Wishing All Our Customers & Friends a Very Safe & Happy NEW YEAR!

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McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC is holding a Holiday TOY DRIVE.

McElhinny Insurance Agency is holding a Holiday TOY DRIVE. Please bring all new toys to our office location by December 19th 2013. We will match the donations and take all toys & items to Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh. If you have any questions please contact our agency.

THANK YOU and Happy Holidays from the McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC

Toys can be dropped off at:

5624 Brownsville Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236

412-650-5700


http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/mcelhinny_insurance_agency_llc_is_holding_a_holiday_toy_drive.aspx

Turkey, Tinsel and Tinder: Tips for Hazard-Free Holidays.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Turkey, Tinsel and Tinder: Tips for Hazard-Free Holidays.



Click on the snowman to see the Holiday Hazard Infographic

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The song says “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but it can also be the most dangerous. The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is fraught with hazards from car crashes to house fires to holiday-related injuries. To help ensure revelers have a safe holiday season, Erie Insurance shares some of the most dangerous holiday hazards and how to avoid them.

“Being aware of the biggest risks to you and your loved ones’ safety during the holidays can help prevent accidents,” said Rick Burt, executive vice president of products at Erie Insurance. “Each holiday hazard we identified is preventable.”
Below are some of the most common holiday hazards and how to avoid them.

The hazard	The numbers	Tips
Bonfires and fire pits	National Fire Protection Association reports 692,000 outside and other fires occurred in 2012.	• Place fire pits at least 10 feet away from your house or other structures. • Keep fire pits away from trees, brush and other flammable materials.
Cooking holiday meals	Three times as many home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year according to the National Fire Protection Association. NFPA reports there were 1,370 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving in 2010, a 219 percent increase over the daily average.	• Deep fryers can be hazardous, so always fill turkey fryers with the proper amount of oil. • Never drop a frozen turkey into hot oil as it could cause flare-ups. • Put turkey fryers on a level surface. • Never leave the fryer unattended.
Heart attacks	According to a national study published in the journal Circulation, the number of cardiac deaths is higher on Dec. 25 than on any other day of the year. The study reports Dec. 26 is the second highest, and the third highest is Jan. 1.	• Avoid exposure to very cold temperatures and dress warmly. • Avoid excess salt and alcohol, which can cause an abnormal heart rhythm that increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and heart failure. • Minimize heart stressors such as overexertion and emotional stress. • Don’t let fear of disrupting the holidays lead you to ignore chest pains—seek immediate medical attention.
Holiday decorations	According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the number of holiday decoration-related injuries increased by 1,000 each year from 12,000 in 2009 to 13,000 in 2010 to 14,000 in 2011. CSPC also says Christmas tree fires caused $19 million in property losses between 2008 and 2010. During this same period, candle-related fires resulted in reports of 74 deaths and $347 million in property losses.	• Inspect lights every year for frayed wires, excessive kinking and cracked sockets. • Ensure ladders are on secure and level ground. • Make sure all decorations are nonflammable or flame-retardant • Keep decorations, including live Christmas trees, away from heat vents. • Never leave a burning candle unattended; better yet, consider using battery operated flameless candles.
Car accidents	Thanksgiving is one of the deadliest times to be on the road, according to MADD. In 2010, 174 people were killed in drunk driving crashes during the holiday weekend, accounting for 40 percent of highway deaths.	• Stay sober or designate a driver. • Always wear your safety belt and place children in properly installed car seats. • Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel—keep distractions to a minimum. • Properly maintain your car for winter weather.
Sledding accidents	According to a study published in Pediatrics, more than 20,000 children are injured every year in sledding accidents.	• Choose snowy hills rather than icy ones. • Avoid hills that end in streets or parking lots, or near ponds, fences or other obstacles. • Wear a helmet.
Slips and falls	Falls are one of the leading causes of unintentional injuries in the United States, accounting for approximately 8.9 million visits to the emergency department, according to the National Safety Council.	• Wear footwear with low heels and rubber soles for better traction. • Avoid rushing; walk slowly and deliberately. • Keep hands free and out of pockets. • Avoid icy surfaces.

  

 

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/turkey_tinsel_and_tinder_tips_for_hazard-free_holidays.aspx

 

Ask ERIE: Why did my neighbor’s homeowners insurance premium go up, without a claim?

