Gordon B. Roberts Agency

Tim McGraw Honored with United Way Presidents Award

2012-01-25T08:32:00.000-05:00

GBR Agency's very own Tim McGraw was presented with the 2011 Presidents Award by the United Way of Delaware and Otsego Counties. This award is given in grateful appreciation and recognition of Tim's outstanding and dedicated service to the poor and working poor of Delaware and Otsego Counties.

Congratulations and Good Work Tim!

GBR Agency
"Insurance from People You Know"
607.432.2022
www.gbrobertsagency.com

Baby, It's Cold Outside ~

2012-01-04T10:20:00.000-05:00

Well, we started out 2012 with a day that felt more like Spring. It was gorgeous and we all knew it was just a matter of time before the bitter cold would set in.

And the next day we woke up to our wintery world. Yesterday we saw a high of 16 degrees with blustery winds making it feel so much colder. This sends me straight into hibernation mode. When it comes to hibernating, there is no better heat produced than that of a wood stove. It keeps our home cozy and warm. We save loads of money on oil each year and this heat is accessible even if the power goes out. I could not imagine giving up our trusty wood stove. However, with the positive come a few negatives. I have to dust more and I am constantly picking up wood chips strewn about by my dogs who get much enjoyment out of chewing a stick of wood here and there. There is of course the added risk of a fire and my husband is diligent in taking steps to maintain the stove and the chimney. This is key to preventing a fire.

New York Central Mutual has put together a great resource for woodstove owners. There are some great tips here!

http://www.nycm.com/besafe/woodstoves.asp

Happy 2012 everyone! Stay warm!

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-21T08:37:00.000-05:00

From our family to yours,

We would like to wish all our clients and their families a happy and safe holiday season!

May you have a 2012 filled with heatlh, wealth and happiness!!

The GBR Agency

607.432.2022

www.gbragency.com

NYCM is having a great contest for students!

2011-11-30T09:25:00.000-05:00

Attention all students: NYCM is having a Distracted Driving Video Contest. Entries are being accepted until 12/31/11. Great prizes and a fun project for a worthwhile cause! Get the details below!

http://contest.nycm.com/agent/video.asp

"Insurance is good, but without documentation your bases aren’t fully-covered." ~ Some tips documenting your possessions.

2011-11-02T08:50:00.000-04:00

Below is a link to a great article on the importance of documenting your possessions. This is just as important as purchasing the policy. In the event of a claim one needs to provide some sort of proof to the insurance company that the items being claimed were in fact owned. Receipts are good, however you may not have receipts for all the items you own. Click on the link for more information!

http://financefreelancelife.com/2010/03/01/how-to-document-possessions-insurance/

As always if you have any questions we are only a call or a click away!

607.432.2022
www.gbrobertsagency.com

October is Fire Safety Month!

2011-10-05T09:21:00.000-04:00

October is Fire Safety Month. Just in time for heating season. Homeowners across the country are turning on the furnace and many will be lighting the woodstove or pellet stove. There are steps we can take to prevent a fire from happening and make our homes safer if a fire does occur. The following links contain valuable information about both.

http://www.nfpa.org/categoryList.asp?categoryID=1438&cookie_test=1

http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-spotlight/fire-prevention-month/

http://www.homesafetycouncil.org/SafetyGuide/sg_fire_w001.asp

http://www.abcteach.com/directory/seasonalmonths/10_october/fire_safety_month/

As always, if you have any questions we are only a call or a click away!

607.432.2022
www.gbrobertsagency.com

Be Independant but Never Alone.

2011-09-21T08:28:00.000-04:00

Why choose an independant agent? Check out this video from Travelers Insurance Company.

http://youtu.be/5nnROVqUDgM

Meet Christy Llewellyn

2011-08-10T08:46:00.001-04:00

Christy is our Commercial Lines Customer Service Representative. If you need assistance with your commercial account Christy will help you with changes to your policy, identification cards and certificates of insurance. She also works on renewals and endorsements within the office.

Christy has been married for 27 years to her husband Steve. She lives in Oneonta. Christy and Steve have a daughter. Christy is a huge sports fan and enjoys watching the Yankee's, Giants and Knicks but her favorite is to watch her daughter play softball. Christy also has a Boston Bull Terrier named "Jete" who is a very special member of the family. Christy enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Christy enjoys helping customers of the GBR Agency and her advice to any consumer was to "keep your insurance, because you never know when you might need it."

Questions? We are just a call or a click away!
607.432.2022
http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

Meet Jennifer Beames!

2011-07-27T09:13:00.000-04:00

Jennifer Beames is our Commercial Underwriter here at the agency. She has been with GBR for 13 years.

Jennifer oversees all the commercial lines quoting and servicing. This includes commercial auto, business owners, workers compensation and bonds. Jennifer's daily mission is to provide our agents with the most competitive premiums while including the best coverage's for the client. The goal is to come up with creative ways to add needed coverage's while keeping costs down. Jennifer also works on auditing and underwriting resolutions for our clients and maintains a good relationship with the underwriters at the insurance companies. This relationship is what makes the difference in keeping our clients happy.

What is Jennifer's advice to our business owners in the community? Working with a good agent can make all the difference. Many businesses are struggling with their profit margin. Insurance has only risen in cost and is not only a necessity but a requirement. We try to make this process of insurance as painless and cost effective as possible. Our goal is to provide you with the right coverage at an affordable premium. Being part of the community we serve means we do business with our clients, we know them, and that's why The GBR Agency is a friendlier place to do business.

I asked Jenn what she enjoys most about her position. She said the most rewarding part of her job is helping the agents and clients resolve the issues that come up. Over the years we have assisted clients resolve auditing issues, compensation board fines and payment problems. The nicest feedback she's ever received was "I couldn't have done it without you!"

And to that I have to agree! There are many days when I know I couldn't have accomplished my goal without Jenn's help!

Jennifer is married to Matt Beames and lives in Otego with their two children; Derek (age 12) and Shane (7 months). Most of her family lives within three blocks of their home; Jenn's parents neighboring one side and Matt's parents on the other. They enjoy sports, camping and relaxing with their friends and family.

