In many situations, having insurance really isn’t optional. After certain disasters, you could even end up bankrupt without certain coverage. Here’s a quick look at just a few example scenarios of what could happen without insurance.

Your neighbor sues you for a dog bite: If your neighbor came over to your house for a party and got bitten by your dog, they could sue you. With the right homeowners insurance, your liability coverage would protect you from the costs of a lawsuit, legal defenses, and any settlements you might have to pay. But if you didn’t have home insurance, you’d have to pay these fees out of pocket, which could really add up.

You hit a deer with your car: If you’re driving at night and a deer jumps out in front of you, you might mistakenly think the auto insurance you’ve got would automatically cover the cost of repairs to your car. But without comprehensive or other than collision coverage, your policy actually wouldn’t reimburse you for the damage. You’d have to pay to repair or replace your vehicle by yourself.

Your business gets vandalized by rioters: Especially during times of civil unrest, your business can be vulnerable to vandalism and other attacks by rioters and disgruntled citizens. If your business got vandalized by rioters and you didn’t have a business insurance policy, you'd have to pay any resulting property damage out of pocket. If the damage was substantial, you could end up facing temporary closures or even bankruptcy.

It’s critical to always be equipped with the proper coverage for your home, car, business, and more. Without it, you could really end up in a world of trouble not just financially, but otherwise. An independent insurance agent can help you avoid these disasters and much more.

Here’s How an Independent Insurance Agent Could Help

When it comes to helping insurance customers avoid common mistakes when purchasing insurance, no one’s better equipped than an independent insurance agent. Independent insurance agents search through multiple carriers to find providers who specialize in every type of insurance, deliver quotes from a number of different sources, and help you walk through them all to find the best blend of coverage and cost.

Contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance for more information.

trustedchoice.com

Shopping for insurance can be stressful and time-consuming, and it’s important to avoid certain mistakes during the process. If you’re not careful, you could end up buying coverage from an illegitimate company or walking away without the right policy.

Check out this handy guide to the mistakes every insurance shopper needs to avoid so you can be prepared.

What to Avoid When Purchasing Insurance

It’s important to know what to do and look for when shopping for insurance, but it’s equally important to be aware of what to avoid. Following these tips when purchasing insurance can help save you from headaches and much worse down the road.

Here are some pitfalls you must avoid when shopping for and purchasing insurance

• Being swayed by low prices alone: Sometimes insurance companies that offer low prices on coverage could end up costing you in other ways. You might get matched with a policy that doesn’t cover everything you need it to, when paying just a bit more for coverage with a better insurance company could have avoided this issue.
• Not checking if an insurance company is legit: Insurance expert Jeffery Green said that it’s critical to make sure the insurance company and agent are licensed in your state. Unfortunately, fake insurance policies are available and sometimes folks don’t find out their coverage isn’t legitimate until they really need to use it.
• Only buying the bare minimum coverage: One common example of this is folks who only purchase their state’s minimum requirements for car insurance. Later on, they’re left without valuable coverage for disasters like theft, flood damage, or even collisions.
• These are just a few common mistakes you need to avoid when purchasing insurance. To ensure you don’t make these mistakes or others when shopping for your coverage, enlist the help of an independent insurance agent.

How to Avoid These Mistakes When Shopping for Insurance

• It’s not enough to know what mistakes to avoid when shopping for insurance, you also need to know how to avoid them. Here are just a few handy tips to avoiding big mistakes when hunting for coverage.
• Research the insurance company first: Check websites like AM Best or Moody’s to determine an insurance company’s financial health before you buy from them. Ratings on these websites can help you spot a legitimate company that’ll offer you quality coverage and service, and that is a good choice for awarding your trust and money.
• Check customer reviews: Another easy way to avoid getting stuck with a scam company is to read customer reviews online before buying from them. Websites like Consumer Affairs and Clearsurance offer dozens of customer reviews per company.
• Check for business complaints: You can also look at the Better Business Bureau’s website’s rating of an insurance company and read customer reviews there. The BBB’s website will also show if the carrier’s had any complaints filed against them, and for what.
• Work with an independent insurance agent: Independent insurance agents are essentially your greatest ally when shopping for and purchasing insurance. Not only are they familiar with lots of different insurance companies and their rates, but they’re also insurance experts. So not only can they help you find affordable coverage, they’ll also make sure you purchase the types of coverage you really need.

Independent insurance agents won’t let you walk away with just the bare minimum coverage, or the cheapest coverage available from a company that’s not reputable. It’s their job to make your insurance journey not only simpler but safer, so you can relax knowing you’ll get the quality coverage you deserve from a reputable company.

