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Rathbun Insurance Blog

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Why Football Fans Should Have a Personal Umbrella Policy

Fall is here, and for many of us, that means one thing: football season! From cheering on your favorite team to tossing around the pigskin in the backyard, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than gathering with...

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When To File (or Not File) a Homeowners Claim

Home insurance premiums have been increasing, and obtaining coverage can be challenging in what's known as a "hard market." When extreme weather and catastrophic events put demands on the insurance industry, this...

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6 Halloween Hazards To Watch Out For

Halloween is fun for kids and grown-ups alike. But it's also full of scary (and dangerous) traps for the unwary. Watch out for these common hazards: Candles: Use glow sticks or battery-operated lights rather than...

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Review Your Beneficiaries

Having a current and properly executed will is an important part of estate planning. That having been said, wills need to go through the probate process, which can be time-consuming. But assets with named beneficiaries...

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Accidents Happen: How Everyday Mishaps Can Lead to Big Losses

At Rathbun Insurance, we understand that accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. The truth is, even the most careful among us can fall victim to unexpected mishaps that lead to significant damage or loss. This year...

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Your Home Shelters What's Most Important to You. Let Us Help You Protect It

We're always on your side - Our job is to look out for you and what's most important to you. We take time to explain the policy details so you know what to expect from your insurance and us. We help homeowners at every...

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Federal Cyber Mandates Affect Critical Infrastructure Reporting

The clock is ticking. At the start of 2025, many businesses will be required to follow new cybersecurity reporting requirements under the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA). These...

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Your RV Needs More Than Just Auto Insurance

Just because your recreational vehicle (RV) travels the same roads as cars doesn’t mean you should share the same insurance coverage. At a minimum, every state requires the same amount of liability coverage for an RV as...

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Understanding No-Fault Auto Insurance

Imagine driving your daily route, minding your own business. A truck suddenly hits you from behind, totals your car, and leaves you with medical issues and lost wages. Car accidents can be incredibly upsetting and often...

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What’s Your Wedding Risk Exposure? A Liability Perspective

The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is $30,000, with venues being the highest-ticket item in the spending breakdown. Venues are also the biggest reason for claims made on wedding insurance policies, according to...

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Before You Give Up on an Insurance Claim

It’s no fun being on the receiving end of an insurance claim denial. But you can do a few things to help prevent or appeal a claim denial. Know who you're talking to - Make sure you understand the difference between an...

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A Claim is a Claim: Navigating Insurance Claims with Rathbun Insurance

In the realm of insurance, the term "claim" holds significant weight. It's a process that can be both complex and pivotal for policyholders. At Rathbun Insurance, we understand the importance of clarity and guidance...

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Empowering Individuals: Introducing the "Road to Standard Auto Insurance Market" Guide

At Rathbun Insurance, we believe in more than just providing insurance coverage; we are dedicated to empowering individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions about their insurance needs. That's why we're excited...

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Stay Safe During a Lightning Storm

The forecast calls for a chance of thunderstorms. That may not require you to cancel your outdoor plans, but take the threat of lightning seriously. Your odds of being struck by lightning are better than you think. In...

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How To Pick Your Homeowners Insurance Coverage Limits

When purchasing or renewing a homeowners policy, it's important to select the right coverage limit. This is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a particular claim. There are many factors to consider...

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Renters Insurance Refresher

Welcome to our Renters Insurance Refresher! Whether you're a seasoned renter or a first-time tenant, it's essential to ensure that your belongings are adequately protected. One key aspect of safeguarding your...

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Snowmobile Insurance for Winter Enthusiasts

Snowmobiling can be an exhilarating but risky winter sport. Today’s high-powered machines can weigh as much as 600 pounds, reach speeds as high as 200 miles per hour and cost well over $10,000. Property damage and...

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Safeguard Against Ice Dams

An ice dam is a thick ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof. It prevents melting snow from draining off, forcing the melted water to seep underneath shingles. The water can leak into your home, damaging...

