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For many small business owners, the “heart” of their operation isn’t just their storefront or their team—it’s the equipment that keeps things running. From the HVAC system in a retail shop to the specialized ovens in a bakery, these systems are essential for daily productivity. However, many business owners are surprised to learn that a standard commercial property policy may not address every type of equipment failure.

Understanding the role of Equipment Breakdown Coverage—historically known as “Boiler and Machinery” insurance—can help you identify potential gaps in your business’s protection strategy.

Internal vs. External Damage: Knowing the Difference

A common misconception is that a commercial property policy is an all-inclusive solution for “stuff that breaks.” In reality, property insurance is typically designed to respond to external forces.

• Commercial Property Insurance: Generally covers damage caused by events like fire, windstorms, theft, or vandalism.
• Equipment Breakdown Coverage: Specifically addresses internal failures that are sudden and accidental.

For example, if a lightning strike (external) fries your computer system, your property policy might apply. However, if that same computer system fails because of an internal power surge or a mechanical short circuit, Equipment Breakdown Coverage is typically the portion of the policy that responds.

What Equipment May Be Covered?

Modern equipment is more interconnected and technologically advanced than ever before, which can make repairs more complex. Equipment Breakdown Coverage often applies to a wide range of systems:

• Mechanical: Motors, engines, water pumps, and elevators.
• Electrical: Transformers, electrical panels, and switchboards.
• Computers & Communication: Servers, phone systems, and point-of-sale (POS) devices.
• Climate Control: HVAC units, boilers, and commercial refrigeration.
• Specialized Machinery: CNC machines, printing presses, or medical diagnostic tools.

Beyond the Repair Bill: The Ripple Effects

The cost of fixing a broken part is often just the beginning of the financial impact. Equipment Breakdown policies are frequently structured to help with the “consequential” losses that follow a failure:

1. Business Interruption: If a critical machine fails and forces your business to close for several days, this coverage may help replace the lost income during the downtime.
2. Spoilage Coverage: For restaurants or florists, a refrigeration failure can lead to thousands of dollars in ruined inventory. Policies often include a provision to reimburse the value of spoiled goods.
3. Expediting Expenses: When every hour of downtime counts, you might need to pay for rush shipping of parts or overtime labor. This coverage can help manage those extra costs.
4. Data Restoration: While it typically does not cover software or cyberattacks, it may assist with the cost of restoring data that was lost due to a physical hardware breakdown.

Common Exclusions to Keep in Mind

Equipment Breakdown Coverage is designed for “sudden and accidental” events, which means it is not a substitute for regular maintenance. Policies generally exclude:

• Wear and Tear: Gradual deterioration, rust, or corrosion that occurs over time is typically not covered.
• Lack of Maintenance: If a system fails because it wasn’t serviced according to manufacturer guidelines, a claim may be denied.
• Software and Cyber Risks: Issues related to viruses, malware, or programming errors are generally the domain of Cyber Liability insurance rather than Equipment Breakdown.

Evaluating Your Business Risk

As technology continues to evolve in 2026, the potential cost of an equipment failure often extends far beyond a simple repair. Reviewing your current insurance portfolio can help you determine if your essential systems are protected from both internal and external risks.

Because every business uses different tools and has a unique risk profile, it is often helpful to discuss your operations with an insurance professional. An independent agent can help explain the specific limits and deductibles of various policies, assisting you in finding a combination of coverages that fits your goals. Ultimately, the decision on how to manage your equipment risk rests with you as the business owner.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. This is not an insurance policy or a legal contract. Coverage varies by state, insurance provider, and individual policy terms. All claims are subject to the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy in force at the time of the loss. It is important to consult with a qualified insurance professional for advice tailored to your specific business circumstances.

 

Transitioning from a solo operation to a business with employees is a significant milestone for any start-up. While hiring your first team member opens doors for growth, it also changes your business’s risk profile and legal obligations. Understanding the insurance landscape is a key step in preparing for this transition.

In many cases, certain types of insurance are not just a business preference but a regulatory requirement once you become an employer.

The Role of Workers’ Compensation

In most states, the moment you hire your first employee, you are legally required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance. This coverage is designed to assist employees if they experience a work-related injury or illness.

What Workers’ Comp typically covers:

• Medical expenses for the injured worker.
• A portion of lost wages while the employee is unable to work.
• Rehabilitation costs.
• Death benefits for surviving family members in extreme cases.

