Recreational Insurance

Prepare for A Summer Outdoors

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Shield Insurance Blog | Summer Outdoors | Start a Quote Today!

Ready for a great summer outdoors?

The summer is just starting to roll, so what better time to head out with family or friends for a weekend in the great outdoors! Camping at a local campground or state park could be just what you need before school is back in session. The birds chirping, the bugs buzzing and the sun beating down on your tent will remind you to be prepared.

It’s the knowledge that we will share with you here that separates the amateurs from the seasoned campers. You want to be a seasoned camper, don’t you? The prepared one that everyone goes to if they need duct tape, dental floss, or any other random item. We will help you become that go-to guy or gal with this simple checklist and some tips from Foremost.com.

Prepared Camper checklist:

  • Tent, tarp and sleeping bags (I’m sure you already knew that)
  • Extra blankets and towels
  • Waterproof matches, pots, pans and utensils
  • A utility knife and rope
  • Hammer
  • Extra stakes
  • Extra chairs
  • Emergency medical kit
  • Plenty of water (for drinking, cooking and cleaning)
  • Cooler packed full of delicious food, snacks and beverages
  • Dish soap and hand sanitizer
  • Duct tape (you can use this stuff for anything)
  • Dental floss (always handy after a dinner of fresh grilled chicken or steak)
  • Ziploc bags (so useful!)
  • Sunscreen/chap stick with SPF
  • Flashlight
  • Warm hat (80% of heat loss occurs through your head. You never know when you are going to get a chilly night)
  • Layers of clothes (no matter what time of year, it’s the easiest and most effective way to control your body temperature)
  • Playing cards/games (just for fun)

Foremost wants you to safely experience all the adventure you can.

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Safety Tips For Bicyclists

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Cycling has grown significantly in popularity over the past decade. Towns across the country are adding bike lanes to their roads to become more bike-friendly, and more and more people are ditching their cars and using a bike as their primary form of transportation. According to USA Today, larger cities like Portland, Ore., and Minneapolis have more than doubled their rate of bike commuters since 2014 – and as a cyclist, I can’t help but get excited.

Now, with bike riding growing in popularity across the U.S. – it may be a good idea to brush up on some traffic guidelines to avoid any accidents.

When you purchase a bike, you’re likely not required to take a safety class before you ride it. And, for drivers, the instructors touched on bike safety as part of Drivers Ed, but who remembers details from a course they took in their teens?

My point is, adults aren’t given much guidance when it comes to cyclists and cars coexisting on the roads. And as a bicyclist and a driver, I did some research because honestly, I needed a refresher myself.

Safety tips for DRIVERS:

  • Try to be 3 feet or more away from a bike.
  • Try to pass on the left when possible.
  • Blind spots are always lurking, make sure to watch for bikes.
  • Only pass a bicyclist when your passing lane is free and clear.
  • Look in your mirror for cyclists when you’re parking.
  • Always think of cyclists as equals – remember, they have rights on the road too!

Safety tips for BICYCLISTS:

  • Make sure to ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Traffic signs and signals aren’t just for cars. Stop on red to be safe.
  • Use marked bike paths or lanes if they’re available.
  • Use your arm to make turn signals and take advantage of turn lanes so cars are aware of what you’re doing.
  • Consider using a mirror to monitor the cars behind you.
  • If you’re riding at night or in a storm, make sure to use some sort of flashers.
  • Watch for parked cars.
  • And most importantly – stay alert at all times.

If you’re unsure about your city’s or state’s traffic laws, it doesn’t hurt to look them up beforehand. No matter what you drive, be sure to enjoy the roads out there safely!

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UTV Safety Before You Ride

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Off-road vehicles are a thrill, but they can be dangerous if you don’t know how to properly ride them. Did you know, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were almost 94,000 off-road vehicle injuries treated in the emergency room in 2017? That’s why it’s important to understand the dangers and take safety precautions before riding.

Off-road vehicles refer to many different machines, including ATVs, dirt bikes, 4-wheel drive trucks, SUVs, and UTVs. In this article, we’ll focus on UTV safety. They’re utility-terrain vehicles, utility task vehicles, or side-by-sides. They look like a cross between an ATV and a Jeep but trust me, they don’t drive like either one. Before you take one for a ride, remember these safety tips:

Don’t Drink and Drive A UTV

No matter what, never drink and drive. We’ve all heard this many times, but drinking severely impairs your reaction time and judgment. Drugs can also have this effect on your driving. Stay in control, and avoid putting yourself or anyone else in danger.

