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The Sobering Stats: Drunk Driving and Its Impact on Insurance Premiums

Drunk driving is a pervasive issue that not only poses significant risks to road safety but also has lasting consequences on individuals’ financial well-being. The following show sobering statistics of drunk driving and how they correlate with increases in auto insurance premiums.

The Alarming Statistics
The numbers are stark and alarming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving contributes to a considerable portion of road accidents. In recent years, nearly 10,000 people lost their lives in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, accounting for nearly 28% of all traffic-related fatalities.

Impact on Insurance Premiums
For those caught driving under the influence, the financial impact goes beyond legal fines and court fees. Insurance premiums take a substantial hit. On average, a DUI conviction can result in a staggering 80% increase in auto insurance premiums. This spike in costs is attributed to the heightened risk that insurers associate with drivers who have a history of impaired driving.

Risk Assessment by Insurers
Insurance providers meticulously assess risk when determining premiums. A driver with a DUI is statistically considered a high-risk individual due to the increased likelihood of accidents and claims. This risk assessment translates directly into higher insurance premiums, reflecting the potential financial exposure that comes with covering a driver prone to impaired decision-making behind the wheel.

Regional Variances
Statistics also highlight regional variations in the prevalence of drunk driving and its impact on insurance premiums. States with stricter DUI penalties and enforcement tend to have lower instances of drunk driving accidents and may see comparatively lower insurance premium increases for those convicted.

Age and Gender Disparities
Studies show that certain demographic factors, such as age and gender, play a role in drunk driving statistics. Younger drivers and males are more likely to engage in risky behavior, including driving under the influence. Consequently, this demographic may experience more substantial increases in insurance premiums following a DUI conviction.

Repeat Offenders
Another concerning statistic is the rate of repeat DUI offenses. A significant number of individuals who have been convicted of driving under the influence continue to engage in risky behavior. Repeat offenses not only result in more severe legal consequences but also lead to higher insurance premiums, as insurers perceive an elevated level of risk.

The statistics surrounding drunk driving and its impact on insurance premiums underscore the importance of responsible decision-making behind the wheel. The financial ramifications of a DUI go beyond the initial legal penalties, affecting individuals’ ability to secure affordable auto insurance for years. By understanding these statistics, individuals can make informed choices, prioritize responsible driving, and contribute to safer roads for everyone.

March 14, 2024/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Safety, Tips, Uncategorized

AC Marmo & Sons, Inc. LOVES Insuring Your Life!

Life is the most precious gift, and we love insuring yours! AC Marmo & Sons, Inc. values every single one of our loyal clients, and this month, we are sending you love and gratitude for welcoming us into your families and homes. It is our pleasure and honor to provide you with protection and assurance in these times of uncertainty. Some of the most impactful services we proudly provide are:

Auto Insurance
Homeowners Insurance
Flood Insurance
Commercial Auto Insurance
Workers Compensation Insurance

you have questions, we would love to answer them! If you have concerns, we would love to address them! We love insuring you – and all the things that come along with it! Get to know us better at AC Marmo & Sons, Inc., and let us give you the support and protection you so very much deserve!

https://www.acmarmo.com/ Fairfield Office (973) 340-9100 Lavallette Office (732) 793-7530 Fairfield Location: 350 Passaic Avenue PO Box 11115 Fairfield, NJ 07004 Lavallette Location:1605 Grand Central Avenue, Suite #3 Lavallette, New Jersey 08735

February 7, 2024/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Safety, Tips

Hypothermia – Prevention Tips

Preventing hypothermia is important because it can be a life-threatening condition. Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing your core body temperature to drop below the normal range (around 98.6°F or 37°C). Preventing hypothermia involves taking measures to stay warm, dry, and protected in cold environments. Take proactive steps to avoid hypothermia.

Dress in Layers

Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap warm air close to your body.
Use moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin.

Stay Dry

Wet clothing can significantly increase the risk of hypothermia. Ensure your outer layer is waterproof or water-resistant.
Change into dry clothes if you get wet.