Because regulations vary significantly by state and the nature of the work being performed, reviewing the specific requirements in your jurisdiction is an essential first step.

Expanding Your General Liability Protection

While you may already have General Liability insurance, your needs often evolve when you add staff. General Liability typically helps protect your business from third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage.

When you have employees, there are more people representing your company in the field or interacting with customers. Whether a staff member accidentally damages a client’s property or a visitor trips in your workspace, General Liability is a foundational piece of a business insurance portfolio.

Understanding Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)

Hiring involves more than just a paycheck; it involves a series of legal interactions from the interview process to the daily management of staff. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is designed to help businesses manage the financial risks associated with the employment process.

EPLI typically assists with claims related to:

• Wrongful termination or retaliation.
• Discrimination (based on age, sex, race, etc.).
• Sexual harassment.
• Inappropriate workplace conduct.

Even for small start-ups with a positive culture, these claims can be costly to defend. EPLI may provide a financial framework to help handle legal fees and settlements if such a claim is made.

Other Considerations for New Employers

Depending on the nature of your business, adding an employee might trigger the need for additional specialized coverages:

• Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance: If your new employee will be driving their personal vehicle for business errands (like picking up supplies or visiting clients), your business may face liability if they are involved in an accident.
• Professional Liability: If your employee provides advice or professional services, this coverage may help protect the business if an error or omission is alleged.
• Group Benefits: While not always required for very small teams, many start-ups eventually explore group health, dental, or life insurance to help attract and retain talent.

Managing Risk as You Grow

As your team expands, your insurance needs will likely continue to change. A policy that fits a team of two may not be suitable for a team of ten. Regularly reviewing your coverage helps ensure that your insurance keeps pace with your operational reality.

Assisting business owners through these transitions is a central part of the insurance process. Many entrepreneurs find it helpful to discuss their hiring plans with an insurance professional to help identify which coverages are required by law and which may be beneficial based on their specific industry. An independent agent can help explain the nuances of various policies, allowing you to focus on building your team with a clearer understanding of your protection.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Insurance requirements and coverage options vary by state, industry, and individual policy terms. All claims are subject to the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy in force at the time of the loss. It is important to consult with a qualified insurance professional for advice tailored to your specific business circumstances.

Transitioning from a solo operation to a business with employees is a significant milestone for any start-up. While hiring your first team member opens doors for growth, it also changes your business’s risk profile and legal obligations. Understanding the insurance landscape is a key step in preparing for this transition.

In many cases, certain types of insurance are not just a business preference but a regulatory requirement once you become an employer.

The Role of Workers’ Compensation

In most states, the moment you hire your first employee, you are legally required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance. This coverage is designed to assist employees if they experience a work-related injury or illness.

What Workers’ Comp typically covers:

• Medical expenses for the injured worker.
• A portion of lost wages while the employee is unable to work.
• Rehabilitation costs.
• Death benefits for surviving family members in extreme cases.

Because regulations vary significantly by state and the nature of the work being performed, reviewing the specific requirements in your jurisdiction is an essential first step.

Expanding Your General Liability Protection

While you may already have General Liability insurance, your needs often evolve when you add staff. General Liability typically helps protect your business from third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage.

When you have employees, there are more people representing your company in the field or interacting with customers. Whether a staff member accidentally damages a client’s property or a visitor trips in your workspace, General Liability is a foundational piece of a business insurance portfolio.

Understanding Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)

Hiring involves more than just a paycheck; it involves a series of legal interactions from the interview process to the daily management of staff. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is designed to help businesses manage the financial risks associated with the employment process.

EPLI typically assists with claims related to:

• Wrongful termination or retaliation.
• Discrimination (based on age, sex, race, etc.).
• Sexual harassment.
• Inappropriate workplace conduct.

Even for small start-ups with a positive culture, these claims can be costly to defend. EPLI may provide a financial framework to help handle legal fees and settlements if such a claim is made.

Other Considerations for New Employers

Depending on the nature of your business, adding an employee might trigger the need for additional specialized coverages:

• Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance: If your new employee will be driving their personal vehicle for business errands (like picking up supplies or visiting clients), your business may face liability if they are involved in an accident.
• Professional Liability: If your employee provides advice or professional services, this coverage may help protect the business if an error or omission is alleged.
• Group Benefits: While not always required for very small teams, many start-ups eventually explore group health, dental, or life insurance to help attract and retain talent.