For help with insurance questions, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: trustedchoice.com

Driving in Winter Conditions

• Check your vehicle emergency supplies kit and replenish it if necessary.
• Bring enough of the following for each person:
  • Blankets or sleeping bag
  • Rain gear, extra sets of dry clothing, mittens, socks, and wool hats
  • Newspapers for insulation
  • Plastic bags for sanitation
  • Canned fruit, nuts, and high energy snacks
  • Warm broth in a thermos and several bottles of water
• Bring your cell phone and make sure the battery is charged.
• Plan to travel during daylight and, if possible, take another person with you.
• Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.
• Before leaving, check the weather reports for all areas you will be passing through.
• Watch out for sleet, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and dense fog.

If You Are Stranded

• Stay in the vehicle and wait for help. Do not leave the vehicle to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards (91 meters).
• Display a trouble sign to indicate you need help. Hang a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) on the radio antenna and raise the hood after snow stops falling.
• Turn on the engine for about 10 minutes each hour. Use the heater while the engine is running. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and slightly open a downwind window for ventilation.
• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen.
• Do light exercises to keep up circulation. Clap your hands and move your arms and legs occasionally.
• If more than one person is in the vehicle, take turns sleeping.
• Huddle together for warmth. Wrap yourself in newspapers, maps, and even the removable floor mats to help trap more body heat.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, which can make you more susceptible to the ill effects of cold and to heart attacks.
• Avoid overexertion. Shoveling snow or pushing a vehicle can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.

Anyone who's been through a flood knows that recovering after this kind of disaster isn't easy. You're forced to accept that irreplaceable family treasures and memories may be gone forever, your furniture is destroyed, potentially along with your home. It's a devastating and emotional moment and a lot to take in all at once. But you know the only thing you can do is move forward, and begin the steps needed to restore your home.

As soon as the floodwaters recede, you can return to your home as long as officials give the OK to do so. Before entering your home, however, make sure it is safe!

Tips for staying safe upon return:

• Check for structural damage and use extreme caution. One way to do this is to check if the walls are vertical and straight.
• Turn off the electricity in your home at the main breaker or fuse box. Make sure you stand in a dry spot to do this! If you can't stand in a dry spot, call an electrician who will take care of the risk.
• Two people in rain boots standing on a wet floor
• Turn off the gas. If you smell something unusual, leave immediately and call your gas company from another location.
• Check your sewage system. Repair damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. These serious health hazards.
• Take precaution when inspecting your home. Your home may have sagging ceilings and areas that are still flooded. Also beware of critters like snakes, spiders and rodents that may have taken refuge in your home!
• Bring waterproof boots, a first aid kit, cleaning supplies and a battery-powered flashlight with you before entering the house! You never know what you'll run into.

Tips for claim reporting:

Another important step to take when recovering from a flood is reporting your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. While flood coverage is typically not provided under most homeowners and renters policies, flood insurance may be available to you through the federally regulated program known as the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you need assistance to locate your flood insurance carrier, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). A claims adjuster should contact you within a day or two after report of the claim, depending on the severity of the flood event.

When reporting a claim, you should have the following information available:

• Your name and address
• Policy number
• Date the loss happened
• Description of events that led to loss
• Active phone number
• Confirm what's covered under your NFIP policy (some policyholders may only have building or personal property items coverage, not both)

Tips for inspections:

The next step, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is to prepare for your inspection. After deeming the structure safe for entry, take as many photos or videos of the flood-damaged property on the outside and inside. Take pictures of high-cost items as well like washers and dryers, hot water heaters, televisions and kitchen appliances. It's also a good idea to separate the damaged from undamaged items prior to the inspection.

When the adjuster arrives, they will inspect your property including taking measurements and photos and give you an overview of the NFIP flood claims process. Remember that some flood insurance claims are more complex than others. Some may be opened and closed quickly, while others may take weeks or even months to resolve.

If your vehicle was also damaged in a flood event, it's best to call your auto insurance provider to see if you're covered for the loss.

If you are a Lallis & Higgins insurance customer and need to file a claim on your home or auto, contact us.

foremost.com

Our warmest New Year’s wishes from the entire team here at Lallis & Higgins Insurance. Calendar year 2021 and these ever-challenging global events placed heavy burdens upon us all. But in many ways, and supported by family, friends, and all of you, 2021 was a uniquely remarkable year, reminding us of hope, family, gatherings and more. This time of year reminds us to recognize the joy that each and every one of you has brought to our lives. We recognize that our business exists because of your friendship, fellowship, trust, and loyalty.

