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Be Safe While Driving This Summer – Common Summer Driving Hazards

Summer is a time for vacations, road trips, and enjoying the sunshine. However, it’s also a season with unique driving hazards that can catch even the most experienced drivers off guard. Knowing what to look out for can help you stay safe on the road. In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common summer driving hazards and how to handle them.

1. Construction Zones

Summer is peak season for road construction. You’ll often encounter orange cones and detour signs on highways and local roads. Construction zones can be confusing and lead to sudden lane changes and reduced speed limits.

How to Handle It:

• Stay Alert: Watch for signs indicating construction zones ahead.
• Slow Down: Obey reduced speed limits and be prepared for sudden stops.  Do not be aggressive in the construction zones.
• Follow Directions: Pay attention to flaggers and signs directing traffic.
• Be Patient: Exercise patience.  A construction zone is an inconvenience, but you will make it through.  One thing we all do is complain about the quality of our road infrastructure, but still get frustrated with construction zones.

2. Increased Traffic

Summer brings more drivers to the road, including vacationers unfamiliar with local routes. Traffic congestion can lead to frustration and increased accident risks.

How to Handle It:

• Plan Ahead: Check traffic reports and plan your route accordingly.  Use your GPS, even if you know where you are going, so it can give you traffic updates and steer you around it if necessary.
• Be Patient: Allow extra time for your journey to avoid rushing.
• Stay Calm: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid aggressive driving.  Nothing positive can come out of road rage.  Plus, these days, you never know how the other party will react.

3. Tire Blowouts

Belive it or not, you own tires can be one of the biggest Summer driving hazards.  Hot pavement can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to blowouts. This is especially dangerous at high speeds on highways.

How to Handle It:

• Check Tire Pressure: Ensure your tires are properly inflated before hitting the road.
• Inspect Tires: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or bald spots.
• Carry a Spare: Make sure you have a usable spare tire and know how to change it.
• Get Out Of Harms Way: If you have a blowout, try to get your car off the road and out of the traffic ways.  You may even want to wait outside of your car behind a guardrail if possible.
• Know Who To Call: Having the appropriate numbers to your roadside assistance company and your insurance company readily available.  It is even a great idea to store them in your cell phone.

4. Overheating Engines

High temperatures can strain your vehicle’s engine, leading to overheating, which can leave you stranded.

How to Handle It:

• Check Coolant Levels: Regularly check and top off your engine coolant.
• Monitor Temperature Gauge: Keep an eye on your vehicle’s temperature gauge, especially during long drives.
• Take Breaks: Give your car a rest during long trips to avoid overheating.

5. Glare and Sunstroke

Bright sunlight can cause glare, making it hard to see the road. Additionally, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to driver fatigue and even heatstroke.

How to Handle It:

• Use Sunglasses: Wear polarized sunglasses to reduce glare.
• Sun Visors: Use your vehicle’s sun visors to block direct sunlight.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion.

6. Sudden Storms

Summer thunderstorms can appear out of nowhere, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and reduced visibility.  This creates a huge Summer driving hazard.

How to Handle It:

• Slow Down: Reduce your speed in heavy rain to prevent hydroplaning.
• Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights to improve visibility.  Most, if not all, state laws require you have your headlights on in the rain.  But it still amazes me how many people still do not turn on their headlights during rainstorms.  Do not rely on the auto headlight feature as it does not always turn them on if it is not dark enough out.
• Pull Over: If the weather becomes too severe, find a safe place to pull over until it passes.

7. Wildlife on Roads

More animals are active in the summer, increasing the chances of encountering wildlife on the road. This makes them a Summer driving hazard.

How to Handle It:

• Stay Vigilant: Watch for wildlife crossing signs and be alert, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Use High Beams: In rural areas, use high beams when appropriate to spot animals from a distance.
• Brake, Don’t Swerve: If an animal appears suddenly, brake firmly and avoid swerving to prevent losing control.  If it comes down to hitting the animal or taking aggressive action to avoid it, hit the animal.  Swerving can cause you to hit an object or even another vehicle.  Check out Nancy’s blog titled – Deer Can’t Sue You!

