Features 5 Advertising
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New York Orders Narragansett Bay Insurance Co. to Pay $327,400 Penalty for Failure to Perform
9 Kim Komando
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NOAA Predicts Near-Normal or BelowNormal 2014 Atlantic Hurrican Season
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Failure of Condition Precedent Promises Made Must be Promises Kept - Expert Analysis by Barry Zalma, Esq.
18 Inside Track 23 Insider Advisor 24 Classifieds 26 Say What? 28 Back Issues
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Seeing Hidden Passwords in any Browser Takes Only a Few Simple Steps - by Kim Komando
Florida Announces the Arrest of Another Miami Clinic Owner on P.I.P. Fraud Charges
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The VA - Obama’s New Scandal in Health Care - OP/ED by Spencer A. Lehmann, RHU
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The Greatest Threat to Life During a Hurricane: Storm Surge
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Florida Announces Sentencing of Tampa Clinic Owner for P.I.P. Insurance Fraud
International Risk Management Institute Upgrades Gapper Software Financial Institutions, Inc. to Acquire New York Insurance Agency Scott Danahy Naylon Co., Inc.
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What are the Most Dangerous States for Pedestrians?
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Boeing Performs Extreme Testing on Latest Version of 747 - Watch Video!
Lawsuit Stemming From Fatal Paul Walker Crash Blames the Porsche Benghazi - The Full Story of Obama Administration Lies is Yet to be Told Sunz Insurance Celebrates 10 Years With Enterprise HR Wyoming Supercell T-Storm Caught on Video! Agency Romance Heading for Trouble! Duck & Run - The Insider’s Advisor Climate Zealots Force Leading Scientest out of Global Realists Group A Metastasizing Culture of Death Radical Islam is Not Abating - It is Spreading Across the World
The Real War on Women: Sharia Law and the Deafening, Hypocritical Silence From the Political Left
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Celebrate Multiculturalism? These Stories May Cause You To Think Again
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Applied Systems Users Group Adds Two New Chapters
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Three Sentenced in Jacksonville, Fla Staged Accient Fraud
Vertafore Unveils New Cloud-Based Technology for Sagitta, AMS360 & Vertafore Agency Platform
Unite Insurance Holdings Terminates Letter of Intent to Acquire Sunshine State Insurance Company
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NEW YORK ORDERS NARRAGANSETT BAY INSURANCE COMPANY TO PAY $327,400 PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO PERFORM
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he Cuomo Administration Benjamin M. Lawsky, announced today that Superintendent of Financial Narragansett Bay Insurance Services, said: “When an insurance Company will pay a $327,400 company drags its feet, that can penalty for failing to perform leave a homeowner or business timely inspections of Superstorm in a crushing limbo. New Yorkers Sandy damage expect and claims as deserve better. required by Insurers must New York stand ready Insurance and able to get Law and policyholders regulations. back on their T h e feet as quickly as company's possible during a violations were disaster.” uncovered New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo as part of a DFS' investigation New York State uncovered that Narragansett failed Department of Financial Services in numerous instances to perform (DFS) investigation. adjuster inspections of damage related to Superstorm Sandy in “When a natural disaster like the time frames required by law Superstorm Sandy strikes, insurers and regulation. The agreement must respond rapidly to help with DFS also stipulates that their policyholders recover and Narragansett must, within 60 rebuild,” said Governor Cuomo. days, improve its systems and “Delays can be devastating in procedures to ensure that it can the aftermath of an emergency, successfully process New York and as we prepare for the new policyholders’ catastrophe claims reality of extreme weather it is within the legally required time imperative that insurers are swiftly frames. reviewing and paying claims. This administration will continue to DFS initiated its investigation hold insurance companies to the into Narragansett in 2013 after highest standards of service for the policyholders complained of being New Yorkers they support.” unable to reach adjusters, as well
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as adjusters failing to show up to scheduled appointments for which policyholders had often already waited weeks. The investigation was handled for DFS by Zoe Rasmussen and Brian Montgomery under the supervision of Joy Feigenbaum, Executive Deputy Superintendent and Nancy Ruskin, Deputy Director, Financial Frauds & Consumer Protection. The Underwriter’s Insider
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NOAA PREDICTS NEAR-NORMAL OR BELOW-NORMAL 2014 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON El Niño Expected To Develop & Suppress The Number & Intensity Of Tropical Cyclones
or higher), of which 3 to 6 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 2 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher).
n its 2014 Atlantic hurricane season outlook issued today, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a nearnormal or belownormal season.
Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, said the Atlantic – which has seen above-normal seasons in 12 of the last 20 years – has been in an era of high activity for hurricanes since 1995. However, this highThese numbers are near or below activity pattern is expected to be the seasonal averages of 12 offset in 2014 by the impacts of El named storms, six hurricanes and See 2014 Storm Season Pg 14 three major hurricanes, based on the average from 1981 to 2010. Advertise The Atlantic hurricane region In America’s Favorite includes the North Atlantic Ocean, Insurance Magazine! Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico.
