Facing a Hardening Workers’ Comp Market

By Frank Pennachio  From the January 2012 issue of American Agent & Broker

As 2012 begins, the workers’ compensation market is turning back toward increased costs and reduced capacity. this presents challenges, from explaining rate increases to finding a home for clients. Learn how to take action.  read more..

Does Your Legislator Understand You?

By Rep. George J. Keiser   December 20, 2011

Let’s gather together:

38 mayors, 24 health care professionals, including veterinarians, dieticians and pharmacists, Three organic farmers, Three ranchers, Three vintners, Two former pro athletes, Six scientists, Five accountants, four ministers, Four sheriffs.

Throw in a mountain guide, an auto worker, coroner, shellfish specialist, tugboat captain, driving instructor, auctioneer, toll booth collector, cosmetics salesperson and iron worker. Fill out the roster with even more diverse occupations and you’ve just assembled the current 111th Congress. Not an insurance professional among them.  read more..

ADA Amendments: Broader Definition Likely to Cause Spike in Claims

By Chad Hemenway, PropertyCasualty360.com
From the December 5-12, 2011 issue of National Underwriter P&C

Steps taken by federal officials to broaden the definition of “disability” is putting pressure on employers—and insurers are forecasting an increase in employment-practices liability (EPLI) claims.  read more..

Holiday Schedule

Friday, December 30—Closed
Monday, January 2-Closed

Eyes on the Road: NTSB Calls for Ban on Personal Electronic Devices

By Chad Hemenway, PropertyCasualty360.com
December 14, 2011

NU Online News Service, Dec. 14, 12:26 p.m. EST

After reviewing a fatal accident that occurred more than a year ago, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is calling for a nationwide ban on the non-emergency use of personal-electronic devices while driving.  read more..

Educational Article Series Part 4: Program Business—From Submission to Finish Line

Part 4: Taking the Approved Insurance Program 'Live'

By Timothy J. Harkins  December 9, 2011

Bringing a new insurance program to market is an exciting time for the program’s agency and staff, as well as their carrier partner.   read more..

Educational Article Series Part 3: Program Business—From Submission to Finish Line

Part 3: Financial Modeling and Negotiating a Finalized Program

By Archie McIntyre  November 11, 2011

Successful dedicated insurance programs depend on many factors, not the least of which is excellent communication between the program’s agency and its new carrier partner.  read more..