Managing Risk as You Grow

As your team expands, your insurance needs will likely continue to change. A policy that fits a team of two may not be suitable for a team of ten. Regularly reviewing your coverage helps ensure that your insurance keeps pace with your operational reality.

Assisting business owners through these transitions is a central part of the insurance process. Many entrepreneurs find it helpful to discuss their hiring plans with an insurance professional to help identify which coverages are required by law and which may be beneficial based on their specific industry. An independent agent can help explain the nuances of various policies, allowing you to focus on building your team with a clearer understanding of your protection.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Insurance requirements and coverage options vary by state, industry, and individual policy terms. All claims are subject to the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy in force at the time of the loss. It is important to consult with a qualified insurance professional for advice tailored to your specific business circumstances.

Winter weather can transform a familiar commute into a challenging experience. Between black ice, reduced visibility, and heavy snowfall, the risk of road incidents typically increases during the colder months. Beyond the immediate stress of an accident, the potential financial consequences—ranging from vehicle repairs to medical bills—can be significant.

Understanding how different types of auto insurance generally function can help individuals prepare for the financial unpredictability of winter driving.

Common Winter Hazards and Potential Costs

Winter conditions often lead to specific types of damage that carry varying price tags. Without the appropriate coverage in place, these costs are often the responsibility of the vehicle owner.

• Loss of Traction: Sliding on ice can lead to collisions with guardrails, trees, or other vehicles. Even low-speed “fender benders” can result in thousands of dollars in bodywork.
• Falling Objects: Heavy ice accumulation can cause tree limbs to snap or ice chunks to fall from buildings, potentially damaging windshields or car roofs.
• Pothole Encounters: The freeze-thaw cycle often creates deep potholes. Hitting one can lead to immediate tire failure or long-term suspension issues.
• Multi-Vehicle Incidents: Pileups are more frequent in snowy conditions, often leading to complex claims involving multiple parties.

How Coverage Typically Functions in Winter

Insurance policies are generally composed of several different “parts,” each designed to address specific types of financial loss.

Liability Coverage

If a driver is determined to be at fault for an accident—for example, if they were unable to stop in time on a slushy road and hit another car—liability coverage typically helps pay for the other party’s property repairs and medical expenses. This coverage is generally required by law in most states.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is the portion of a policy that may help pay for repairs to your own vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This often includes single-vehicle accidents, such as sliding off an icy road into a ditch.

Comprehensive Coverage

Not all winter damage occurs while driving. Comprehensive coverage usually applies to “acts of nature” or events outside of the driver’s control. This might include damage from a falling icicle or a tree limb that breaks under the weight of heavy snow while the car is parked.

Roadside Assistance

Many drivers choose to add Roadside Assistance to their policies. In winter, this can be particularly helpful for services like battery jump-starts in extreme cold, winching a vehicle out of a snowbank, or towing a disabled car to a repair shop.

Managing the Financial Risk

While insurance provides a safety net, the specific details of a policy, such as deductibles and coverage limits, play a major role in the final financial outcome.

• Evaluating Deductibles: Choosing a higher deductible often lowers the premium, but it means paying more out-of-pocket if a claim occurs. It may be helpful to review whether your deductible is an amount you are comfortable paying in an emergency.
• Reviewing Policy Limits: As the cost of vehicle technology and medical care increases, some drivers choose to increase their liability limits to better protect their personal assets.
• Seasonal Maintenance: While not an insurance product, taking preventive steps (like installing winter tires or replacing worn wiper blades) can help reduce the likelihood of needing to file a claim in the first place.

Final Thoughts

Winter accidents can happen to even the most cautious drivers. While it is impossible to eliminate every risk, having a clear understanding of your insurance options can help mitigate the financial impact of the season.

Because every policy is different and state laws vary, it is often useful to discuss your specific needs with an insurance professional. They can help review your current coverage and explain how various options might apply to your unique situation.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. This is not an all-inclusive list of coverages or exclusions, and coverage can vary significantly by policy and circumstances. It is important to consult with a qualified insurance professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

 

Winter weather can transform a familiar commute into a challenging experience. Between black ice, reduced visibility, and heavy snowfall, the risk of road incidents typically increases during the colder months. Beyond the immediate stress of an accident, the potential financial consequences—ranging from vehicle repairs to medical bills—can be significant.

