Unveiling the Ultimate Guide to Workers Comp in Michigan State - Don't Miss Out!

Unveiling the Ultimate Guide to Workers Comp in Michigan State – Don’t Miss Out!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Workers Comp | Business Insurance | Contact our office today!

As an employer in Michigan, it is crucial to understand the importance of Workers Comp insurance and when it is required for your employees. Workers’ compensation provides financial protection for both employers and employees in the event of work-related accidents or injuries. It ensures that injured employees receive the necessary medical treatment and compensation for lost wages, while also protecting employers from potential lawsuits.

Michigan workers’ comp laws mandate that most employers carry workers’ compensation insurance. This requirement applies to all employers who regularly employ three or more employees at any given time, or who employ one or more employees for 35 hours or more per week for 13 or more weeks during the preceding 52 weeks. It is important to note that certain industries, such as construction, have additional requirements and may need to provide Workers Comp coverage even if they have fewer than three employees.

So, what are the benefits of having workers’ compensation insurance for your employees in Michigan? Let’s take a closer look:

1. Workers Comp Financial protection:

Workers’ compensation insurance provides financial protection for both employers and employees. In the event of a work-related injury or illness, employees are entitled to receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. This ensures that injured employees can focus on their recovery without worrying about the financial burden.

2. Compliance with legal requirements:

By providing workers’ compensation insurance, employers comply with the legal requirements set forth by the state of Michigan. Failure to carry workers’ compensation insurance can result in severe penalties, including fines and potential legal action.

3. Employee well-being:

Workers’ compensation insurance demonstrates your commitment to the well-being of your employees. It shows that you value their safety and are prepared to support them in the event of a workplace injury or illness. This can boost employee morale and loyalty, leading to increased productivity and a positive work environment.

4. Workers Comp Rehabilitation and support:

Workers’ compensation insurance not only covers medical expenses and lost wages but also provides rehabilitation services to injured employees. This may include physical therapy, vocational training, and job placement assistance. By offering these services, employers can help injured employees recover and return to work as soon as possible.

5. Risk management:

Having workers’ compensation insurance in place is an essential part of effective risk management. It helps employers identify potential occupational hazards and implement measures to prevent workplace injuries. By prioritizing worker safety, employers can reduce the likelihood of accidents and create a safer work environment.

Understanding the claims process for workers’ compensation in Michigan is also crucial. In the event of a work-related injury or illness, employees should report the incident to their employer as soon as possible. Employers are then responsible for filing a First Report of Injury form with their workers’ compensation insurance carrier. This initiates the claims process, and the insurance carrier will investigate the claim and determine the appropriate compensation.

It is important to note that workers’ compensation insurance does not cover every type of injury or illness. In Michigan, workers’ compensation benefits are generally available for injuries or illnesses that arise out of and in the course of employment. However, there are certain exceptions, such as injuries resulting from intoxication or willful misconduct.

To ensure that you have the right workers’ compensation coverage for your employees in Michigan, it is advisable to consult with an experienced insurance agency. Shield Insurance Agency, for example, represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the best coverage options for your specific needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, workers’ compensation insurance is a vital aspect of protecting both employers and employees in Michigan. By understanding the legal requirements, benefits, and claims process associated with workers’ compensation, employers can ensure compliance, provide financial protection, and prioritize the well-being of their employees. Remember, prevention is key, so implementing risk management strategies and promoting worker safety can help prevent workplace injuries and create a safer work environment for everyone.

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'Beyond rare' white leucistic alligator born at Florida reptile park

Beyond rare white leucistic alligator born at Florida reptile park

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Sky News | 8 December 2023, UK | leucistic alligator | Shield Insurance Agency Blog

The alligator said to be the rarest variation of the American alligator, is descended from a nest of them found in the swamps of Louisiana in 1987.

Leucistic Alligator is Beyond Rare

A white leucistic alligator described as “beyond rare” has been born at a reptile park in Florida.

The female alligator, which is 49cm in length, is one of the very few leucistic alligators in the world, according to Gatorland Orlando.