Summer Driving Hazards Conclusion

By being aware of these summer driving hazards and knowing how to handle them, you can ensure a safer journey for you and your passengers. Always prioritize safety over speed, and enjoy the summer travels responsibly.

Protecting Your Practice: Essential Cyber Security for Attorneys

In today’s digital age, attorneys are increasingly becoming targets for cyber criminals. With sensitive client information at stake, the legal industry needs robust cyber security measures. This post will guide you through essential cyber security strategies tailored specifically for attorneys.

Why Attorneys Are Prime Targets

Attorneys handle vast amounts of sensitive information, including personal client data, confidential case details, and proprietary business information. Cyber criminals are aware of this and see law firms as lucrative targets. A successful breach can lead to severe financial and reputational damage. Here’s why your practice might be at risk:

• High-Value Data: Legal documents often contain highly valuable data that can be sold or used for blackmail or identity theft.
• Compliance Regulations: Failure to protect client information can result in hefty fines under regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.
• Professional Reputation: A data breach can irreparably damage your professional reputation, leading to loss of clients.  Data breaches are big news events these days.  Many small businesses never recover from a serious data breach and are forced to go out of business.

Common Cyber Threats Facing Attorneys

Understanding the types of cyber threats is the first step in building a robust defense. Here are some common threats:

• Phishing Attacks: These deceptive emails or messages trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or installing malware.
• Ransomware: This malicious software encrypts your files and demands payment for their release.
• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to your data can lead to theft of confidential information.
• Malware: Various types of malicious software can infiltrate your systems and cause damage or data loss.

Essential Cyber Security Tips for Attorneys

To protect your practice, consider implementing the following cyber security measures:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Ensure that all accounts and devices are secured with strong, unique passwords. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or simple number sequences. Consider using a trusted password manager to keep track of your passwords securely.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication or Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA), also known as multi factor authentication (MFA), adds an extra layer of security. Even if a password is compromised, 2FA or MFA ensures that a second form of verification is required to gain access.

3. Regularly Update Software

Keep all software, including your operating system and applications, up to date. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that cyber criminals can exploit.

4. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

Ensure your Wi-Fi network is secure by using a strong password and encryption methods like WPA3. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for accessing sensitive information unless you are using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

5. Backup Your Data

Regularly back up your data to a secure location. This ensures that you can recover your information in case of a ransomware attack or other data loss event.  Cloud storage and backup has become increasingly popular.  Just make sure the “cloud” company you may choose has their own backup and redundance systems.

6. Train Your Staff

Human error is often the weakest link in cyber security. Most of the bug data breaches we hear about in the news started with an employee clicking on something they should not have clicked.  Conduct regular training sessions to educate your staff about common cyber threats and best practices for avoiding them.

We have our systems actively managed and updated by our IT provider.  Part of the process includes annual training and assessments of our team.  This includes weekly email phishing tests which provides the results of how many emails were opened, clicked or had attachments opened.  These results are then shared with the team so we can stay on top of our skills and ability to identify scams.

All of the above tips can be handled by an experienced IT provider.  If you want a referral to a trusted partner, please let us know.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

As an attorney, you have both legal and ethical obligations to protect your clients’ information. Failure to implement adequate cyber security measures can result in breaches of confidentiality and professional responsibility. It is crucial to stay informed about the latest cyber security trends and continuously update your practices.

The Importance of Cyber Insurance Coverage for Attorneys

Despite your best efforts, cyber incidents can and may still occur. This is where having the right cyber insurance coverage becomes crucial. A good cyber insurance policy can help mitigate the financial impact of a cyber attack, covering costs such as data recovery, legal fees, and notification expenses. It also provides support in managing the aftermath of a breach, including public relations efforts and credit monitoring for affected clients.  The cost of a data breach can bankrupt a small business if they do not have the right cyber insurance policy in place.

