2011 Top Safety Picks

Safest Rides

More than 60 models earn the 2011 TOP SAFETY PICK

Automakers have stepped up safety. Ten new vehicles have joined the 2011 TOP SAFETY PICK winners list from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for a total of 66 winners. One of them is the 2011 Ford Explorer, which joins, for the first time, previous and current Ford SUV winners: the Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT. The all-new Ford Fiesta is the only minicar to earn the TOP SAFETY PICK in 2011.

What’s not on the list? Pickups. None of the small pickups the Institute evaluated qualified for this year’s award, and large pickups haven’t yet been tested.

The front-running automakers on the list are Hyundai/Kia and Volkswagen/Audi who each have 9 winners for 2011. Next in line with 8 awards apiece are General Motors, Ford/Lincoln, and Toyota/Lexus/Scion. Subaru is the only manufacturer with a winner in all the vehicle classes in which it competes. Subaru earns 5 awards for 2011.

Notably, for consumers looking to buy a fuel-efficient small car, General Motors provides a new award-winning option with the Chevrolet Cruze. GM built the Cruze—which has 10 standard airbags—including ones for the knees, to outperform the government’s minimum roof strength requirements and touts the achievement as a selling point.
If you’re buying a new car, keep safety in mind and check out the full list of winners. Also, give us a call beforehand and we can let you know how much your new car will cost to insure before you buy. We can help you learn which safety features can earn you a discount on your ERIE auto insurance, too.

2011 TOP SAFETY PICK Winners:

Large cars
Buick LaCrosse
Buick Regal
BMW 5 series (except 4-wheel drive and V8)
Cadillac CTS sedan
Ford Taurus
Hyundai Genesis
Infiniti M37/M56 (except M56x 4-wheel drive)
Lincoln MKS
Mercedes E class coupe
Mercedes E class sedan
Toyota Avalon
Volvo S80

Midsize cars
Audi A3
Audi A4 sedan
Chevrolet Malibu
Chrysler 200 4-door
Dodge Avenger
Ford Fusion
Hyundai Sonata
Kia Optima
Lincoln MKZ
Mercedes C class
Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback
Volkswagen Jetta sedan
Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen
Volvo C30

Small cars
Chevrolet Cruze
Honda Civic 4-door models (except Si) with optional electronic stability control
Kia Forte sedan
Kia Soul
Mitsubishi Lancer sedan (except 4-wheel drive)
Nissan Cube
Scion tC
Scion xB
Subaru Impreza sedan and hatchback (except WRX)
Toyota Corolla
Volkswagen Golf 4-door
Volkswagen GTI 4-door

Minicar
Ford Fiesta sedan and hatchback (built after July 2010)

Small SUVs
Honda Element
Hyundai Tucson
Jeep Patriot with optional side torso airbags
Kia Sportage
Subaru Forester
Volkswagen Tiguan

Large SUV
Volkswagen Touareg

Minivan
Toyota Sienna

Midsize SUVs
Audi Q5
Cadillac SRX
Chevrolet Equinox
Dodge Journey
Ford Explorer
Ford Flex
GMC Terrain
Hyundai Santa Fe
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Kia Sorento built after March 2010
Lexus RX
Lincoln MKT
Mercedes GLK
Subaru Tribeca
Toyota Highlander
Toyota Venza
Volvo XC60
Volvo XC90

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance  Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Should your teenagers have their own insurance?
• Online defensive driving courses
• 9 ideas for saving on your auto insurance

Independent agents have access to more companies with a bigger variety of rating and payment plans.  Check us out at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me for more information.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to help you decide your specific insurance needs.

Happy New Year!

Making Good on Your New Year’s Resolve

Don’t drop the ball on your New Year’s resolutions. This year, try some resolutions that are easy to keep and will protect you and your family well into next January and beyond.