Understanding how different types of auto insurance generally function can help individuals prepare for the financial unpredictability of winter driving.

Common Winter Hazards and Potential Costs

Winter conditions often lead to specific types of damage that carry varying price tags. Without the appropriate coverage in place, these costs are often the responsibility of the vehicle owner.

• Loss of Traction: Sliding on ice can lead to collisions with guardrails, trees, or other vehicles. Even low-speed “fender benders” can result in thousands of dollars in bodywork.
• Falling Objects: Heavy ice accumulation can cause tree limbs to snap or ice chunks to fall from buildings, potentially damaging windshields or car roofs.
• Pothole Encounters: The freeze-thaw cycle often creates deep potholes. Hitting one can lead to immediate tire failure or long-term suspension issues.
• Multi-Vehicle Incidents: Pileups are more frequent in snowy conditions, often leading to complex claims involving multiple parties.

How Coverage Typically Functions in Winter

Insurance policies are generally composed of several different “parts,” each designed to address specific types of financial loss.

Liability Coverage

If a driver is determined to be at fault for an accident—for example, if they were unable to stop in time on a slushy road and hit another car—liability coverage typically helps pay for the other party’s property repairs and medical expenses. This coverage is generally required by law in most states.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is the portion of a policy that may help pay for repairs to your own vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This often includes single-vehicle accidents, such as sliding off an icy road into a ditch.

Comprehensive Coverage

Not all winter damage occurs while driving. Comprehensive coverage usually applies to “acts of nature” or events outside of the driver’s control. This might include damage from a falling icicle or a tree limb that breaks under the weight of heavy snow while the car is parked.

Roadside Assistance

Many drivers choose to add Roadside Assistance to their policies. In winter, this can be particularly helpful for services like battery jump-starts in extreme cold, winching a vehicle out of a snowbank, or towing a disabled car to a repair shop.

Managing the Financial Risk

While insurance provides a safety net, the specific details of a policy, such as deductibles and coverage limits, play a major role in the final financial outcome.

• Evaluating Deductibles: Choosing a higher deductible often lowers the premium, but it means paying more out-of-pocket if a claim occurs. It may be helpful to review whether your deductible is an amount you are comfortable paying in an emergency.
• Reviewing Policy Limits: As the cost of vehicle technology and medical care increases, some drivers choose to increase their liability limits to better protect their personal assets.
• Seasonal Maintenance: While not an insurance product, taking preventive steps (like installing winter tires or replacing worn wiper blades) can help reduce the likelihood of needing to file a claim in the first place.

Final Thoughts

Winter accidents can happen to even the most cautious drivers. While it is impossible to eliminate every risk, having a clear understanding of your insurance options can help mitigate the financial impact of the season.

Because every policy is different and state laws vary, it is often useful to discuss your specific needs with an insurance professional. They can help review your current coverage and explain how various options might apply to your unique situation.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. This is not an all-inclusive list of coverages or exclusions, and coverage can vary significantly by policy and circumstances. It is important to consult with a qualified insurance professional for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

 

A home inventory is a detailed list of personal belongings that can help homeowners and renters keep track of what they own. While it may not be something people think about often, creating and maintaining a home inventory can make the insurance process easier if a covered loss occurs.

The start of a new year is a practical time to create or update a home inventory, especially after purchases made during the holidays or other major life changes. 

Why a Home Inventory Matters

Insurance policies are based on information provided at the time coverage is written. If personal property is damaged or destroyed, having a record of belongings can help support the claims process by providing documentation of what was owned.

A home inventory can also help individuals:

• Understand the value of their belongings

• Identify items that may have special coverage considerations

• Keep records organized for personal reference

An inventory does not change policy terms, but it can help clarify information if a claim is filed.

Step 1: Choose a Format That Works for You

There is no single required format for a home inventory. The best option is one that is easy to update and store securely.

Common formats include:

• A written list or spreadsheet

• A mobile app designed for inventories

• Digital notes stored in the cloud

• A combination of written and digital records

The goal is consistency rather than perfection.

Step 2: Go Room by Room

Breaking the task into smaller sections can make it more manageable. Many people find it helpful to work room by room.

Areas to include may be:

• Living spaces

• Bedrooms

• Kitchen and dining areas

• Home office

• Garage, basement, or storage areas

• Outdoor structures, if applicable

For each room, list items that would be difficult or costly to replace.

