Protect Your Employees AND Your Business from Sexual Misconduct in the Workplace
In case you havent noticed, sexual harassment and misconduct has become front page news lately.
With incidents involving high ranking government officials, hollywood celebrities and news anchors, it is no surprise these stories are receiving a lot of attention. But these storylines are not exclusive to the rich and famous. Did you know a recent poll found that 51% of women between the ages of 18-49 answered “yes” when asked if they had “received an unwelcome sexual advance or other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature at work”, and in 2016 the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) found 25-85% of women reported having experienced some form of sexual harassment in the work place?
If you are a business owner, there are efforts you can take to reduce the likelihood of a sexual misconduct claim and more importantly diminish this inappropriate behavior in the workplace.
First, make sure to clearly state the code of conduct and repercussions of misconduct in your company employee handbook. Second, hire an outside firm to; hold a yearly seminar to inform employees of their rights, address how to recognize inappropriate behavior, and explain how they can protect themselves and report the incident. Taking these steps unfortunately, cannot guarantee an incident will never happen.
Just as it is important to protect your employees, it is also important to protect your business.
Another study conducted in January of this year showed 71% of women who have experienced misconduct in the workplace did NOT report it. But given the recent high-profile reports of victims stepping forward and demanding action be taken against their alleged attackers, this will give more victims of sexual misconduct the courage to step forward.
Do not wait until a claim is made against you or your employee. Protect your business and your assets and call our independent insurance problem solvers to secure Employment Practices Liability today!
Ed Gillman, Lead Insurance Problem Solver
ed@gillmanins.com
Direct: (678) 822-0143
EPLI (Employment Practices Liability Insurance) can provide protection against the following:
- Sexual harassment
- Discrimination
- Wrongful termination
- Breach of employee contract
- Negligent evaluation
- Failure to employ or promote
- Wrongful discipline
- Deprivation of career opportunity
- Wrongful infliction of emotional distress
- Mismanagement of employee benefits
Helpful Articles:
Sexual Harassment Polls
What We Know About Sexual Harassment in America
Sexual Harassment Statistics
The What, Why, and How of Rising Georgia Auto Premiums
Georgia’s Auto Insurance Rates Our Skyrocketing but Why?
What is happening?
If you’re a Georgia resident with an auto policy that recently renewed, you’re likely to have noticed the spike in your annual premium. Unfortunately, you are not alone. Auto insurance rates are the highest they have ever been in Georgia – and some of the highest in the country. Since auto premiums are growing faster than the average income in the state, Georgia middle-class families are really feeling the sting.
Why is this happening?
There are many factors that go into the rating of an individual or family auto insurance policy. Driving record, age of drivers, credit score, level of education and home zip code are just a sampling of the data used to determine your premium. For example, a family living in the city with a 17-year-old driver in the house will pay a much larger premium on average than a mid-twenty, newly-wed couple living in the suburbs. What insurance companies look at is the amount of risk. If the risk is greater, there is more chance of a loss.
More Factors Causing Price Increases:
- Vehicles repairs cost double compared to 5 years ago due to technology and cameras installed on all newer models.
- 97% of drivers are using their phones in some fashion such as Google maps, Waze, emails, texting and even watching video!
- We are driving a lot more because gas is cheaper than it was 5 years ago.
How can we fix it?
A recent study found insurance companies earn less profit in Georgia compared to the nationwide average. We can debate all day about why Georgia seems to suffer from more accidents and claims than most other states but the fact is, insurance companies are losing money insuring drivers in this state.
Until there is a statewide decrease in insurance claims, and insurance companies see better return on their business, there’s not much we can do about the increases in premiums. However, there are small steps we can take to receive the maximum number of discounts offered. First, make sure you have spoken with your agent about your current situation. Are you a newlywed? Moved away from the city? Teen driver left for college? All of these life changes could result in a decrease in your monthly premium.
A safe-driver tracking device is another tool that can be used to save money. No, these devices are not recording where you are going, but they are monitoring HOW you are getting there. This tool not only shows the insurance company that you are in fact, a safe and careful driver, but they also make you aware of problem areas in your driving that may save you from an accident in the future. For this reason, many insurance companies offer these devices at no cost to you and most of them ONLY give you discounts, not increases even if you aren’t the safest driver.
For example, Safeco’s Right-Track program gives insureds a 5% discount just for installing the device and they can continue to earn up to 30%! Make it a fun game with your significant other and/or kids to see who can receive the most discounts with their Right-Track device. Learn your driving habits, have some fun, and most importantly, SAVE SOME MONEY!
To learn more about how to sign up for Safeco’s Right-Track program and other ways to save money on your monthly premium, contact your Personal Problem Solver, Cindy Koegel today!
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
ATTENTION Uber & Lyft Drivers: This article could save you thousands of dollars!
Giving drivers the flexibility to control their work schedule, it is no surprise why thousands of people have jumped at the opportunity to be a part of companies like Uber and Lyft. Unfortunately, many of these drivers do not understand the capacity of their liability.
