proudly stands alongside the Des Moines Bulldogs Basketball team!

The Des Moines Dragons Baseball team are all smiles!

In addition to being active in the community, all 6 SAV-ON locations offer Northwest Harvest drop boxes all year round! Thanks to the Kent office for recently donating another full box!

Media Event Announces Solar Pie Project

2009-09-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Elected officials and news reporters will be at PEMCO tomorrow, Sept. 2, for a lunchtime media event announcing our support of Solar Pie, a local not-for-profit that teamed with our Real Estate department to install solar panels on PEMCO’s Home Office roof. The event takes place in PEMCO’s parking lot directly across Harrison Street from our loading dock.

During the event, we’ll “unveil” new information on our rooftop time and temperature sign. In addition to showing time and temperature, during daylight hours the sign will also show kilowatts being generated, while at night you’ll see reductions in carbon emissions made possible by the solar panels. Web surfers will be able to track the data at http://solarpie.org/pemco/, and a new webpage on pemco.com will summarize the Solar Pie project.

PEMCO is playing a support role in this project. Our purpose is to help Solar Pie’s principals, Carolyn and Scott Sherwood, educate the public that solar energy works, even in cloudy Seattle. The PEMCO Seattle Solar Pie Project is made possible by our Real Estate department; Seattle-based contractor McKinstry, project managers; and Seattle City Light and the Seattle Department of Planning and Development, regulatory oversight. For more information, check out the recent Seattle Times article: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009614669_solarpie07m.html

This post was made possible on the behalf of Jon Osterberg, PEMCO marketing communications manager, 206-628-4019.

Survey Shows Support in Banning Texting While Driving

2009-09-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Data suggests legislation alone will not solve the problem

Columbus, Ohio — Nationwide Insurance today released the results of its new On Your Side® survey, which found that 8 in 10 Americans surveyed this month say they would support legislation restricting cell phone use while driving. The survey, conducted Aug. 5-9, 2009, by Harris Interactive, reports that 80 percent of Americans favor a ban on texting while driving, while two thirds favor a ban on cell phone calls, and more than half say they would support a ban on cell phone use altogether. Earlier this summer, Nationwide announced its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving to help curb crashes and reduce auto insurance claims.

The survey results are being announced as hundreds of highway traffic safety advocates and officials are convening at the Governors Highway Safety Association’s annual conference in Savannah, Ga., to discuss driving while distracted (DWD) and other highway safety issues. This meeting is taking place in advance of a presidential summit on DWD that is scheduled for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 in Washington, DC.

“In recent months, the debate about the dangers of DWD has intensified as more and more states consider taking legislative action,” said Bill Windsor, Nationwide’s Safety Officer. “The survey results confirm that there is strong public support for banning texting while driving. It also provides insight into support for additional restrictions policymakers may want to consider.”

Public support for DWD legislation
The results of the new survey show there are varying degrees of support for different types of restrictions. Overall, the survey found that 8 in 10 drivers support some type of cell phone usage restriction.

The majority of respondents say they are supportive of laws restricting any type of cell phone use while driving.

80 percent of respondents support a ban on text messaging while driving.

80 percent of respondents support a ban on e-mailing while driving.

Two thirds (67 percent) of respondents say they are supportive of laws restricting phone calls while driving.

Of those who support some type of cell phone usage restriction, nearly 3 in 4 believe the law should apply to all drivers, not just specific groups.

Regional differences
In geographic regions where one would expect to find higher cell phone usage and more multitasking lifestyles, support for a ban was high. The majority of respondents in the west and northeast regions say they would support a ban on any type of cell phone use while driving.

Generational differences
While it’s not surprising that older generations are supportive of bans, even members of Generations X (ages 33-44) and Y (ages 21-32), who are more likely to use cell phones, are supportive of laws – particularly those banning text messaging and e-mailing. Three fourths of Generation X and Y respondents favor these restrictions.

The overwhelming support for legislation may be driven by increased public recognition of the dangers associated with DWD. In 2008, Nationwide’s DWD survey revealed that 45 percent of respondents had been hit or nearly hit by another driver using a cell phone.