“This is beyond rare. It is extraordinary,” said Mark McHugh, head of Gatorland.

He added the newborn is the first solid white alligator ever to have descended from a nest of original leucistic alligators found in the Louisiana swamps in 1987.

Of the seven remaining in that nest, three are based in Gatorland.

The leucistic Alligator differs from the Albino Alligators

The reptile is the rarest genetic variation of the American alligator, and differs from albino alligators, which have pink eyes and a complete loss of pigment, the park said.

The as-yet-nameless reptile has blue eyes.

The park is asking for help in naming its new arrival, and visitors will be able to see her, and her brother, from next year.

“For now, however, we continue to keep them safe where we can closely monitor their health and growth,” Mr McHugh said.

Learn more about Albino Alligators

Albinism is the congenital absence of melanin in an animal or plant resulting in white hair, feathers, scales and skin and reddish pink or blue eyes.[1][2] Individuals with the condition are referred to as albinos.

Varied use and interpretation of the terms mean that written reports of albinistic animals can be difficult to verify. Albinism can reduce the survivability of an animal; for example, it has been suggested that albino alligators have an average survival span of only 24 hours due to the lack of protection from UV radiation and their lack of camouflage to avoid predators.[3] It is a common misconception that all albino animals have characteristic pink or red eyes (resulting from the lack of pigment in the iris allowing the blood vessels of the retina to be visible), however, this is not the case for some forms of albinism.[4] Familiar albino animals include in-bred strains of laboratory animals (rats, mice, and rabbits), but populations of naturally occurring albino animals exist in the wild, e.g. Mexican cave tetra. Albinism is a well-recognized phenomenon in mollusks, both in the shell and in the soft parts. It has been claimed by some, e.g.[5] that albinism can occur for a number of reasons aside from inheritance, including genetic mutations, diet, living conditions, age, disease, or injury. However, this is contrary to definitions where the condition is inherited.

Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a clearly defined set of seven types of genetic mutations that reduce or completely prevent the synthesis of eumelanin or pheomelanin, resulting in reduced pigmentation.[6] Type I oculocutaneous albinism (OCA1a) is the form most commonly recognized as ‘albino’ as this results in a complete absence of melanin in the skin, hair/fur/feathers, and pink pupils, however, this has led many to assume that all albinos are pure white with pink pupils, which is not the case.[7][8][6]

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Unlock the Hidden Benefits of Pay-As-You-Go Workers Comp for Your Business!

Unlock the Hidden Benefits of Pay-As-You-Go Workers Comp for Your Business!

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Workers Comp | Business Insurance

As a business owner, you understand the importance of protecting your employees and ensuring their safety in the workplace. One crucial aspect of this is having the right workers’ compensation insurance in place. However, managing workers comp can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially for small businesses with limited resources. That’s where pay-as-you-go workers comp comes in, offering a range of benefits that can help your business thrive. In this blog post, we will explore how pay-as-you-go workers comp can help your business in terms of efficiency, cost savings, compliance, and employee satisfaction.

Pay-As-You-Go Workers Comp

Business efficiency is a key factor in the success of any organization. With pay-as-you-go workers comp, you can streamline your payroll management process by integrating your worker’s compensation premiums directly into your payroll system. This eliminates the need for separate payments and reduces the administrative burden on your HR department. By automating the premium calculation and payment process, you can save time and resources, allowing your team to focus on more strategic tasks that drive business growth.

Speaking of cost savings, pay-as-you-go workers comp offers significant financial benefits for your business. Traditional workers comp policies require upfront premium payments based on estimated payroll figures. This can lead to overpaying or underpaying premiums, resulting in cash flow management challenges. With pay-as-you-go, your premiums are calculated based on actual payroll data, ensuring that you only pay for what you owe. This not only improves your cash flow management but also eliminates the need for large upfront payments, freeing up capital for other business needs.

In addition to cost savings, pay-as-you-go workers comp helps you stay compliant with insurance and regulatory requirements. Compliance is a critical aspect of running a business, and failing to meet these requirements can result in hefty fines and legal consequences. Pay-as-you-go workers comp ensures that your premiums are accurately calculated and paid on time, reducing the risk of non-compliance. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on growing your business without worrying about legal issues.