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The main driver of this year’s outlook is the anticipated development of El Niño this summer. El Niño causes stronger wind shear, which reduces the number and intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes. El Niño can also strengthen the trade winds and increase the atmospheric stability across the tropical Atlantic, making it more difficult for cloud systems coming off of Africa to intensify into tropical “Thanks to the environmental intelligence from NOAA’s network storms. of earth observations, our scientists The outlook calls for a 50 percent and meteorologists can provide chance of a below-normal season, life-saving products like our new a 40 percent chance of a near- storm surge threat map and our normal season, and only a 10 hurricane forecasts,” said Kathryn percent chance of an above- Sullivan, Ph.D., NOAA administrator. normal season. For the six- “And even though we expect El month hurricane season, which Niño to suppress the number of begins June 1, NOAA predicts a storms this season, it’s important 70 percent likelihood of 8 to 13 to remember it takes only one land named storms (winds of 39 mph falling storm to cause a disaster.” www.underwritersinsider.com
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Humberto was the first of only two Atlantic hurricanes in 2013. It reached peak intensity, with top winds of 90 mph, in the far eastern Atlantic.
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SEEING HIDDEN PASSWORDS IN ANY BROWSER TAKES ONLY A FEW SIMPLE STEPS
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Really Cool Info - by Kim Komando
asswords are a royal pain in our digital lives. If you create one that’s simple, it isn’t safe. If you create one that’s safe, you’ll never remember it.
horizontal lines and choose Options. Go the Security tab and click the Saved Passwords button. You’ll see a list of website addresses and usernames. Click the Show Passwords button to see your passwords. Imagine if a snoop got hold of this list.
create the hardest passwords around and not have to remember You can make it harder on any any of them. Even better, your snoopers by going back to the browser will fill in passwords Security tab and turning on automatically for you. “Use a master password.” This requires you to enter the master On top of that, you really need Unfortunately, there is a catch that password before seeing your other to have a unique password for no one likes to talk about. If I got passwords or logging in to any site. every account and Web site on your computer right now, I bet I Fortunately, it’s the same password in case a hacker gets hold of could see every one of your supereach time so you only have to one of them. With regular data secret hard-to-guess passwords in remember one. breaches of millions of usernames no time flat. and passwords happening at Chrome major companies like Target and Don’t believe me? I’ve listed how Michaels, it’s a very real worry. to do it for each popular browser. Try it for yourself and prepare to be In Chrome, click the icon on the right with the three horizontal That’s why it’s such shocked. lines and choose Settings. In the a relief your Web left-hand column choose Settings browser stores Firefox and then click the “Show advanced passwords settings” link at the bottom of the for you. In Firefox, click screen. You can the icon on the right Scroll down to “Passwords and with the forms” and click the “Manage t h r e e saved passwords” link. Choose an account and next to the obscured password click the “Show” button. Voila. Now, because of an outcry on this subject last year, Chrome does require you to enter your Windows account password See Kim Komando Pg 33 www.underwritersinsider.com
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FAILURE OF CONDITION PRECEDENT Expert Analysis & Commentary by Barry Zalma, Esq. (c) 2014 Barry Zalma
by a ruptured sanitary pipe. The court rendered summary judgment in favor of the defendant on the ground that the plaintiff failed to submit a proof of loss as required under the insurance contract. The plaintiff claims that the court improperly rendered summary judgment in favor of the defendant because the defendant failed to prove that it was prejudiced by the plaintiff’s failure to submit a proof of loss.
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hen a person acquires a homeowners policy a promise is made by the insured that, among other things, the insured will submit to the insurer a sworn statement in proof of loss. Almost every first party property insurance policy, and every homeowners policy, issued in the United States contains a condition precedent, a promise, that requires the insured to submit to the insurer a sworn statement in proof of loss either within 60 days of the loss or within 60 days of the demand from the insurer that the insured submit a proof of loss.
Barry Zalma, Esq., CFE is a California attorney specializing in insurance coverage, insurance claims handling and fraud who serves as a consultant and expert for insurers and policyholders. He founded Zalma Insurance Consultants in 2001 and serves as its senior consultant. He recently published an e-book, “Getting The Whole Truth,” which is available at his Web site, www.zalma.com. Go to Zalma Books at http://www.zalma.com/zalmabooks. htm.