Questions? We are only a call or a click away!
607-432-2022
gbrobertsagency.com

Meet LaDonna Lilley

2011-07-13T11:43:00.000-04:00

LaDonna Lilley is our Operations Manager. LaDonna is involved with all aspects of the agency management. LaDonna is our "go-to" person for whatever we need, from answers to underwriting and risk management questions to fixing our computers and much more in between. She is a true wealth of knowledge.

LaDonna lives in Edmeston with her husband and son. She started working in the insurance industry 23 years ago and joined the GBR Agency in 1999. She enjoys camping with her family and friends.

When I asked LaDonna what she likes most about her job she said it was the diversity of her responsibilities. She is involved in many different projects along with the day to day responsibilities of managing the agency including building maintenance and negotiating contracts. She enjoys that each day has new challenges. LaDonna said that The GBR agents and staff are a dedicated group that are a pleasure to work with.

I asked LaDonna what general advice she would give to an insurance consumer and she replied, "Each person's insurance needs are different and you should carefully consider your options to properly protect your assets. Being an independent agent allows us to provide clients with several options to meet their needs."

Questions? We are just a call or a click away!

607.432.2022
www.gbrobertsagency.com

Meet Paula Young!

2011-07-06T10:45:00.000-04:00

Paula Young is an "Accounts Specialist" here at our office. If you are a client of our agency you may have spoken with her before.

Paula has been with our agency for three and a half years and is here to assist our clients in the management of their insurance policies. If you need to make a change to your policy, pay your bill or just have questions Paula can assist you with these tasks and many more that may pop up. Paula lives outside of Laurens with her husband and two children. She enjoys being with her family, archery, reading, kayaking, hunting and fishing!

When I asked Paula what she likes the most about her job she said "Helping people. I also enjoy talking to the people because you always learn something interesting about them!"

Questions? Please don't hesitate to call. 607.432.2022.

GBR Agency.... Insurance From People You Know!

Getting to know....Kimberly Hendrick!

2011-06-29T11:48:00.001-04:00

Over the next several weeks I would like to introduce you to the members of our staff here at the agency. First up, Kimberly Hendrick, our claims "queen!" I took a moment to sit down with Kim and ask her a few questions about herself and her position.

Q: What is your position at the agency and how long have you been with GBR Agency?
A: I handle all the claims, auto, home, liability, workers comp and disability claims for all our insured's.  I have been with the Gordon B Roberts Agency Inc for 17 years.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?
A: Every day is different! There is no claim the same. It's rewarding to help our customers make a difficult situation as easy as possible. We are NOT an 800#, our clients are names not numbers. Remember,  the Gordon B Roberts Agency Inc, your local agency is filled with your friends, neighbors and family.

Q: What advice would you give to people?
A: Always let us help you, that is what we are here for! Most people have never read an insurance policy line by line. I am here to be your advocate in the event of a claim. That means knowing your coverages and we are here to find you coverage, that's our goal. For instance, did you know with some personal auto policies the company will waive your deductible if your car is parked and unoccupied? Has anyone here ever been to Walmart and get dinged? .......   I have too! Did you know that most of our personal auto policies have a rental provision when you are in an accident? These coverages are not always listed on the declarations page of your policy. These are just a couple of examples of the assistance I can offer and the questions I can answer. If you have questions please don't hesitate to call!

GBR Agency ~ Insurance from People You Know ~

Teen drivers in the Summer time.....

2011-06-22T09:42:00.000-04:00

According to a recent AAA study Summer is a peak time for deadly traffic crashes involving teens. Please check out this link for more information.

http://aaanewsroom.net/Main/Default.asp?CategoryID=7&ArticleID=854

NHTSA Releases New Child Seat Guidelines

2011-05-25T09:10:00.000-04:00

Were you aware of the changes made the child restraint guidelines? See the attached link to get these important updates!

New Age-Focused Guidelines Help Parents Make More Informed Choices

Thanking Ben Franklin for the lightning rod, bifocals and.....insurance?

2011-05-18T09:26:00.000-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

You probably wonder a lot of things about insurance. Where do your premium payments go? Why is your premium the amount that it is? Ever wonder where this idea of insurance came from? Who started this industry and why?

Most of us are accustomed to our modern day monetary based industry but the idea of insurance began and developed from the ideal of barter and trade. It wasn’t about money. Those folks most likely did not refer to it as “insurance.” It was an agreement for protection. If something bad happened to you and your family someone would be there to help you get back on your feet. The cost was no matter, only the end result.

In the primitive insurance years, agreements of mutual aid were common. This meant if a family’s house was destroyed the neighbors would commit to aide the owners in rebuilding. This type of insurance still exists today in areas of the world without a modern economy or financial system.

Insurance means risk management. When purchasing a policy you retain a certain amount of risk in the deductible you choose. By saying you will only be accountable for $500 (your deductible) should you suffer a loss to your home that will cost $150,000 to rebuild you are managing your risk by transferring $149,500 of that loss to the insurance company.

In the 3^rd millennia BC Chinese merchants traveling dangerous waters would manage their risk by splitting up their inventory across many boats. This decreased their risk of losing their entire inventory should one boat capsize. This is a very early example of personal risk management.

It was recorded in the Code of Hammurabi in 1750 BC that the Babylonians developed a system of insuring the loss of shipments that was connected to the merchant’s loans. If the merchant had received a loan to fund his shipment he could pay an additional premium to the lender. This premium was exchanged for the lender’s guarantee that the loan would be void if the shipment was lost or stolen at sea. I wonder what that premium may have been!

In Ancient Persia it was recorded that the Achaemenian monarchs were the first to insure their people. They practiced a procedure of registering the insuring process with the governmental notary offices. I was surprised to learn that this form of insurance was tied into politics. It began with gifts being given to the monarch. When a gift was given that was valued at more than 10,000 Derrik (Archaemenian gold coin) the gift was registered with the notary office. What was the purpose of the register? And what does insurance have to do with gifts? Well, it was understood that if the gift giver was in trouble or needed assistance in the future the monarch and the court would come to his aide. This would include events such as a large feast, marriage, building projects etc. Interesting!

