What you need to know…

As personal injury lawsuits resulting from the wrongful use of social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, etc.) continue to grow, it’s important to realize how a lawsuit like this could involve and impact you and your family.

Claims resulting from what’s referred to as personal injury are generally not included in most standard Connecticut homeowner’s insurance policies.  This type of protection requires a special coverage or endorsement.

If you’re unsure of whether or not you have coverage for personal injury which can in fact result from your teen’s activity on social media, V.F. McNeil Insurance highly recommends consulting with an insurance professional to be sure you are protected.

At V.F. McNeil, Personal Injury Endorsements are a standard recommendation to all homeowner’s.  Here’s just one reason why…

You Posted What!? Teens, Social Media and a Parent’s Liability

To request assistance with a homeowner’s quote – Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today!  Or, call us at (203) 481-2684.  We are located in Branford, Connecticut.

and Every Other State

 

This is a Must Read!  Life Before Text App Now Available

 

By: Pauline Handy

 

If you’re like me and you have a teenager who is about to get his/her drivers license or perhaps your teen just got their license, what was one of your biggest concerns?

I’ll bet you’re thinking – how much is it going to cost for auto insurance?  Alright, that’s definitely a legitimate concern and one that we can certainly help with.  In fact, I can say that my quoting results were very good for my daughter.  But more importantly,  for their safety, consider this question….

 At any given time when you glance over at your teen, what are they doing?

That’s right.  They’re texting.  Their eyes are glued to their phones! 

Therefore, in spite of every horrifying movie they’ve seen at drivers education about what can happen as a result of distracted driving, what do we know?  Yes, that’s right. Teens are still going to do it.  Teen interviews and unfortunately accident results prove it’s true.

Here’s a solution.  The Life Before Text App which was developed by a father of triplets can be purchased for $3.98 and installed on your child’s phone to automatically disable incoming and outgoing calls and texting to prevent distracted driving.  You control the settings and much more.

Currently this app is only available for Android based phones.  However, we submit an inquiry to the company about Apple phones and they have announced that this capability is coming soon.

Learn more at the LifeBeforeText Website.

Watch the interview with the dad who created the app and see how it’s been tested.

 

For Assistance With Getting a Connecticut Auto Insurance Policy – Request an Auto Quote Online Today

What you need to know to keep your teen driver safe and your auto insurance costs low.

People are renters in Connecticut and other states for many different reasons.  Regardless of whether renting is because of financial necessity or it’s simply a lifestyle preference, many renters frequently choose not to insure.  Especially in recent years, the number of renters has grown nationwide due to a troubled economy forcing many out of home ownership.  It’s concerning that so many in Connecticut and others states opt not to choose this important insurance coverage.

Some choose not to insure for reasons such as…

• They think insurance isn’t necessary because they don’t own a home or; they think they don’t have enough contents to cover.
• They think their landlord’s insurance will automatically cover their belongings.
• They think rental insurance is too expensive.

The only thing that is true about the above reasons for not getting renters insurance is that each can cause real misery and financial hardship from an uninsured loss.

Renters should consider the following…

1. Just because you don’t own a home, your belongings over time can accumulate in to tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.  Consider if your rental property burned to the ground and you had to replace all of your furniture, electronics, clothing, linens, kid’s toys, kitchen tools, etc. and pay for the cost of temporarily moving somewhere else – could you afford this if you didn’t have coverage?
2. Your landlords insurance will certainly cover the property if it burned to the ground or suffered some other devastation.  It will also provide protection to the landlord from liability.  However, most often it will not cover your personal contents, even if your landlord has an umbrella policy as well.  This is strictly for liability.
3. Rental insurance in Connecticut is actually very affordable.  Most often, renters insurance can be under $200.00 per year.  Better yet, if you combine a renters policy with an auto policy the savings on your auto can often make the renters policy almost free.

If you rent and don’t have insurance…then you have a very good reason for contacting an insurance professional to get you covered.

In addition, an insurance professional can explain the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost on a policy.  They can also explain to you about liability coverage and coverage for special items.  Everyone’s circumstance is different and policies vary among insurance companies.  Only a knowledgeable insurance professional can best advise you based on your own unique circumstances.

Still wondering about renters insurance?  Think about it.  You many have chosen not to purchase a home, but for a very minimal cost you can purchase peace of mind.

 

To Learn More About Renters Insurance – Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today.

 

To Request A Renters Insurance Quote – Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today.

 

 

April 1, 2012 8:00 am

to

April 30, 2012 8:00 pm

 

 

Please join V.F. McNeil Insurance for two very important events in the month of April.

 

First, participate with us by taking the Paul Sturgess ALS Challenge starting April 1^st and continuing the entire month.  Print the form and ask friends, family, and others you know to sponsor you to help support the Connecticut Chapter ALS Association.