1. Don’t be a distracted driver – Many vehicle crashes are avoidable if you pay attention to the road. Inattentive driving accounted for nearly 6,000 crash fatalities and an estimated 515,000 injuries in police-reported crashes in 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Distractions typically include talking, eating, grooming, attending to children, watching a video, reading, adjusting a navigation system and using a cell phone.
2. Keep your home warm – The temperature in your house should be at least 65 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), winter storms are the third-largest cause of catastrophe losses, resulting in about $1 billion in insured losses annually. The average water damage and freezing claim was $5,531 in 2007, the most recent year for which there are figures from ISO’s Property Claims Services.
3. Protect your home – Each year billions of dollars are paid out in homeowners insurance claims, with residential theft averaging over $1,800 in losses per burglary, according to I.I.I. Keep your yard well lit and put indoor lights on a timer. If you’re going on vacation, have mail and packages picked up and ask a trustworthy neighbor to keep an eye on things. Before the trip, invest in an alarm system — it’ll help keep your house safe and could earn you a discount on your coverage.
4. Check your coverage – Homeowners spend billions on additions, alterations, maintenance and repairs each year. Review your insurance coverage to include improvements, major purchases and increased rebuilding costs. If a new addition or gazebo, for example, is destroyed or damaged before you increase your coverage, then you may be responsible for the cost of repairing or rebuilding the addition. If you rent and don’t have renters insurance, talk to your agent as soon as possible.
5. Test the detectors – You’ve heard it before, but many families simply forget to test their smoke detectors. Make sure yours is in working order with new batteries and that one is installed on every floor and in every bedroom. Test them regularly. The National Fire Protection Association offers a free smoke alarm installation guide online. Also make sure that your home is equipped with at least one working carbon monoxide detector.  Properly working carbon monoxide detectors can help protect you and your family by providing an early warning before the deadly gas builds up to a dangerous level.

For more ideas on how to protect your home and family throughout the year, contact our agency. If you have questions about your insurance coverage, we can help with that, too.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Watch out for deer!
• Getting ready to use your fireplace or woodstove?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Are You Ready for Winter?

The bliss and tranquility that often accompanies the proverbial “Winter Wonderland” could turn chaotic if you don’t follow the proper cold weather safety precautions. Do you know what to do if you get stranded in your car? What can you do to prevent ice storm damage? Here are some tips for preparing for and dealing with winter storm.

Before the storm:

• Know the winter terminology that may appear across the bottom of your television screen or on the local radio station.
  • Winter Storm Watch: Severe winter weather may affect the surrounding area.
  • Winter Storm Warning: Severe winter weather conditions are on the way. Take cover and be prepared.
  • Blizzard Warning: Blinding snow and dangerous wind chills are expected for several hours. Sustained winds of 35 mph are expected to sweep the area. A traveler’s advisory is issued if driving conditions are expected to be dangerous or slow moving.
• Winterize your car long before the first snowfall hits. Winter weather is unpredictable and may surprise you early in the season. Prepare or purchase a disaster kit for your car or truck
• Winterize your trees and bushes by trimming long branches. The ice and wet snow that accumulates on branches can cause damage to your home, car or neighbors.
• Salt and shovel walkways often.
• Drain your pipes if you go on vacation or experience a power outage to prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.
• Make certain that each family member has a warm winter coat, gloves or mittens, hat or scarf and water-resistant boots.
• Keep your gas tank full in the winter months to protect your fuel line from freezing.

During the storm:

Be patient. Most deaths that occur during a winter storm are not caused directly by the storm, The three leading causes of winter storm related deaths are:

• Traffic accidents: Slow down and leave ample space between your car and other drivers.
• Heart attacks from shoveling snow: Consider hiring a professional snow removal service.
• Exposure to cold: Wearing hats and boots will help prevent hypothermia.

After the storm:

• Once the storm conditions subside, assess your home and property for ice and storm damage.
• Contact our office as soon as possible if you need to file a claim. After business hours, contact ERIE’s Extended Hours Claims Service at (800) 367-3743.
• Dry any wet building materials or contents promptly to avoid mold, mildew or further damage. These include materials and items such as carpeting, furniture, insulation and drywall.
• If you have access to a camera or video camcorder, document your losses. This will help speed up the claims process. Compile a list of damaged items.
• Hold off on permanent repairs until your ERIE adjuster approves your reimbursement.
• Keep all receipts related to repairs and temporary housing.
• Carefully brush the heavy accumulation of snow off your roof.
• Keep gutters clear, if possible, and shovel snow away from downspouts, basement window wells and stairwells.
• Beware of high water runoff and possible sewer problems as the snow melts.
• To prevent flooding, be sure your street storm sewer is clear of snow, ice and debris.
• Check your sump pump periodically to ensure that it is handling the amount of water from thawing snow. Auxiliary pumps are available at home centers. Wet vacs, fans and humidifiers can also help to keep the area dry if a sump pump fails.