In London insurance was developed in the early 17^th century. The first property and life insurance contract was discovered in the will of an English colonist Robert Hayman. This will included two “policies of insurance” taken out with the diocesan Chancellor of London, Arthur Duck. The value was 100 pounds each. One policy insured the safe arrival of Hayman’s ship in Guyana and the other stated: “one hundred pounds assured by the said Doctor Arthur Ducke on my life.” This will was signed on November 17^th 1628 but took five years to be proven.

It was the Great Fire of London that seemed to change insurance “from a matter of convenience into one of urgency” stated Sir Christopher Wren. Wren included a site for “the Insurance office” in his new plan for London in 1667. In 1666 a fire devastated more than 13,000 homeowners. Finally, in 1681 after a number of failed attempts Nicholas Barbon and eleven of his associates established the first fire insurance company in England. It insured against fire and was called the “Insurance Office for Houses.” Originally it insured 5,000 homes.

In the United States the first insurance company was established in Charles Town (now known as Charleston) in South Carolina. In 1732 Benjamin Franklin became a spokesperson for the standard practice of insurance. In 1752 he founded Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss by Fire. Franklin’s company was the first to establish underwriting guidelines by refusing to insure certain properties where the risk of loss was too great. This included all houses made of wood. This company was also the first to make contributions toward the prevention of fire. These two practices have been studied and developed since 1752. Both underwriting and consumer education are a key to operating a financially sound insurance company that is ready and able to pay it’s policy holders for losses when they occur.

Ben Franklin, the man responsible for bringing us bifocals, a glass armonica, the lightning rod, an odometer, and the wood stove (called the Franklin stove) was our industries first advocate and a key player in developing our modern insurance practices.

NY Alert

2011-05-11T08:34:00.000-04:00

In recent New York news it has been announced that a website has been established to keep NY civilians in the know.

NYALERT.gov has been set up to post emergency related information and if you sign up for alerts you can receive messages regarding events such as highway closures and weather warnings. These messages may be sent via email or a text message!

The website also contains press releases, information on local "shred your documents for days," traffic and accident updates as well as emergency preparedness information. To find out more or sign up for alerts visit http://www.nyalert.gov/home.aspx.

Insurance Fraud -- The Crime YOU Pay For

2011-04-27T09:45:00.000-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

Insurance fraud is the second most costly "white-collar" crime in America. This crime is being committed by individuals and groups. Several professional organized crime rings have been uncovered all over the country. Of all claims received by an insurance company those that are fraudulent account for a significant portion and cost billions of dollars annually. According to the NYCM website, insurance fraud accounts for $80 billion a year.

The types of fraud are diverse and occur in all lines of insurance. The severity in each situation varies from slightly exaggerating claims to deliberately causing accidents or damage. These fraudulent activities affect the lives of innocent people. Victims may be harmed directly through physical loss or in a more indirect manner as these crimes cause insurance premiums to be higher.

According to the The National Insurance Crime Bureau insurance fraud translates into $200-$300 in additional insurance premiums each year for the individual.

To find out more about insurance fraud and what you can do to avoid it please visit this link:

http://www.nycm.com/fraud/avoidfraud.asp

If you have any questions as always, we are just a click or a call away!

607.432.2022

www.gbrobertsagency.com

It's Spring!

2011-04-20T08:47:00.000-04:00

Finally! Spring is HERE! The flowers are peeking out of the ground, the peepers are back and the grass is getting greener by the day. It's also time for our Spring chores! Regular attention to the exterior areas of your home is essential to preventing a loss that could result in damage to your home and contents. Check out this video for tips on maintaining your home and property.

http://www2.iii.org/video/spring-cleaning-the-exterior-of-your-home.html

As always if you have any questions we are only a call or a click away!
607.432.2022
http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

Important steps to take after an auto accident....

2011-04-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

It's unfortunate but it happens every day. From fender benders to major collisions car accidents are a reality. Below is a link to an important check list you may want to tuck into your glove box to refer to if the time comes you need it. You may not be thinking clearly after a collision happens and understandably so!

As always, if you have any questions we are only a call or a click away!

607.432.2022

http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

http://www.iiaba.net/main/CB_Website/Affiliated/StateAssociation/NY/01_ConsumerInformation/05_HotTopics/NY20090115111343?ContentPreference=NY&ActiveState=NY&ActiveTab=STATE&ContentLevel1=CONSINFO&ContentLevel2=CITOP&ContentLevel3=&ObjectID=/main/CB_Website/Affiliated/StateAssociation/NY/01_ConsumerInformation/05_HotTopics/NY20090115111343

Water and Sewer Backup Protection

2011-04-06T08:30:00.002-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

This week in Oneonta there was a major backup in the sewer lines causing thousands of dollars in damage to multiple homes. Several feet of sewer waste entered the basements of these homeowners ruining their contents that were stored as well as causing significant physical damage to finished living areas.

This type of loss occurs so often, it is the top property claim taken by insurance companies. One of our agents and owners Vince Foti was on the scene on Sunday assisting our policy holders. The adjuster from Travelers Insurance Company was also present and indicated that 80% of the claims he tends to are for water and sewer back up. This figure includes losses caused by fire and auto claims.

Even if you do not have a finished basement you may still want to consider this type of coverage. The clean up alone can be costly. I am attaching a link to an article I found on the NYCM website. It contains some great information.

http://www.nycm.com/home/sump.asp

As always, if you have any questions or want further information about this coverage (or any other), we are only a phone call or a click away!

607.432.2022
http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

Do you know your stuff?

2011-03-30T09:12:00.001-04:00

By: Shannon Stockdale
How do you know how much insurance you should have to cover your personal belongings if you are unsure of the value of those belongings, or even how many things you have? Do you know how many plates are in your cupboard? How many forks are in your drawer? How many towels do you own? While standard homeowners policies include a basic limit based on the coverage of the dwelling, how do you know if that is enough coverage? You start with knowing what you own. This can be a daunting task however, a necessary one. Lets face it, we buy insurance to protect us, to ensure that we can be "put back together" after the unthinkable happens. The time of loss is a time of great stress for an individual. It is not the time when the insured should be presented with the task of remembering ALL of the things that were in a closet, a room, a whole house! We always recommend our clients document their belongings with photo or video. Simply, take a walk around your home with your camera. The next step is imperative.... keep those photos or digital files at a location away from your home. This way if disaster strikes, you will have a basis for making your insurance claim. You may THINK you know your stuff, but there are many things we take for granted in our daily lives that we may not think of when the time comes to make a claim. This simple software program makes this process a bit easier and better organized. To top it off the company will store the files for you so that they will be accessible from anywhere! Check out the video, if you have any questions we're only a phone call or a click away! 607.432.2022 http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

It's Pothole Season!!

