Texting & Driving Don't Mix

According to the Senate Bill 6345 both cell phone use and text messaging without a hands free device while driving is a primary offence.  This means that an officer of the law has the ability to issue a ticket to a driver solely on the observation of illegal cell phone use.  With fines starting at $124, text messaging is not only dangerous but expensive.

However, even with the new law, distracted driving continues to be a serious issue.  Text messaging has been noted to have the same effect as driving intoxicated when it comes to increasing the chances of an accident while behind the wheel.

In a fast paced word of email, social media sites, and texting, businesses must consider the increased exposure to an insurance claim as workers continue to use these forms of communication while on the go. 

Has your company established a policy on texting?  If not, a written procedure should be implemented and thorough with clear standards covering how texting can be used by your staff.  It may be a convenient form of communication but not safe if taken to the road. 

Briefing your staff on the dangers of texting while driving is a good practice to spread awareness to be more alert on and off the clock.  In February of this year, a company driver experienced the tragedy of a head-on crash with another driver, who was texting.  To see the full story by King 5 News click here. 

Whether on company time or a trip for groceries, texting and driving don't mix.  You owe it to yourself to practice safe driving and to encourage others to do the same.  Not only is it smart, but it's Washington law. 

Insurance Implications of Japan's Earthquake

The earthquake in Japan could cause higher prices in the insurance market according to an analysis released by AIR Worldwide.  The insurance cost of the quake totaled almost as much as the entire worldwide catastrophe loss for the global insurance industry in 2010.  Property losses alone are estimated at nearly $35 billion. 

This assumption is supported by a report released by Standard and Poor's which stated that worldwide catastrophic events in 2011 may drain enough of the excess capital in the reinsurance and insurance markets to "spark a tightening of premium rates for many types of coverage."

Less than 50% of Japan's insureds have earthquake insurance.  Many small to medium-sized businesses are completely uninsured.  Ultimately the insured losses will depend on the layers of the complicated Japanese market. Residential earthquake risk is covered by government reinsurance, but commercial risks are not (Moody's).

Japan's domestic insurance and reinsurance markets will carry the brunt of the losses, with economic losses that will likely exceed $100 billion.  Insured losses from the disaster are estimated to be between $12 billion and $25 billion (EQECAT).

Bowling for a Good Cause!

Corinn, Kris, Sophie and Roxanne of The Unity Group will be participating in the Junior Achievement's Bowling Classic on Saturday May 14th.  This fundraiser is held each year and raises money to support JA's educational programs focused on entrepreneurship, business and financial literacy.

Interested in participating or donating?  Visit www.jawashington.org. 

You can also sponsor one of our bowlers!  Click on the names below to be directed to their individual donation pages:

Corinn

Kris 

Sophie

Roxanne

JA brings the real world to students, opening their minds to their potential and preparing them for the world of work reaching students in Kindergarten through 12th grade.