When all is said and done, enjoy the Winter Wonderland. But remember to be safe and that Erie Insurance and our agency are here to help.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Watch out for deer!
• Getting ready to use your fireplace or woodstove?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Thanksgiving Cooking Safety

Gobble Gobble!

Be the best, and the safest, cook this Thanksgiving

We’ve all heard about the dangers of distracted driving. But how about distracted cooking? According to the Home Safety Council, cooking is the number one cause of home fires. The reason is that people start to cook something and then forget it’s on the stove.

It’s especially easy to get pulled away from the stove around the holidays, when family and friends gather for feasting. So if you’re cooking this year, check out these tips to prevent fires and burns before getting started. Number one on the list: Always stay in the kitchen while cooking on the range.

Also, you may want to think twice before frying the turkey… here’s why.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Watch out for deer!
• Getting ready to use your fireplace or woodstove?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Watch out for deer!

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, each year there are an estimated 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions nationwide, causing damage, injuries and even death.

By taking precautions, you can reduce your risk.

Watch your watch…and your calendar:

• Most deer-vehicle collisions occur in the months of October, November, and December, particularly during hunting season.
• The peak collision period is the first two weeks of November.
• Other high-risk times include the last week of October and the month of January.
• The highest-risk hours are between sunset and midnight and shortly before and after sunrise.

Be cautious:

• Stay awake, alert and sober, and always wear your seatbelt.
• Drive at a safe, sensible speed for conditions.
• Increase the distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you, especially in wooded areas.
• Deliberately look for deer, particularly when driving during peak collision times.
• Be extra cautious in areas where deer commonly cross roads and where roads divide fields from forests.
• When driving at night, use high-beam headlights (which illuminate deer eyes) when there is no opposing traffic

When deer are near:

• Slow down and blow your horn to urge the deer to leave the road – never rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences, and reflectors to deter deer.
• If the deer stays on the road, stop, put on your hazard lights, and wait for the deer to leave the roadway.
• Never try to drive around a deer while it’s on the road.
• Never swerve your vehicle to avoid striking a deer. If a collision is imminent, hit the deer while maintaining full control of your vehicle.

If a crash happens:

• Keep your distance to avoid injuries.
• Keep an eye out for other deer, as they frequently travel single-file in groups.
• If the deer is blocking the roadway, contact the Game Commission or a local law enforcement agency.

Related posts:

• Should you take a higher deductible to save money?
• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Getting ready to use your fireplace or woodstove?

Are you thinking about building a nice warm fire? Here’s a great article with safety tips from the US Fire Administration:

More than one-third of Americans use fireplaces, wood stoves and other fuel-fired appliances as primary heat sources in their homes. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the fire risks when heating with wood and solid fuels.

Heating fires account for 36% of residential home fires in rural areas every year. Often these fires are due to creosote buildup in chimneys and stovepipes. All home heating systems require regular maintenance to function safely and efficiently.

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) encourages you to practice the following fire safety steps to keep those home fires safely burning. Remember, fire safety is your personal responsibility …Fire Stops With You!

Keep Fireplaces and Wood Stoves Clean

• Have your chimney or wood stove inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist.
• Clear the area around the hearth of debris, decorations and flammable materials.
• Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces. Leave glass doors open while burning a fire.
• Install stovepipe thermometers to help monitor flue temperatures.
• Keep air inlets on wood stoves open, and never restrict air supply to fireplaces. Otherwise you may cause creosote buildup that could lead to a chimney fire.
• Use fire-resistant materials on walls around wood stoves.

Safely Burn Fuels

• Never use flammable liquids to start a fire.
• Use only seasoned hardwood. Soft, moist wood accelerates creosote buildup.
• Build small fires that burn completely and produce less smoke.
• Never burn cardboard boxes, trash or debris in your fireplace or wood stove.
• When building a fire, place logs at the rear of the fireplace on an adequate supporting grate.
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended. Extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Soak hot ashes in water and place them in a metal container outside your home.

Protect the Outside of Your Home

• Stack firewood outdoors at least 30 feet away from your home.
• Keep the roof clear of leaves, pine needles and other debris.
• Cover the chimney with a mesh screen spark arrester.
• Remove branches hanging above the chimney, flues or vents.

Protect the Inside of Your Home

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside and outside of sleeping areas. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider installing the new long life smoke alarms.
• Provide proper venting systems for all heating equipment.
• Extend all vent pipes at least three feet above the roof.

