Biker Gang Gives Granny the Ride of Her Life

Biker Gang Gives Granny the Ride of Her Life

Great-Grandma Gets 90th Birthday Wish to Ride a Harley Again, Courtesy of a Biker Gang

 Good News Network | Apr 29, 2023 | Biker Gang | Motorcycle Insurance | Start A Quote Here

A great-grandmother who is mad for motorcycles was granted her birthday wish to ride on the back of a Harley-Davidson – a call-back to her youth while celebrating turning 90.

Fearless Brit Barbara Morris said she “felt 21 again” during her spin around town on the powerful American cruising bike.

She mentioned to her family several years ago that if she made it to 90, she’d like to get back in the saddle one last time.

She was left stunned when her sons arrived recently at her nursing home with members of a local biker group. Though wearing a dress, she had no concerns about straddling the bike right there on the spot, before taking a trip with 13 other riders to a pub.

“I just felt the years melt away,” said the great-grandmother of six. “It was just an incredible experience to feel the wind blowing in my face again.”

Barbara got her first motorcycle license as a teen in the 1950s.

Her granddaughter Kirsty Harvey, 34, who helped organize the surprise for Barbara along with the local biker chapter of Widows Sons, said the inspiring senior had a ‘daredevil spirit’ and wasn’t fazed by anything.

“My uncle said to her ‘You always said if you made it to 90, you wanted to go on a Harley,’ and then she said, ‘Oh my gosh, I can’t believe you remember that’.”

“She’s got nerves of steel, she’s not really afraid of anything. She’s kind of from that generation that was made of tough stuff. Nothing really fazes them.”

Barbara got her first bike, a Royal Enfield 350, when she was about 19, and used it to get around while in college. She quickly caught the bug for riding, which she then passed on to the rest of her family.

“She always had a little bike that she nipped about on. Her three sons later all had motorbikes and a keen interest in motorbike racing and groups.”

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The History of Memorial Day

The History of Memorial Day

HISTORY.COM | APRIL 20, 2023 | Memorial Day | Shield Insurance Agency | Start A Quote Today!

The Birthplace of Memorial Day and Early Observances

The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict
in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national
cemeteries.

By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding
springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with
flowers and reciting prayers.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities
may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show
that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations was organized by a group of
formerly enslaved people in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the
Confederacy surrendered in 1865. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government
declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it
hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and
residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Did you know? Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

Decoration Day

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.

The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there.

Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday. Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor the dead on separate days until after World War I.

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War IIThe Vietnam WarThe Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date General Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions and Rituals 

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in ChicagoNew York and Washington, D.C.

Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. Some people wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

Visit History.com for the full story and some great photos


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Medical Insurance Can Provide Financial Protection.

Medical Insurance Can Provide Financial Protection.

Shield Agency Blog | Medical Insurance | Contact Brianna for a quote!

Medical Insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives that we often overlook until we need it. It provides us with financial protection against unexpected medical expenses, which can be quite expensive. Health insurance covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, and prescription drugs. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of health insurance and why it is essential to have.

One of the most significant benefits of medical health insurance is that it helps you manage your medical expenses. With health insurance, you pay a monthly premium, and in return, your insurance company covers a portion of your medical expenses. This means that you don’t have to worry about paying the full cost of medical services out of your pocket. However, it is important to note that most health insurance plans have a deductible, which is the amount you have to pay before your insurance coverage kicks in. Once you reach your deductible, your insurance company will cover a portion of your medical expenses.

Another benefit of medical insurance is that it covers prescription drugs. Prescription drugs can be quite expensive, especially if you need to take them regularly. With health insurance, you can get your prescription drugs at a lower cost, which can save you a lot of money in the long run. Some health insurance plans also cover preventive care, such as annual check-ups and screenings, which can help you detect health problems early on.

Health insurance also promotes well-being, both physical and emotional. With health insurance, you have access to medical services that can help you maintain your physical fitness and overall health. This includes regular check-ups, screenings, and access to specialists if needed. Additionally, some health insurance plans offer wellness programs that focus on nutrition and wellness, which can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Emotional Health is part of Medical Insurance

Emotional health is also an important aspect of well-being, and health insurance can help you manage your mental health. Mental health services, such as therapy and counseling, can be quite expensive without insurance. With health insurance, you can get the help you need without worrying about the cost. This can be especially important for those who struggle with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Health insurance also benefits families. With a family health insurance plan, you can cover your entire family under one policy. This means that you don’t have to worry about getting individual policies for each family member. Additionally, family health insurance plans often offer lower premiums than individual plans, which can save you money in the long run.