2011-03-23T08:38:00.000-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale
The snow is melting, the birds are chirping. These are welcome signs of Spring!

As you are driving your car you may have noticed some new "bumps" in the road. City and rural roads alike, these potholes are popping up everywhere. They cause wear and tear to our cars or in the worst case scenario may cause damage that requires immediate repair.

New York Central Mutual posted a link to this article this morning and I thought it was worth sharing. Check out this link to find out what you can do during pot hole season to protect your car!

http://www.aaany.com/CarandTravel/Archive/2009/March/Avoiding_Damage_During_Pothole_Season.asp

So, what IS an Umbrella policy?

2011-03-16T09:17:00.004-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

The umbrella policy is probably the best kept secret in the business. This type of policy is referred to as an umbrella because it is designed to cover losses that go above and beyond your typical auto and home policy. There are different types of umbrella policies. Some offer only an increased amount of liability coverage and others offer coverage for losses that may not be covered otherwise under your standard automobile or home policy for example: liable and slander.

On average a person can purchase a $1 million policy for a couple hundred dollars a year. When you compare the premium to the possible coverage in the event of a loss, it's the best bang for your buck when purchasing insurance coverage.

In today's climate of multimillion dollar lawsuits and jury awards, having adequate liability coverage is important for individuals and businesses. A person may sue you claiming negligence. It doesn't matter if you are guilty of that negligence; just being taken into court you will incur legal expenses in order to defend yourself and that is when this type of policy may seem invaluable.

Questions? We've got answers! Call 607.432.2022 for your quote today!

Working from home?

2011-03-02T09:41:00.000-05:00

If you work primarily from your home there may be some adjustments to make to your insurance covearge. Check out this link and call us with any questions!

http://www.iiaba.net/eprise/main/CB_Website/Affiliated/StateAssociation/NY/01_ConsumerInformation/05_HotTopics/NY20070611151028?ContentPreference=NY&ActiveState=NY&ContentLevel1=CONSINFO&ContentLevel2=CITOP&ContentLevel3=&ActiveTab=STATE&StartRow=0

'Tis the season....

2011-02-16T08:33:00.000-05:00

This is the time of year when some unfortunate homeowners may experience damages to the interior of their homes caused by the back up of ice (and water) on the roof. Below is a link with some helpful information in regards to preventing this type of loss.

http://www.naturalhandyman.com/iip/infxtra/infdam.html

As always, if you have questions we are only a call or a click away!

www.gbrobertsagency.com
607.432.2022

Have a great day!

Shannon Stockdale

Defensive Driver Course Offered Online!

2011-02-09T09:21:00.000-05:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

If you are looking for a way to save some money on your insurance premium this may be a good option for you! Recently NYS approved an online defensive driver course! This means you can take the course and save money on your insurance premium without even leaving home!

New York Central Mutual Insurance Company sponsors a course for $25. It is not required that you have a policy with NYCM, anyone can take the course!

For more details check out the link below:

https://home.uceusa.com/registration/StudentInfo.aspx?cid=69&host=nycm_ipirp&pid=813&language=en&g=95d41e62-e0f2-47ee-968e-98289bb39038

Completion of this course entitles you to a discount of UP TO 10% on your insurance policy for the three years. Keep in mind this discount applies mainly to the premiums of comprehensive and collision coverage.

If you have any questions remember, we're only a call or a click away!
607.432.2022
http://www.gbrobertsagency.com/

Did you know?

2011-01-26T10:11:00.001-05:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

The insurance industry is an ever changing world. In the past nine years I have witnessed several of those changes. The movement to a "insurance score" based rating system, rating based on tiers from 20 -120+ depending on the company as well as processing procedures once "snail mail" based, now Internet based. The changes don't end there.

It seems sometimes that the navigation through a product that people are required to have by law but few understand can lead to pit falls that cause headaches from added paperwork to added fees. So, how do you maximize your cost vs. benefit when choosing which product you purchase and which company to purchase it from? Only a well seasoned industry professional really has those answers and even then.... they may be elusive.

The topic of the insurance score is one that would require it's own individual post. The short of it...each company has it's own private "black box" which indicates what characteristics bring that score up or down. Yes, each company has it's own individual score. The company is not required to publish which factors are weighed in this process. However, we do know that it may include not only loss history and vehicle type but also bill payment history and in general terms your financial history. Knowing this can give you an advantage to ensure that you are getting the best rates. Bottom line, if you are able to, enroll in the automatic withdrawal program, be diligent about making the payments on time. This can make a significant difference in your insurance rates!

You probably know that NYS requires that you carry an insurance policy for any vehicle that is registered in your name. Did you know the penalties for NOT carrying that policy? $8 per day, per vehicle (or plate) that is registered to you. Our state does not care where those plates may be. You may have sold the car and the plates are sitting on your counter waiting for the day you actually have the time to stop at the DMV. Maybe you moved out of state and have already registered the car there or you let your policy cancel because you figured you didn't own the car, why would you need to pay for the insurance? Unfortunately, the state says you do. Think of it as the insurance policy is on the plates and not necessarily the vehicle in the eyes of NYS. It is imperative that you return those plates to the DMV before cancelling your insurance policy to avoid these fines and a possible suspension of your drivers license.