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Prevent Freezing Pipes in Extreme Cold

It’s that time of year again: cold snap season. Plumbing systems can freeze when temperatures take a sudden nosedive past the freezing mark, or 32 F. And when water freezes and expands within a pipe, the pipe can burst....

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VIDEO: Understanding the Hard Insurance Market and Cost Sharing

In the dynamic landscape of the insurance industry, we currently find ourselves amidst what experts term a "hard market." This phase challenges insurance companies to reevaluate their strategies in the face of mounting...

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What can an Independent Insurance Agent do for you?

Looking to change your auto insurance, cover your home for damage or get liability insurance? An independent insurance agent can help you with all of these needs. What makes independent agents different from “captive”...

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15 Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

Driving in snow and ice requires quick reflexes, patience and know-how. If you can’t avoid driving in wintry conditions, make sure you and your vehicle are ready for the challenge. Also, try to time your trip so you...

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6 Tips To Safely Enjoy Candles in Your Home

Candles are responsible for an estimated 7,400 residential fires yearly, an average of 20 home fires daily. Fires caused by candles resulted in 90 deaths and $291 million in direct property damage nationwide, according...

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What Homeowners Should Know About a Large Loss

If your home is damaged by a fire, a flood or another disaster, you may be relieved to know it wasn't completely destroyed. But it's important to understand how your insurance coverage works. You may still be required...

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Your Town’s Fire Rating Affects Your Home Insurance

Many factors affect your home insurance rates. Some have to do with the age, location and structure of your home. Others have to do with local crime rates, school districts and weather hazards. But there’s one factor...

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Do You Own a Recreational Drone or Plan On Purchasing a Drone This Season?

Recreational drones, sometimes called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are growing in popularity. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reports that more than 506,635 drones have been registered for recreational use....

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Safeguarding Your Digital World- Guide to Cybersecurity in 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of the digital world, cybercrime is projected to cost the global economy a staggering $8 trillion in 2023, as reported by Cybersecurity Ventures. At Rathbun Insurance, we understand the...

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Navigating the Waters of Insurance: Claims Made vs. Occurrence Policies

In the intricate landscape of insurance, the choice between claims-made and occurrence policies can significantly impact how coverage is triggered and claims are handled. Understanding the nuances of these policies is...

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Importance of timely insurance premium payments!

In the realm of financial planning, insurance serves as a safety net that shields individuals, families, and business from unexpected and potentially devastating losses. Whether it’s health, life, auto, liability, or...

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15 Holiday Decorating Hazards To Avoid at Your Business

Adding some holiday magic to your business? From accessibility to food safety, we’ve got you covered. Check out these 15 tips to keep your holiday decorations safe. 1. Holiday tree fires: Set up your tree(s) far from...

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Questions To Ask Your Home Owners Association Before You Buy

Homeowners associations (HOAs) often include many amenities but also many restrictions. Make sure you know what you're getting into before you sign on the dotted line.

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10 Reasons To Consider an Independent Insurance Agent

We live in an app-enabled world. You can order groceries, hire a dog walker and book a vacation without leaving your home or speaking to a real person. It makes sense to think insurance is something you can do online,...

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Understanding Underwriting Decisions vs. Coverage Decisions

At Rathbun Insurance, we understand that traversing the world of insurance can be complex and overwhelming. In this blog, we'll shed light on the crucial difference between underwriting decisions and coverage decisions....

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Winterize That Second Home To Prevent Damage While You’re Gone

Do you have a vacation cabin or another property that you use during the summer but leave empty during the winter? If so, you need to winterize your getaway so you don’t find a mess when spring arrives. Winterizing may...

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Business Insurance Renewals Often Mean Changes to Terms

Commercial insurance rates are increasing on nearly every line of coverage, thanks to a rise in the frequency and severity of claims. And business owners are noticing significant premium hikes at policy renewal time....

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The Rising Tide of Business Interruption in Cyber Insurance: Protecting Your Business

In today's digital age, where businesses heavily rely on technology, the threat of cyberattacks looms larger than ever before. While companies have been diligently investing in cybersecurity measures to safeguard their...