Step 3: Record Key Details for Each Item

Basic descriptions are often sufficient, but adding a few details can make the inventory more useful.

Helpful information may include:

• Item description

• Approximate purchase date

• Estimated value at the time of purchase

• Serial or model numbers, when available

• Photos or video documentation

Receipts can be included when available, but they are not always required.

Step 4: Identify High-Value or Special Items

Some personal property may have coverage limits or require additional documentation under certain policies. Identifying these items ahead of time can help prompt questions before a loss occurs.

Examples may include:

• Jewelry and watches

• Collectibles or antiques

• Fine art

• Musical instruments

• Specialized electronics

Listing these items separately can make future reviews easier.

Step 5: Store Your Inventory Securely

Once the inventory is created, it should be stored somewhere it can be accessed if needed. Keeping only a physical copy inside the home may limit its usefulness after a major loss.

Storage options may include:

• Cloud-based storage

• External hard drives stored off-site

• Secure email accounts

• A combination of digital and physical copies

Security and accessibility should both be considered.

Step 6: Update the Inventory Periodically

A home inventory is most helpful when it reflects current belongings. Updating it periodically helps maintain accuracy.

Good times to review an inventory may include:

• After major purchases

• After renovations or moves

• At the start of a new year

• Before or after an insurance policy review

Small updates throughout the year are often easier than starting from scratch.

Step 7: Use the Inventory as a Conversation Tool

A home inventory can be a useful reference when discussing coverage with an insurance professional. It can help frame questions about:

• Personal property coverage limits

• Special item considerations

• Deductibles and exclusions

The inventory supports discussion but does not replace policy language or coverage terms.

Starting the Year Organized

Creating a home inventory checklist does not require special tools or extensive time. Starting with a simple list and building from there can help individuals feel more organized and prepared.

Insurance coverage for personal property varies by policy and situation. Reviewing inventory information and asking questions can help individuals better understand how their coverage applies to what they own. 

A home inventory is a detailed list of personal belongings that can help homeowners and renters keep track of what they own. While it may not be something people think about often, creating and maintaining a home inventory can make the insurance process easier if a covered loss occurs.

The start of a new year is a practical time to create or update a home inventory, especially after purchases made during the holidays or other major life changes. 

Why a Home Inventory Matters

Insurance policies are based on information provided at the time coverage is written. If personal property is damaged or destroyed, having a record of belongings can help support the claims process by providing documentation of what was owned.

A home inventory can also help individuals:

• Understand the value of their belongings

• Identify items that may have special coverage considerations

• Keep records organized for personal reference

An inventory does not change policy terms, but it can help clarify information if a claim is filed.

Step 1: Choose a Format That Works for You

There is no single required format for a home inventory. The best option is one that is easy to update and store securely.

Common formats include:

• A written list or spreadsheet

• A mobile app designed for inventories

• Digital notes stored in the cloud

• A combination of written and digital records

The goal is consistency rather than perfection.

Step 2: Go Room by Room

Breaking the task into smaller sections can make it more manageable. Many people find it helpful to work room by room.

Areas to include may be:

• Living spaces

• Bedrooms

• Kitchen and dining areas

• Home office

• Garage, basement, or storage areas

• Outdoor structures, if applicable

For each room, list items that would be difficult or costly to replace.

Step 3: Record Key Details for Each Item

Basic descriptions are often sufficient, but adding a few details can make the inventory more useful.

Helpful information may include:

• Item description

• Approximate purchase date

• Estimated value at the time of purchase

• Serial or model numbers, when available

• Photos or video documentation

Receipts can be included when available, but they are not always required.

Step 4: Identify High-Value or Special Items

Some personal property may have coverage limits or require additional documentation under certain policies. Identifying these items ahead of time can help prompt questions before a loss occurs.

Examples may include:

• Jewelry and watches

• Collectibles or antiques

• Fine art

• Musical instruments

• Specialized electronics

Listing these items separately can make future reviews easier.

Step 5: Store Your Inventory Securely

Once the inventory is created, it should be stored somewhere it can be accessed if needed. Keeping only a physical copy inside the home may limit its usefulness after a major loss.

Storage options may include:

• Cloud-based storage

• External hard drives stored off-site

• Secure email accounts

• A combination of digital and physical copies

Security and accessibility should both be considered.