Protect Extremities

Wear gloves, hats, and warm socks to protect your hands, head, and feet.
These areas are prone to heat loss, so keeping them covered is crucial.

Stay Active

Physical activity generates body heat. Keep moving to maintain warmth.
Avoid long periods of inactivity in cold conditions.

Seek Shelter

If you’re in a cold environment, find or create shelter to protect yourself from wind and precipitation.

Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed

Dehydration and lack of food can make your body more susceptible to hypothermia. Stay nourished and hydrated.

Know the Signs

Be aware of the symptoms of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and fatigue. Seek medical help if you notice these signs.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol can cause your body to lose heat more quickly, and tobacco can restrict blood flow. Avoid these substances in cold environments.

Stay Informed

Be aware of weather conditions and plan accordingly. Check forecasts before heading out, and be prepared for changing conditions.

Remember that the severity of hypothermia can vary, and individual susceptibility may depend on factors such as age, health condition, and environmental conditions. Taking preventive measures is essential for maintaining overall well-being and reducing the risk of serious health complications associated with hypothermia.

January 15, 2024/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Tips

Mastering Your Ceiling Fan: Seasonal Comfort Hacks

Ceiling fans are not only functional but also play a significant role in maintaining comfort and energy efficiency in our homes. Depending on the season, the direction in which your ceiling fan blades spin can make a significant difference in the way you feel and your energy bills. In this blog, we’ll explore the optimal ceiling fan settings for both summer and winter to help you make the most of this essential home appliance.

Summer: Cooling Down

During the sweltering summer months, the primary goal is to keep your living spaces cooler without cranking up the air conditioning and running up your electricity bill. To achieve this, your ceiling fan should spin counterclockwise when looking up at it from below. Here’s why:

Creating a Wind Chill Effect: Counterclockwise rotation pushes air downwards, creating a wind chill effect. This makes you feel cooler by increasing the evaporation of sweat on your skin, effectively lowering your perceived temperature.
Enhancing Air Circulation: The downward airflow helps circulate air throughout the room, distributing cool air more evenly and preventing hot spots.
Reducing Energy Costs: By using your ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioner, you can set your thermostat a few degrees higher, which can significantly reduce your cooling costs.

Winter: Warming Up

In the colder winter months, the goal is to keep your living spaces warm without overworking your heating system. To achieve this, your ceiling fan should spin clockwise when looking up at it from below. Here’s why:

Even Heat Distribution: Clockwise rotation gently draws air upwards and forces the warm air that naturally rises to circulate back down into the room. This helps to even out temperature variations and eliminate cold drafts.
Reduced Heating Costs: By redistributing warm air more effectively, you can set your thermostat a few degrees lower while maintaining the same level of comfort, ultimately saving on heating costs.
Preventing Stagnant Air: Running the fan in the winter also helps prevent stagnant air and keeps the room feeling fresher and more comfortable.

Adjusting Your Ceiling Fan

Switching the direction of your ceiling fan is typically done through a switch on the fan’s motor housing. Some newer models even come with remote controls, making it easy to change the fan’s direction at the push of a button.

Remember to turn off the fan before adjusting its direction to avoid damaging the motor or blades. Once the season changes, simply reverse the direction to match the recommended settings.

Ceiling fans are versatile and valuable assets for maintaining comfort and reducing energy costs in your home. By adjusting the direction of your ceiling fan blades according to the season, you can maximize its benefits. During the summer, set it to counterclockwise to cool down, and in the winter, set it to clockwise to warm up. This simple adjustment can help you stay comfortable year-round while saving on your energy bills.

December 7, 2023/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Blog

Homeowners Insurance Facts

When you decide you want to buy your first home, homeowners insurance may not be the first thing you think about. However, most mortgage lenders require you to have homeowners insurance before they will approve your loan. There are a few things you should know about homeowners insurance.

Certain losses are excluded from most homeowners insurance policies. Standard homeowners insurance policies don’t cover floods or earthquakes. If you want coverage for flood or earthquake damage, you will need separate policies for those. If you are in a flood zone, your mortgage lender may require you to purchase flood insurance.