Understand the Vehicle

It may sound boring, but read the operator’s manual. It’s best to keep it in the vehicle at all times as a reference tool. Another way to familiarize yourself with the UTV is by reading the warning labels. They’re there to point out potential dangers and how to avoid them.

Do a Pre-Ride ATV Check

Check the tires before you head out. No one wants a flat tire! Also, check your fuel level so you know when you will have to fill up again. Do a quick walk around the vehicle and look for anything that may be wrong. This step can prevent a breakdown – you’ll be thankful you did it.

Wear Safety Gear

Always wear over-the-ankle boots, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, a certified helmet, and goggles if your helmet doesn’t have any eye protection. Wearing a protective suit is also something you should consider; it’s optional, but an important precaution, especially if you’re riding alone.

Wear Seat Belts

Even if you aren’t driving far, everyone in the UTV needs to wear a seat belt. Many states require this. A lot of UTV accidents are rollovers, and in some incidents, people have been ejected from their seats.

Practice Driving

Practice, practice, practice! The first time you drive a UTV you will probably want to go fast, but I highly recommend taking it slow. Practice going at a safe speed, taking corners, and adjusting to the way it rides on trails. If the driver is a young teen, be sure they have supervision.

Remember Passenger Safety

Never carry more passengers than the UTV is designed for and make sure they keep their limbs inside the vehicle at all times. There should be handlebars for passengers to hold on to – if a passenger is unable to reach the handles, then they should not be riding. Once all of the passengers are in, make sure the doors are secured and locked shut.

Stay on the Trail

Stay on the trail to help prevent collisions. Tires on most off-road vehicles are meant to stay, well…off the road. They aren’t made for paved roads, and therefore, they will handle differently. If you have to cross a public road at all, double-check for cars both ways and proceed with caution.

Ride Smart

It’s best not to ride alone for many reasons, such as breaking down or getting hurt. If you are riding alone, take extra caution and be prepared. When you ride you should be alert and observant. There may be other riders that aren’t experienced and forget to check their surroundings. Also, do not attempt maneuvers that could be risky – know your limits!

Take a Safety Course

The best advice to give any UTV rider is to take a safety course! Most people learn better hands-on, but there are also online courses available. Anyone younger than the age of 16 must complete a safety course before driving in most states.

Lastly, if you own a UTV, here’s one more important tip to keep in mind. Before you let someone else drive your UTV, help them understand these safety tips and why they’re important. Make sure they know the differences between driving an on-road vehicle and an off-road vehicle. Ride safe!

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It’s Hot Out There. Are You Staying Cool?

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It’s Hot Out There. Are You Staying Cool?

All you have to do is turn on the news, or leave air conditioning, to know that it’s hot outside all over our country. I learned firsthand because I spent six hours outside yesterday when the Foremost Chopper visited our office park in Michigan.

This was about halfway through the day. Can you tell that my hair doesn’t cooperate with humidity? I was exhausted at the end of the day and fell asleep well before 10 p.m. and for a person who’s usually up to 11:30, that’s strange. So while I had time to prepare for an afternoon out in the heat, I wasn’t prepared for the heat. Let’s review where I went right and where I went wrong yesterday using the following heat-related illness preventative tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC recommends… “Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.”

This was my first failure. While I brought a bottle of water, I rarely drank from it because of that second sentence. I didn’t feel thirsty. If you are outside, remember to keep hydrated, regardless of thirst level. So I’m 0-1.

The CDC recommends… “Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.”

I usually only drink water, so I had this right. My water was also outside with me, so it wasn’t cold. BUT, and it’s a big but, I’ve already mentioned that I rarely drank my water. So I’m saying that I’m 0-2.

The CDC recommends… “Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.”

Well, as you can see in the photo, that dress I’m wearing is both light-colored and loose-fitting. I can also attest that it’s pretty lightweight. I’m 1-3.

The CDC recommends… “If you must be out in the heat, limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.”

I was outdoors from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., so I’m 1-4.

The CDC recommends… “Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat,…sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher…”

I wasn’t wearing a hat, but I was wearing sunglasses and I did wear a broad-spectrum SPF 70 sunscreen. If that is three items, I’m 3-7. 43% is not even close to a passing grade.

So while I was fortunate not to suffer from heat exhaustion, severe sunburn, heat cramps, or worse, hopefully, you’ll learn from my errors—especially if you’re trying to beat the heat while in your RV, on your boat, or PWC. Your safety is important to us.