Step 6: Update the Inventory Periodically

A home inventory is most helpful when it reflects current belongings. Updating it periodically helps maintain accuracy.

Good times to review an inventory may include:

• After major purchases

• After renovations or moves

• At the start of a new year

• Before or after an insurance policy review

Small updates throughout the year are often easier than starting from scratch.

Step 7: Use the Inventory as a Conversation Tool

A home inventory can be a useful reference when discussing coverage with an insurance professional. It can help frame questions about:

• Personal property coverage limits

• Special item considerations

• Deductibles and exclusions

The inventory supports discussion but does not replace policy language or coverage terms.

Starting the Year Organized

Creating a home inventory checklist does not require special tools or extensive time. Starting with a simple list and building from there can help individuals feel more organized and prepared.

Insurance coverage for personal property varies by policy and situation. Reviewing inventory information and asking questions can help individuals better understand how their coverage applies to what they own. 

Having the right home insurance policy will protect your home and belongings, and additionally, cover your liability exposure from owning a home. You are probably aware of the typical events that home insurance covers, such as vandalism, fires, fallen trees, wind damage, or even lightning strikes. However, not all natural events are covered by all home insurance policies – many policies do not cover losses in the event of an earthquake or flood, meaning the policyholder would need to seek additional insurance to be fully protected. While it is best to consult your insurance agent to see your coverage, here are five surprising things you might not know your home insurance covers. 

Identity Theft 

One surprising event that is covered by your home insurance policy is identity theft. Many home insurance policies allow reimbursement for the costs of identity theft, such as lost wages or legal fees. Please note that this type of coverage is not guaranteed in all policies, so check with your agent to see if you are covered. 

Property of College Kids 

If your children have grown up and moved off to college, their property may still be protected under your home insurance policy. Policies typically cover anyone living in your household, as well as children under the age of 24, meaning your college-aged child may still be protected. It is important to note that the liability limit for students’ property may be lower, and not all policies cover off-campus housing. If this is a major concern, consider adding renter’s insurance to guarantee total protection. 

Mandatory Home Upgrades 

If there is legislation passed that requires you to make changes or improvements to your home, the cost of those changes is typically covered by your home insurance policy. There are usually limits to this type of coverage, so check with your agent to see the specific coverage your policy offers. 

Harm Caused by Pets 

Another surprising thing that is frequently covered by home insurance is medical expenses incurred from something such as your dog biting someone. However, many policies have a limit of $300,000 for medical expenses, so talk to your agent to see if you need to supplement your policy with additional protection.  

Riots/Civil Unrest 

Many home insurance policies provide you with protection for your home and personal property in the event of civil unrest, frequently referred to in the insurance world as “civil commotion.” Events such as fire, vandalism, or even explosions are typically covered. If the damage is done during a time not officially declared as a state of emergency, it is important to obtain a police report to submit when you file your claim. 

While you might not have thought these five things would be covered by your home insurance policy, there are many other surprising events that your policy is likely to cover. To see exactly what your policy covers, or if you need supplemental insurance to fully protect yourself, contact your local insurance agent today. 

We all know that sugar is not good for our bodies, but the scary repercussions do not seem to be fully realized when we look at American culture. Many of our holidays revolve around food, and, particularly and not coincidentally, processed and refined foods such as candy. Americans love candy and purchase around twenty-four pounds of candy per person, per year, ingesting the most around Halloween.

Americans, we have a problem.

Too much sugar is poisonous for our bodies. Sugar overworks the liver and pancreas and causes inflammation. It directly and indirectly leads to a wide array of health problems, from tooth decay and obesity to heart disease and diabetes. Removing sugar from your diet can even lower your chances of suffering from the worst symptoms and conditions from Covid-19.

In a study on the effects of sugar on heart health published in 2014, “people who got 17% to 21% of their calories from added sugar had a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared with those who consumed 8% of their calories as added sugar.”

So we know it is bad, but there are important questions that remain: How much is too much and how do we change?

How much is too much?

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that “on average, sugar makes up 17% of what children consume each day,” way more than what the Food Pyramid suggests. It isn’t feasible for us to track our sugar using a pyramid graph, but there are more reasonable ways we can monitor and evaluate our sugar consumption.

Nutrition labels have continuously improved over the years in containing a wealth of info that should not be ignored. The American Heart Association recommends you look to this label and keep your daily intake to under twenty-five grams (or six teaspoons) for women and under 36 grams (or nine teaspoons) for men.