Furthermore, pay-as-you-go workers comp provides your employees with the protection and benefits they deserve. In the unfortunate event of a work-related injury or illness, your employees can rest assured that they will receive the necessary medical treatment and compensation. This not only promotes employee satisfaction but also enhances their overall well-being and productivity. By prioritizing your employees’ safety and protection, you create a positive work environment that fosters loyalty and attracts top talent.

Pay-as-you-go workers comp also offers flexibility in terms of premium payments. Traditional workers comp policies often require annual or semi-annual premium payments, which can strain your cash flow. With pay-as-you-go, you have the flexibility to make smaller, more frequent premium payments based on your payroll cycles. This allows for better financial planning and stability, ensuring that your business can meet its financial obligations without any disruptions.

Another advantage of pay-as-you-go workers’ comp is its simplified process. The traditional worker’s compensation system can be complex and time-consuming, involving manual calculations, audits, and paperwork. Pay-as-you-go simplifies this process by automating premium calculations and reporting. This not only saves you time but also reduces the risk of errors and inaccuracies. With a simplified process, you can focus on running your business and leave the insurance management to the experts.

In conclusion, pay-as-you-go worker’s compensation offers numerous benefits for your business, including improved efficiency, cost savings, compliance, and employee satisfaction. By streamlining your payroll management, reducing upfront costs, ensuring compliance, and providing comprehensive employee protection, pay-as-you-go workers comp gives your business a competitive advantage in the market. If you’re looking for small business solutions that prioritize workplace safety, financial stability, and insurance coverage, pay-as-you-go workers comp is the way to go.

Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right pay-as-you-go workers comp policy for your business. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect your business and your employees with pay-as-you-go workers comp.

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These 385 Million-year-old Tree Roots Look Just Like Ours, and Tell a Tale Just Like Ours - Shield Insurance Blog

These 385 Million-year-old Tree Roots Look Just Like Ours, and Tell a Tale Just Like Ours

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

GoodNews Network | By Andy Corbley | Dec 8, 2023 | Tree Roots | Home Insurance

Trees are one of the oldest dominant life forms on Earth, but the most important component of a tree, the tree roots, are currently shrouded in evolutionary mystery: when they first evolved, how they evolved; these are unanswered questions.

In New York’s Catskill mountain range, a fossilized forest is clueing in paleobotanists as to the origins of woody deciduous trees, and answering, if only partially, some of these questions.

The ancient woodland is 385 million years old. While their trunks have long since turned to dust, their root systems mineralized underground, and the imprints seen today outside Cairo, New York, look remarkably similar to those of our forests today.

Devonian Tree Roots System

Yet they belong to a different sort of dendron, as they were species that predate the rise of seed disperses. The authors of a study on these Devonian root systems conclude that trees came upon the strategy of roots early on and have stuck with it until our present time.

Belonging to the genus Archaeopteris, the roots branch out in sturdy and intricate patterns, were more able to guzzle up water and nutrients than the roots of other plants at the time, and also offered the support and solidity we associate with trees today.

While seemingly obvious, this was a radical new way for trees to live back in the mid-Devonian when Archaeopteris was evolving. The other dominant genera all had spindly, fast-growing roots that would be replaced over short intervals.

While Archaeopteris wasn’t a seed-bearing tree, it had a large thick trunk that allowed it to grow both tall and wide, and broad leaves to soak up as much nutrients as possible. Combined with the roots, it shows this Devonian tree ancestor had a serious metabolic engine.

Nearby the forest at Cairo, another fossilized forest called Gilboa has long been thought to be the oldest in the world. But despite being separated by only 25 miles, the two ecosystems had several differences. Gilboa is filled with Eospermatopteris fossils, a genus that resembled tree ferns and which grew fleshy, hollow trunks, fronds instead of leaves,  and the spindly roots mentioned above.