In conclusion, health insurance is essential for managing medical expenses and promoting well-being. It covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgeries, and prescription drugs. Health insurance also promotes physical and emotional health, as well as nutrition and wellness. Additionally, it benefits families by providing coverage for the entire family under one policy. If you are looking for health insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency for all of your insurance needs at (616) 896-4600.

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Benefits of Health Insurance for your family

Benefits of Health Insurance for your family

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 23, 2023 | Health Insurance | Contact Bri for a quote today!

Health insurance is a crucial aspect of our lives that we often overlook until we need it. It provides us with financial protection against unexpected medical expenses that can arise from sickness, injury, or any other medical condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of health insurance and why it is essential to have it.

Health Insurance Bills

One of the most significant benefits of health insurance is that it helps you manage your medical bills. Medical bills can be expensive, and without insurance, you may find yourself struggling to pay them. Health insurance covers a portion of your medical expenses, which can help you save a significant amount of money. The amount of coverage you receive depends on your policy, but it can cover anything from doctor visits to hospital stays.

Another benefit of health insurance is that it helps you manage your deductibles. A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. With health insurance, you can choose a deductible that fits your budget and needs. This means that you can choose a higher deductible to lower your monthly premiums or a lower deductible to pay less out of pocket when you need medical care.

Prescriptions are another area where health insurance can be beneficial. Prescription drugs can be expensive, and without insurance, you may find yourself struggling to afford them. Health insurance can help cover the cost of prescription drugs, which can make it easier for you to manage your medical condition.

Injury and sickness are two of the most common reasons people need medical care. Health insurance can help cover the cost of medical care for both injuries and sickness. This means that you can get the medical care you need without worrying about the cost.

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and they can be expensive. Health insurance can help cover the cost of emergency medical care, which can be a lifesaver in a medical emergency. This means that you can get the medical care you need without worrying about the cost.

Finally, health insurance can be beneficial for your family. If you have a family, you want to make sure that they are protected in case of a medical emergency. Health insurance can help cover the cost of medical care for your family, which can give you peace of mind.

In conclusion, health insurance is essential for anyone who wants to protect themselves and their family from unexpected medical expenses. It can help you manage your medical bills, deductibles, prescriptions, and emergency medical care. It can also be beneficial for your family. If you are looking for health insurance, contact Shield Insurance Agency for all of your insurance needs at (616) 896-4600. They can help you find the right policy for your needs and budget.

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Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Five Parts of an Insurance Policy

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | May 19, 2023 | Insurance | Start a quote today!

Insurance policies can be complex and confusing, but understanding the different parts of a policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the five parts of an insurance policy: premium, deductible, policy limits, exclusions, and riders.

1. Premium: The premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage. It is typically paid on a monthly or annual basis and is based on several factors, including your age, location, and the type of coverage you need. The premium is the cost of your insurance policy, and it is important to choose a premium that fits your budget.

2. Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car is damaged in an accident that costs $1,000 to repair, you will pay $500, and your insurance company will pay the remaining $500. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

3. Policy Limits: Policy limits are the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for a covered loss. For example, if you have a $100,000 policy limit for liability coverage and you are sued for $150,000, you will be responsible for paying the remaining $50,000. It is important to choose policy limits that are high enough to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.

4. Exclusions: Exclusions are specific situations or events that are not covered by your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that excludes flood damage, you will not be covered if your home is damaged by a flood. It is important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

5. Riders – Additional coverage and options: Riders are additional coverage options that you can add to your insurance policy. For example, if you have a homeowner’s insurance policy that does not cover earthquake damage, you can add an earthquake rider to your policy for an additional cost. Riders can provide additional protection for specific situations that are not covered by your standard policy.

Does Your Insurance Meet Your Needs?

Understanding the different parts of an insurance policy is essential to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs. It is important to review your policy regularly and make changes as needed to ensure that your coverage meets your current needs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need help choosing the right coverage, contact your insurance agent for assistance.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping our clients find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Our experienced agents can help you understand the different parts of your insurance policy and make sure that you have the coverage you need to protect your assets and your family. Contact us today to learn more about our insurance products and services.


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Fancying a snack from the foliage in Anchorage’s Providence Alaska Health Park’s cancer center, it was last Thursday that a moose decided to walk into the building.