Our New Year’s resolution is to nurture our ever strengthening partnership with you and to deliver value to you, your business, and your family through the entirety of 2022.

Throughout this Holiday season may you be blessed with health and surrounded by friends and family. We hope that the new year brings all of you uninterrupted good health, happiness, and prosperity. Happy New Year from Lallis & Higgins Insurance. As Anne Frank said, “What a wonderful thought it is that some of the best days of our lives haven’t even happened yet.”

Surprisingly, one of the most common problems that homeowners face this time of year is frozen water pipes. Here is some information to safely get pipes thawed:

What should you do if a water pipe freezes?

You should make sure it never happens again! When the water freezes, it tries to expand inside the pipe. It pushes against the sides of the pipe, as well as any nearby valves, seams and faucets. The freezing action of the water is more than capable of rupturing any pipe.

Unfortunately, a water pipe may freeze even if you have taken precautions. Whatever the cause, it's important that you thaw out your pipe for two reasons:

You almost certainly need the water.

You should be at home when the pipe thaws, just in case the pipe and/or joint is ruptured.

Bear in mind that a frozen pipe doesn't leak—the water is ice. You'll discover you have a leak only after the ice melts. If you're not home, a ruptured pipe can cause a great deal of damage.

Here are some methods to thaw out frozen pipes:

CAUTION!: Before you try any of these methods, first open the faucet the frozen pipe supplies. The steam you create while heating the pipe can burst the pipe if it doesn't have an escape.

Method #1: Use electric heat tape on the pipe, and wait for it to thaw out. This is a good method to use because it slowly thaws the pipe, which means it reduces wear and tear on the pipe itself.

CAUTION!: Remember to use only heat tape certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for use with mobile homes. Be careful never to wrap the heat tape back over itself. This could cause the heat tape to overheat and start a fire.

Method #2: Wrap the pipe with several layers of cloth or toweling and pour hot water over the cloth / toweling. Repeat several times until the pipe is unfrozen.

Method #3: Direct a heat lamp on the pipe itself. Place the lamp at least a foot away from the pipe. Cover adjacent areas with a layer of aluminum foil so the heat does not scorch these materials. Make sure the heat lamp is on dry ground. Even better, plug it into a ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet.

CAUTION!: Do not use any direct heating method if the frozen pipe is next to a gas pipe! Call a professional for help.

Method #4: Hold a hand-operated hair dryer to the pipe, and slowly move up and down the length of the frozen section. Make sure you are standing on dry ground. Because you are working this close to water, plug the dryer into a GFCI protected outlet.

You will know the pipe is thawed out when water starts to trickle out of the open faucet. Let the water run for a while to completely clear the pipe. Then, close the faucet and check for leaks.

CAUTION!: Do not use a propane torch to thaw out frozen pipes. Do not use a propane torch even if it has a fire spreader attachment. This is not only a fire hazard, but it's also a quick way to destroy your plastic plumbing pipes.

We want you to be safe in your home and prevention is the key.

Source: foremost.com

Santa’s wonderland at Bass Pro Shops Patriots Place

Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland – a Christmas Classic – is returning to Bass Pro Shops at the Patriots Place store in Foxboro! The rest of the Christmas season families are invited to create new traditions and lasting memories at Bass Pro Shops through no-cost pictures with Santa, crafts for kids, and games and activities to celebrate the season.
https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/santas-wonderland

Gillette Stadium Holiday Magic of Lights Foxboro

Gillette Stadium will be hosting the Magic of Lights. You and your family will be able to enjoy a one-mile holiday lights display drive-thru from Friday, November .19 through Friday, December. 24
https://magicoflights.com/events/foxborough/

Marshfield Holiday Light Show at Fairgrounds

The Marshfield Holiday Light Show will be back starting November 19 – December 30, this is great family night out
https://boldmedia.ticketspice.com/marshfield-holiday-light-show

La Salette Christmas light display in Attleboro, MA

If you are looking to experience the Christmas spirit brightly decorated, you should check out La Salette Shrine in Attleboro. The shrine is decorated with the most extensive and beautiful display of Christmas lights in the area. Begins November 25th- January 2nd
https://lasaletteattleboroshrine.org/christmas-festival

South Shore Sights and Lights BYOB- 21+

Check out some of the South Shore's most beautiful holiday light displays, listen to music, sing songs, and make new friends! Halfway through the trip, we will arrive at a dining establishment where all guests can grab a drink or 2! There will also be a full bar and appetizers available to all guests!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/7pm-south-shore-sights-and-lights-holiday-trolley-tour-adults-only-byob-tickets-175216175297?aff=ebdiayyoutube