Now, to that "tiering" thing. No, I am not talking about curtains. This practice came along with that "insurance scoring" based rating system. As an example, think of you and your neighbor. You may be married, drive a Ford Explorer, clean driving history but you tend to pay your bills a little late. Your neighbor is married, drives a Ford Explorer and has a few tickets and an accident. You each fall into a separate rating tier. Depending on the company your rate with a clean driving history may actually be higher than your neighbor who has a few blemishes. Why? The insurance industry has spent several years and millions of dollars to determine that there is in fact a correlation between financial responsibility and loss history. In other words, those with a higher financial score are less likely to submit claims and of course they are confident that you will pay the premium.

This is a highly controversial practice within the industry. Some companies didn't jump on board with the practice until they realized if they didn't they would be left in the dust. The insurance industry is also extremely competitive. The ebb and flow indicates when one company lowers rates, the next company will follow to prevent loss of market share. But only if their loss experience indicates lowering rates for a certain "group" or "tier" would prove to be financially beneficial. In other words, if a company has had terrible loss experience with single females ages 24-30 then they are going to increase rates for that group. Of course this equation works the other way as well. If loss experience was good for married couples aged 30-40 rates go down in that area.

The days are gone when we could say yes, when you turn 25 or when you get married your rates will decrease. It's hard to foresee the impact of accidents or traffic infractions on future renewals. We just have no way of knowing anymore due to the tiering. So, what are we to do? Bottom line, the financial piece is the key. It's the one variable with a constant foreseeable outcome. If you pay your bills on time, your rates will reflect this in a positive manner. It may even be what saves your rates should you have that accident or major traffic infraction.

Just a couple of tips to give you the edge!

If you have any questions remember we are just a call or click away!
607.432.2022
www.gbrobertsagency.com

Winter Fire Safety

2011-01-05T09:37:00.000-05:00

It’s winter—pay special attention to fire safetyDecember, January and February are the leading months for home fires and fire deaths in the United States. On average, more than one-third of home fire deaths in the United States occur during the winter months. Here are tips to help you protect your family and your home.
How can I heat my home safely?According to a report from the National Fire Prevention Association, heating equipment fires are the second-leading cause of fire deaths in American homes and the biggest fire culprit December through February. According to the association, most fires could be avoided by taking simple safety precautions.
• Select equipment that bears the mark of an independent testing laboratory.• Be sure the equipment is installed by a trained professional, in compliance with local fire and building codes.• Keep all portable heaters (whether powered by electricity or fuel) at least 36 inches from anything that can burn—including furniture, bedding, clothing, pets and people.• Run space heaters only when you are in the room and awake. And, supervise all children and pets when the heaters are in use.• If you are using a portable kerosene heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Store the kerosene away from heat or open flame in a container approved by your local fire department, and be sure it’s clearly marked with the fuel name.• Have your chimney inspected (and cleaned, if necessary) prior to the start of every heating season. • If using a wood stove, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, use and maintenance.• When disposing of the ashes from your fireplace or wood stove, first make sure all embers are extinguished. Put water on them to be sure. Discard away from the home.What hazards should I look out for during the holiday season?’Tis the season for celebrating—more entertaining, more cooking and an increased
Also, be sure your homeowners insurance reflects the amount of coverage you need to replace your home and possessions. This could mean checking to be sure you have replacement cost coverage. Call our
Gordon B. Roberts Agency, Your Professional Insurance Agent …
We want you to know about the insurance you’re buying.
107969 9/10 QS90271risk of fire. Keep your family safe this holiday season with these tips.• Use care when burning candles. Make sure they are in sturdy holders, kept well away from decorations and out of the reach of children or pets.• Never use candles to decorate your Christmas tree.• Don’t leave items you’re cooking unattended—it’s the leading cause of fire in the United States.• Choose an artificial or fresh Christmas
• If using an artificial tree, make sure it’s tree and place it well away from heat sources. Water fresh trees every day.flame retardant.• Replace any lights with frayed or damaged cords. And, always unplug all lights before leaving home or going to sleep.• Don’t overload electrical outlets.
• Be sure the candles in your menorah have burned out before you leave the house or go to sleep.• Refrain from running electric wires underneath rugs. agency. We’ll be glad to review and explain your coverage to you.

Are your holiday gifts covered?

2010-12-15T09:54:00.000-05:00

After you've picked out those lovely gifts for your family and friends do you know if they are covered by your insurance policy?

Are they protected if they are in your car while you make a second trip back into the mall?

If a real-live Grinch were to make a stop at your house, would you have the appropriate coverage to replace the loss?

Below you will find some FAQ and general information in regards to protecting those newly purchased items.

Question #1:
My house is filled with expensive gifts waiting to be opened. If my home is burglarized, damaged or destroyed, are all these gifts covered under my homeowners policy?Not necessarily. There may be limitations on the amount of insurance provided by your homeowners policy, especially for expensive gifts such as personal computers, silverware, stamp or coin collections, fine art and jewelry. There also may be limitations on the types of loss or damage that are covered, such as breakage or flood.
Question #2:
Can I get additional coverage for these gifts?Yes. Look into personal property endorsements and floaters. With an endorsement, you can specify a higher amount than under the standard home-owners policy. With a personal articles floater, items such as jewelry can be covered at full value, with no deductible, based on current appraisal or the bill of sale. Floaters also can cover additional causes of loss, such as dropping a new ring down the drain.
Question #3:
As a renter, are my gifts covered by renters insurance?Yes, but renters insurance also has limits on amount of coverage and types of loss covered. Tenants also can purchase floaters and endorsements to provide insurance for these uncovered or under-covered items.
Question #4:
What about the gifts sitting in my car while I continue shopping?Presents stolen from your car are not covered by the typical auto insurance policy. However, they may be covered, subject to a deductible, under your homeowners or renters policy—except when limited under the conditions mentioned above.
Question #5:
Besides purchasing endorsements, how else can I protect my property?Conduct a home inventory of all your possessions, and update this inventory whenever you make major purchases or receive gifts. Go over your insurance policy with our agency to be sure it provides coverage for the total value of items on your inventory. Keep receipts, serial numbers and dates of purchases of major items. Appraise jewelry and fine art at least every three years, because they may change in value over time.
Question #6:
What’s involved in a home inventory?A few hours of your time and a working camera or video recorder. First, list all of your major belongings and furnishings, with a brief description, any serial numbers and any receipts or appraisals. Second, back up this list with photos or a video. Photograph every wall of every room, and inside closets and cabinets. With a video, make comments for a verbal record as well as a visual one. Third, store everything in a safe place away from the home, such as a safe-deposit box, so they won’t be damaged by the same event that might cause you to need them. Update this inventory whenever needed.
That’s all it takes for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are adequately covered.