Coverage Under Professional Liability Policies

While your professional liability insurance policy may offer some coverage for cyber incidents, it is often limited in scope and amount. Typically, the coverage under professional liability policies is smaller and the terms and conditions are not as broad as those found in standalone cyber insurance policies. Therefore, it is essential to review your existing insurance and consider obtaining a dedicated cyber insurance policy to ensure comprehensive protection.

Huff Insurance: Your Trusted Partner

At Huff Insurance, we understand the unique risks faced by attorneys and offer comprehensive cyber insurance policies tailored to your needs. Our team is here to help you assess your risks, choose the right coverage, and ensure that you are protected in the event of a cyber incident. Partner with us to safeguard your practice and give yourself peace of mind.

Conclusion

Cyber security for attorneys is more critical than ever. By understanding the risks and implementing robust security measures, you can protect your practice and your clients’ sensitive information. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and prioritize cyber security to safeguard your legal practice. And remember, having the right cyber insurance coverage is an essential part of your defense strategy. Trust Huff Insurance to be your partner in protecting your practice from cyber threats.

The Importance of Regularly Testing Your Home Backup Systems

Backup systems in your home, such as home generators, standalone generators, and battery backups for sump pumps and other household systems, are essential for maintaining safety and comfort during power outages. However, it’s crucial to regularly test these home backup systems systems to ensure they will work when you need them the most. Here’s why and how you should keep your backup systems in top shape.

Why Regular Testing is Crucial

Reliability in Emergencies Home backup systems are your safety net during emergencies like power outages. If these systems fail when you need them, it can lead to significant inconveniences and even dangerous situations. Regular testing ensures they are reliable and ready to perform.

Prevent Costly Repairs Testing your backup systems regularly can help identify minor issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach can save you from costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Maintain Efficiency Over time, components of your backup systems may wear out or become less efficient. Regular testing helps maintain their efficiency, ensuring they provide the maximum possible support during an outage.

How to Test Your Home Backup Systems

Home Generators

1. Monthly Visual Inspection: Check for any visible signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or leaks.
2. Weekly Self-Tests: Many modern home generators have self-test modes. Set them to run these tests automatically.  Ours runs every Thursday afternoon at 2pm.
3. Quarterly Operational Test: Start your generator and let it run for about 30 minutes. Listen for any unusual noises and check for proper exhaust emissions.
4. Annual Professional Inspection: Have a certified technician inspect your generator to ensure all parts are in good condition and functioning correctly.  This includes changing the oil and making sure the battery is good.

Standalone Generators

1. Operational Test: Occasionally start your standalone generator manually to ensure it kicks in without issues.
2. Fuel Check: Regularly check fuel levels and replace old fuel with fresh fuel as needed.  Make sure to use fuel treatmant if the generator will be sitting for long periods of times between uses.  You do not want the fuel lines to gum up on you.

Battery Backups for Sump Pumps

1. Monthly Inspection: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is fully charged.
2. Quarterly Water Test: Pour water into the sump pump pit to ensure the pump activates and drains the water properly.
3. Annual Battery Replacement: Replace the battery annually or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure it holds a charge.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Generator Won’t Start

• Check Fuel Levels: Ensure there is enough fuel.
• Inspect Spark Plugs: Clean or replace dirty or worn-out spark plugs.
• Battery Issues: Make sure the generator’s battery is charged.
• Check Fuel Lines: If the fuel is old and the generator has been sitting dormant, the fuel lines may need to be cleaned out.

Sump Pump Battery Backup Failure

• Check Battery Charge: Ensure the battery is fully charged.
• Inspect Connections: Look for loose or corroded connections.
• Pump Blockages: Check for debris or blockages in the pump.

Insurance Discounts

Many insurance companies offer discounts for having home backup systems because they reduce the risk of damage and claims. Here are a few examples:

1. Home Generators: Installing a home generator can prevent losses due to power outages, such as spoiled food and frozen pipes, making you less likely to file a claim. Some insurers offer discounts for homes equipped with generators.
2. Battery Backup for Sump Pumps: These systems can prevent basement flooding during power outages, which is a common and costly insurance claim. Having a battery backup can qualify you for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance.
3. Security and Fire Systems: While not the focus here, adding comprehensive backup systems to your security and fire alarm systems can also lead to insurance discounts.