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700


Ask ERIE: Why did my neighbor’s homeowners insurance premium go up, without a claim?


Pricing homeowners insurance is complex, and there are probably several reasons behind your neighbor’s homeowners insurance premium increase. They could include:
1. Inflation: Increases in the value of his dwelling, the other structures on his property and the replacement cost of his property would make his premium go up. “Though there’s an increase, it’s really a good thing since it means your property is adequately covered,” says Terry McConnell, ERIE’s vice president and manager, Personal Lines Underwriting.
2. Increased catastrophes: The increased frequency and severity of catastrophes over the past five years have made homeowners prices more volatile than auto insurance prices since you can’t exactly move your home out of harm’s way.
Sometimes, less newsworthy weather events cause the most damage. “People always think of hurricanes when they think of catastrophes, but some of our biggest losses come from thunderstorms, hail, winter storms and tornados,” says McConnell.
Insurers adjust prices based on how much damage your particular state experienced. If your state didn’t suffer much, you can typically expect little or no increase.
3. Construction costs driven by a shortage of materials: Even if a catastrophe occurs on the other side of the country, it can still have implications on your neighbor’s homeowners rate. That’s because widespread damage causes a shortage of building materials, which drives up their price for everyone. (Labor shortages increase the cost of construction projects as well.)
4. Changes in previous discounts: Finally, your neighbor might have seen an increase in his homeowners premium if some of his discounts were reduced or expired. For example, a new home discount will lessen as a home ages.
ERIE offers many home insurance values and discounts to offset any premium increases.* To learn more, visit erieinsurance.com or contact an ERIE Agent.
Insurance question have you stumped? Then email it to Eriesense@erieinsurance.com for possible inclusion in an upcoming Ask ERIE column.

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* Discounts are subject to eligibility criteria and applicable rate and rules. Actual savings vary.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

How to Avoid a Parking Lot Accident.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

How to Avoid a Parking Lot Accident

By: Amanda Prischak

October 11, 2013

Car Sense

There’s a whole lot more than parking happening in parking lots. Dodging near misses, getting cut off, searching for a spot, fretting about cars and carts dinging your vehicle–parking lots can be stressful places. And a parking lot accident is often the worst fear of all.
Twenty percent of all accidents happen in parking lots. What’s more, 52 percent of injuries resulting from backover accidents happen when a vehicle backs into a person in a parking lot.
“Many crashes happen in parking lots, and it’s not always easy to avoid them when other drivers aren’t paying attention or are backing out of a space,” says Russ Rader, senior vice president of communications at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep you, your car and others safe.

1. Sloooowww down and proceed with caution. It’s common sense, but a parking lot accident could be avoided by driving at a school-zone speed, keeping your headlights on and using extra caution when turning or backing up.
2. Correctly set your side mirrors. Many drivers could benefit from moving the side mirrors further out. Also consider adding blind spot mirrors to your side mirrors.
3. Embrace technology. “If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you might consider buying one with collision avoidance technology,” says Rader. Initially just in luxury cars, these technologies are now in many mainstream family vehicles.
   • Rear view cameras display what’s behind your car on a screen. If you’re not in the market for a new car, consider installing a standalone backup camera in your current car.
   • Radar and ultrasonic systems beep when they detect an object
     behind your car. (Some will even automatically apply the brakes.)
   • Vehicle cross traffic alert systems use sensors to apply the
     brakes when a vehicle is approaching.
   • Parking assist systems will automatically park your car for
     you. (No more parallel parking!)
4. If possible, park far away from other cars. Walking is good for you anyway.
5. Look for pull-through spots. They spare you from having to back out later.
6. Be extra careful on gusty days. Strong winds can easily knock a door or a cart into your car.
7. Keep an eye out for stray carts. They can do a number on your vehicle.

If you want to go a step further, try shopping on low-volume days. The Time Use Institute reports that the busiest grocery day and time is Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The least crowded days are Mondays and Tuesdays, especially after 6 p.m.
Of course accidents can still happen even if you’re cautious and do all your shopping at midnight. That’s why it’s important to have collision insurance, which covers damage your car sustains whether it’s your fault or not. That means you’re covered whether you accidentally crash into a lamppost or if your parked car is majorly dinged. That’s reassuring–especially if you’re among these five most notoriously bad parkers.

Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/how_to_avoid_a_parking_lot_accident.aspx

Warm Up Your Autumn Nights with Outdoor Fires

Warm Up Your Autumn Nights with Outdoor Fires


Outdoor fires are a popular, and warm, way to carry summer fun into fall. My family in particular loves nothing better than a warm fire around our fire pit when friends and family are visiting, and we have no shortage of wood and marshmallows stashed for these spur of the moment occasions. If you’re new to hosting outdoor fires, here are tips to help you get started.
How to Choose Your Outdoor Fireplace—Buy or Build?
If you don’t own a “container” for your fire, there are a couple options to choose from: purchase one, such as a metal fire pit, a fire bowl, fire cage or chiminea, from a local home/hardware store, such as Lowe’s or the Home Depot, or build a fire pit yourself. The sales representatives at these stores will help you pick out your perfect pit or point you in the right direction and give you tips if you plan to build one.
Give Your Fire Pit a Checkup
If you already have something that serves as an outdoor fireplace, you’re one step ahead. But before you get the fire rolling, inspect your fire pit/bowl/chiminea for any rust, if it has metal parts, or cracks to make sure the apparatus is still in usable condition. If it’s an in-ground pit, inspect the setup to make sure it’s still a sound structure.
Check the Weather and Local Laws Before Striking a Match
Always remember before building a fire to consider the weather conditions and local ordinances. Attempting to light a fire on a really windy day could have an unfortunate ending. Burning material can get blown into dry debris or worse, a house. And burning in a backyard against regulations can have financial consequences.
To reduce the risk of a sudden gust ruining your fun (the kind even weather can’t predict):

• Place your fire pit out in the open on a flat surface at least 10 feet away from any potential hazard. Outdoor fire hazards include trees and low hanging branches, dry debris such as leaf piles and twigs, other close greenery and wooden structures such as homes and pavilions.
• Pick up leaves and twigs close to the site beforehand.
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby as a safety precaution.

To keep up with burn bans, contact your local fire department.
How to Get the Fire Started
A fire should start small by using paper, twigs or starter logs that can be bought from local stores. Gradually build up the fire with slightly larger pieces of wood. Logs or branches should never hang over the edge or outside of the fire pit.
Cut large branches into smaller pieces before using them to fuel your fire.
Also, never use an accelerant, such as gasoline or lighter fluid, to get the fire started. It is a dangerous practice, burns off quickly and will not sustain the fire.
Before You Go…
Never leave your fire unattended. Even an enclosed fire burning apparatus can lose hot embers. Have an adult monitor the fire, especially if there are small children around. When the fire dies down, put it out by pouring water over the embers.
Even after the water, the fire may not be completely put out. The US Fire Administration states that 16% of outdoor fires are attributed to hot or smoldering objects, such as hot embers or ash. Keep an eye on the extinguished fire until the embers stop steaming. If it’s a stubborn fire, use sand to help extinguish it. (Just remember to clean out the sand before the next burning.)
Have some fun!
Fire pits are great centers for gatherings and hangouts. Following these guidelines will help you to have safe and enjoyable experiences. Grab some friends, marshmallows and roasting sticks, or just a chair to relax in and take advantage of this fantastic season in the great outdoors.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

Losses and Lessons: Timber! Tree flattens '67 Mustang

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Losses and Lessons: Timber! Tree flattens ’67 Mustang

Jeff Peek

September 12, 2013

View larger images

VEHICLE COVERED: 1967 Ford Mustang custom
WHAT WENT WRONG: Sometimes good intentions turn into “what-are-the-odds” disaster stories. The owner of a 1967 Ford Mustang custom convertible rolled his car into his driveway for a wash and wax. It was an overcast day, and he knew that rain was on its way, but he thought he could easily finish the job and put his car back inside before any drops fell. Then the house phone rang, he ran inside to answer it, and a short chat turned into a deep conversation. In the meantime, a fast-moving storm converged on his neighborhood. Just as the owner ran outside to move the Mustang back indoors, a huge oak tree branch came crashing down onto it.
DAMAGE/LOSS: Fortunately, the owner wasn’t injured, but the car didn’t fare so well. The custom convertible – which had been lowered, shaved and painted with custom wheels added – suffered damage to the hood, roof, windshield, dash, seats, trunk, driver’s side front fender, door and back fender. It was a total loss. Hagerty paid the insured Guaranteed Value of $30,000.
LESSON: Take nothing for granted when you walk away from your classic. If inclement weather is imminent, take a moment and put your car inside. One simple decision could avert an accident.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

What Taxes, Healthcare Laws Mean for Small Businesss.