Have questions? Don't hesitate to call us at 607-432-2022.

A Penny Saved is A Penny Earned!

2010-12-08T09:28:00.003-05:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

It's been a great year here at The GBR Agency. With the markets to compete we have been able to save our clients a substantial amount of money! This doesn't mean we decreased coverages or increased deductibles. These policies were written with matching coverages and in some cases the client upgraded their coverages! Below are just a few of the examples:

A Laurens woman: $1,114.00 every six months on her auto policy
An Otego couple: $499.00 per year on their auto policy
An Oneonta woman: $210.00 per year on her auto policy
An Oneonta man: $1,388.00 per year on his auto policy
A Delhi couple: $450.00 per year on their auto policy
An Oneonta woman: $434.00 per year on her auto policy
A Cobleskill man: $200.00 per year on their auto & home policy combined

It's always exciting to be able to assist our clients by saving them money! Wondering if you might make the list? You've got nothing to lose, give us a call at 607-432-2022 and we'll be happy to assist you!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

It is Thanksgiving Eve! A day when those who live away come "home" - when family's gather everywhere, designated cooks are busy making preparations and checking the pantry twice. We all look forward to a wonderful meal with family and friends. This holiday is not about giving material gifts to our loved ones but acknowledging how lucky we are to be surrounded by those we love.

We all have so much to be Thankful for on this day and every other. At the GBR agency we are thankful for each and every one of our clients and associates. We are so thankful to be a part of this community. Personally I am grateful that as a member of this agency I have a real opportunity to give back to the community where I was raised. Yes, our job is to ensure our clients are properly protected by their insurance policies but our passion is to improve upon the community we love.

We wish you all a happy and safe holiday tomorrow and may the spirit of Thanksgiving Day remain in your hearts all year round!

Please note: Our offices will be closed Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th to allow everyone to spend time with their families!

GBR Agency awarded The Community Supporter of the Year

2010-11-17T12:03:00.001-05:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

Our agency was honored with The Community Supporter of the Year award given by The ARC Otsego! The award was presented at the Fall Fantasy event held on Friday, November 12th at the Foothills Performing Arts & Civic Center.
On behalf of the GBR Agency I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for being presented with such an award. We are always proud to support The ARC Otsego and the great work that they do. For more information on The ARC Otsego check out www.arcotsego.org/

Oh deer!

2010-11-03T09:05:00.000-04:00

by: Shannon Stockdale

It's that time of year again....hunting season! For those of you with a passion for the sport I know that it means spending hours in the woods after days of scouting to find that deer. It's also car-deer collision season.

My husband is an avid hunter. Some days, when he heads out to the woods I leash up the dogs and we head out for a long walk on the road. Hubby and I compare notes upon our return...who saw more deer? Some days it's me!  One day I saw eight deer cross the road 100 feet in front of me! This is exciting when you are on foot and may stop in awe of the animal's beauty. It's another case when you are behind the wheel of a car.

We've all been there, some of us lucky enough to avoid the accident and others not so lucky.  Sometimes the deer seems to be in a suicidal mood of sorts. It appears they see you, yet they dive into the road anyway, challenging you to a game of chicken you had no intention of participating in, yet now the stakes are too high to avoid.

An insurance study conducted by State Farm in the year 2004, reported there were 150 human deaths in the United States that were directly linked to car-deer accidents. I live in a rural area where sometimes there is more wildlife on the road than traffic. After hitting a deer myself a few years back there are a couple of things I do to avoid another collision.

#1 > Where there is one there are MORE. Spotting one deer in the roadway, my first thought is where are the rest? Sure enough there are always more deer traveling ahead of behind of the deer I spotted.

#2 > If at all possible do not participate in their game of "chicken". I usually come to a complete stop. I give the deer the right-of-way and after they are back on their path and not blocking mine I proceed.

#3 > Sometimes it is better to hit the deer you cannot avoid than to try to avoid the deer and wind up losing control of the vehicle. We've all heard those stories too. Someone manages to avoid hitting the deer and instead overturns their vehicle resulting increased damage, injuries to themselves..or worse.

The link below gives some more tips for avoiding a collision with a deer and contains more specific information about the study conducted in 2004.

Safe travels to you all!

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/car-deer-collisions-in-the-united-states.html

What's the Good Word?

2010-10-13T11:17:00.002-04:00

Written by: Shannon Stockdale

I used to work for a family owned company. The founder used to stop by to visit a couple of times a week. He would make his rounds catching up with the employee's before meeting with his children to discuss business matters. I will never forget his beaming smile when he came into my office wanting to know (as always) "What's the Good Word, Shannon?" It was a refreshing way to start a conversation and a demand of sorts that your response be positive in nature. It always made me stop and think....what IS the good word today?

Today ..... I offer a wonderful story of a woman who lost her wedding ring...eight years ago! What's the good word today? Her grandson found the ring! Full story is below and contributed by the Associated Press:

SHELBY, Mont. — A Montana woman received a big surprise for her 80th birthday — the wedding ring she lost eight years ago. Norma Welker of Shelby told the Great Falls Tribune she took the ring off while she was arranging flowers cut from her garden.

A phone call distracted her while she cleaned up and she didn't realize the ring was missing until after her trash had been hauled away. She searched the compost pile with no luck and figured the ring was gone forever.

This spring, she decided her garden was too difficult to keep up and asked her grandson to till it so she could plant grass.

Nick Welker was tilling the area when he spotted what he thought was a pop top. He bent down to pick it up and found what looked like his grandmother's lost wedding ring.

His grandfather is deceased, and he showed the ring to his parents, who confirmed his suspicion. Together they decided to surprise Norma Welker with the cleaned up ring for her 80th birthday.

"I really couldn't believe it," Norma Welker said. "It just seemed like it was so impossible. I asked him where on Earth did you get this?"