For the original article and more information, see: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/heating/fireplace.shtm

Related posts:

• Should you take a higher deductible to save money?
• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Tips for a safe Halloween!

BOO!

This Halloween, stay safe from scary surprises

It’s almost Halloween! It’s the time of year for hair-raising, bone-chilling and goose-bumping. But while most scares are harmless fun, others can have more frightening consequences. Here are some tips and tricks for a spooky, but safe, Halloween.

For parties

• If you’re using dry ice, make sure to keep it away from food — if ingested, it can cause severe injury. Refer to these safety suggestions from the National Weather Service.
• Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper are highly flammable. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
• If you’re often the party-thrower, consider a Personal Catastrophe Liability policy. This type of insurance adds extra liability coverage that offers financial protection in case a big accident occurs. Give us a call, and we can fill you in on how a Mastercover^SM policy from ERIE works.

Tips for drivers, parents and costumers

From the National Safety Council:

Drivers:

• Watch for children darting out from between parked cars.
• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.

Parents:

• Have an adult or responsible older child supervise trick-or-treating outings for kids under 12.
• Instruct your children to travel only in familiar areas and along an established route.
• Use a flashlight to help you see and others see you.
• Only walk on the sidewalk, if available, or far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.
• Remind kids never to enter a stranger’s home.
• Tell children to refrain from eating any treats until they get home.

Costume design:

• Get costumes made of fire-retardant materials.
• Make sure they’re loose so warm layers can be worn underneath.
• If kids will be out after dark, use light-colored materials or retro-reflective tape to increase visibility.

Treats:

• Feed kids an early meal before trick-or-treating begins.
• Inspect all treats before any are eaten.
• If fruit is received, wash it and slice into small pieces.
• When in doubt, throw it out.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Should you take a higher deductible to save money?
• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Overcome the Temptation: Don’t Drive Distracted

(Safety tips from Erie Insurance)

Do you text while driving? Or, check your e-mail? It’s tempting just to take a quick peek at a stop light—we know. But the data is mounting: driving distracted is serious and dangerous. Here are a few tips to help you overcome the temptation.

Lock your phone or other personal electronic device in the glove compartment. Why fight temptation? Just put the source away.

Let incoming calls go to voice mail while driving. Don’t even look to see who it is.

Don’t talk to other risky drivers. If someone calls you while they are obviously driving, say: “Please call back later.” Text messages are trickier: if they are obviously sent from the road, ignore them and (later) ask that driver to stop. Social disapproval is a good way to encourage others not to text while driving.

Pull over, if you must use your phone. If you really do need to talk to someone, or must use a device that requires your visual attention, pull off the road. If you’re on the highway and must place a call or send a text message, get off at the nearest exit. Also, weigh the risk of not calling (or doing the task) versus the risk of losing control and endangering others on the road or in your car.

Never, ever, text while driving, period.

Think of safety when buying a new car. Automakers are putting more and more entertainment inside cars. Consider buying a car that has fewer of these and more safety devices. The car with more safety features may cost less to insure, too. We can let you know for sure what it will cost to insure a new car. Just give us a call when you’re shopping.

And remember, just be safe. Your Erie Insurance policy will help cover you when accidents happen, but insurance is about more than just financial protection. It’s about keeping your risk to a minimum—so that you don’t have that accident. And that’s why we wanted to remind you to keep your eyes on the road and stay safe.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of NewYork (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Should your teenagers have their own insurance?
• Online defensive driving courses
• 9 ideas for saving on your auto insurance

Independent agents have access to more companies with a bigger variety of rating and payment plans.  Check us out at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me for more information.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to help you decide your specific insurance needs.

Safety tips: Reducing your chances of a home burglary

The following insurance tips are from the International Risk Management Institute’s Personal Lines Pilot newsletter.

U.S. residences were burglarized more than 1.5 million times in 2008, according to the latest FBI studies. Nearly 65 percent of the thefts occur during the day because people are often not at home during the weekday. Proper home theft prevention ideas and techniques, however, can reduce the odds of a home burglary. Consider the following loss control techniques to reduce your chances of suffering a home burglary.