To take advantage of these discounts, contact your insurance provider and provide documentation of your installed backup systems. They can inform you of any available discounts and what proof is required.

Conclusion

Regular testing of your home backup systems, including home generators, standalone generators, and battery backups for sump pumps, is essential to ensure they operate efficiently and reliably. By conducting routine inspections, operational tests, and professional check-ups, you can prevent unexpected failures and maintain peace of mind knowing you are prepared for any power outage. Additionally, having these systems in place might help you qualify for discounts on your homeowner’s insurance, providing further incentive to maintain them properly.

Understanding Assumed Audits for Workers’ Compensation and General Liability Insurance Policies

When it comes to workers’ compensation and general liability insurance policies, understanding audits is crucial. These audits, conducted at the end of a policy term, help determine the actual rate for your insurance policy based on the previous year’s payroll or gross sales. But what happens if your business fails to complete the requested audit? This is where assumed audits comes into play.

What is an Assumed Audit?

At the end of each policy term, an insurance company can ask for an insurance audit to verify the payroll and/or gross sales.  An assumed audit occurs when an insurance company performs an estimated review of your business’s payroll or gross sales due to the absence of an actual audit. Essentially, if you fail to complete the actual audit as requested, the insurance company can impose an assumed audit. This estimate can result in a significant increase in your premium, sometimes from 25% to 200%!   It can even result in the cancellation of your insurance policy.

The Impact of Assumed Audits on Your Premium

Assumed audits can be costly. Since the insurance company doesn’t have accurate data, they may overestimate your payroll and risk levels. This conservative approach protects the insurer but can hurt your bottom line. Imagine expecting a certain premium and being hit with a huge increase because of an assumed audit. Not only will you owe 25% to 200% more on the policy that just expired, but your renewing term will increase from 25% to 200% too!  This financial surprise is something every business wants to avoid.

Long-Term Consequences of Missed Audits

Missing audits over multiple years can have even more severe repercussions. If a business repeatedly fails to complete its audits, the insurance company may opt to cancel the policy. This cancellation will be contingent upon completing the audit for the missing years. Without accurate audit data, not only will you face inflated premiums, but you also risk losing your coverage altogether.

How to Avoid Assumed Audits

1. Timely Responses: Always respond to audit requests promptly. Set reminders for audit deadlines to ensure you never miss them.  Most companies offer an online portal to complete the audit.  We do an audit every year for our workers compensation policy and it takes about 30 minutes to complete.
2. Accurate Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of your payroll and operations. This documentation will make the actual audit process smoother and faster.  If you are a contractor who may perform different duties throughout the year, keep accurate records of the payroll figures for each duty.  They may ask for your quarterly 941 payroll reports, tax returns and/or income statements to justify your figures.
3. Professional Help: Consider hiring a professional to manage your workers’ compensation and general liability insurance audits. They can ensure that all necessary information is submitted correctly and on time.  If you need a referral for a bookkeeper, accountant or payroll service provider, please let us know.
4. Open Communication: Keep in regular contact with your insurance provider or their auditor in charge. If you’re facing difficulties completing an audit, communicate this early on to explore possible solutions.  They may allow more time to complete the audit before raising your premiums.  Ignoring the situation will never help your situation.

The Benefits of Completing Actual Audits

Completing your insurance audits has its advantages. It ensures you pay a fair premium based on accurate data. Additionally, it helps build a strong relationship with your insurer, potentially leading to better terms and rates in the future. Regular audits can also provide insights into your business operations, helping you identify areas for improvement and growth.

Conclusion

Assumed audits are a critical aspect of both workers’ compensation and general liability insurance policies that businesses must not overlook. The potential for up to a 200% premium increase and the risk of policy cancellation highlight the importance of completing actual audits on time. By staying proactive and maintaining accurate records, you can avoid the pitfalls of assumed audits and ensure your business remains protected.