Norma Welker points out that if her grandson hadn't found the ring it likely would have been lost forever after the area was planted with grass.

As surprising as the find was, it wasn't the first time Nick Welker recovered a lost wedding ring.
As a senior at Shelby High School in 2004, a shiny object caught his eye in the school parking lot. It was a $15,000 wedding ring that belonged to a teacher.

Nick Welker returned it and refused the substantial reward she offered, Norma Welker said.

"He doesn't need a metal detector to be a treasure hunter," she said. "It was something that was just supposed to happen, I guess."

Got to love a happy ending!

No worries, if you don't have a treasure hunter in the family like the Welker's. You can still protect your belongings with a policy from the Gordon B. Roberts Agency! Remember, we're only a phone call away!

They said what? Strange but True.....

2010-10-06T10:53:00.000-04:00

Written by: Shannon Stockdale

Happy Wednesday everyone! It sure has been a rainy week. I am feeling thankful to see blue sky and sunshine out my office window right now as the weather report had called for two more days of rain. They may still be correct, but even a short glimpse of the sun is uplifting!

In the spirit of creating some of our own sunshine today I have done some research into the more comical side of the insurance industry. I found an article written by Alan Turnham providing some of the strange but true insurance stories. Below you will find my Top 20 picks (in no particular order) of the strange but true descriptions and explanations provided by insured's to their carrier when reporting an accident.

To avoid a collision I ran into the other car
The pedestrian had no idea which way to run, so I ran over him.
I thought the side window was down but it was up, as I found when I put my head through it.
I collided with a stationary tree.
I consider that neither vehicle was to blame but if either were to blame it was the other one.
I bumped into a shop window and sustained injuries to my wife.
I heard a horn blow and was struck violently in the back. Evidently a lady was trying to pass me.
Coming home I drove into the wrong house and collided with a tree I haven't got.
I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way.
The telephone pole was approaching and I was attempting to swerve out of it's way when it struck the front end of my car.
I blew my horn but it would not work as it was stolen.
A lamp post bumped into my car, damaging it in two places.
I left my car unattended for a minute, and whether by accident or design it ran away.
In an attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole.
I didn't think the speed limit applied after midnight.
My car was legally parked as it backed into the other vehicle.
Windscreen broken. Cause unknown. Probably voodoo.
The car in front hit the pedestrian but he got up so I hit him again.
I had been driving for 40 years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had an accident.
An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished.

My personal favorite is a tie between #17 and #20. Haven't we all had days like this? When you wake up in the morning you know you'll have your breakfast, brush your teeth and get dressed. Beyond what we have planned each day holds so much possibility. And while we hope for those things to occur that will affect us in a positive way, sometimes we aren't so lucky. So, that's why it's important to make sure that what you consider valuable...you also consider insuring. It's the only guarantee that you may be able to replace that which you have lost. Remember we're only a phone call away!!

A Professional Agent or one of those "direct" carriers?

2010-09-21T10:56:00.000-04:00

Written by: Shannon S Stockdale

Insurance isn't really as simple as some like to make it sound. "Oh, just call this 800 number and they will get you cheap coverage." EVERYONE wants their premiums to decrease and that includes me and I wish it was really that easy.

An insurance policy is a legal contract. When you purchase that policy you have an expectation that coverage will be provided when you are in need. How do you have any idea what you are purchasing and if this product is appropriate for your needs?

Before you purchase that policy you need to stop and consider what you are buying. What coverages does it provide? What types of deductibles are part of that policy? Insurance is not something you need JUST to satisfy New York State or your mortgage contract. The definition of insurance is to make you whole again after a loss. To leave you in the same place you were before the loss happened. It isn't going to matter if that policy cost you $100 or $1000 if it doesn't offer you protection when you need it the most.

Below is just a few examples of what I see happen when folks decide to make the switch over to the "direct" carrier:

In order to lower the price...lower coverage
Apply a deductible to your personal injury protection. This means if you are involved in an auto accident and need to go to the hospital you will be responsible for the first few hundred dollars of the hospital bills.
Sell the policy first and underwrite later. MANY fall prey to this one. I compare it to a "bait and switch" marketing tactic. The company sells you the policy at the low rate and THEN runs reports on your motor vehicle record, loss history etc. Depending on those results this policy will either increase (could be minimal, could be dramatic) or they may not even want to continue coverage at all. They will issue a cancellation and leave you out there searching for a policy all over again.

Something they won't tell you in that 15 minutes is when it comes time to upgrade your vehicle, you will find yourself driving upwards of 60 miles to maintain your coverage. NYS law requires a photo inspection to be completed within the first 5 days of adding the car to the policy. Those direct writers do not have photo inspection sites between Binghamton and Albany. So, after you pick up your new car you may be looking at a very long ride to ensure that the physical damage coverages are secured.

A wise person once said every single loss you have is insured. The question is...is it insured by an insurance company or by you?

There are many ways to drive the price of insurance down, you can minimize, reduce or restrict coverage. However, you need to be aware and educated in the process, and sometimes that can take a little longer than 15 minutes.

Got questions? We're only a phone call away!

Welcome to the new Gordon B. Roberts online

2010-09-01T17:00:00.003-04:00

Take a look at our new website. It's a new direction for Gordon B. Roberts. We've always preferred dealing with our clients - people like you - face to face.

And we still do. But often times, you need information faster than you can get by stopping by our office. You want to peruse the policies we can offer on your own time, in your own way. If you want to check out our commercial insurance while you've got a couple minutes of downtime, this site is for you. If you need information on personal insurance or ways we can help you build your nest egg over your morning coffee, we're good with that.

We designed and built this site to be easier to use, more informative, and with all the tools you need to get started meeting your insurance needs.

We'll keep it updated with good information and advice, and we've given you tools to begin filing claims online or get a quote for a new policy.

So look around. Whether you need commercial insurance or personal policies, Homeowners, auto, liability or our financial services, you'll find it on our web site. Just like you'd find it at Gordon B. Roberts.