Moose Walks in Alaska Hospital For Lunch – Or Maybe to Get a PET Scan

GoodNewsNetwork.org | By Andy Corbley | Moose | Apr 11, 2023 | Pet Insurance | Start A Quote Here

In Alaska, amazing animals, even the moose, are simply part of the scenery—even, as it turns out, in the hospital.

Fancying a snack from the foliage in Anchorage’s Providence Alaska Health Park’s cancer center, it was last Thursday that a moose decided to walk into the building.

Its hooves were no impediment to the motion-activated door, and soon, the security staff had to get on the intercom to warn visitors, patients, and staff that a moose was on the loose.

However the announcement served mostly to draw people in to see the moose, which wasn’t the first to ever enter the building, nor has it only been members of the deer family. Providence has also had bears try to enter their facilities.

Security managed to corral the animal before it could damage anything beyond the plants.

“Finally, I think it had enough of everybody watching him, watching him eat,” said Randy Hughes, the hospital’s director of security.

WATCH the final stages of the moose appointment…

Alaska Problems!


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Medicare Questions – Answering the Most FAQ

Medicare Questions – Answering the Most FAQ

Nationwide Blog | November 10, 2022 | Medicare | Medicare Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Key Takeaways:

  • Many people don’t realize that Medicare decisions can have financial implications, and Medicare costs can be incorporated into comprehensive financial planning.
  • “When and how can I enroll in Medicare?” “How much does Medicare cost and what does it cover?” are all common questions you may have regarding your health care plan for retirement.
  • In addition to working closely with your financial planner, you can assess specific Medicare drug and health care plan costs by utilizing online tools.

Every day, around 10,000 members of the Baby Boomer Generation turn age 65, which is generally the age they become eligible for Medicare. [1][2] Often, this is the first time that many Baby Boomers realize that decisions around Medicare aren’t just medical decisions; Medicare decisions also have significant financial implications. Once you come to this realization, you can turn to the financial professionals on whom you depend to help make sense of Medicare and in turn help you make financially sound Medicare decisions.

Understanding Medicare can be difficult, but the Nationwide Retirement Institute® is here to help you by sharing some of the most common Medicare questions. Working with a financial professional and utilizing various planning tools can help you incorporate Medicare costs into your financial plan.

When do I enroll in Medicare?

For everyone who turns 65 and is eligible for Medicare, there’s a seven-month “initial enrollment period,” or IEP. The IEP spans from the start of the third month before your 65th birthday through the end of the third month following the month of your 65th birthday. This IEP is available regardless of whether you continue to work past age 65.

Initial Enrollment Period for Medicare

If you choose to work past age 65 and remain eligible for group health coverage provided by your employer (or your spouse’s employer), then you may choose not to enroll in Medicare during your IEP. If this is the case, you’ll have a second chance to enroll during a “special enrollment period,” or SEP. The SEP generally lasts 8 months, beginning from the month after your employment or group health coverage ends, whichever occurs first. If you do not enroll in Medicare during your IEP or SEP, then you must wait to sign up during the General Enrollment Period between January 1st and March 31st of each year; but beware that in this circumstance, you may be subject to lifelong penalties in the form of increased premiums once you do enroll.

How do I enroll in Medicare?

That depends.

If you are already receiving Social Security when you turn 65, you will automatically be enrolled in Original Medicare, which means Medicare Parts A & B. Your eligibility will be effective the first day of the month you turn 65. You will not even need to sign up. You should simply receive a red, white, and blue Medicare card in the mail around three months before your 65th birthday.

If you choose to stay on Original Medicare, you will likely want to proactively enroll in a Medicare Part D plan as well, to get prescription drug coverage. In the alternative, you may choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, which is known as Medicare Part C. Medicare Advantage plans to replace Original Medicare and Medicare Part D, but you must proactively enroll in Medicare Advantage plans as well. You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medicare Part D plan during your IEP.

Medicare.gov/plan-compare shows specific Medicare drug plans and Medicare Advantage plan costs, and you have the opportunity to call the plans you’re interested in to get more details. For help comparing plan costs, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can also assist you.

If you’re not already receiving Social Security at least 4 months before turning 65, you’ll need to sign up by:

  • Applying online at Social Security. (If you start your online application and receive a re-entry number, you can go back to Social Security to finish your application at a later time.);
  • Visit their local Social Security office; or
  • Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).