 

Second, participate with us in the 9^th Annual Shoreline Walkathon  in Branford, Connecticut to support feeding the hungry in our community.  Additionally, because the walkathon is scheduled for April, 21^st 2012, the 3 mile walk can be time added to your ALS Challenge.  Therefore, in one day you can support two very important causes.

 

Lastly, we are proud to announce that Paul Sturgess will be honored at the 9th Annual Shoreline Walkathon as Grand Marshall in memory.  We hope you could join us.

 

To Learn More About Our Community Outreach in Connecticut – Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today!

 

By: Pauline Handy

After opening the mail this morning, the attached document prompted this blog.  One of our insurance clients located in Plainville, Connecticut attached these comments to some correspondence they mailed to our office.  I was so pleased to learn of their satisfaction that I asked their permission to share their comments.  They kindly agreed and only asked that we would white out their full last name to protect their privacy.  I’ve scanned in their comments for all to read.  If you have a moment, click on the link below to learn about their experience.

Client Comments

Knowing first hand myself, sewer backups are a threat for any property owner and can be one of the most unpleasant things to deal with.  There are many substances that can clog a pipe.  Many can be controlled, some cannot.  Regardless, remedying this unfortunate situation can not only be unpleasant, but it can also be very costly.

Most of the time, standard property insurance in Connecticut does not cover damage resulting from a sewer backup.  This very inexpensive coverage endorsement is something we highly recommend.  Purchasing this supplemental insurance coverage for your home can save you thousands of dollars and save you from dealing with a really dirty job.

If you are unsure of whether or not you’ve opted to include this coverage, give your agent a call today.

 

To Request a Homeowner’s Quote – Visit V.F. McNeil Today

 

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and thoughts of people everywhere turn to … jewelry.

Did you know?

About one out of four Americans buys jewelry, spending $2,000 per year on average.  Those who don’t buy shiny things for Valentine’s Day may prefer other types of valuables, such as electronics, artwork, antiques, wine and furs.

Whatever the purchase, consumers should take steps to safeguard and insure their valuables.   Homeowner’s insurance in Connecticut for example, generally covers valuable and precious items such as jewelry, but these policies usually have limits, exclusions, and requirements.

Typically policies restrict the dollar amount of coverage for individual valuable items ($1,000 is a typical maximum).  Therefore, with an average purchase of $2000.00 or more, you could be at a loss if you should need to place a claim, unless you have specific coverage for valuable items.

What’s more, most homeowner’s insurance policies cover “named perils” such as fire, lightning, and windstorm. That will exclude many events that create financial losses. Note, for example, the “my five-year-old dropped my engagement ring in the toilet and flushed it” circumstance is not a named peril.

To find out more about the questions below, we recommend calling to speak with one of our insurance professionals at (203) 481-2684 for a consultation.  It’s easy and our advice is always free.

• What’s best to protect your beloved Valentine’s Day gift?
• What type of loss circumstances would be excluded under a basic homeowner’s policy?
• What requirements are necessary to submit a claim?

Whatever is on your Valentine’s Day shopping list, be sure it is properly protected. 

Resource: Trusted Choice

 

To Inquire About Homeowner’s Insurance – You Can Also Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today!

We are located right in Branford, Connecticut.

 

A recent post by USA Today reveals that four consecutive years of record losses are most likely going to force insurance companies to raise premiums.  These increases could be up to as much as 5%.

Right here in Connecticut, a handful of insurance companies have already approached the Connecticut insurance department to request rate increases.  Others will most likely be soon to follow.  Due to the widespread, weather related catastrophes that have occurred not only around the country but around the globe, rate increases will most likely be across the board.

Of course this is concerning to consumers because the economy has been unstable for some time now, and individuals, families and businesses have been looking for ways to save in day to day life.  However, the important thing to keep in mind is to look for ways that will help you save without making mistakes that could be even more costly.

As homeowner’s just like you, we will also face these changes and understand the concerns involved.  However, cutting back on things that will not jeopardize our financial future, our health, or anything else crucial to our lives is always the better choice.

Therefore, as we look ahead to these possible changes, we’ve listed some insurance related suggestions below that may help.  Lastly, please always feel free to contact one of our insurance professionals if you have concerns or questions.  We are always happy to help in any way.  V.F. McNeil Insurance , Branford, Connecticut (203) 481-2684.