We all know that our credit score is important for many things. Did you know it can also affect your homeowners insurance premium? Some states have banned this practice; however, in most cases your credit score can affect your insurance premium. The better your credit rating, the lower your premium. So while you’re spiffing up your credit rating to get a good deal on your mortgage loan, you should maintain a good rating to save money on your homeowners insurance.

Poor home maintenance may cause a claim to be denied. Not all damages are covered by homeowners insurance. If the damage that occurred to your home is due to your failure to properly maintain your home, your claim may be denied. When it comes to home maintenance, don’t be a procrastinator!

While you are living in your new home, you will acquire new valuables, personal possessions, and may do some home improvements. You should always report these to us right away so we can ensure your coverage is sufficient for your investment. Enjoy your new home, you deserve it!

Source: https://www.hsh.com/first-time-homebuyer/facts-about-home-insurance.html

November 8, 2022/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Blog, Insurance

Smart Homes

Smart technology and devices continue to revolutionize how we live. Most people want to stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies. It is estimated that there will be over 73 million smart homes by 2021. So if you want to be one of these trend setters, you will want to read this list of how you can start to make your home a smart home!

The first, and most important, step to making your home a smart home is to get a smart home digital assistant. The two most popular home assistants are Amazon Echo (with Alexa) and Google Home. You can purchase either one of these at www.bestbuy.com
Adding smart light bulbs is another great way to make your home smarter. Using your smart home digital assistant you can control all the smart lights in your home via voice control or by the push of a button. You can also have different settings for the lighting in each room, and turn lights on and off when you’re not home!
Installing a smart thermostat is a great way to automate the temperature throughout your home and can even save you money on your electric bill! Some smart thermostats can learn your favorite temperatures and even sense when people aren’t home to regulate the temperature.
Replacing your regular doorbell with a smart doorbell is another step to making your home smarter and safer. Smart doorbells come with HD cameras so you can see who is at your door via your mobile device. You can also communicate through your smart doorbell if you need to.
If you hate running the vacuum, you will definitely want a smart vacuum. High quality smart vacuums come with great sensors that allow them to navigate throughout your home and clean autonomously! Some also come with Wi-Fi connectivity so it allows you to control it via your smartphone.

Source: https://thesmarthomer.com/how-to-make-your-home-a-smart-home/

July 13, 2022/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Blog

Spring Home Maintenance

🌷Spring is here! 🌸 After a long dark and cold winter, the bright sun and warm winds of the spring are a breath of fresh air! The only downside? All that sunlight helps you see your leaf-filled gutters, cracked sidewalks, and dead plants in the flower beds. Get your home in shape for spring with this checklist!

1. Examine Roof Shingles: Examine the roof to see if any shingles were lost or damaged under the winter snow and ice.

2. Check the Gutters: Loose or leaky gutters can cause improper drainage, which can lead to water in your basement or crawlspace during the spring rain.

3. Inspect the Concrete: Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. Fill cracks with concrete crack filler or silicone caulk, power-wash, and then seal the concrete.

4. Remove Firewood: Firewood stored near the home for winter should be moved at least 18 inches off the ground and at least 2 feet from the structure.

5. Check Outside Faucets: Check outside faucets for freeze damage. While you’re at it, check your garden hose for dry rot.

6. Repair Window Screens: You will want to open the windows to let the fresh air in. Ensure small holes and tears are repaired so bugs don’t get in.

This is just a short list of items you can do to prepare your home for the spring. Winter was nice and cozy but, we are ready for the spring sunshine! While you are preparing your home for the spring, it is a great time to review your homeowners insurance!

Source: https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/10-home-maintenance-tips-for-spring-pictures

April 12, 2022/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Blog

How to Jump Start a Car

Trouble happens. You left your lights on and now you’re stuck with a dead car battery. While learning how to jump start a car can be easy, there are risks in it if done so incorrectly. As your insurance agent, we care about your safety so we put together the following guide on how to properly get you and your car charged and back on the road.

What do you need to jump start a car?