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Prepare for Emergencies with Rathbun Insurance: September is National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and it's the perfect time to ensure you're ready for unexpected disasters. The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is emphasizing the importance of...

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When to Think Twice About Filing Low-Value Insurance Claims

Insurance is a valuable safety net that helps protect us from unexpected financial burdens in times of crisis. Whether it's for your home, car, or health, insurance provides peace of mind. However, it's essential to...

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Navigating Storm Damage Insurance Claims

Strong winds and lighting have wreaked havoc on Mid-Michigan this evening, leaving behind damage and power outages. If you're one of the unfortunate individuals who have experienced storm-related damage in mid-Michigan,...

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Michigan Supreme Court Announces Seismic Shift in Premises Liability Cases

In a groundbreaking decision, the Michigan Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling that promises to reshape the terrain of premises liability cases. The ruling, arising from the consolidated cases of Kandil-Elsayed v....

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Cyber Bytes: What Is Cyber Liability Insurance?

Cyber liability insurance won’t prevent a hack, but it will help you recover from one. There are two main types: First-party coverage, which responds to losses resulting from cyberattacks on your business network Third-...

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Michigan Supreme Court Rules No-Fault Reimbursement Limits Not Retroactive

Today, we bring you an important update regarding the 2019 No-Fault law in Michigan. The long-awaited decision from the Michigan Supreme Court has been released, and it directly impacts the reimbursement limits for...

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Weathering the Storm: Top Strategies for Hail Storm Preparedness

As your trusted independent agency in Lansing, MI, we are committed to ensuring your safety and protecting your property. With a severe thunderstorm watch in effect, there is a possibility of a hail storm heading our...

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What is Medical Payments on a Home Policy: An Overlooked Coverage Worth Considering

When it comes to homeowners insurance, most people are aware of the standard coverages like property damage and liability protection. However, there is one aspect that often goes unnoticed but holds significant value: ...

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What is a Peril?

As an insurance producer, it's important to educate clients about the different perils that can affect their homes and the coverage options available to protect them. Understanding the differences between H03 and H05...

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Independent vs. Captive Agent

As you navigate the world of insurance, you may encounter different types of agents. Two common types are independent agents and exclusive or captive agents. While both types of agents can provide you with insurance...

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Moving Out on Your Own? Why Insurance Should be at the Top of Your To-Do List

Moving out of your parents' house is a significant milestone and we understand how exciting it can be to finally have your own space and independence. With this newfound freedom comes new responsibilities, one of which...

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Congratulations Newlyweds! Don't Forget to Insure Your Wedding Ring

We just wanted to take a moment to say congratulations on your recent marriage! We hope your wedding day was filled with love, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime. As you start your new life together, we know...

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Does my personal auto policy cover delivery driving? Probably Not!

As online shopping has become increasingly popular, the demand for delivery drivers has risen. Many people have taken on this role to earn extra income or even as a full-time job. However, what many people don't realize...

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Dog Bites… am I covered?

When we considered adding Milo and Ash as our family pets, the thought of them potentially biting or injuring someone did not cross our minds. We couldn’t wait to snuggle them and watch them flourish as new members of...

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Why You Need to Be Concerned About Those Who Aren’t

As trusted insurance advisors, we are commonly faced with the question “What do I need to protect myself from?” When referring to automobile insurance, the reality is who you insure yourself against is equally important...

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What Is Mini Tort & How Do I File A Claim?

A mini tort claim is like a small civil suit that you file against an at-fault driver. It is important to note that a mini tort claim is filed with the other drivers insurance company. We as your agent can provide you...

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How Do I Protect My Catalytic Converter?

Within the last few months, we have had a rash of claims related to the theft of catalytic converters. Especially in downtown Lansing, these incidents appear to be getting more and more common. But why are they getting...

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What is a Mini Tort Claim and How Do I File One?

A mini tort claim is like a small civil suit that you file against an at-fault driver. As a courtesy to our customers, The Rathbun Agency files mini tort claims with other insurance carriers. At this time, the maximum...

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