Click here for the full story…

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Unwrap the Magic with These Enchanting Christmas Stories

Unwrap the Magic with These Enchanting Christmas Stories 🧑‍🎄

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American Literature | Christmas Stories | Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Shield Insurance

American Literature.com has collected over 100 Great Christmas Stories, Books, Poems, and Christmas Carols for you to enjoy; stories to kindle your holiday spirit. We list the more unusual titles in Off-Beat Christmas Stories, followed by Christmas Books, Christmas Poems, and traditional Christmas Carols and Christmas Cards

Christmas Stories for Children

The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen 

A sad and beautiful story to remind us all to be thankful and charitable and to appreciate what we have at Christmas time.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

A young married couple– rich in love, poor in money– buy each other gifts and teach all of us about sacrifice and giving.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

One of the most enduring Christmas stories of all time, a morality tale of the bitter old miser, Ebeneezer Scrooge, who has a change of heart after visits from the ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Yet to Come.

The Elves and the Shoemaker by The Brothers Grimm

A poor shoemaker and his wife are down to their last piece of leather when their fortunes change thanks to help from talented elves.

The Fir-Tree by Hans Christian Andersen

A tree can’t wait to grow up and achieve great things, rather than appreciate the present.

More Christmas Stories for Children

The Last Dream of Old Oak by Hans Christian Andersen

An unlikely conversation between and old oak and a mayfly that delightfully illustrates the wonder of perspective.

Christmas Jenny by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

“Bein’ a missionary to robins an’ starvin’ chippies an’ little deaf an’ dumb children is jest as good as some other kinds, an’ that’s what she is.”

A Christmas Dream, and How It Came to be True by Louisa May Alcott

A children’s take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Alcott shares a delightful story from a young girl’s point of view.

Christmas; or, The Good Fairy by Harriet Beecher Stowe

A precious story about the joy of thoughtful gift-giving and the appreciation of recipients.

Papa Panov’s Special Christmas Stories by Leo Tolstoy

An old man welcomes strangers into his home, a story of compassion and kindness.

The Night Before Christmas: A Morality by William Dean Howells

Clarence Fountain is quite cynical about the pretense of self-deception about Santa Claus as his children grow older; that is, until his family leads him to a complete change of heart.

Merry Christmas Stories for Children by Stephen Leacock

A man struggling to write a Christmas story gets a visit from Father Time to discuss what’s wrong with Christmas, then is treated to Father Christmas’ arrival, rekindling his true belief in the season’s magic.

Click here for More Christmas Stories for Children

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Exposed: The Hidden Dangers 😯 of Workers' Compensation - Can Employees Still Sue?

Exposed: The Hidden Dangers 😯 of Workers’ Compensation – Can Employees Still Sue?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Workers’ Compensation | Business Insurance

Can an Employee Sue My Business if I Have Workers’ Compensation?

Business owners often wonder if having workers’ compensation insurance protects them from employee lawsuits. While workers’ comp provides coverage for workplace injuries and compensation disputes, it’s essential to understand the legal implications and the rights of both employees and employers. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between workers’ compensation and employee lawsuits, shedding light on the protection it offers, the potential risks, and the importance of workplace safety. Read on to gain a comprehensive understanding of how workers’ comp can safeguard your business and employees.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Workers’ compensation insurance is a type of business insurance that provides coverage for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. It ensures that employees receive medical treatment, wage replacement, and other benefits while protecting employers from potential lawsuits. However, it’s important to note that workers’ comp coverage does not guarantee immunity from employee lawsuits. While it provides a safety net for employees, it also establishes certain obligations and responsibilities for employers.

Employee Rights and Protections

Employees have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim if they sustain injuries or illnesses in the workplace. Workers’ comp protects their rights by providing medical care, disability benefits, and compensation for lost wages. However, it’s crucial for employers to understand that workers’ comp does not prevent employees from pursuing legal action if they believe their rights have been violated or if they can prove employer negligence.

Employer Obligations and Responsibilities

Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes implementing safety protocols, training programs, and maintaining proper equipment. While workers’ comp coverage helps mitigate the financial burden of workplace injuries, it does not absolve employers of their responsibilities. Negligence or failure to meet safety standards can still result in lawsuits, even if workers’ comp is in place.

