Are You Insuring Your Property Correctly?

We are excited to announce that two of our dedicated insurance agents will be attending the Made Bike Show in Portland, OR, on August 23rd and 24th. This event is a prime opportunity for framebuilders and other bike industry professionals to connect with specialists who understand your unique needs and challenges. Customized Coverage for Niche Markets At ISU Stephen B. Marvin Insurance, we specialize in providing customized coverage tailored to niche markets, including the rapidly growing electric bike sector. Whether you are a manufacturer, distributor, importer, retailer, rental service, tour operator, or running a service and repair shop, we have the expertise to ensure you are adequately protected. Offering Coverages In: General & Excess Liability Product & Vendor Liability Product Recall Property Stock Throughput Ocean Cargo Employee Benefits Workers Compensation Accident & Health Cyber Commercial Auto Contact Our Specialists Today Don’t miss this opportunity to discuss your insurance needs with our specialists in person at the Made Bike Show. For more information or to schedule a meeting, contact our knowledgeable agents: Rebecca Martinez, CLIC, Bicycle Manufacturing Specialist: rebecca@marvinins.com Josh Barbosa, CIC, Bicycle Program Producer: josh@marvinins.com You can also reach us by phone at 661-942-1101. We look forward to seeing you in Portland and helping you secure the best coverage for your business!

Today is National Financial Awareness Day—a perfect reminder to review and strengthen your financial health. One crucial aspect of financial planning that often gets overlooked is life insurance. Here’s why it’s essential: Why Life Insurance? Peace of Mind: Life insurance ensures your loved ones are financially protected even when you're not around. It offers the reassurance that they will be able to maintain their standard of living, covering daily expenses and unforeseen costs. Debt Coverage: Life insurance can help cover outstanding debts, so your family isn't burdened with financial stress. Whether it’s a mortgage, car loan, or credit card debt, a life insurance policy can settle these obligations. Future Planning: The funds from a life insurance policy can assist with significant future expenses like college tuition or mortgage payments. This financial support can be critical in helping your family achieve long-term goals. Income Replacement: Life insurance provides a financial safety net that can replace lost income, ensuring your family’s financial stability. This is especially important for maintaining their quality of life and covering daily living expenses. Financial Tip: Regularly review your life insurance policy to ensure it meets your current needs and financial goals. As life changes, so should your coverage. Key life events such as marriage, having children, or purchasing a new home are all reasons to reassess your policy. Taking control of your financial future today will pave the way for a secure tomorrow. Reach out to us to learn more about how life insurance can be a cornerstone of your financial plan. Our team is here to help you navigate your options and find the best policy to fit your needs.

Driving Safely in School Zones As the school year gets into full swing, it's important to remember that school zones demand extra diligence and care from drivers. Children are unpredictable, and a moment's distraction can lead to tragic consequences. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind to ensure the safety of everyone in these areas. Slow Down and Be Vigilant Speed limits in school zones are significantly lower for a reason. Always adhere to the posted speed limits and stay alert. Children can dart out from seemingly nowhere, and lower speeds increase your reaction time, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Obey Traffic Signs and Crossing Guards School zones are well-marked with signs and sometimes flashing lights to alert you. Pay attention to these indicators and always follow the instructions of crossing guards. They are there to ensure children cross streets safely. Avoid Distractions Put away your phone and focus entirely on the road when driving through school zones. Even a second of distraction can be dangerous. Refrain from eating, fiddling with the radio, or any activity that diverts your attention from driving. Watch for School Buses School buses are frequent in these areas, and you must stop when they extend their stop signs and flash their red lights. This signals that children will be getting on or off the bus, and passing a stopped school bus is illegal in many states. Be Extra Cautious During Drop-Off and Pick-Up Times These are peak times when children and parents are most active around schools. Be patient, as traffic can be a bit chaotic. Keep an eye out for children walking or running between cars in the school parking lot or curbside. Driving with extra caution in school zones ensures the safety of our children. These areas are meant to be safe havens where kids can walk and play without fear. By following these guidelines, you help create a safer environment for everyone.

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Several of our business clients have been impacted by a wrongful termination lawsuit that nearly put them out of business, and I felt the need to reach out to those of you I haven't discussed this topic with. With three out of every five companies suffering discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination lawsuits during their business’s lifespan, it is unfortunately likely that your business will, too. Consider these hard-to-answer questions: 1. While you work hard to exercise impeccable judgment and eliminate discrimination in the office, are you 100% certain you’ve never grossly offended a member of your team? 2. What about your employees? Do they maintain the same level of awareness and integrity? 3. Will all of your employees — past, present, and future — fully understand your reasons for demoting or terminating and know it had nothing to do with sex, race, religion, or gender? Our agency has deep experience in the growing field of Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI). Why is it growing? Because every year more and more employees sue former employers with allegations of discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination. If you have employees, you need Employment Practices Liability Insurance. Please contact our agency if you have more questions about EPLI, one of our knowledgeable agents would be happy to assist! ☎️ 661-942-1101 ✉️ info@marvinins.com Do you like this content? You can similar content on our Facebook & Instagram!