The Number One Killer of Teen Drivers and How to Prevent It

Car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. This alarming fact highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to keep teen drivers safe on the road. Understanding the causes and implementing preventive strategies can save lives and reduce the number of tragic accidents involving teens.

Why Teen Drivers Are at Risk

Teen drivers are particularly vulnerable to car accidents due to a combination of inexperience, distractions, and risky behaviors. Let’s explore some of the main factors contributing to this high risk:

1. Inexperience: New drivers lack the experience to make quick, safe decisions in challenging situations. Their limited time behind the wheel means they haven’t yet developed the skills needed to handle unexpected events.
2. Distractions: Teens are more likely to be distracted by their phones, passengers, or other activities while driving. Texting, talking on the phone, or even adjusting the radio can divert their attention from the road.
3. Risky Behaviors: Speeding, not wearing seat belts, and drinking and driving are all common risky behaviors among teen drivers. These actions significantly increase the likelihood of an accident.

The Role of Speed in Teen Driving Fatalities

Speeding is a major factor in many fatal crashes involving teens. Young drivers often underestimate the dangers of speeding and overestimate their ability to control the vehicle at high speeds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was a factor in 32% of fatal crashes involving teen drivers in 2019.

How to Reduce the Risk

Reducing the risk of car accidents for teen drivers requires a combination of education, parental involvement, and practical strategies. Here are some effective ways to help keep teen drivers safe:

1. Driver Education Programs: Enrolling teens in comprehensive driver education programs can provide them with the knowledge and skills they need to drive safely. These programs often cover defensive driving techniques, the dangers of distracted driving, and the importance of seat belt use.
2. Parental Involvement: Parents play a crucial role in teaching their teens about safe driving habits. Setting a good example, discussing the risks, and establishing clear rules can make a significant difference. Parents should also supervise their teens’ driving practice to ensure they are gaining experience in a variety of situations.  Parents can also have their children sign a Teen Driver Contract.  We used it for our kids and it adds a layer of accountability for the teen drivers.
3. Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Laws: Many states have implemented GDL laws that introduce driving privileges gradually. These laws typically include restrictions on nighttime driving, the number of passengers allowed, and mandatory supervised driving hours. GDL laws have been shown to reduce crashes among teen drivers by limiting high-risk situations.
4. Promoting Seat Belt Use: Ensuring that teens always wear their seat belts can greatly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident. Parents and educators should stress the importance of buckling up every time, regardless of the distance or duration of the trip.
5. Limiting Distractions: Encourage teens to keep their focus on the road by limiting the use of electronic devices while driving. Many apps are available that can disable texting and other distractions when the car is in motion.
6. Avoiding Impaired Driving: Educate teens about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Encourage them to call for a ride or use alternative transportation if they have been drinking.

Technology to the Rescue

Modern technology offers several tools to help monitor and promote safe driving behaviors among teens:

• Telematics Devices: These devices can be installed in vehicles to track driving behavior, such as speed, braking, and acceleration. Parents can receive reports on their teens’ driving habits and address any risky behaviors.
• Mobile Apps: Several mobile apps are designed to promote safe driving. They can block incoming texts and calls, provide feedback on driving performance, and even offer rewards for safe driving habits.
• Advanced Safety Features: Many newer vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and collision avoidance systems. These technologies can help prevent accidents and protect young drivers.

Conclusion

Preventing car accidents among teen drivers requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the risks and implementing effective strategies, we can help ensure that our teens stay safe on the road. Education, parental involvement, technology, and adherence to safe driving practices are key components in reducing the number of tragic accidents involving young drivers. Together, we can make a difference and protect the lives of our teens.

What is a Soft Market in the Insurance Industry?

In the insurance world, terms like “soft market” and “hard market” are often used to describe different conditions in the industry. Understanding these terms can help you make better decisions about your insurance needs.

What is a Soft Market?