What Taxes, Healthcare Laws Mean for Small Businesses

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700


What Taxes, Healthcare Laws Mean for Small Businesses.

By: Catherine Amick

September 3, 2013

Business Sense, Local Lowdown

There’s a lot of talk about taxes and regulations and how changes to the system could impact small businesses. Recently, the chatter’s also included potential impacts from healthcare reform and the Affordable Care Act. But what do taxes and regulations really mean for you, your business or the small businesses you most often work with?
We looked for a florist, a mechanic and an insurance agent —small business owners who consumers work with everyday—to ask how they handle the changing news. We ended up talking to an award-winning designer, finding the American dream and learning what it means to be an American entrepreneur. It made it hard to remember we intended to talk about taxes and regulations.
In a nutshell, here’s how taxes work for a small business:

• Tax season is every season for a business. They pay estimated taxes every quarter, based on what they made at the same time the previous year. At times, that means a small business owner may pay taxes on income they haven’t yet brought in. (This is especially true if they’re a single owner, partnership or S-Corp).
• The Small Business Health Care Tax Credit offers a credit on a percentage of the premium a small business pays on health care for employees. But, it’s been controversial. The credit also doesn’t directly help with cash flow, one of small businesses’ biggest challenges.
• Project-based or seasonal business owners, like contractors and repairmen, experience the tax/cash-flow crunch even more so than businesses with steady, recurring income. At any time, a business can appear wealthy on paper but have little cash to spend, invest or hire.
• If a small business builds up its coffers for an emergency (such as needing a new air conditioner for an office building and retail storefront) or as money to hire a new employee, that savings, if high enough, can be taxed heavily.
• One thing everyone can do to support small businesses is to shop locally. The more you buy within your own community, the more small businesses grow, regardless of taxes or regulations.

Enough with the dry tax stuff. If you’re like us, you’ll find the stories of these amazing individuals far more interesting.
Finding the American Dream
Keno’s Collision Tek, Keith Matus
ERIE Customer with Sparks Insurance, Kenosha, Wis.
Designing Something New
Something New Florist and Events, Joe Mineo
ERIE Customer with Chase Agency, Boardman, Ohio
Building from Scratch
Mike Masters, ERIE Agent
Masters Insurance Agency, Dunkirk, Ind.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/what_taxes_healthcare_laws_mean_for_small_businesses.aspx

Are You Being Smished?

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agnecy LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Are You Being Smished?

• By: Amanda Prischak
• July 15, 2013
• Home Sense

The movie Identity Thief might be a comedy, but the crime is no laughing matter. Identity theft costs victims a lot of time and money, and now, it can begin with suspicious text messages.
Scammers have all kinds of ways to cheat people—and they’re always coming up with new ones. Take smishing. The term is a mash-up of SMS (an abbreviation for Short Message Service, a.k.a. texting) and phishing. It’s a way scammers lure you into revealing personal information via text messages that are often from a 5000 phone number or no number at all.
One common smishing scheme involves a text message informing you that you “won” a prize. The catch? (You knew one was coming…) In order to claim your “prize,” you have to reveal your credit card info to cover the costs of shipping your special “gift.” If you do, you’ll soon realize the only gift is the gift of good credit you gave the crook.
Any unusual text message that includes an unusual link or asks you to provide information could be a form of smishing. Some other common smishing schemes include fraudulent messages from a bank or credit union, links to bogus order confirmations or notifications warning you to take action before you’re signed up for a service you never requested.
According to an article in the Wall Street Journal MarketWatch, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) received some 20,000 consumer complaints about smishing in 2012—a 700 percent increase over 2011. The FTC responded by filing “court cases against eight companies and 29 people who were collectively bombarding consumers with more than 180 million unwanted text messages.”
Just because smishing is on the rise doesn’t mean you have to be a victim. Stay safe by keeping these tips in mind:

• Don’t click or download anything from a suspicious text. If you think the text might be from a legit business, call the business directly to get the lowdown.
• Be especially wary of messages that come from a 5000 number or no number at all. Scammers often use this ruse to hide their real identity.
• Don’t ever “act immediately.” Instructions to do so are a common way in which con artists get victims to take the bait.
• Regularly install recommended updates on your phone. This lowers the chances of getting smished by keeping your phone prepped with the latest security software.
• Report smishy texts. If you get a suspicious text, consider filing a complaint with the the Federal Trade Commission.