What to do about it.

Of course, there’s an app for that, but we can’t expect ourselves to digitally track sugar intake for every member in our home. One of the easiest ways to monitor is to limit and even cut sugary foods in their entirety from the shopping list.

Who is in charge of the shopping and meal preparations? Start here. Limit or remove foods that contain refined sugars, such as high fructose corn syrup, listed on the labels. Replace sugary drinks, which is the main way children consume sugar, with healthier options such as milk and water. Begin this healthy overhaul before the food even enters your home.

Don’t be a total killjoy, especially around the holidays, but do be conscientious of what is going into your and your children’s bodies. Don’t leave candy lying in plain view – out of sight, out of mind, right? Impose limits on daily sugar intake that follow the guidelines for children (25 grams per day for children 2 and older) and for adults, especially if you have dietary restrictions for a health condition.

Other ways are to choose healthier options. Insider ranked almost two dozen fan-favorite candies from worst to best (Smarties are “best”). Whole fruits and low- to no-calorie sweeteners are another, healthier way to satisfy a sweet tooth.

Most importantly, be mindful of what goes into your body, and if you buy the groceries, pay mind to those who look to you for guidance on living a healthy lifestyle. There are many resources around you. Ask your doctor, dentist, and even your insurance agent about these resources to cut costs and improve your dental, health, and life insurance plans. Heeding advice now will have more rewards than a king-size candy bar can offer! Your health is invaluable – treat it that way.

Blazing trails on your ATV out in the fresh, clean, country air is an indescribable joy that can only be felt. Thinking about insurance against damages and injuries is no joy, but it is a hill that you and your agent need to charge over together so that you can continue doing what you love.

Here are six reasons you should get with your agent and discuss the proper coverage so that you can get back to your ride, worry-free:

1. LEGAL COMPLIANCE

Many states require proof of insurance when using your ATV on public land, and some states require it when in use anywhere not on your own land. You may also not be allowed by law to drive your ATV on paved roads in your state. To avoid a ticket and fines, it’s best to ask your agent about the minimum requirements for insuring your joy-ride in your home state.

2. TRAVEL

Riding dirty may not just be a challenge at home, but could also be an issue when leaving the homestead. A good tip is to check the states where you plan to ride. Many ATV enthusiasts travel to areas such as Moab, Utah, for their thrill-seeking adventures, but there are countless destinations for a fun-filled weekend with your ATV. One thing that could be a real killjoy on vacation is to find yourself noncompliant with minimum insurance requirements. Keep your travels safe and pleasant by talking to your insurance agent before crossing state lines.

3. DAMAGES

Taking the good with the bad, we know that incurring damages is a sure possibility in the rough and rugged terrain you enjoy. Averaging anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, this “toy” is no small purchase. Protect yourself like you would with your car or truck with either liability, collision, or comprehensive coverage. Not only should you be worried about your vehicle, but other vehicles and property as well.

4. INJURY

There are about 650 deaths and over 100,000 injuries involving ATVs each and every year. Concussion, broken bones, spinal trauma, and cuts & bruises are the four most common ATV injuries. Wearing the proper gear, such as a helmet and padding, prevents many, but not all, injuries. Ask your doctor or agent about more precautions to take to avoid getting hurt, but know that the risk of injury on ATVs is fairly high, especially for children under 16 which account for about 26% of all ATV-related accidents in 2018.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) says you may want to ask your agent the following questions: Are there age restrictions on who may operate my ATV? Does my policy cover other people who may operate my ATV? These are great springboard questions into protecting more than just your ATV, but your little riders as well.

5. THEFT

Due to their high value and ease of loading in a truck bed or a trailer, your ATV is an ideal item for would-be thieves. Protect it from theft as best you can by following tips from your agent, such as removing keys, using the steering lock, and blocking it in with another vehicle if you can’t keep it inside.

6. LOW COST

Consider the insurance part of the sticker price of your ATV, because without it, you’re probably just borrowing time until the inevitable happens. Insurance is there for those instances, the unexpected. The average cost of your monthly premium is only about $100 for a standard policy, but it can vary wildly depending on your age, area, amount of use, and model of ATV. The only way to know for sure is to make an appointment with your agent and get a quote.

Your time on your ATV should be worry-free and fun. Let your agent help with that in the best way they know how to protect you.