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Summer Beach Safety Tips

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Summer Beach Safety Tips

The first rule for having a fun, carefree day at the beach? Always check the weather before you head out! Follow these beach safety tips to get your summer off to a good start.

Check the weather before you head out. If thunderstorms or rain is in the forecast, we suggest planning your excursion for a different day.

Watch for warning flags. And know what they mean!

Green – calm waters
Yellow – rough but not exceedingly dangerous
Red – swim with extreme caution
Blue / Purple – watch out for marine life, like sharks or jellyfish

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! But not with booze, which will increase your risk of overheating. The CDC also reports that alcohol use is a factor in up to 50 percent of adolescent and adult deaths associated with water recreation. So keep it dry.

Save your skin. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and even more often if you’ve been in the water during that time.

Keep a careful eye out for children. They may need your help!

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RANT: Why Do Some People Hate Insurance Companies?

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Shield Insurance Blog | Insurance Companies | Contact Us Today!

Why do some people hate insurance companies?  

OK… The big giant asterisk here first… Some of what I’m about to say is unproven, although I believe it to be true.  Feel free to email me to dispute what I say and I will be happy to listen to what you have to say about this.  Education on a topic is sometimes skewed by one’s beliefs, so I’m going to try to be unbiased.  🙂

Insurance company’s profits are usually around 3% !!!  They are highly regulated by the States. People complain that their rates are too high.  Can people see that insurance companies are simply a pass-through for our money?

Car crashes… SOME car repair companies sometimes over-quote since they know insurance is involved.  We tell people to please get 3 quotes.  Sometimes, they are 50% apart!!  I KNOW this is true SOMETIMES for glass companies too.  You can tell them that there’s no insurance involved and get a quote for $180 for a windshield, and someone else calls back on the same day for the same exact car and they say there is insurance involved and it’s over $400??  The list of examples goes on and on and on.

How about Fraud.  

Insurance companies have to employ people to fight this!  I don’t have a lot of stats on this, but I know it’s a HUGE deal and it makes our premiums go up and up and up! Some fraud is black and white, but others… not so much… did you have a fire?  how much was that watch that got burned up worth?  Even some good people will stretch the truth!

Frivolous lawsuits.  

Yep, they’re out there… lots and lots and lots of them.  Here again, I don’t have stats at hand, but I know it’s another big deal that the insurance companies have to hire people to fight against and many times just payout to settle to reduce court costs whether right or wrong!  Not to mention valid lawsuits where people get more than they deserve?  OK… I know this is debatable on many levels, so please don’t grill me or razz me on this one!!

You can apply these issues to any type of insurance!  Car, Home, and Health (have you seen pharmaceutical profits!!??) are probably the big ones.  I know Medical Malpractice is a big one too, but I’m not much of an expert on this one, but I heard 1/3 of doctor’s salaries go to pay for this.

So the next time you want to complain about your insurance rates, trust me, I completely agree…. but please don’t blame the insurance companies!!!

Submitted by Andy

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Michigan’s Four Seasons: A Journey Through Nature’s Spectacular Transformations

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Shield Insurance Blog | Four Seasons | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Michigan’s Four Seasons:

Michigan is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From the stunning shores of the Great Lakes to the lush forests and rolling hills, Michigan offers a unique experience in every season. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through Michigan’s four seasons, exploring the spectacular transformations that nature undergoes throughout the year.

Spring: A Time of Renewal

As winter fades away, Michigan awakens to the vibrant colors and fragrant blossoms of spring. The snow melts, revealing the lush greenery that blankets the state. The cherry blossoms in Traverse City and the tulip fields in Holland are a sight to behold, painting the landscape with a riot of colors. Spring is also the time when wildlife emerges from hibernation, and birdwatchers flock to the state to catch a glimpse of migratory birds making their way north.

Summer: Fun in the Sun

Michigan summers are synonymous with outdoor adventures and endless fun. With over 3,000 miles of coastline, the state offers an abundance of opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The Great Lakes provide a refreshing escape from the heat, and the sandy beaches beckon visitors to relax and soak up the sun. Summer is also the perfect time to explore Michigan’s numerous state parks and hiking trails, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Fall: A Tapestry of Colors

When autumn arrives, Michigan transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of colors. The leaves on the trees change from vibrant greens to fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a stunning display that attracts visitors from near and far. The Upper Peninsula is particularly famous for its fall foliage, with the Porcupine Mountains and Tahquamenon Falls State Park offering some of the most picturesque views. Fall is also the season for apple picking, cider tasting, and enjoying the harvest festivals that dot the state.

