With winter storms causing widespread damage, the Insurance Information Network of California® offers answers to frequently asked storm questions:
Question: Rising water flooded my home. Am I covered?
Answer: Yes, if you have flood insurance. However, a standard homeowner insurance policy does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is typically available from your agent through the National Flood Insurance Program (www.floodsmart.gov or (800) 427-9662). Keep in mind that it takes 30 days from the time you purchase the policy for it to take effect.

If you're planning to throw a Super Bowl party on Sunday, remember that being a truly gracious host means more than putting out the baby-backs and beer. All hosts should make sure there are plenty of non-alcoholic options available and that the gathering includes a number of designated drivers, according to the Insurance Information Network of California.

While the big game is one of the most exciting events of the football season, it is also one of the most dangerous as roads are filled with too many impaired drivers.

After two sizeable earthquakes book-ended the state last week, Californians got a jarring reminder of their unsettled landscape. But with roughly 12 percent of California homeowners purchasing earthquake policies, are their finances also on shaky ground?

In today’s financial climate, walking away from disaster losses may not be a viable solution for homeowners.

A financial review may not be at the top of everyone’s New Year resolution list. But as homeowners start 2010, they should add “insurance policy checkup” to their to-do list.
 
During the course of a year, many changes could affect the insurance coverage. The addition of a room or a major room remodel; new appliances or electronics bought or received during the holidays; or a homeowner retiring from a job and now spending much more time at home could all be changes that affect the cost and type of homeowner insurance needed.

Local law enforcement handed out citations – of merit – to area bartenders today for concocting alcohol-free drinks honoring designated drivers.

Los Angeles-based mixologists squared off in the Battle of the Bartenders® to decide who could create the very best “mocktails” and promote responsible holiday hospitality. Their creations were judged by local food critics and officers from the Los Angeles Police Department and the California Highway Patrol. The beverages were judged for taste, presentation, creativity and simplicity.