If you are a driver for this booming business of ride-sharing, then I’m sure you are aware of the auto liability coverage extended to you while transporting a passenger. But were you alerted to the possible gap in coverage that could be extremely costly to you in the event of an accident? Let us explain…
Ride sharing companies break down the process into 3 phases:
Phase 1 starts when the driver turns on the app and is available to receive alerts to pick up a rider.
Phase 2 starts when the driver receives the alert to pick up a rider and is in route to pick them up.
Phase 3 begins when the rider enters the driver’s vehicle to travel to their desired location.
What most Uber/Lyft drivers do not realize is – Phase 1 is not covered by the ride-sharing company’s auto policy. In addition, using your vehicle for ride-sharing is also, NOT covered by your personal auto policy.
Consider this scenario
You have turned on your app and are ready to accept the next pick-up alert to start earning some cash! You leave your house and decide to grab coffee while you wait. Turning out of your neighborhood, you’re blinded by the sun (hitting right at that annoying angle we all know and hate), resulting in you not noticing the oncoming pick-up truck which barrels right into your front end. Oh no! Everyone is ok, however both vehicles are totaled and you’re at fault. You call Uber to report the accident and file a claim with their insurance, but not so fast – the Uber representative informs you since you were not on the way to pick up a passenger, and you weren’t driving a passenger – you are NOT covered. You hang up and contact your personal insurance company to file the claim. Again, not so fast – you are an Uber driver “on-the-clock” and cannot be covered on your personal insurance policy at the time of this accident. This is a nightmare you never expected to happen.
Prevent yourself from experiencing this insurance horror story and contact Cindy, our friendly auto insurance problem solver TODAY!
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
What’s in a Vehicle History Report and Why You Need It
What’s in a vehicle history report?
When buying a used car, it’s important to review the vehicle history report. There’s no better way to find out where a car has been and what it’s been through. Still, you need to know what you’re looking for. Here’s how you can use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to avoid buying a lemon.
What is a VIN?
A vehicle identification number is a 17-digit series of numbers and letters that provides various bits of information about the vehicle, such as where it was built, who the manufacturer is and what some of its features are. VINs can also be used to pull vehicle history reports.
How can I check my car’s history?
The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers a free service called VINCheck to indicate if a car has been reported as stolen but not recovered. It will also reveal if a car’s been reported as a salvage vehicle. For a full report, complete with all minor repairs and recalls, you can purchase a vehicle history report from major companies such as AutoCheck and Carfax.
What is a salvage title?
If your vehicle history report reveals a salvage title, proceed with caution. Salvage titles are triggered when insurance companies deem a vehicle more costly to repair than it’s worth. Usually, this is the result of a major accident, flood or fire. Such vehicles can be dangerous if not repaired correctly or if the damage is too severe.
In the end, all the reports in the world won’t guarantee you’ll never have problems with your used car. However, with an inspection and a quick peek into its history, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re purchasing.
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
My Top 4 Tips For Cybersecurity Awareness Month
HOW TO KEEP ONLINE ASSETS SECURE
Whether it’s to pay bills, order food or connect with friends, many of us rely on the internet daily. Since October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, keep reading for tips to make your online transactions more secure.
ONLINE SECURITY IS IMPORTANT
The Pew Research Center reports that 64 percent of Americans have experienced some kind of data breach. Be it credit card fraud and compromised accounts or social media and email hacks, the majority of us are no strangers to the need for cybersecurity.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS
In our hyperconnected society, your personal information is under constant threat. To insulate yourself from major financial headaches or the need for cumbersome legal restitution, safeguard your accounts in the following ways:
- Be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. These hot spots may be convenient, but they can also make you a target. Make sure to log in to sensitive accounts like your financial institutions at home or using a personal hot spot to keep your information safe.
- Keep up with security software updates. Defending against malware and viruses is a huge part of avoiding a breach. Your mobile phone, web browsers and even apps are susceptible to foul play without up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware software, so keep them current.
- Create secure passwords. Each account should have a different password that is a unique combination of numbers and letters. Passwords should also be at least eight characters long without repeating.
- Watch out for phishing attempts. Phony emails or calls that appear as though they’re from your bank are sneaky ways crooks attempt to solicit personal information. Always carefully assess communications to ensure you don’t unwittingly give your account numbers to a thief.
A few simple precautionary steps can help keep your information secure while giving you greater peace of mind.
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers Donates to Hurricane Harvey Relief!
We can all agree, it is horrible what is happening in Southeast Texas. Hurricane Harvey crept up with unbelievable power, leaving thousands of people homeless. But there is hope! It’s truly wonderful to see so many people helping out whether it’s donating money or time to help those affected.
So, as part of our commitment to giving back, we will be donating $5 for each new policy written between August 1st and September 31st.
If you are considering switching insurance companies or need new coverage altogether, we would be honored to be your first choice! Call us today and together we can help Hurricane Harvey victims get back on their feet! 678-297-7977
As Georgia’s top independent insurance agents with a deep commitment to customer service, we assess several companies to get you the best coverage at the best price. The insurance companies represented by your independent agent are of the highest quality, therefore, some may be able to deliver more efficient claims handling of your loss. Talk to you soon! 678-297-7977
Thank you,
from all of us at GIPS!