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to refresh our commitment to safe driving. Here's how we can make our roads safer.

April 7th is National Pet Insurance Day! We know that your furry friends are very important, and here are some reasons why you should consider pet insurance.

As we step into the vibrant season of spring, it's not just the flowers that bloom, but also the anticipation of unpredictable weather. With March marking the National "Umbrella Month," it’s a timely reminder from us at ISU Stephen B. Marvin Insurance Agency about the importance of being prepared for those unforeseen storms life may throw your way. This month, we encourage our valued clients to consider the benefits of umbrella insurance—a critical layer of security that ensures peace of mind during turbulent times. Understanding Umbrella Insurance Umbrella insurance is designed to provide an additional layer of protection beyond the limits of standard insurance policies, such as homeowners, auto, or watercraft insurance. This type of insurance steps in where your other policies reach their coverage limit, offering extended protection against a wide range of potential financial storms that could otherwise devastate your savings and future earnings. One of the most compelling aspects of umbrella insurance is its affordability. Compared to the extensive coverage it provides, umbrella policies are usually significantly more cost-effective. This makes them an invaluable addition to any insurance portfolio, acting as a safety net that's there when you need it most. Why Consider Umbrella Insurance Now? The symbolism of March as National Umbrella Month couldn’t be more appropriate. Just as we use physical umbrellas to protect ourselves from rain, umbrella insurance serves as a protective canopy for your assets and future income against severe financial downpours. Whether it’s a lawsuit, major accident, or another unforeseen event, having umbrella insurance means you have a broader coverage to shield you from the financial impact. The truth is, no one ever wants to be in a situation where they need to rely on their umbrella insurance. However, life’s unpredictability makes it essential. Having that extra layer of insurance isn’t just about managing risks; it’s about ensuring that when the storm passes, you and your loved ones can move forward without the burden of financial strain. Take Action Today As we celebrate National Umbrella Month, we invite you to consider how an umbrella policy can fortify your personal insurance coverage. It’s a simple, proactive step you can take to safeguard your peace of mind and financial wellbeing against life’s unpredictable moments. Don’t wait for the clouds to gather before thinking about your umbrella. Get in touch with us today to discuss how an umbrella insurance policy can be integrated into your current insurance plan. Our team is here to guide you through your options and help you secure the additional protection you deserve.

Navigating the insurance landscape has become increasingly challenging for many, with noticeable upticks in premiums across various policies. At ISU Stephen B. Marvin Insurance Agency, we understand the importance of transparency and education for our clients. Therefore, we're shedding light on the pivotal factors contributing to the rise in insurance costs and offering actionable advice to help manage these changes effectively. Here's what you need to know: 1. Higher Rebuilding Costs The cost to rebuild homes has surged, primarily due to increased material and labor expenses. The ongoing supply chain issues further exacerbate this situation, making it inevitable for carriers to adjust premiums to cover these rising costs. 2. Elevated Vehicle Repair Expenses Auto repair costs have risen by 20%, driven by the higher prices of auto parts and labor. Modern vehicles, equipped with advanced technology features, demand more sophisticated (and pricier) repair methods. 3. Skyrocketing Medical Costs The healthcare sector has seen a significant increase in costs, especially for bodily injuries resulting from auto accidents, contributing to higher insurance premiums. 4. Increased Litigation Costs Litigation expenses have soared, marking a 30% increase in 2022 alone. This trend adds considerable financial strain on insurance carriers, influencing premium rates. 5. More Frequent and Severe Auto Accidents The post-COVID era has witnessed a rise in auto accidents and fatalities, necessitating adjustments in insurance pricing to accommodate the increased risk. 6. Higher Reinsurance Costs Reinsurance rates are climbing, reflecting the insurance industry's response to manage catastrophic losses effectively. This situation impacts the overall pricing structure for consumers. Proactive Measures to Mitigate Rising Costs While the industry faces these challenges, there are steps you can take to navigate the current market conditions: Consider Higher Deductibles : Opting for a higher deductible may not suit everyone, but it could be a strategic choice for some. We're here to discuss if this option aligns with your situation. Ensure Continuous Coverage : Avoid lapses or cancellations in your policy. The current market is less forgiving, and reinstatement might require upfront payment or lead to cancellation based on the carrier's risk assessment. Value Tenure : Loyalty pays off. Frequently switching insurers can disadvantage you in the long run. Continuity with an insurer is often rewarded with better terms. Handle Small Claims Independently : Whenever possible, manage minor claims out of pocket to avoid increasing your premium due to claim frequency. Additional Tip: Maintain Your Property A well-maintained home can prevent unnecessary claims and potential premium hikes. Keep your yard clear of debris and manage overhanging trees to mitigate risks that could lead to insurance claims. Ready to Discuss Your Options? Understanding these dynamics is crucial, but knowing how to navigate them is even more important. At ISU Stephen B. Marvin Insurance Agency, we're committed to guiding our clients through these turbulent times with personalized advice and support. If you're feeling the impact of rising premiums or have concerns about your coverage, don't hesitate to contact us. Together, we can explore strategies to manage your insurance costs effectively while ensuring your peace of mind.