Nationwide teamed up with the National Council on Aging (NCOA) to create an unbiased tool to help sort through Medicare options. It’s called the NCOA My Medicare Matters® tool brought to you by Nationwide. The tool allows you to work with financial professionals so that they can assist you in the Medicare decision-making process before the completion of the enrollment process.

How much does Medicare cost?

That also depends. The first and most important thing to understand in the context of cost is that it will not be free! There are still premiums, copays, coinsurance, and deductibles to plan for.

If you sign up for Original Medicare, Part A will be free if you have paid at least 10 years of Medicare taxes. Part B will require a monthly premium of $170.10 in 2022. [3] That amount may be more if your income is high enough to cross certain thresholds.

Medicare Part D (for prescription drugs) and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C, an alternative to Original Medicare and Medicare Part D) will also have monthly premiums. The costs of those premiums will vary plan by plan and be impacted by other factors, like your age at enrollment and geographic location.

What does Medicare cover?

Not everything! That may be the simplest yet most important fact you need to understand. Medicare will not cover all medical care.

In particular, Medicare does not cover long-term care (LTC), nor vision or dental care. Also, Medicare does not cover care received outside of the USA. This means that supplemental insurance for LTC, dental and vision, and travel insurance, will be important to look into.

That being said, Medicare does cover most medical treatments and procedures. Original Medicare Parts A and B cover most basic medical services. In general, Medicare Part A covers hospitalizations (i.e., inpatient care) and Medicare Part B covers outpatient care. In addition to inpatient care, Part A also covers home healthcare in limited circumstances, as well as hospice care. Medicare Part B covers outpatient clinical services like doctor’s visits and emergency room visits, including observation. In addition to outpatient care, Part B also covers medical supplies (think splints and casts, or crutches or a wheelchair), X-rays and other radiology services, and preventive care and screening services. One important fact about this last category is that many of the preventive care and screening services covered under Part B are free; there is no coinsurance or other cost-sharing. Screenings for many cancers (including breast, cervical and vaginal, colorectal, and lung) are free, as are screenings for depression and diabetes. Many Medicare beneficiaries do not understand that these screenings, as well as many other preventive services (like flu shots), are free; consequently, they fail to seek out those services. It’s important for you to be aware of and take advantage of these free preventive and screening services to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment of many different health conditions. Failing to do so can ultimately impact your longevity and quality of life, not to mention increase the eventual cost of treatment when an ailment’s symptoms appear later in a more advanced stage. As the adage goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Which Medicare coverage option is right for me?

For the third time in this blog, I must say it again: it depends. Decisions around Medicare are incredibly complex and depend on both medical and financial factors that are individual to each person. Many folks end up talking to their friends or neighbors for advice, but what works best for them may not work best for you! You should do some independent research and consult with your primary care physician or other medical professionals with whom you have an existing relationship so that you can make the most informed choices about the coverage and cost of your healthcare in retirement.

Medicare Coverage Options

Where can I find out more?

If you want or need to learn more about Medicare, you can utilize other resources from Brianna, Shield Insurance Specialist. We are here to help answer all Medicare coverage questions.

GET IN TOUCH

Schedule a Visit

Medicare Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Costs Associated with Medicare Coverage

Think ahead when choosing your Medicare plan

Sources:

[1] https://www.aarpinternational.org/initiatives/aging-readiness-competitiveness-arc/united-states

[2] https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/who-is-eligible-for-medicare/index.html#:~:text=Generally%2C%20Medicare%20is%20available%20for,Part%20B%20(Medicare%20Insurance)

[3] https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/part-b-costs

NFM-22483AO

Disclaimer:

This information is general in nature and is not intended to be tax, legal, accounting, or other professional advice. The information provided is based on current laws, which are subject to change at any time, and has not been endorsed by any government agency.

Nationwide and its representatives do not give legal or tax advice. Please consult an attorney or tax advisor for answers to legal questions.

My Medicare Matters® is a registered trademark of the National Council on Aging.

Nationwide and NCOA are separate and non-affiliated companies.

Nationwide Investment Services Corporation (NISC), member FINRA, Columbus, Ohio. The Nationwide Retirement Institute is a division of NISC.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, Nationwide is on your side, Nationwide Retirement Institute and other marks displayed in this message are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and/or its affiliates unless otherwise disclosed. Third-party marks that appear in this message are the property of their respective owners © 2022 Nationwide and Shield Insurance Agency


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Driving at Night: How to Stay Safe

Driving at Night: How to Stay Safe

Nationwide | March 08, 2023 | Driving at Night | Auto Insurance | Start a Quote Today!