A soft market in the insurance industry happens when there are more insurance companies competing for your business. This leads to lower prices, better coverage options, and more flexibility for you as a customer. Think of it like a big sale at your favorite store where many stores are trying to get you to buy from them.

Why Does a Soft Market Happen?

A soft market occurs for a few reasons:

1. Economic Conditions: When the economy is doing well, more people and businesses buy insurance. This increases competition among insurance companies.  It also increases the returns on the investments that an insurance company makes with their reserves.  This allows them to offer lower premiums.
2. Low Claims: If insurance companies aren’t paying out a lot of claims (money paid to customers after an accident or loss), they have more money to spend on getting new customers.  Plus, the lower loss ratio (losses paid devided by premiums collected) allows them to lower their premiums for their customers.  In fact, in these cases, the state insurance regulators will encourage the companies to adjust their rates downward if they have a sustained period of lower claim payments.  We ae seeing this now with workers compensation insurance.
3. Increased Capacity: When there are many insurance companies with lots of money to insure people, it drives prices down.  If insurance companies are making money in a state or with a product, other companies will want to join in and make money too.  With increased competition comes lower prices.

Benefits of a Soft Market

1. Lower Premiums: Premiums are the money you pay for insurance coverage. In a soft market, insurance pricing is generally lower because companies want your business.
2. Better Coverage: With more competition, insurance companies often offer better coverage options. This means you can get more for your money.
3. More Flexibility: Companies may be more willing to negotiate terms and conditions to meet your needs.  Companies are heavily regulated by the state insurance commissioner, so there may not bee too much room for negotiation.

Drawbacks of a Soft Market

While a soft market has many benefits, there can be some downsides:

1. Short-Term Benefits: The advantages may be temporary. If the market changes, prices and coverage could adjust quickly.
2. Stability Issues: Some insurance companies might lower prices too much and then struggle financially if they have to pay a lot of claims.  We have seen this many times.  A company will come in with very aggressive pricing, only to grow too fast.  When they grow too fast, they can find themselves paying claims at a higher rate than before.

How to Make the Most of a Soft Market

1. Shop Around: Compare offers from different insurance companies to get the best deal.  If you deal with an independent insurance agent like Huff Insurance, we can do the shopping for you.  We represent over 20 insurance companies.
2. Review Your Coverage: Make sure you’re getting the right coverage for your needs. Don’t just go for the lowest price.  Don’t get caught up in the saving money at all cost hype.  The object of insurance is to protect your money and savings.  So, cutting coverage to save money could actually cost you more in the long run should you have an uncovered claim.
3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent about any discounts or special coverage options available during a soft market.  The agents at Huff Insurance have been in the business for a long time.  So, they have seen a thing or two in this business and will be able to answer almost any question you may have.

Conclusion

A soft market is a good time for customers because it means lower prices, better coverage, and more flexibility. By understanding what a soft market is and how to take advantage of it, you can make better choices about your insurance.

Give us a call here at Huff Insurance.  We are a local, family owned indpendent insurance agency.  We have been around since 1960, so we have seen every type of market the insurance industry has thrown around.  So, whether it is a soft market, a hard market, or a perfect market, our experienced agents will make sure you are getting the right coverage for the right price.

Beware of the Maryland Toll Services Scam Text

If you’ve recently received a suspicious text message claiming to be from Maryland Toll Services, you’re not alone. Scammers are increasingly using text messages to target unsuspecting victims with fraudulent claims about unpaid tolls. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself from falling victim to this scam.  The MD

What is the Maryland Toll Services Scam Text?

The Maryland Toll Services scam text is a phishing attempt where scammers send out messages pretending to be from the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA). These messages often claim that you have unpaid tolls and direct you to a fraudulent website to make a payment. The goal is to steal your personal information and, ultimately, your money.

How the Scam Works

1. The Message: You receive a text message from what appears to be Maryland Toll Services or MDTA. The message claims that you have unpaid tolls and provides a link to a website where you can supposedly pay the outstanding amount. ( See the actual scam text that I recently received, which triggered me to write this blog)
2. The Link: Clicking on the link takes you to a fake website designed to look like the official MDTA payment portal. This site may ask for personal information, such as your credit card number, address, and even your Social Security number.
3. The Outcome: If you enter your information on the fraudulent site, scammers can use it to make unauthorized purchases, steal your identity, or access your bank accounts.