Need for education
According to the survey released today, respondents say they are witnessing a growth in distracted driving behavior on the roads, underscoring the importance of public education to raise awareness about this dangerous practice.

More than half of respondents say they see more drivers using cell phones while driving than they did 12 months ago.

Nearly three-quarters of respondents say that when they drive, they always or often see other drivers using cell phones.

The importance of technology
“The new information in this survey also indicates that many drivers are either in denial about their DWD habits or resistant to changing their behavior,” said Windsor. “This suggests that legislation may not be enough to eliminate distracted driving and highlights the need for a technological solution that can prevent cell phone usage in moving vehicles while still allowing people to stay connected.”

Drivers in denial
Nearly half (49 percent) of drivers say a law restricting use of cell phones would not change their behavior because they don’t currently use cell phones while driving.

When you compare this statistic to Nationwide’s 2008 DWD survey, which revealed that more than 80 percent of drivers admit to talking on their cell phone while driving, it may be the case that some drivers are either in denial or too embarrassed to admit their DWD problem.

Resistance to new laws
In the new survey, four out of five respondents (82 percent) who admit to using their cell phones while driving say their behavior would change if cell phone usage were restricted by law.

However, 18 percent of respondents who admit to using their cell phones while driving say they would continue to do so regardless of a change in law, with Generation Y most likely to resist the change (26 percent).

Further evidence that a technological solution is needed comes from Nationwide’s 2008 DWD survey. This study found that 43 percent of drivers believe technological advances that prevent cell phones from working in a moving vehicle would be the most effective solution to DWD.

Nationwide’s commitment to reducing DWD
Nationwide is committed to helping customers protect what matters most and that is why the company recently stated its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving. In addition to saving lives, fewer DWD related crashes could also result in lower insurance costs for consumers.

“DWD impacts all of us in one form or another and Nationwide will continue to raise public awareness about this important issue,” said Windsor. “By working closely with legislators, public safety officials and other key stakeholders we can arrive at real-world solutions to this problem and help make the roads a safer place.”

Survey methodology
This survey was conducted by Harris Interactive via its National QuorumSM telephone omnibus service. This study was conducted by telephone within the United States between Aug. 5-9, 2009 among a nationwide cross section of 1,008 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, and region were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. The results for the overall sample have a sampling error of +/-3 percentage points at a 95 percent certainty.

High-Tech Speed Traps Online In Bellevue

2009-08-31T10:13:00.000-07:00

BELLEVUE, Wash. -- As nearly 17,000 students started school in Bellevue Monday, new high-tech speed traps went online.

Drivers will see the new cameras and warning signs as they approach Lake Hills and Stevenson elementary schools.

The sign surrounded with flashing lights gives drivers about 150 feet to slow down to the 20 mph school zone speed.

For the first 30 days, drivers who violate the speed zone during school start and release hours will get a warning. After the transition period, drivers caught on camera will be fined with a $124 ticket.

The Bellevue City Council's web site emphasizes that the council will be reviewing the cameras' performance every six months.

The City Council approved the pilot program early last April.

From KIRO Online

PEMCO: Texting While Driving Rate Up

2009-08-27T11:51:00.001-07:00

PEMCO Insurance issued a news release, August 25, that reveals more Washingtonians are texting while driving. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that of those who use electronic devices, more of them – 18% – admit to reading or sending text messages while driving than in February 2008, when only 6% said they did so. Ironically, the same poll found that increasing numbers of drivers are concerned that texting while driving is a dangerous distraction.

Des Moines Office Wins Prestigious Award

2009-08-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

SAV-ON Insurance has been selected for the 2009 Best of Des Moines Award in the Insurance Agents category by the U.S. Commerce Association.

Each year, the US Commerce Association (USCA) identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Thank you to our wonderful clients and others that made this award possible. We will continue to strive for the most excellent service and provide to families and individuals in need in our local community.

US Commerce Association Website

WA Unemployment Rate Decreased in July

2009-08-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

Are we seeing a change in our economic status? Washington State saw an unemployment rate decrease this last month at 9.1%, down from 9.2% in June. A small gain...but in the right direction!

We gained 4000 new non-agricultural jobs last month. The last time we had a gain in jobs was in November 2008.