 

• Report any upgrades made to your home.  In some instances, certain companies give credits for various upgrades.
• Have you had an alarm system installed in your home recently? If so, this is another item that could potentially earn you credit.
• Higher your deductibles.  Raising your deductibles can often save you substantially.  In many cases, the savings can outweigh the increase over a short period of time if you are claim free.
• If you are thinking about purchasing a new home, consult with your agent first to determine what should be considered in order to keep your homeowners premium at a reasonable rate.  Same applies to auto purchases.
• If you haven’t bundled your home and auto thus far, consult with your agent about doing so.  It’s often a great way to save by getting a multi-policy discount.  It’s no obligation to you to inquire and you could possibly benefit in the long run.
• Speak with your agent about possible ways to save on your auto to offset any possible increases to your home insurance.  Maybe you’ve installed an anti-theft device recently.  In some cases, this could earn you a credit on your auto insurance.  Do you own an older car?  If so, you can consult with your agent about reducing the coverage on this vehicle.  If the vehicle has decreased substantially in value, it may not be worth purchasing the coverage.  Are you working from home?  Have you recently decreased your daily mileage due to employment relocation?  Some companies offer discounts to drivers who drive lower than an average number of miles per year.
• Have you quit smoking lately?  If that was your New Year’s Resolution or you quit even before the New Year, be sure to let your agent know.  Some companies offer credits on home and/or auto for this great accomplishment.
• Has your teen driver been working hard to improve their grades?  If you haven’t been able to take advantage of the “Good Student” credit in the past and your child has made honors recently, do report this as well to see if you are eligible for any additional credits.

 

We hope you find these tips to be helpful.  Don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions.  ☺

To learn more about homeowner’s insurance – Visit our homeowner’s page today.

Request a homeowner’s quote today.

 

What the power of people, community, and one very inspirational family accomplished during this milestone year.

By: Pauline Handy

The 15^th Annual Hammerfest Triathlon, held on September 18, 2011, came with a variety of challenges for many involved this year. Those challenges were successfully met and the race to benefit the Myelin Project was yet again an amazing day.

 

In 1999, Race Productions LLC named the Myelin Project the official beneficiary of the Hammerfest Triathlon.  The Myelin Project, established in 1989, aims to fund research in the area of Adrenoleukodystrophy, also known as ALD.   This decision was made after many supporters of a young and well-known boy living in the Branford community was affected by ALD at the age of six.   Many of you may know this young boy, now age 23, as Brian Kelley.  Despite Brian’s many challenges, he and his family continue to motivate and inspire others to fight the difficulties associated with ALD.

 

The Owenego Inn has graciously provided the triathlon with a venue since the event’s  inception.  However, due to the wrath of Hurricane Irene, the inn suffered significant damage and part of the usual race course along Linden Avenue where the inn is located also suffered damage.  In addition to that, it was undecided as to whether the swimming portion would be safe to continue due to remaining debris and contamination in the water.

 

Despite these challenges, the race continued due to the hard work of many people, the strength from within the Branford community, and the inspiration that continuously comes from Brian and his family.

 

The running portion of the race was re-mapped by race organizers and Captain Morgan of the Branford Police Department.  The Branford Police Department’s outstanding service also helped to keep both the running and biking course safe for participants.

 

With regard to the condition of the water, after the East Shore Health District declared the water clean enough for swimming, race coordinators recruited the assistance of Edward Fay, a scuba diver employed by the Branford Public Works Department.  Fay agreed to volunteer his time and diving skills to be sure that the  water was free of obstacles and debris, making it safe for the athletes.

 

Additionally, the Owenego staff as well as many volunteers from the Branford community worked tirelessly to make sure that the inn could continue as a good venue for the race.  Emergency responders stood by but thankfully were not needed that day.

 

The example of strength and the inspiration from Brian and his family did not stop there.  Another challenge successfully met was associated with a registered participant.  This participant is a long-time friend of the family of Brian Kelley.

 

Recently diagnosed with ALS, a neuromuscular disease that shares some commonalities with ALD, Paul Sturgess, participant, sponsor, and owner of V.F. McNeil Insurance, was faced with some aggravated symptoms of ALS the morning of the race.  Knowing that he was scheduled to participate in the swimming portion of the race as part of a relay, friends and family were concerned about his participation.

 

However, Paul’s dedication to the project, support from friends and loved ones, and Brian’s simple way of bringing out the best in others helped him to conquer his own challenges.  That day he successfully completed the swimming portion of the relay which involved Stephanie Engstrom as the running participant and Nicole Hall as the biking participant.  When asked what was going through his mind during his half mile swim, he said, “When I was doing the backstroke on my way out, I just kept looking up at the crystal clear blue sky and thinking about how lucky we were to have such nice weather and about how courageous Brian is.  It made me strong and literally made me smile while I was swimming.”

 

Later that day, Paul was formally honored by Jean Kelley, Brian’s mother, one of five race coordinators and a member on the board of directors for the Myelin Project, for his years of participation and consistent financial support, which has amounted to a $25,000.00 contribution to date.  The day was also celebrated with entertainment provided by Pete Lombard of American Productions and a cookout.

 

The days and hours leading up to the race were filled with many hurdles.  However, the power of good people working toward a common goal provided a positive outcome for all who were involved.