How to Identify a Maryland Toll Services Scam Text

Scammers are getting more sophisticated, but there are still some tell-tale signs that can help you identify a phishing attempt:

• Generic Greetings: Legitimate messages from MDTA will usually address you by name, whereas scam messages often use generic greetings like “Dear Customer.”
• Urgent Language: Be wary of messages that create a sense of urgency, such as “immediate action required” or “your account will be suspended.”
• Suspicious Links: Hover over the link (without clicking) to see where it leads. Official MDTA links will always start with “mdta.maryland.gov” or “ezpassmd.com.”

Steps to Take if You Receive a Maryland Toll Services Scam Text

If you receive a text message that you suspect is a scam, follow these steps to protect yourself:

1. Do Not Click the Link: Avoid clicking on any links in the message. Instead, go directly to the official MDTA or E-ZPass Maryland website by typing the URL into your browser.
2. Verify the Message: Contact MDTA or E-ZPass Maryland directly using a phone number or email address from their official website to verify whether the message is legitimate.
3. Report the Scam: Forward the scam text to 7726 (SPAM) to report it to your mobile carrier. You can also report it to the FBI at https://www.ic3.gov/ and/or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftc.gov/complaint
5. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Consider setting up alerts for unusual activity.

Why Scams Like This are on the Rise

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit new technologies and social trends. The rise in the use of smartphones and online payments has given scammers new avenues to target potential victims. Text messages are particularly effective because they feel more personal and immediate than email, and people are often less cautious when interacting with them.

How to Protect Yourself in the Future

Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to similar scams in the future:

• Be Skeptical: Always question unexpected messages, especially those requesting personal information or payment.
• Secure Your Information: Never share sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details, through text message or email.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure your phone and computer software are up to date to protect against malware and other security threats.
• Use Strong Passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for different accounts and consider using a password manager.

Conclusion

The Maryland Toll Services scam text is a reminder to remain vigilant about the information you receive and share online. By being aware of the signs of phishing attempts and taking proactive steps to protect your personal information, you can help safeguard yourself against these and other types of scams.

Always remember, if something seems suspicious, it probably is.

Stay safe and informed!

 

 

What is a Hard Market in the Insurance Industry?

When you hear about a “hard market” in the insurance industry, think of it as a tough time for both buying and selling insurance. This period comes with some challenges that make it harder for people to get insurance and for companies to offer it.

What Happens in a Hard Market?

1. Higher Premiums: Insurance companies start charging more money for their policies. This increase in pricing makes insurance more expensive for everyone.
2. Stricter Underwriting: Insurers become pickier about who they give policies to. They look more closely at applications and might reject more people or businesses than usual.  We are seeing this a lot in home insurance policies.  Companes are getting strick with the age and conditions of roofs.
3. Reduced Coverage: The insurance policies that are available might offer less protection. This means they might not cover as many types of risks as they used to.  Again, with the roofs, companies are changing from a replacement cost coverage to an actual cash value coverage if your roof is over a certain age.
4. Fewer Policies: Some insurance companies might stop offering certain types of insurance altogether. This reduction in availability can make it harder to find the coverage you need.  We have seen this a lot in the Florida and California insurance markets.

Why Does a Hard Market Happen?

Several factors can lead to a hard market:

• High Claim Costs: If insurance companies have to pay out a lot of money in claims, they might raise premiums to cover these costs.  Several factors play into higher claims costs, including:
  • Higher costs due to inflation
  • Higher wages
  • Supply chain interruptions
  • Etc.
• Natural Disasters: Events like hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires can cause massive losses for insurers, triggering a hard market.  There have been an increasing number of natural disasters over the years, causing the insurance companies to pay for more catastrophic losses.
• Economic Factors: Economic downturns can also contribute to a hard market. When the economy is bad, investments might not perform well, and insurers have less money to work with.
• Regulatory Changes: New laws or regulations can make it more expensive for insurance companies to operate, which can lead to higher premiums and stricter underwriting.