• Invest in a burglar alarm with a central monitoring station. Research indicates that homes without security systems are about three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems. If a burglar is aware that a home has an alarm, he or she is more likely to avoid that home.
• Property identification programs are another deterrent to burglary. Many of these programs involve the use of stickers on which your driver’s license number is imprinted. These are then placed (and become permanently imprinted) on all valuable personal property, such as stereos, televisions, and computers. This makes it more difficult for burglars to fence or pawn the property.
• Safeguarding dwelling components such as doors and windows make it tougher for burglars to enter the home. Many home security experts recommend all exterior doors be 1 3/4-inch thick solid wood, metal, or composite material. Strike plates on door jams are typically installed with 1/2-inch screws; however, these should be replaced with 3-inch long screws so that locked doors cannot be kicked in easily. Doors should also have deadbolt locks, with at least a 1-inch throw and a reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws.
• Exterior lights with a motion-sensing switch should be installed; timers on lights are also recommended.
• Keep your garage door secure and locked even while you are home.

Get more personal lines insurance and risk management tips and ideas from IRMI.

Copyright 2010
International Risk Management Institute, Inc.

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Protect against bike theft

Here’s an interesting article I found from Erie Insurance:

Protect Against Bike Theft

If your bike is worth more than a few hundred dollars, you may want to give your agent a call to make sure it is properly protected.

Have fun biking!

Related posts:

• Should you take a higher deductible to save money?
• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

What you need to know about hydroplaning

Summer thunderstorm season is right around the corner. That means slick roads, limited visibility and yes, hydroplaning. Your ERIE auto insurance will be there in case anything happens. But, why not avoid the hassle—and the danger of irreplaceable damage?

Here are the facts you need to know.

What it is
Hydroplaning occurs when built-up water on roadways is not sufficiently pushed out of the way by your vehicle’s tires when going at a regular or high speed. The water then causes your vehicle to rise and slide on top of a thin layer of water between your tires and the road. All traction is lost in less than a second and you have very limited control of your vehicle.

What to do if it happens
If you find yourself hydroplaning, stay calm. Don’t brake or turn suddenly. Ease your foot off the gas, and hold the wheel firmly. Do not steer in any direction other than straight. If you do need to brake — and don’t have anti-lock brakes — do so gently with a pumping action.

How to prevent it
Drive slowly and carefully when it’s raining or there is water on the road. Take your time around curves and steer and brake with smooth, light touches. Most of America’s roads are crowned, meaning water will run to the sides and puddles will accumulate. So, keep towards the middle of the road and drive in the tire tracks left by cars in front of you.

Also, if you see a puddle up ahead, steer clear of it or choose another route. And, be extra cautious at intersections where engine oil and water mix, creating extremely slick spots.

And last but not least, avoid using cruise control. There is a chance that your car will accelerate if you hydroplane, and your reaction time will be slower if using cruise control.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Should your teenagers have their own insurance?
• Online defensive driving courses
• 9 ideas for saving on your auto insurance

Independent agents have access to more companies with a bigger variety of rating and payment plans.  Check us out at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me for more information.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to help you decide your specific insurance needs.

Identity recovery coverage: should you add it to your homeowners insurance?

Get Your Good Name Back

ERIE’s affordable Identity Recovery coverage quickly restores the credit and reputation of identity theft victims

While the overall economy is still a little sluggish, it’s boom time in the shady business of identity theft.

There are more than 10 million victims of identity theft each year, and the Identity Theft Resource Center predicts that rising unemployment will drive more people to commit identity fraud in 2010. The organization predicts that, while online scams will persist, more thieves will turn to low-tech methods such as stealing Social Security numbers, dumpster diving or “phishing” for credit card numbers.

Here are a few ways to protect your identity:

• Shred your documents
• Be wary of sharing personal information online or by phone. If you’re shopping online, don’t provide your Social Security number and make sure the Web site you’re using is secure.
• Don’t use your Social Security number for a password
• Consider purchasing ERIE’s Identity Recovery Coverage, an insurance product that can help you recover your identity should it ever be stolen.

To read the full story of what experts expect from identity thieves in 2010, check out the full story on eriesense.com. And, if you’d like to purchase extra protection, we can help.

ERIE^® insurance services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

Related posts:

• Should you take a higher deductible to save money?
• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• 3 good ways to make a home inventory

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Update: Costs reduced for online defensive driver courses

I had previously listed several online defensive driving courses. Now AARP’s online course has been approved in New York, at a substantially lower cost than other courses. The course is only $23.95 for AARP members and $27.95 for everyone else. Upon completion, you get a 10% discount on most of your personal auto coverages for the car you drive for the next three years.

Not yet at retirement age? AARP’s course is designed for older drivers, but is available to all licensed drivers.