 

Raising over $50,000.00 this year, the funds from Hammerfest will be designated to the newborn screening project underway in Maryland.  Several investigations from this project support a strategy that increases the likelihood of a child remaining symptom free if identified at birth through screening and if treatment is started immediately.  With success in Maryland, the project’s goal is to have other states follow and have newborn screening for ALD included in the existing newborn screenings that babies already receive.

 

If you would like to find out more about the Hammerfest Triathlon, The Myelin Project, and Brian’s Beachside Boogie, an early spring duathlon held at Hammonasset State Park in Madison, as well as how you can participate as a contributor, a triathlete, a duathlete, a runner, biker, swimmer, volunteer, or a spectator, please visit  www.race-productions.com today and offer your support for this truly worthy cause.

 

To Learn More About Our Community Outreach – Visit V.F. McNeil Insurance Today!

 

 

November 18, 2011
5:30 pm	to	8:30 pm

The 24th Annual Branford Sports Hall of Fame Dinner will take place on Friday, Nov. 18, 2011 at Woodwinds Restaurant in Branford, Connecticut

We are excited to announce that two of our very own will be inducted that evening.  Paul Sturgess and Nicole Hansen will be two out of the ten who have been chosen to be welcomed into the Branford Sports Hall of Fame.

Congrats to both of you from the entire team at V.F. McNeil Insurance.  We’re so proud of you !!!

Click below to view entire article and find out how you can attend to offer your support.

24th Branford Sports Hall of Fame – 10 Being Inducted

 

The weeks and days prior to and following a storm like Irene are usually filled with so many questions and concerns about a variety of topics.  Things like preparedness, the likelihood of being affected by damages, and specifics about insurance coverage are pretty key concerns.

 

We understand these questions and concerns and have always been committed to delivering as much information, advice, guidance, and support as possible before, during, and after an occurrence like Irene.

 

However, one topic that still seems to have common misunderstandings is flood insurance. We hope this blog will help to better explain these misunderstandings associated with flood.  The most common are listed below.

 

• Who flood insurance is provided by
• How flood insurance can be purchased
• Flooding is included under standard property coverage
• Premiums for flood insurance are too expensive

 

With regard to who provides this type of coverage, it’s important to give a brief history about flood insurance…

 

Prior to 1968, the year that the National Flood Insurance Act was passed as a piece of legislation, damages from flooding were largely the responsibility of property owners.  Insurance coverage for losses associated with flooding was not provided by any private insurance carrier.

 

However, in 1965 Hurricane Betsy, a category four hurricane, otherwise known as “Billion Dollar Betsy,” slammed the Bahamas, Florida, and Louisiana. The storm brought with it flood surges that caused over a billion dollars in damages. Those devastated by the hurricane were left waiting for federal aid promised by the federal government after the hurricane had struck.

 

The death, destruction, and property damage caused by Betsy motivated the National Flood Insurance Act and then led to the creation of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  The National Flood Insurance Program is a program created by the Congress of the United States which enables property owners in participating communities to purchase insurance protection from the government against losses from flooding.

 

Although the National Flood Insurance Program has had amendments since then, flood insurance is and always has been a provision of the federal government.  Insurers in the United States do not provide flood insurance.  Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States.  Due to this fact, flood is a risk that private insurers are incapable of supporting.

 

However, with regard to how flood insurance is purchased, only licensed insurance agents can access flood insurance policies for consumers. An agent’s job is to educate consumer’s about flood insurance, process the paper work to access a flood policy, and help consumers to report claims.  Nevertheless, flood guidelines and parameters are constructed by the government. In addition, underwriting (agreement to finance coverage) and decisions regarding approval of claims reported for coverage are made by the federal government.

 

It is important for property owners to understand… due to the fact that flood insurance cannot be provided by private insurance companies, only accessed by them, that protection from flooding is always excluded from standard property insurance policies.  An additional point about accessing a flood policy that is important to understand, is that coverage does not begin immediately.  Generally, coverage takes effect 30 days after the purchase of flood insurance.  Only a few exceptions to this exist and can be explained by a licensed insurance agent.    

 

Premiums vary depending on the amount of coverage you choose and the type of coverage you need.  Depending upon what type of risk area the property is in also plays a part in this determination.  However, the average flood insurance policy costs about $600.00 per year.  The NFIP provides a website that can rate your risk, however these are only approximations.  Only a licensed agent can rate your risk accurately and explain the parameters of coverage based on each individual circumstance.

 

Although these are the most common misunderstandings, and we hope that this explanation will help, we are always happy to answer any other questions associated with flood.  We can always be reached at (203) 481-2684 or via website inquiry or even a by a visit to V.F McNeil Insurance, 500 East Main Street, Branford, CT. 06405.

Request a flood insurance quote.