Lawsuit Prevention and Protection from Workers’ Compensation

To minimize the risk of employee lawsuits, businesses should prioritize workplace safety and adhere to legal requirements. Regular safety inspections, employee training, and clear communication of safety policies can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and subsequent lawsuits. Additionally, maintaining comprehensive workers’ comp coverage can provide an added layer of protection for both employers and employees.

The Importance of Workplace Safety

Creating a safe work environment not only protects employees but also safeguards businesses from potential legal and financial consequences. By prioritizing workplace safety, employers can reduce the number of workplace accidents and injuries, leading to a more productive and harmonious work environment. Regular safety training, hazard identification, and open communication channels can contribute to a culture of safety and prevent costly lawsuits.

While workers’ compensation insurance provides essential coverage for workplace injuries and compensation disputes, it does not guarantee immunity from employee lawsuits. Employers must understand their obligations and responsibilities in maintaining a safe work environment. By prioritizing workplace safety, adhering to legal requirements, and maintaining comprehensive workers’ comp coverage, businesses can minimize the risk of lawsuits and protect both their employees and their bottom line. Remember, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can provide you with a free quote to ensure your business is adequately protected. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

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Sculptor Carves Life-sized Willy Wonka Using 220 Lbs of Chocolate in London’s Trafalgar Square - Shield Insurance Blog

Sculptor Carves Life-sized Willy Wonka Using 220 Lbs of Chocolate in London’s Trafalgar Square

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Good News Network | Dec 9, 2023 | Willy Wonka | Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Artists spent 200 hours over two weeks carving a life-sized Willy Wonka using what else but chocolate.

The 6-ft 2-inch sculpture, inspired by the eponymous character in the new movie Wonka, was unveiled this week in London’s Trafalgar Square.

Iconic Willy Wonka

Sculpted into the character’s iconic pose, featuring a hat-tip and cane, the creation was molded and hand-crafted from more than 100 liters of melted chocolate by chocolate sculptor Jen Lindsey-Clark and a small team.

Only the head uses a non-cocoa center.

“As a chocolate sculptor, this was the absolute dream commission,” said Jen, who recently created a bust of King Charles ahead of the coronation.

“Just about everyone in the world of confectionary has been inspired by the magic of Willy Wonka and Dahl’s inventive storytelling one way or another.”

Willy Wonka was immortalized in a life-sized chocolate sculpture by Jen Lindsey-Clark in London’s Trafalgar Square – SWNS

“I grew up on the books and watched the original Wilder Wonka film religiously every Easter and Christmas as a child, so to have had the chance to bring such an enduring character to life in chocolate has been such a labor of love.”

Chocolate Sculptor Jen Lindsey-Clark applies final touches to sweet sculpture inspired by Timothée Chalamet’s Willy Wonka – SWNS

The new film, which features Timothée Chalamet as Wonka and Hugh Grant as the Oompa Loompa, was released on Friday by Warner Bros, and is the latest in a respectable line of films based on Roald Dahl’s literary classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

It follows the life of a younger Willy Wonka, chock-full of ideas and determined to change the world. It depicts the path he took to become the iconic candy maker which several generations have come to know and love.

The sculpture has since been moved so pedestrians wouldn’t begin nibbling on the velvety masterpiece.

Click here for the full article and some awesome videos!

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The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Worker's Compensation Premiums

Worker’s Compensation Premiums – The Ultimate Guide

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Worker’s Compensation | Business Insurance | Contact Shield

How are Worker’s Compensation Premiums Calculated?

Workers compensation insurance is a crucial aspect of protecting both employers and employees in the event of workplace injuries. It provides financial coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for employees who are injured or become ill due to their jobs. However, many business owners and employees are often left wondering how worker’s compensation premiums are calculated. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that influence the calculation of worker’s compensation premiums and shed light on the process.