Winter: A Winter Wonderland

Michigan winters are a true winter wonderland. As the temperatures drop, the state becomes a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowshoeing, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in the snow-covered landscape. The Upper Peninsula is a haven for snow lovers, with its abundance of snowfall and pristine trails. The frozen waterfalls at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the ice caves at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are must-see attractions during the winter months.

All Four Seasons: Shield Insurance Agency isYour Trusted Insurance Partner

While exploring Michigan’s four seasons, it’s important to ensure that you have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself and your belongings. Shield Insurance Agency is here to help. With over 40 insurance companies represented, we can find the perfect policy to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for auto, home, renters, or business insurance, our experienced agents will guide you through the process and provide you with a free quote.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today for a free quote. You can reach us at (616) 896-4600 or start the quoting process by visiting our website and filling out the form. An agent will be in touch soon to discuss your options and help you find the insurance coverage that gives you peace of mind.

In conclusion, Michigan’s four seasons offer a journey through nature’s spectacular transformations. From the enchanting beauty of spring to the mesmerizing magic of summer, the hidden wonders of fall, and the winter wonderland that blankets the state, Michigan is a destination that never fails to captivate. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on an adventure through Michigan’s four seasons. You won’t be disappointed.

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How To Get Rust Off A Trailer Hitch

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Shield Insurance Blog | Rust Off A Trailer Hitch | Auto Insurance

How To Get Rust Off A Trailer Hitch | Auto Insurance | Shield Agency

If you tow a camper, boat, or trailer you may notice your trailer hitch rusting. Prevent this with proper maintenance, regular use, and wax and/or painting. But if you have an existing hitch that’s rusted, there are several ways to remove the rust.

Removing Rust From Chrome Hitch

If you have a chrome ball or chrome hitch that’s showing signs of rust, simply ball up a piece of aluminum foil, dip it in white distilled vinegar or Coca-Cola and lightly rub the rusty spots. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft clean rag. Follow up by polishing with two coats of any brand carnauba car wax.

Removing Rust from Iron Trailer Hitch

If you have an iron trailer hitch or hitch ball that’s beginning to rust you can remove the rust with Naval Jelly. First, remove any loose or flaking rust with a wire brush. Then apply Naval Jelly and allow it to sit for 5 to 10 minutes—no longer than 15. Rinse and repeat if any rust remains. Dry the metal and paint with an oil-based paint within 24 hours to prevent the return of the rust.

Rust Off A Trailer Hitch

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All-Season Tires vs Snow Tires

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Updated: Aug 6, 2018

Written by Shield Insurance Agency

All-Season tires vs Snow Tires?

The tread compound of All-season tires can harden in low temperatures, so there’s less traction between the road and your tires. But snow tires use special rubber compounds that stay pliable in the cold, giving them better grip and improved braking, even in extreme conditions.

Sometimes Michigan cold temperatures tend to drag on for longer periods. If it’s still below the 45–50-degree mark, leave the tires on. If the temperatures are well above freezing, the 50s, and above, then make sure to get those winter tires off and get your summer tires placed back on your vehicle. The longer you leave your winter tires on, the faster your treads are going to wear off your tires.

I love my snow tires! They help my vehicle a lot! But I will not take them off until the freezing temperatures are over. Since Memorial Day is almost here, I would say “get those winter/snow tires off of your vehicle”.

Submitted by Dawn

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Are There Other Drivers In the Household?

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Updated: Aug 6, 2018 | Drivers In the Household | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Written by Shield Insurance Agency on Sep 10, 2017 Share

One of the many questions we ask while preparing an auto quote is if there are other drivers in the household.  Here are some of the reasons why:

First off, under Michigan’s No-Fault rules, if someone ( let’s call him Marvin) is in an auto accident and needs medical attention, Marvin’s auto insurance will end up paying those medical bills.  It doesn’t matter if Marvin caused the accident or if he got hit.  It doesn’t even matter if Marvin was walking down the street and got struck by a car, Marvin’s auto insurance will get that bill.

Now if Marvin doesn’t have auto insurance, guess who would be next in line to get those bills?  If Marvin lives with someone, that person’s auto insurance would be next in line.

So that’s why the insurance companies want to know who lives with you.  If your roommates are driving without insurance, there’s a good chance a medical bill would land in your insurance company’s mailbox.

submitted by Joe

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