Washington is below the national unemployment rate of 9.4% (July) but still, more than 315,850 people are currently unemployed and seeking work in this state alone.

Mileage is Top Reason for Depreciation

2009-08-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

An online survey by CarMax, Inc found that most Americans see mileage as the top reason for depreciation, even over an accident. Other major reasons were frame damage and not keeping up with regular maintenance, which was chosen more by women than men.

The results of the survey:
Vehicle mileage - 33%
Accident or frame damage - 24%
Keeping up with regular maintenance - 22%
Current market data - 12%
Flood damage - 7%
Title issues - 2%

Ohio City, 10,000 Tickets in a Month

2009-08-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Installation of 10 new traffic cameras has led to a whopping 10,000 tickets issued in Heath, Ohio in just a 4 week period.

To make matters worse, the turn around time on the mailed citations is such a long period of time that many of the offenders unknowingly racked up quite a few more tickets in the meantime. And then, to challenge a ticket, a $100 bond must be posted. So essentially, the offender has paid the ticket hoping to get refunded after their hearing.

The 10,000 citations would mean $830,000 in revenue for the city, but it's likely many of the tickets will be dropped.

Some have stated the Redflex traffic cameras are just too sensitive. A huge possibility seeing as how Redflex takes a portion of the ticket earnings.

The Redflex website boasts "the longest consistently-operating company in the photo enforcement industry."

4 Steps to Take in Emergency Situations

2009-08-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

The main thing is staying calm...and follow these 4 steps in an emergency situation!
From Carepages.com

Assess the situation. Is your loved one bleeding or did he have a blow to the head, a fall, or an allergic reaction? Is he experiencing any symptom specifically related to his illness? What were you both doing just prior to the emergency? Is he responsive? Are his pupils enlarged and are they the same size? Was there a complaint of pain or anything else relevant? What is different or unusual about your loved one? “Observe, observe, observe,” says Guerra in anticipation of calling 911.
Call 911. Do this when you have the even slightest hint that your loved one is facing a life-threatening emergency. “A call to 911 is the best thing in any emergency,” says Guerra. Do not attempt to take anyone with a potentially serious problem to the hospital yourself; instead, call 911 immediately. Give the 911 operator as much information as you can, so that emergency personnel can be fully prepared to assist your loved one when they arrive, says Guerra. It's crucial to accurately describe the situation and speak slowly and clearly when talking with the 911 operator. Mention any pre-existing conditions, such as a history of heart attack, diabetes, a bleeding disorder, or asthma.
Loosen any tight clothing. Make sure your loved one has nothing constricting the airways, like a restrictive shirt or tie, and keep them in a comfortable position while you wait for help.
Comfort and communicate. Talk to your loved one until 911 arrives. Guerra recommends that you keep your loved one awake by talking to them, but don’t encourage them to talk. Take slow, deep breaths to help yourself stay calm as well.

Blue Angels I-90 Closures

2009-07-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again when the Blue Angels take flight. The following is the I-90 Floating Bridge closure schedule:

Thursday - July 30th
First closure: 9:45am - 12:00pm
Second closure: 1:15pm - 2:30pm

Friday - July 31st
12:45pm - 2:40pm
(practice show)

Saturday - August 1st
12:45pm - 2:40pm
(full show)

Sunday - August 2nd
12:45pm - 2:40pm
(full show)

Insurance Myth: You've Got Insurance To Pay EVERY Claim

2009-07-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Insurance Myth: Insurance is there to pay for every claim or accident...
Truth: Insurance is meant for catastrophic losses.

Small claims and accidents that could have been paid out of pocket will usually come back to haunt you in the form of higher premiums...or worse, non-renewal. This is something that is prevalent with homeowners policies and Preferred auto companies.

Also, a lower deductible may make it possible for you can make more claims-- but you pay the price. Literally. If you can pay for the loss or damage without a financial hardship then pay it.

Something to keep in mind...depending on your policy, you may not have the coverage to pay your claim! For example, you're driving down a rural road and hit a deer; you don't have comprehensive or collision coverage and there's considerable damage to your vehicle. In this case, you're out of luck.