Before you can recharge and get going, you need a few basics: jumper cables and a power source – either a portable jump battery (a jump box) or another vehicle.

Jumper cables are long, thickly insulated cables with toothy clips on one or both ends. These clips are called alligator clips. The clips are distinguished by color, usually red and black, to indicate positive and negative polarity. The red clip is positive. The black clip is negative.

Jump boxes are portable batteries used to jump start a vehicle without connecting to another vehicle and come with special jump cables. These cables connect the jump battery directly to the dead car battery. Road side assistance usually uses a jump box when helping stalled vehicles.

What do you need to know about car batteries to jump start a car?

Car batteries have two larger nubs, called terminals. There is a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Each should be clearly marked. Connecting cables to the right terminal is important to completing the circuit and gives power to the dead battery.

Positive terminal – The positive terminal is usually the bigger of the two terminals. It is marked with “POS” or “+”. It will connect to the positive clip on the jumper cable, which is usually red.
Negative terminal – The negative terminal on the battery is usually marked with “NEG” or “-”. This will attach to the other clip, which is usually black.

CAUTIONS WHEN JUMP STARTING A CAR:

READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL. Some cars are not recommended for jump starting because they have sensitive circuitry
DO NOT JUMP corroded, cracked, leaking, or visibly damaged batteries
DO NOT JUMP frozen batteries
DO NOT JUMP dry batteries
DO NOT TOUCH CLIPS together. This is true when connected, but get in the habit by never touching the clips together.

Protect the donor battery

A quick test that there is enough voltage for the donor, be sure that the car giving the jump start headlights are steady and bright when the car is started. If the headlights dim, that can signal that the battery is low.

How do you use jumper cables to jump start a car from another vehicle?

CHECK BATTERIES: Make sure that the battery giving the jump has enough voltage and is a matching voltage system type (12V, 6V, etc.)
READY CARS: Put both cars in park or neutral, turn the ignitions off, and put on the parking brake.
OPEN THE HOOD of each car.
ATTACH ALLIGATOR CLIPS to the terminals in the following order:
- Red to Dead – Connect red, or positive, clip to the positive terminal on the battery of the dead car.
- Red to Donor – Connect the red, positive, clip to the positive terminal on the donor battery on the other car.
- Black to Donor – Connect the black clip to the negative terminal of the donor car.
- Black to Metal – Connect the black clip to an unpainted metal part of the dead car that is not directly next to the battery. One of the metal struts that hold the hood open is a good place to clip the second black, or negative, clip.
START THE DONOR CAR so that the battery can supply power to the dead battery.
IDLE the donor car, allowing it to run for a few minutes.
TEST the interior light of the car being jump started. If it goes on, there may be enough power.
START the dead car.

After the car is jump started:

Unclip the clips in the reverse order you connected them:

- The black clip on the unpainted metal
- The black clip from the negative terminal
- Red clip from the donor car
- Red clip from the dead car’s battery

If the jump works and your car starts, don’t shut off your engine! Drive around for at least 15 minutes to recharge your battery. If the car won’t start the next time you use it, the battery isn’t holding a charge and needs to be replaced.

Watch these steps for jump starting a car from Safe2Drive.

At A.C. Marmo & Sons, Inc., your road safety is very important to us. Call us at 973-340-9100 or visit our website at https://www.acmarmo.com/ to discuss your auto insurance needs. We can provide coverage from many insurance carriers so you receive the insurance for your budget and needs!

Source: https://www.idrivesafely.com/defensive-driving/trending/how-jump-car-simple-steps-bring-your-car-battery-back-life and https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/car-repair/how-to-jump-start-a-car/

September 3, 2021/by A.C. Marmo & Sons

Posts

The Sobering Stats: Drunk Driving and Its Impact on Insurance Premiums

AC Marmo & Sons, Inc. LOVES Insuring Your Life!

Hypothermia – Prevention Tips

Mastering Your Ceiling Fan: Seasonal Comfort Hacks

Homeowners Insurance Facts

Smart Homes

Spring Home Maintenance

How to Jump Start a Car

A.C. Marmo & Sons, Inc.

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