Learn more about identity theft issues and how to protect yourself on erieinsurance.com.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agncy LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Six of 12 small cars do well in front crash tests

Tom Krisher, AP 3:26 p.m. EDT August 8, 2013

DETROIT (AP) — Two redesigned Honda Civic models were the only small cars to get the top rating in stringent front-end crash tests performed by an insurance industry group.
In all, half of the 12 compact and subcompact cars tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety fared poorly, but six performed well. Safety is critical in the fast-growing small-car market, with many buyers downsizing from larger vehicles.

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/six_of_12_small_cars_do_well_in_front_crash_tests.aspx

Fight High Gas Prices with these Fuel-Effecient Classics.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700



Fight high gas prices with these fuel-efficient classics

Yoav Gilad

June 20, 2013

Forget about a mountain drive or a blast down the highway. With fuel prices still hovering near all-time highs, even a cruise down to the local car show can drain your wallet. But owning a classic shouldn’t necessitate a large shareholder’s position in Exxon. In fact, you could daily drive the following classics as they sip, not slurp, fuel.

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/fight_high_gas_prices_with_these_fuel-efficient_classics.aspx

Safely Grilling for 164 Million.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Safely Grilling for 164 Million

• By: Leah Knapp
• July 2, 2013
• Food, Home Sense

According to the National Retail Federation’s 2013 Independence Day survey, seven in 10 Americans who plan to celebrate the 4th of July this year will attend a barbecue, cookout or picnic. That amounts to 164 million people enjoying a flame broiled burger or two, a record number compared to previous surveys.
If you’re one of the millions who will be grilling this holiday weekend – or anytime throughout the season, here are tips to avoid four common outdoor party mishaps.

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/safely_grilling_for_164_million.aspx

McElhinny Insurance Agency to help support the GREATER PITTSBURGH FOOD BANK.

The McElhinny Insurance Agency will be collecting food and monitary donations for the GREATER PITTSBURGH FOOD BANK during the months of July & August, 2013. Please drop off your non-perisable food items or cash donations at our agency. We are located at 5624 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. If you have any questions please contact Tim McElhinny at 412-650.5700. Thank You for helping us support THE GREATER PITTSBURGH FOOD BANK and the good work that they do.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
5624 Brownsville Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
412-650-5700
tim@mcelhinny.com

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

R U Texting n Driving?

For as long as there’ve been cars, there’ve been distracted drivers. And that’s never been truer than now, with drivers facing temptation from Internet-enabled mobile phones, GPS devices, iPods and all the other electronics out there.
That said, one of the most dangerous distractions remains texting while driving, an activity that the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute reports makes it 23 times more likely that a driver will crash.
With statistics like that, it’s no wonder states like Pennsylvania feel spurred to action. The commonwealth became the 37th state to ban texting while driving when it enacted Act 98 in March. This new law stipulates that anyone caught tapping out a message behind the wheel can be pulled over and fined $50.
The Keystone State joins the District of Columbia and nine other states within ERIE’s footprint — including Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin — to prohibit texting while driving.
The District of Columbia, Maryland and New York take it a step further by banning drivers from texting and talking with handheld devices.West Virginia is set to do the same by July 2012.

Smart moves

Research out there shows that these laws are smart moves. For instance, a recent study by the Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC) at the University of California, Berkeley, revealed that California’s 2008 prohibition on using handheld devices behind the wheel led to a direct 47 percent decrease in fatalities.
Even still, with more than 3,000 fatalities at the hands of distracted drivers in 2010 alone, there’s more work ahead. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), an independent federal agency whose recommendations have led to the passage of many state and federal laws, advocates banning motorists from using all hand-held and hands-free devices while driving.
To get that message in front of Congress and the public, NTSB hosts Distraction.gov, a resource where visitors can learn more about the dangers of distracted driving and take action. Give it a click to learn more about what you can do to keep the roads safe — especially if you reside in Ohio, the only state within ERIE’s territory without any prohibitions against using handheld devices while driving.



Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered
in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory
information.

 

Tags: auto insurance, car insurance, pittsburgh auto insurance, insurance

10 Great Places to Bond on Family Vacations.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

10 great places to bond on family vacations.

Summer vacations don't have to be limited to lazing in a beach chair or lining up at a theme park, says family travel columnist Lynn O'Rourke Hayes of Familytravel.com. They can be a time to try something new – and grow closer. "Families say one of their top resolutions is building bonds, and taking a vacation is a great way to do that." She shares some ideas for memorable summer family trips with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

CLICK BELOW FOR LINK TO LIST:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/10greatplaces/2013/06/06/10-great-places-to-bond-on-family-vacations/2397561/

Erie Insurance receives top spot on J.D. Power and Associates' 2013 Insurance Shopping Study.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Erie Insurance receives top spot on J.D. Power and Associates' 2013 Insurance Shopping Study.

Study marks the fourth time insurer is ranked highest in auto insurance shopping

ERIE, Pa. (April 29, 2013) - Erie Insurance received top honors on the J.D. Power and Associates' 2013 Insurance Shopping Study^SM, which evaluates the experience of customers buying a new car insurance policy. This is the seventh year J.D. Power has issued its auto insurance shopping study and the fourth time Erie Insurance has ranked highest. The other years were 2008, 2009 and 2010.

"Make no mistake. This study speaks directly to the importance of an insurance agent in the shopping experience. The guidance, insight and personal attention agents give their clients is not something that can be replicated online," said Terry Cavanaugh, president and CEO of Erie Insurance. "To receive this distinction for the fourth time in the past seven years is a tremendous honor."

The 2013 Insurance Shopping Study examines the purchasing behaviors and overall satisfaction of people who shop for car insurance. Three factors are measured to determine overall satisfaction. They are, in order of importance: price, distribution channel and policy offerings.

"One of the biggest challenges insurance companies have is helping people get the right coverage at the best price with the best service. That's an advantage for ERIE," said Cavanaugh. "Our agents are real people in real places who serve as trusted advisors in the communities where they live and do business. Their efforts, combined with the work of our employees, are an absolute reflection of our continued pledge to be above all in service. We are honored to receive this award."

To learn more about the J.D. Power and Associates 2013 Insurance Shopping Study, visit www.jdpower.com.

According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 15th largest homeowners insurer and 12^th largest automobile insurer in the United States based on direct premiums written and the 20th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, has more than 4.6 million policies in force and operates in 11 states and the District of Columbia. Erie Insurance Group is a FORTUNE 500 company. Erie Insurance is proud to have received the J.D. Power and Associates' award for "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with the Auto Insurance Purchase Experience" and to be a J.D. Power and Associates' 2012 Customer Service Champion. ERIE is one of only 50 U.S. companies so named. Erie Insurance is also recognized on the list of Ward's 50 Group of top performing insurance companies, which analyzes the financial performance of 3,000 property and casualty companies and recognizes the top performers for achieving outstanding results in safety, consistency and financial performance over a five-year period (2007-2011).

News releases and more information about Erie Insurance Group are available at www.erieinsurance.com.


Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/erie_insurance_receives_top_spot_on_jd_power_and_associates_2013_insurance_shopping_study.aspx

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety take the guesswork out of selecting boosters most likely to provide good lap and shoulder belt fit in a range of vehicles.

Unlike child restraints with built-in harnesses, booster seats rely on vehicle safety belts to restrain children. Boosters are supposed to make adult belts fit children better. Booster seats are for kids who have outgrown their forward-facing restraints.


http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/iihs_research_on_child_booster_seats.aspx

Whats In Your Garage? Find out if your garage is disorderly--or dangerous.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700



What's in Your Garage?Find out if your garage is disorderly—or dangerous.
By: Greg Bengel
If you’re like most people, your garage contains lots and lots of stuff. At best, you have some unsightly clutter on your hands. And at worst? Fire hazards that could pose a danger to your garage and your home. (Can you believe that five percent of house fires start in a garage?) Find out if your garage poses a danger by reviewing this list of common garage hazards.