#HoustonStrong
5 Life Skills Your Kids Need To Know Before College
Skills to Master Before Leaving Home
The excitement of a college acceptance letter can have teens and parents celebrating for weeks. But once the new semester approaches, many students may be anxious about leaving the comfort of their childhood home. Having a handle on these five essential life skills can help ease the transition.
- Learn to live on a budget. When operating on a fixed income, young adults must distinguish needs from wants to avoid coming up short or racking up credit card debt. No matter how much or how little they have to manage, teach them to be thoughtful when spending money.
- Master laundry. Kids may have a basic understanding of operating a washer or dryer, but effectively getting clothes clean involves much more. Separating colors, reading tags and removing stains are important steps to go over before kids head off to college.
- Understand car care and preventive maintenance. Owning a vehicle comes with its share of responsibilities. Knowing the fundamentals, like checking a tire’s air pressure, changing a flat and jumping a dead battery, can build confidence and keep your loved ones safe.
- Plan meals and cook to save money and stay healthy. The occasional bowl of ramen is a collegiate rite of passage, but some essential cooking skills can come in handy. Cooking classes can give them pointers on preparing healthy, inexpensive meals for themselves.
- Cope with difficult emotions. In their first year away from home, some students deal with homesickness, depression or anxiety. Discuss that possibility with your children before they move and help them identify coping techniques to use if they do feel down. Most campuses also provide resources that can help as well.
Adjusting to college life can also be overwhelming at times. These basic abilities can help ease the pressure for those who’ve finally left the nest behind.
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
4 Iconic North American Road Trips Worth The Drive
4 North American Road Trips You’ll Never Forget |
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Kancamagus Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers Nominated as IIABA’s Best Practices Agency for 2017
Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers Included In IIABA’s Best Practices Study
Alpharetta, GA, August 4, 2017 – Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers retains its Best Practices status, once again becoming a part of an elite group of independent insurance agencies around the United States. This status comes by participating in the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) Best Practices Study group. The annual survey and Study of leading independent insurance agencies documents the business practices of the “best” agencies and urges others to adopt similar practices.
Since 1993, IIABA and Reagan Consulting, an Atlanta-based management consulting firm, have join forces to study the country’s leading agencies in six revenue categories. The agencies comprising the study groups are selected every third year through a comprehensive nomination and qualifying process and awarded a “Best Practices Agency” designation. The agency was nominated by either an IIABA affiliated state association or an insurance company and qualified based on its operational excellence.
The selected Best Practices agencies retain their status during the three-year cycle by submitting extensive financial and operational data for review each year. This is the second year of the current three-year study cycle, where over 1500 independent agencies throughout the U.S. were nominated to take part in the annual study in 2016, but only 262 agencies qualified for the honor. To be chosen, the agency had to be among the 35-45 top-performing agencies in one of six revenue categories.
“Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers works very hard to take care of our customers, our employees and our carrier partners. It is a testament of our efforts to again be awarded the 2017 Best Practices Agency designation.” says Ed Gillman, president and CEO of Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers.
Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers was founded in 1993 and can offer insurance products from a number of different companies including CNA, Chubb, The Hartford, Travelers, Foremost Insurance Group and more.
For further information, please call or email Ed Gillman at ed@gillmanins.com (678) 297-7977
Founded in 1896, IIABA is the nation’s oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing a network of more than 300,000 agents, brokers and their employees nationally. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. Independent agents and brokers offer all lines of insurance – property, casualty, life and health – as well as employee benefit plans and retirement products.
3 Immediate Steps Every Drone Owner Should Take
Are you one of the approximately 1.2 million who received a drone as a gift during the 2016 holiday season? Regardless of how much aviation experience you have, these small aircraft come with more risk than the average hobby. For example, did you know that when you operate one, you become liable in the event of personal injury or property damage? Follow the steps below to protect yourself before taking to the skies.
Step 1: Register Your Drone
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires drone owners to register unmanned aircraft systems weighing over 0.55 pounds with the government. Each aircraft must have the registration number displayed directly on the body. Civil noncompliance penalties can lead to fines of up to $27,500, while criminal penalty fees can go as high as $250,000 and three years in prison.
Step 2: Check Your Policy
Next, hobbyists are encouraged to check the coverage associated with their homeowners or renters insurance policy. Specifically, review key sections including personal liability, medical coverage and property loss or damage. Also, keep in mind that a home policy won’t cover drones operated for commercial use, nor will a landlord’s insurance protect you if you’re a renter.
Step 3: Review Safety Precautions
You can reduce your risk of personal injury or property damage by following common drone safety tips. Operate your drone at or below 400 feet, always keep it in your line of vision and avoid flying near emergencies, sporting events and large groups of people.
To keep drone flying fun and stress-free, make the right moves early on to protect yourself and your new toy.
“We don’t just sell policies, we deliver solutions!” Email me at: cindy@gillmanins.com
Cindy Koegel
Cindy Koegel | Gillman Insurance Problem Solvers
Home & Auto Insurance Problem Solver
cindy@gillmanins.com
11375 South Bridge Pkwy Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 822-0144