Live in a different state? AARP’s course costs even less in other states, since you don’t have to pay the $8 fee to New York State. Check with your agent to see if any insurance discount would apply.

You have to spend about 6 hours on the computer, but you have full control over the timing;  you can take breaks when you want and complete the course on your own schedule.

Here are links to some other currently-approved online courses:

• American Safety Council, Inc.
• National Point and Insurance Reduction Course, Inc.
• I DRIVE SAFELY
• USA Training Company, Inc.

The full list and details of the program are available at the New York DMV website.

Related posts:

• Some ideas for saving money on car insurance
• How is your auto insurance premium determined?

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Take it easy on winter roads

For several months every year, winter weather is every driver’s leading adversary- slippery roads, salt trucks, whiteouts and dead batteries. No matter the severity of your winter, safety must always be your first priority. Erie Insurance and Albion Agencies offer the following tips to help you deal with winter’s challenges:

Tires first

• Use properly inflated all-season or winter tread tires. Don’t forget a spare.
• Take your car to your local tire shop or auto parts store to check the tread.

Under the hood

• Have a mechanic check your battery, cables, hoses, belts, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater, exhaust system and fluid levels.
• Make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid.
• Always maintain at least a half tank of gas.

On the road again

• Beware of ice. Bridges and overpasses freeze with the slightest amount of moisture.
• Stopping—Drivers without an Antilock Brake System (ABS) should gently pump the brake. Drivers with ABS should use continuous pressure. Consult your owner’s manual for recommendations specific to your vehicle.
• Starting—Gently press the gas to accelerate from a stop.
• When going up hills, gather momentum slowly and do not stop on the hill.

Load it up and bring it along

• An ice scraper and a snowbrush
• Water, snacks, warm blankets and some extra clothing in case of a long delay
• A 25-pound bag of sand, salt or kitty litter to add traction
• A shovel to free your car in case it gets ‘snowed-in”
• A first aid kit with bandages, gauze, hydrogen peroxide and medical tape

If you get stranded – If you are ever stranded with help hours away, follow these guidelines:

• Do not leave your car.
• Wool items, newspapers or paper bags help protect from frostbite.
• Slightly open one window so heavy snow or ice cannot seal the car shut.
• Run engine and heater for 10 minutes every hour.  Be sure the exhaust system and underside of your car are clear of snow and blockage.

 

Related posts:

• Save on auto insurance with an online defensive driving course
• Some ideas for saving money on car insurance
• Safety tips: Driving in the rain

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.

Decorating? Here are a few safety tips

The holiday season can be a fun and busy time for all of us as we celebrate with family and friends. Getting caught up in the excitement of sleigh bells and mistletoe may cause us to lose track of the added hazards of the season. Here are some safety tips from Erie Insurance and Albion Agencies:

Trees

• If you choose to use an artificial tree, make sure it is fire-resistant.
• For real trees, freshness is key. Look for a tree with a sticky resin trunk and needles that bend instead of break. Water it daily.
• Keep your tree at least three feet away from direct heat sources (fireplace, radiator).

Trimmings

• All trimmings should be made of non-combustible or flame-resistant material.
• Keep decorations with small removable parts out of the reach of children.

Lights and extension cords

• Only use lights that have been safety tested by an independent testing lab. Look for the laboratory’s label of approval on the box
• New or old, check each set of lights for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely.
• Do not overload extension cords. Use no more than three sets of lights per cord unless advised to the contrary by the lighting manufacturer.
• Do not run cords under carpets or rugs.

Candles

• Place candles within sight and where they cannot be knocked down or blown over.
• Always use non-flammable holders and keep burning candles away from drafts and vents.
• Keep candles away from other decorations.
• Store matches, lighters and candles out of the reach of children.
• Extinguish all candles when leaving a room or before going to sleep.

Fireplace

• Use a sturdy screen in front of the fireplace to protect against sparks.
• Place stockings and other trimmings away from the direct heat of the fireplace.
• Do not burn wrappings.
• Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned annually by a professional, certified chimney sweep.
• Do not use gasoline, kerosene or lighter fluid to start a fire.
• Never leave a fire unattended.

Related posts:

• Homeowners Insurance – How much coverage do you need?
• What insurance should you have if you rent an apartment?

For more information, drop by our website at www.albionagencies.com, or get in touch with me.

The information in this post is general in nature, and geared toward insurance conditions in Western New York.  As always, you should speak with an insurance adviser to determine your specific insurance needs.