Calculation of Worker’s Compensation Premiums

The calculation of worker’s compensation premiums involves several key factors that insurance companies take into consideration. These factors include the size of the business, the industry it operates in, the number of employees, the company’s claims history, and the level of risk associated with the job. Let’s delve deeper into each of these factors to understand how they impact the calculation process.

1. Size of the Business: The size of the business is an important factor in determining worker’s compensation premiums. Larger businesses with more employees generally have higher premiums due to the increased risk of workplace injuries.

2. Industry: Different industries have varying levels of risk associated with them. For example, construction and manufacturing industries are considered high-risk, while office-based businesses are considered low-risk. Insurance companies take into account the industry in which the business operates to calculate the premiums accordingly.

3. Number of Employees: The number of employees a business has also played a role in determining worker’s compensation premiums. More employees mean a higher likelihood of workplace injuries, which leads to higher premiums.

4. Claims History: The claims history of a business is a significant factor in premium calculation. If a business has a history of frequent and costly claims, it is considered a higher risk and will be charged higher premiums. On the other hand, businesses with a clean claims history may enjoy lower premiums.

5. Level of Risk: The level of risk associated with a particular job is another crucial factor in premium calculation. Jobs that involve more physical labor or exposure to occupational hazards are considered higher risk and will have higher premiums.

6. Experience Modification Factor: The experience modification factor (EMF) is a number that reflects a business’s claims history compared to other businesses in the same industry. A higher EMF indicates a higher risk and results in higher premiums, while a lower EMF can lead to lower premiums.

7. Payroll Audits: Insurance companies conduct payroll audits to ensure that the premium calculation is accurate. They review the business’s payroll records to determine the appropriate premium based on the number of employees and their job classifications.

Cost Containment Strategies and Loss Control Measures

Businesses can take several cost containment strategies and loss control measures to reduce worker’s compensation premiums. These strategies include implementing safety programs, providing proper training to employees, conducting regular workplace inspections, and promoting a culture of safety. By actively managing and minimizing workplace injuries, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to safety and potentially lower their premiums.

Legal Requirements and Insurance Coverage

Workers compensation insurance is a legal requirement in most states. Employers are obligated to provide coverage for their employees to protect them in the event of workplace injuries. Failure to comply with these legal requirements can result in severe penalties and legal consequences for the business. It is essential for employers to understand the specific legal requirements in their state and ensure they have adequate insurance coverage.

The Role of Insurance Agencies

Navigating the complex world of worker’s compensation insurance can be challenging for businesses. This is where insurance agencies like Shield Insurance Agency come into play. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies, offering businesses a wide range of options to choose from. Their experienced agents can guide businesses through the quoting process, helping them find the best coverage at competitive rates.

Understanding how worker’s compensation premiums are calculated is crucial for both employers and employees. By considering factors such as the size of the business, industry, number of employees, claims history, and level of risk, insurance companies determine the appropriate premiums. Employers can take advantage of cost containment strategies and loss control measures to potentially lower their premiums. It is essential for businesses to comply with legal requirements and ensure they have adequate insurance coverage to protect their employees. Shield Insurance Agency is a trusted partner that can assist businesses in finding the right worker’s compensation insurance coverage. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

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Festive Seniors Build Christmas Tree Made of LEGOs and a Fireplace With Santa’s Feet Sticking Out

Festive Seniors Build Christmas Tree Made of LEGOs and a Fireplace With Santa’s Feet Sticking Out

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

GoodNews Network | By Andy Corbley | Dec 23, 2022 | Christmas Tree | Home Insurance

A LEGO-loving couple have created a bit of festive cheer by making an entire wall, fireplace and tree from the plastic blocks in their living room.

For the last 28 years Mike Addis and his wife Catherine Weightman have built amazing LEGO sculptures each Christmas.

Previous creations include a 21-foot London Bridge and a 12-foot replica of Ely cathedral.

Complete with Christmas Tree

Inspired by extension work being done on their house in Cambridgeshire, they decided to cover a wall in their living room with a LEGO replica, complete with Christmas tree, festive decorations, and a fireplace with Santa’s feet sticking out.

There also can be found LEGO mince pies, a LEGO matchbox, and LEGO candles that light up on the mantelpiece.