Heating hazards
The danger: Garages can be an extension of our houses. We heat them with wood stoves, furnaces, space heaters and more. But where there’s heat, there’s sometimes sparks.
What you can do: “Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment,” says Lorraine Carli, vice president of communication at the National Fire Protection Association. This includes combustible items such as car batteries as well as general clutter like piles of rags or stacks of loose papers.
Electrical hazards
The danger: Wiring, extension cords, plugs, circuit breakers, transformers, light fixtures and battery chargers can cause a fire when they malfunction.
What you can do: Make sure your wiring and lighting is up to code, use bulbs with the proper wattage and don’t overload outlets. Have an electrician install more receptacles so you don’t have to use extension cords.
Chemical hazards
The danger: Chances are you have a virtual stockpile of flammable chemicals like motor oil, paint, gasoline, fertilizers and lighter fluid in your garage.
What you can do: Don’t smoke inside your garage—after all, one spark is all it takes to cause a fire. Instead, head out to the driveway or sidewalk. (Even better, kick the habit.) Store any chemicals out of direct sunlight and far, far away from any heat or ignition sources. Also check containers for cracks or defects.
Vehicles and power tools
The danger: When oil and gasoline from cars, motorcycles, power tools and lawnmowers drips and collects over time, the possibility of a fire becomes very real.
What you can do: Regularly check your vehicles and power tools. If you notice any leaks, clean up the spill ASAP by spreading an absorbent material such as kitty litter over them. Then sweep up and safely dispose of the material before taking care of the repair.
Cooking equipment
The danger: Ovens, microwaves, charcoal grills and gas grills can ignite the flammable stuff in your garage.
What you can do: They call it a cookout for a reason, so make sure you only use your grill outside and a good distance away from your garage. Propane tanks pose a special danger, so store them outdoors—they’re sturdy enough to handle the elements.
As a final precaution, make sure to stash a fire extinguisher and install a fire alarm in your garage.



Nothing on this Web page constitutes an offer of insurance. Eligibility for
insurance coverage will be determined at the time of application, based
upon the insurer’s underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
The insurance products referenced in this Web page may be altered by the
insurer at any time. All insurance products are subject to terms, conditions
and exclusions not described on this Web page.
This Web page is not secure. Do not use this Web page to communicate
confidential or personal information.
Coverages cannot be bound or altered via this Web page.
Claims may be reported to Erie Insurance by calling the Erie Insurance
24-hour claim service at 1-800-458-0811

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700


5 WAYS TO GET YOUR CAR READY FOR SPRING.
DETROIT (AP) — Winter can do a number on your car.
Slush, salt and cold temperatures take a toll on everything from the tires to the wiper blades. So, as spring approaches, it's a good idea to give your car a thorough once-over to undo winter's damage.
It won't cost a lot. You can the work yourself or visit a car wash and a garage. Goodyear, Firestone and other car care centers will rotate your tires, change your oil and fluids and inspect your vehicle for winter damage for $35
or less.
Here are five things you can do to shake off winter and get your car in shape for spring:


http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/5_ways_to_get_your_car_ready_for_spring.aspx

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

Tips to reduce car insurance premiums

Here to Help, Erie Times-News
David Bruce

Spring is a popular time for people to buy cars.
Which also means spring is a popular time for people to buy car insurance, or significantly change their current policy.

http://www.mcelhinny.com/blog/tips_to_reduce_car_insurance_premiums.aspx

Five great movie car guest stars.

Tim McElhinny, CIC, LUTCF
Partner, McElhinny Insurance Agency LLC
tim@mcelhinny.com
412.650.5700

FIVE GREAT MOVIE CAR GUEST STARS.

We all know the movies where the car is the star — the James Bond Aston Martin DB5 from “Goldfinger” and “Thunderball” and the Mustang that tears up San Francisco in “Bullitt.” But like a great character actor who can steal a scene or two from an A-List star, there have been some great automotive cameos in movie history. Here are a few of our favorites:

http://www.hagerty.com/classic-car-articles-resources/Features/News/All-Articles/2013/01/03/Five-great-movie-car-guest-stars?utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_medium=email&utm_term=&utm_content=Independent%20Agent&utm_campaign=February%202013%20Agent%20News