The Value of an Insurance Agent

2010-08-25T09:15:00.000-04:00

Written by: Shannon Stockdale
Edited by: Dave Weaver
What is the value of a local independent insurance agent? If you can secure yourself coverage in 15 minutes over the phone or Internet then why does our profession still exist? Is insurance REALLY this simple? If it is why are agents required to be licensed by the State of New York? Why do agents have to complete continuing education in order to maintain that license?

An insurance policy is a legal contract. The contract being an agreement between you and the insurance company. The insured paying a premium to the company guarantees they will provide you with the means necessary to replace what you have lost, to make you whole again. But, the insurance company does not agree to replace whatever you have lost under any circumstance. This is where that contract comes into play. It is an agreement made up of "if" and "but" and "except." You may pay $100 or $1,000 for an insurance policy but if it does not provide you with the coverage you need than it is essentially worthless.

Your insurance agent is your advocate both at the purchase of the policy as well as when a loss occurs. Your agent is your consultant, working with you to determine your insurance needs and keeping those needs met as they change throughout your lifetime. An agent is a value-hunter always looking to ensure your policies are priced competitively while providing complete coverage. Your personal insurance agent is committed to your satisfaction. Quite honestly, their livelihood is dependant upon it. Where customer service has gone by the way side in a lot of today's industries, you won't find this at your local agency.

All the insurance professionals that I know take an active role in their community. We are soccer and little league coaches. We are involved in Rotary and other community organizations. We volunteer our time at nursing homes and community events. Your agent is a member of your community invested in it's betterment and taking an active role in propelling that positive impact.

Choosing a local insurance agent is choosing to spend your dollars locally. The big difference between direct writers and insurance companies working with an independent agent is how they spend your premiums. Direct writers dump millions of dollars into advertising, they invest in fancy commercials and creative marketing ploys. Our companies invest those dollars into professional agents. A lot of times you will find a competitive rate at your local insurance agency with the added benefit of a real live person to talk to.

At the Gordon B. Roberts Agency as agents we enjoy working with people to satisfy their insurance needs at an affordable premium and make that a pleasant experience. We are here after you purchase the policy to service and maintain your coverage. You don't have to dial an 800 number to find us. You won't be forced to select 1 for billing information or 2 for claims. You won't get stuck on hold when you have a question.

We are independent agents working with multiple carriers providing an ease in transition when switching to a carrier that may offer a lower rate upon renewal (but NOT a sacrifice in coverage). When you work with a local independent agent you have the competitive edge of a personal insurance shopper! An agent will review your coverage to ensure it stays in line with current industry standards. Bottom line, your agent is there when you need them and that my friends can be invaluable.

Insure your boat both in and out of the water

2010-08-18T11:15:00.002-04:00

By Shannon Stockdale

Do you enjoy boating in the summer? I grew up on Lake Shore Drive in Maryland, NY and I remember spending many days on the waters of Goodyear Lake with my family. We'd cruise around the lake, maybe do a little fishing. Born with a short run on patiences though, fishing was never my thing. My favorite memories are of water skiing and tubing. It took me a while to get a feel for the skies but once I got up it was exhilarating! What a fun way to spend a family day! I remember the time involved each year the boat came out of the water and my dad set to cleaning and putting it away for the Winter. My parents had invested a significant amount of money and time into our boat and as it got packed away for the Winter I looked forward to the next Summer and improving my form on those water skies!

Millions of Americans take to the waters each year traveling coastlines, rivers, lakes and canals. Each watercraft unique and ranging from rowboats and jet skis to speed boats and luxury yachts. As a boat owner you have made an investment in your watercraft both at the time you bought it and each year as you maintain it. We know that coverage is necessary when the boat is in the water, but many boat owners do not realize how important it is to continue protecting it while it is in storage.

A typical boat insurance policy provides a package of coverages that may include: damage to the boat, motor and trailer, damage to the portable property used to maintain the boat, damage to the equipment left on shore (ie: boat cover), the cost of recovering a sunken or stranded boat, the cost of an emergency service and towing, damage to non-owned or substitute boats and liabilty coverage for injuries or damages for which the boat owner is legaly responsible as well as coverage for injuries the boat owner or others suffer in an accident with an uninsured watercraft. These are coverages that are necessary and strictly related to the risk of operating the watercraft. However, losses are still possible while the boat is on land, stored and/or being transported.

Progressive Insurance reports that nearly two out of every 10 boat claims occur between Labor Day and Memorial Day, that's right between September and May. Most boaters have pulled their boats ashore during this time.

This year, as the season comes to a close, if you are a boat owner thinking of cancelling your policy once you pull your boat ashore, consider first where you are storing your boat? If it's in a building and that building were suffer a fire or a collapse will you want your boat to be covered? As it is subject to NYS registration your property or home policy will not provide you with the coverage to replace the watercraft. If the boat is vandalized or stolen while stored will you want the coverage then?

Boating is a great way to enjoy the wonderful sunny summer days with your family and friends. You may save a few dollars by cancelling your policy for the few months the boat is out of the water but you are also cancelling coverage that is even more valuable. Insuring your boat while it's in storage is ensuring you'll enjoy the watercraft next season too!

Do you need flood insurance?

2010-06-15T16:46:00.000-04:00

According to Federal Emergency Management Agency, flooding causes billions of dollars in property damage each year in the United States.

But standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood losses. Here are some tips and ideas that may help you decide if you need flood insurance.

You must to live in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Contact your local agent to see if you live in one of those communities.
Ask your agent if you live in a floodplain. You may also check online at www.floodsmart.gov and select "What's your flood risk?" Just enter your home address and you will know if you live in a low, moderate or a high risk area.
Policies take 30 days to become effective. Do not wait to purchase coverage till you have a flood alert.
Be sure to discuss your options with your agent before making a final decision.

Welcome to our new website

2010-06-11T16:46:00.000-04:00

Take a look around. We designed and built this website to be easier to use, more informative, and with all the tools you need to get started meeting your insurance needs.

We’ll keep it updated with good information and advice, and we’ve given you tools to begin filing claims online or get a quote for a new policy.

So look around. Whether you need commercial insurance, or personal policies. Homeowners, auto, liability or our financial services, you’ll find it on our web site. Just like you’d find it at Gordon B. Roberts.