While we typically drive a quarter of the time at night, studies show that 50% of traffic deaths happen at night. [1] It doesn’t matter whether you know the road you’re driving on or not; it is always more dangerous to drive at night. With a few extra precautions, you can reduce the risk of something dangerous happening while driving at night.

Why is driving at night more dangerous?

There are several reasons why driving at night is significantly more dangerous than during the day.

  1. Compromised night vision: This is especially prevalent in drivers over 60.
  2. Fatigue: 1 in 25 adult drivers report falling asleep in the last 30 days, and many more admit to driving while sleep-deprived. [2]
  3. Rush hour: Roads get more crowded and dangerous between 4 and 7 p.m. due to drivers eager to get home after work.
  4. Impaired drivers: Drivers impaired by drugs and alcohol are more frequently on the road after dark.

Tips for driving at night in the dark

1. Be a defensive driver.

Defensive driving is utilizing safe driving strategies to address identified hazards predictably. When you drive defensively, this reduces your driving risk by anticipating situations and making well-informed decisions. [3]

2. Clean your windshield before driving at night.

Built-up grime on your windshield can increase the glare from other cars and streetlights, making it harder for you to see the road. Damaged windshields can have a similar effect, so fix any cracks before driving. [4]

3. Don’t drive while drowsy when driving at night

It’s always important to ensure you’re well-rested and alert when you’re behind the wheel. But your brain makes more sleep-inducing melatonin when it’s dark, meaning you’re more likely to get tired while driving at night. If you experience eye drooping or extreme fatigue, find a place to stop and rest for the night. [4]

4. Check your headlights.

Keeping headlights clean and lit is the key to safe night driving. If just one headlight is illuminated, it not only cuts down on your visibility but can also get you a citation from law enforcement. Double-check before driving that both headlights are on and working. [5]

5. Slow down.

It’s never a good idea to drive too fast and follow the driver in front of you too closely. This could cause an accident if they stop too suddenly. Also, the closer your headlights are, the brighter they can seem and the more distracting they can be. [5]

6. Watch out for pedestrians.

Always take extra time to watch for pedestrians on poorly lit roads. People don’t always wear safety gear, which can be incredibly difficult to see after dark. Also, make sure you’re not driving distracted, whether texting, adjusting the radio, or eating in your car. Taking your full attention off the road is a bad idea. [6]

7. Keep up with your yearly vision tests.

Stay current on eye exams to ensure your vision is at its best, especially while driving at night. If you wear glasses, ensure they are anti-reflective to reduce glare and increase visibility. [7]

8. Watch out for wildlife.

Make sure to be extra cautious, slow down, and keep an eye out for any big animals. Hitting a deer or an elk is hazardous to drivers and passengers, often resulting in thousands of dollars in vehicle damage. [8]

One of the best ways to protect yourself and your vehicle from any harm from driving at night is to ensure you have the right auto insurance.

Sources:

[1] “The Most Dangerous Time to Drive,” nsc.org/road/safety-topics/driving-at-night? (accessed Jan. 6, 2023).

[2] “Drivers are Falling Asleep Behind the Wheel,” nsc.org/road/safety-topics/fatigued-driver (accessed Jan. 6, 2023).

[3] “What is Defensive Driving?” safemotorist.com/articles/defensive-driving (accessed Jan. 6, 2023).

[4] “10 Night Driving Safety Tips You Should Know for Future Road Trips,” self.com/story/night-driving-safety-tips (Dec. 14, 2020).

[5] “Enjoy the Stars: 5 Critical Tips for Safe Night Driving,” driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/top-5-tips-for-safe-night-driving (accessed Jan. 6, 2023).

[6] “Night Driving Tips: What You Need to Know,” idrivesafely.com/defensive-driving/trending/night-driving-tips-what-you-need-know (accessed Jan. 6, 2023).

[7] “Safety Tips for Night Driving,” verywellhealth.com/night-driving (July 12, 2022).

[8] “Watch for wildlife on highways and avoid costly collisions,” Connor Liess, cdapress.com/news/2022/nov/24/watch-wildlife-highways-and-avoid-costly-collision (Nov. 4, 2022).

Disclaimer:

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided. Nationwide and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2023 Nationwide and Shield Insurance


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How Does Investing Work?

How Does Investing Work?

Acorns.com | Tim Stobierski | Dec 19, 2022 | Investing | Shield Business Insurance | Start a quote today!