But apart from the incredible ingenuity needed to create the piece, it’s had the side effect of reducing their heating bills through the energy expenditure of stacking bricks all evening.

Addis said they committed between two to four hours each evening for two months to complete it.

“It’s quite a social thing and it keeps us warm too,” said Adids. “You can’t believe building LEGO which doesn’t involve a lot of movement would, but you could actually switch the heating off.”

“It’s all the getting up and down and fiddling around with the pieces.”

“It’s amazing even in this cold weather to not have to put the wood burner on because we’re warm enough.”

The couple used an estimated 400,000 pieces for the structure, a lot of which went into making the ‘brick’ wall stable enough.

Despite the masterpieces they have created in the past, it was the Christmas tree that was the hardest for Mike this year.

“Imagine trying to create the shape of a tree in square blocks,” said the retired economics professor. “In order to stand it upright we had to build it into the wall. The wall itself is quite heavy and is tied to our curtain rod.”

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Don't wait! ☔ Find out the perfect time to get a personal umbrella policy

Personal Umbrella Policy ☔ Don’t Wait! Find out the perfect time to get this coverage

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Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Umbrella Policy | Contact Shield Insurance Agency | Start A Quote!

In today’s uncertain world, it’s important to protect your assets and ensure your financial security. One way to do this is by purchasing a personal umbrella policy. This type of insurance coverage provides additional liability protection beyond what is offered by your existing insurance policies. But when is the right time to purchase a personal umbrella policy? In this blog post, we will explore the factors to consider and the benefits of having this extra layer of coverage.

The Personal Umbrella Policy

First and foremost, let’s talk about what a personal umbrella policy is. Essentially, it is an insurance policy that provides excess liability coverage above and beyond the limits of your existing insurance policies. This means that if you are involved in a lawsuit and the damages exceed the coverage limits of your primary insurance policies, your personal umbrella will kick in to provide additional protection.

One of the main benefits of a personal umbrella policy is asset protection. If you have significant assets, such as a home, car, or investments, you could be at risk of losing them in a lawsuit. A policy can help shield your assets from being seized to satisfy a judgment against you. This is especially important if you have a high net worth or if you are in a profession that is more prone to lawsuits, such as a doctor or lawyer.

Coverage limits are an important consideration when deciding whether to purchase a personal umbrella policy. Most primary insurance policies, such as auto or homeowners insurance, have coverage limits that may not be sufficient to fully protect your assets. A policy typically provides coverage in increments of $1 million, so you can choose the coverage limit that best suits your needs. It’s important to assess your assets and potential risks to determine the appropriate coverage limit for your personal umbrella policy.

Umbrella Policy Coverage Options

Another factor to consider is the coverage options provided by a personal umbrella policy. These policies typically cover a wide range of liability risks, including bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. They can also provide coverage for certain types of claims that may not be covered by your primary insurance policies, such as libel or slander. It’s important to review the coverage options and exclusions of a policy to ensure that it aligns with your specific needs and risks.

When it comes to purchasing a personal umbrella policy, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision to purchase this type of coverage depends on your individual circumstances and risk tolerance. However, there are some common scenarios where it may be beneficial to have a personal umbrella policy.

If you have significant assets or a high net worth, a personal umbrella policy can provide an extra layer of protection. It can help safeguard your assets and provide peace of mind knowing that you are financially secure in the event of a lawsuit. Additionally, if you engage in activities that may increase your liability risk, such as owning a swimming pool or hosting frequent parties, a policy can provide added protection.

Risk Management

Risk management is another important consideration when deciding whether to purchase a personal umbrella policy. By having this additional coverage, you are taking proactive steps to manage and mitigate your potential liability risks. It’s important to assess your lifestyle, activities, and potential risks to determine if a personal umbrella policy is right for you.

Now that you understand the benefits and considerations of a personal umbrella policy, you may be wondering how to go about purchasing one. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the right policy to meet your needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your assets and ensure your financial security. Purchase a personal umbrella policy today and gain the peace of mind you deserve.

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