ZOOLIGHTS! At the Stone Zoo

Enter a winter wonderland of tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Take a one-way stroll through festively decorated Yukon Creek, home to black bears, bald eagle, Canada lynx, reindeer, and arctic foxes. https://www.zoonewengland.org/engage/zoolights/

The polar express 4-D Experience at Jordans Furniture in Avon

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ 4-D Experience is based on the inspiring and beloved Caldecott Medal children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg.
https://www.jordans.com/content/attractions/mom

A Christmas Carol- The Company Theatre Center for the Arts

The Company Theatre is proud to bring back a joyous South Shore holiday tradition, our signature production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Three spirits visit the miserly Scrooge on Christmas Eve and whisk him away on a journey through memories of his past and glimpses of his future.
https://www.companytheatre.com/a-christmas-carol/

Flooding can be an emotionally and financially devastating event. With flood insurance, you're able to recover faster and more fully.

Use this tool below to see how much flood damage – even from just a few inches of water – could cost you.

Just 1 inch of water can cause $25,000 of damage to your home.

See how much a flood could cost you.

Buy flood insurance today.

Call Lallis & Higgins Insurance, the same company who sells your home or auto insurance.

Source: floodsmart.gov

The Monday following Black Friday, known as Cyber Monday, has become one of the top shopping days of the year. But like so much else in 2021, not all of the deals will be just on Cyber Monday. Retail experts predicted many of the online shopping activity and special holiday sales started as early as Halloween and may continue throughout the holiday season.

But online shopping – even on Cyber Monday – has risks. Be wary of misleading advertisements, lookalike websites, and untrustworthy sellers. The following tips will help you shop online this holiday season, so you can achieve maximum savings while keeping your personal information and hard-earned money secure.

Beware of false advertising and phony websites.

If a company is selling the hottest item of the year at a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Watch out for false advertising and keep a close eye on the web address in your browser. Scammers love to create lookalike websites that, at first glance, appear to belong to a trusted retailer. Make sure websites use the correct spelling of a business name and have legitimate contact information and customer service numbers.

Shop with trustworthy sellers on secure sites only.

Be wary of businesses you aren’t familiar with. Check their BBB Business Profile on BBB.org, look at the rating, and read customer reviews. In addition, be sure any web page you purchase from is secure. Secure web addresses begin with HTTPS:// and not just HTTP://. Never put personal or credit card information in forms on non-secure web pages.

Keep your antivirus software up to date.

Make sure you have antivirus software installed on your computer or mobile device, and that it is up to date. This will help you to avoid non-secure websites and pop-up phishing scams, and help keep your personal information safe.

Price check before you buy.

Dozens of online retailers will claim they have the best price on an item, but their offers can be misleading. Do your homework by comparing prices. Remember that the best deal may not be the real deal.

Take advantage of rewards and loyalty programs.

Check your credit card rewards program for special point offers that could add up on Cyber Monday and throughout the holidays. Make purchases using loyalty programs; many major retailers offer them.

Use your credit card.

It’s always best to make online purchases with your credit card. If any shady charges turn up later, you will be able to contest them through your credit card company. Debit cards don’t offer this same protection. Never make purchases with online sellers by giving them prepaid debit cards or wiring them money.

Understand return policies.

Online store policies may change for Cyber Monday offers. Read the fine print before you buy. Understand the return or exchange policy for the specific item you would like to purchase. Be aware that stores may not allow returns for “final sale” or “closeout” items. Make sure to get gift receipts, so the recipient can return or exchange the item if necessary.

Watch out for phishing scams.

Busy schedules and increased purchases make it easier to miss – and fall victim to – a phishing scam. Look out for unsolicited emails, texts, calls, or letters. These messages may claim you have a free gift waiting for you or that there is a problem with a delivery – all you need to do is click on a link or give up your personal information. Avoid phishing scams by ignoring suspicious correspondence and calls from unfamiliar phone numbers.

Source: BBB.org

Very warm Thanksgiving greetings from all of us at Lallis & Higgins Insurance. As business owners, clients, prospective clients, friends and family, and suppliers our sense of appreciation for all of you has never been higher.

Like us, each of you have had unique and serious challenges during the last couple of years, most likely both professionally and personally. We are reflecting upon these challenging times with a “glass half-full” perspective and we hope that you all are doing the same. Each and every one of you has delivered a positive and enduring effect on us and our business as well as on those around you. We hope that in some way we’ve done the same for you.

Wishing you sincere peace and joy this Thanksgiving holiday. While surrounded by family and friends, we take time for positive reflection upon all of life’s blessings, we hope that you do as well. Happy Thanksgiving from everyone here at Lallis & Higgins Insurance.