IN A NUTSHELL

  • Investing is when you purchase assets you expect to earn a profit from in the future.
  • Compounding (aka when the returns on your money generate their own returns) the longer your money is in the market, the longer it has to grow.
  • Investing small amounts regularly over time is a habit that will help you build wealth throughout your life called dollar-cost averaging.

You may have heard that investing is the best way to grow your money and reach your biggest financial goals. But what is investing, exactly? How does investing work? And how can you get started? Find the answers to those and other investing questions below.

What is investing?

At its simplest, investing is when you purchase assets you expect to earn a profit from in the future. That could refer to buying a home (or other property) you believe will rise in value, though it commonly refers to buying stocks and bonds.

How is it different from saving?

Saving and investing both involve setting aside money for future use, but there are a lot of differences, too. Check out this chart:

InvestingSaving
Always involves risk. Even the safest investments involve some risk that could cause you to lose money.Rarely involves risk. If your cash sits in an FDIC-insured savings account (which protects up to $250,000), you typically don’t need to worry about losing any.
Higher potential for growth. Depending on how much risk you’ll accept, it’s possible to earn a large return on your investments. With stocks, for example, the long-term average is nearly 10 percent per year.Lower potential for growth. Virtually all savings accounts will pay you interest for keeping money in your account. But it probably won’t be much and often fails to keep up with inflation (the rate at which prices are rising).
Usually best for mid or long-term goals. Generally, it’s best to only invest money you won’t need for a little while, as the stock market fluctuates and you don’t want to be forced to sell stocks that are down because you need the money.Good for short-term goals. A savings account, being essentially risk-free, is ideal for immediate purchases as well as any money that you can’t afford to lose in the short term (such as an emergency fund).
May be difficult to access quickly. Before you can spend any of the money you’ve built up through investments, you’ll have to sell them. With stocks, it could take days before the proceeds are settled in your bank account, and selling property can take months (or longer).Readily accessible. Generally speaking, you can access money in your savings account anytime.

What’s the difference between investing and trading?

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Scooter safety tips

Scooter safety tips

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With increasing gas prices it’s hard not to notice the spiking trend of people choosing scooters as alternate transportation. Whatever make or model you choose to fit your style, you can’t deny the money-saving and environmental effects riding a scooter has over driving a 2-ton motor vehicle that only gets 20 miles to the gallon.

A growing problem with having more people on scooters is how to safely share the road. State legislation varies on scooters; some states equate scooters with bicycles, in-line skates, and skateboards, while other states put scooters in the same category as motorcycles, requiring helmets and regulating where scooters can be ridden. Check your state’s DMV Web site for the appropriate laws and licensing rules for your state.

Regardless of where you live, scooters are most likely sharing the road with vehicles that significantly outweigh them and can easily overtake them. By using common sense and some very simple safety tactics, scooter riders can effectively, and safely, share the road with other vehicles.

Scooter safety tip: Wear a helmet

Even if your state does not require you to, studies show helmets significantly minimize head injuries if an accident occurs.

Scooter safety tip: Use your lights

Always turn on your headlight when you’re riding your scooter even during the day, especially if it’s raining, and of course always in the evening. Make sure you can be seen by other cars.

Scooter safety tip: use turn signals

Just like in a car, you need to let people know where you are going. In addition to a signal light, it’s also a good idea to use hand turn signals that motorcyclists and bicyclists use when they are sharing the road with cars. Based on U.S. standards, for a left turn, extend your left arm straight out in the direction of the turn, parallel to the road. For a right turn, extend your right arm straight out in the direction of the turn, parallel to the road.

Obey speed limits and road markings

Obey all posted limits and follow lane markings. Don’t attempt to make a right turn by coming up next to a vehicle on the shoulder, unless there is a lane. You could easily be in a car’s blind spot and be hit if they turn right as well and can’t see you.

Scooters are a fresh alternative to getting around town while saving money and the environment. Riding scooters present challenges that any motorist faces when sharing the road with vehicles of all sizes and speeds. Keep your head about you and make sure you put safety first when taking your new scooter out for a spin.

Looking for Scooter Insurance?

Foremost offers scooter insurance on all scooter makes and models and offers coverages such as:

  • Physical Damage and Liability
  • Total Loss Replacement Coverage
  • Towing and Roadside Assistance
  • Safety Apparel and Optional Equipment when Physical Damage coverage is purchased.

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