How Long Does a Hard Market Last?

A hard market doesn’t last forever. It’s part of a cycle. Eventually, the market will ease up, leading to a “soft market.” In a soft market, premiums are lower, underwriting is more relaxed, and more coverage options are available.

We are starting to see the industry turn the corner, meaning the market is starting to soften a little.  We have had a major carrier announce a rate decrease in the coming months.  This is something we have not seen is several years.

Understanding hard markets can help you plan better and stay informed about why your insurance costs might be changing. Always remember, if you’re having trouble finding affordable coverage during a hard market, talking to a knowledgeable insurance agent at Huff Insurance can make a big difference.

Huff Insurance has been around for over 64 years, so we have seen all of the ups and downs the insurance market has to offer.  Our experienced team can make sure you are getting the best value from your insurance dollars.  Call 410-647-1111 today.

Graduation Party Risks: Don’t Let Your Joyous Event Turn Into A Tragic Event

As graduation season approaches, the air fills with the excitement of accomplishment and new beginnings. It’s a time when parents might consider throwing a party to honor their graduate’s milestone. However, incorporating alcohol in these celebrations can significantly escalate the risks, legally and ethically, especially when minors are involved. Understanding these risks is crucial for parents to ensure that a moment of celebration doesn’t turn into a legal nightmare.

Understanding Social Host Liability

Social host liability laws are critical for anyone planning to host a party. These laws hold individuals accountable for providing alcohol to minors.  They  can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Even simply allowing minors to consume alcohol on your property might lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges, particularly if you are deemed to have supplied the alcohol directly to minors.

The Legal Landscape of Graduation Party Risks

The legal ramifications can extend beyond immediate fines or criminal charges. For instance, if a minor drinks alcohol at your party and then injures someone else or causes property damage, you could be held liable for those damages. This liability is sometimes covered by homeowner’s insurance, but many policies do not cover incidents involving alcohol provided to minors, leaving you exposed to potential lawsuits.

Preventive Measures and Best Practices to Mitigat Gratuation party Risks

To host a safe and lawful graduation party, consider the following guidelines:

• Check Local Laws: Always verify the specific social host liability laws in your area to ensure compliance.
• Clear Communication: Discuss expectations with your teen and their friends explicitly. Make it clear that alcohol is not permitted.
• Active Supervision: Actively monitor the party. Consider hiring professional security if expecting a large group.
• Offer Alternatives: Provide plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and engage guests with games, photo booths, and other fun activities that divert attention from drinking.
• Event Insurance: Consider purchasing special event insurance that provides coverage for accidents and injuries that could occur during large gatherings.

Educational Efforts

Educating yourself and your teen about the dangers of underage drinking can further safeguard your event. Discuss the legal implications and the potential long-term consequences of underage drinking. Many schools and community centers offer resources and programs that provide both parents and teens with valuable information about managing peer pressure and understanding the risks associated with alcohol consumption.

Community and Legal Repercussions

Many jurisdictions have adopted social host ordinances.  These have been an effective tool in combating underage drinking. These laws allow communities to hold hosts accountable even without a tragic event occurring. They also enable the recoupment of costs related to underage drinking incidents, such as emergency services and law enforcement interventions. The message is clear: hosting underage drinking parties is not acceptable and carries heavy penalties.

Community Involvement

Engaging with your community can also help in promoting a safe party environment. Many communities have coalitions against underage drinking that offer resources and support. Participating in or organizing community talks and workshops can be an effective way to spread awareness and reduce the prevalence of underage drinking at parties.

Hosting a graduation party can be a joyous occasion, but it is vital to ensure the safety and legality of the event by excluding alcohol. This protects not only the teens but also the hosts from potential liabilities and legal consequences. By staying informed, cautious, and proactive, you can help make your graduate’s celebration both safe and memorable.