Failure to submit a sworn statement in proof of loss to the insurer is considered a breach of a material condition precedent to filing suit against the insurer. Many courts temper the condition by requiring the insurer to prove that the failure to submit the proof of loss in a timely fashion prejudiced the insurer’s rights. Obviously, if Join Barry Zalma’s new Blog:
http://www.zalma.com/blog
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no formal claim is presented, the insurer has no way of knowing what the insured claims nor can it properly investigate the claim. In such a case prejudice is axiomatic. In Richard Palkimas v. State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, — A.3d —-, 2014 WL 2199815 (Conn. App. 06/03/2014) Palkimas sued State Farm for breach of contract, for the defendant’s failure to provide coverage for damage caused to the plaintiff’s home
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FACTS At the time of the incident in question, the plaintiff had a homeowners insurance policy issued by the defendant. In September, 2006, the plaintiff suffered damage to his property “when workers negligently used a toilet that had been blocked off resulting in a buildup of sewage, and the breaking and rupturing of a sanitary pipe, as well as the spreading of sewage and fecal matter throughout the home.” In January, 2007, while attempting to repair the damaged sanitary pipe, the plaintiff discovered that “freezing temperatures caused substantial damage to [his] home, See Zalma Pg 31 The Underwriter’s Insider
FLORIDA ANNOUNCES ARREST OF ANOTHER S. MIAMI CLINIC OWNER FOR P.I.P. FRAUD
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years in prison for her involvement in the staged accidents.
Aurora Hernandez Faces Up To 235 Years In Prison If Convicted
ALLAHASSEE – Florida Insurance Fraud conducted an Chief Financial Officer Jeff investigation called Operation Atwater today No-Med Services, announced the arrest which has led to of Aurora Hernandez the arrests of a on charges of medical doctor, organizing and billing two clinic owners, for a staged accident, five medical commonly known licensees, six as Personal Injury staged accident Protection (PIP) fraud. organizers and Hernandez’s arrest is six others. the latest in a string of arrests resulting from Hernandez, who Operation No-Med operated Magic Services, which dates Hands Medical back to May 2013 and involves Services, faces a maximum of 235 four accident clinics in Miami-Dade County.
Aurora Hernandez
The Florida Department of Financial Services Division of Insurance Fraud is actively seeking Ricardo Jimenez, owner of two now-defunct Miami-Dade clinics. Anyone who has information on the whereabouts of Jimenez can call1-800-378-0445 and may be eligible for a reward under the DFS Anti-Fraud Reward Program. Citizens who provide tips can remain anonymous.
“I am proud of our investigators for their commitment to keeping fraudsters off the streets and out of the pockets of hard-working Floridians,” said CFO Atwater. “Every act of fraud drives up the cost of insurance and we refuse to allow those selfish acts to continue.” In May 2013, the Department of Financial Services’ Division of www.underwritersinsider.com
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THE VETERAN’S ADMINISTRATION: OBAMA’S NEW SCANDAL IN HEALTH CARE
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OP/ED BY SPENCER A. LEHMANN, RHU
nother month, another scandal. This time it’s the VA. Eric Shinseki, Barack Obama’s Secretary of Veterans Affairs, stepped down May 30, 2014, after weeks of revelations of secret waiting lists at the VA and deaths of at least 40 known vets because they weren’t given appropriate treatment in time to save their lives after being forced to wait for months and longer to receive needed treatment. [ Source ] Why the secret wait lists? In order to keep the inept and unacceptable practices at the VA from the public eye, and from the Inspector General’s office, and to allow those employees of the VA to receive bonuses for work they did not perform. Why? In order to pretend to the American Public that “government” was doing an exceptional job in treating and caring for our veterans, who have risked their lives for America, many of whom have become severely disabled either physically, mentally, or both. The facts are: They were not only not receiving exceptional care, not even receiving good care, not
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even receiving passable care, they were receiving no care. Understanding that the VA System has been in a shambles for a long time, years and several presidential administrations ago, and did not just begin under President Obama’s watch, why has this become his scandal?
Spencer A. Lehmann is a Registered Health Underwriter (RHU), whose company, Lehmann/Wood & Associates, Inc., specializes in Group and Individual Long Term Care insurance and Medicare Supplemental Coverage. Mr. Lehmann retired from his company in 2005 and now spends his time writing on Health Care Insurance and Political Issues, both of which have encompassed over 40+ years of his life. He has been an actively involved member of the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) since 1978, and serves on the Board of Directors of several Charitable Organizations’ helping Special Needs Children, and Inner-City Children to experience and participate in the world of the Arts and Music. In his free time he plays golf with his wife, Fran, who usually wins.
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“Running for president in May of 2008, then-Sen. Barack Obama delivered a stem-winder on mismanagement of veterans care under President George W. Bush, recalling the story of an 89-year-old South Carolina veteran who committed suicide after being repeatedly denied access to health care. “How can we let this happen?” Obama thundered in front of a podium in Charleston, W.Va., that read, “A Sacred Trust; Support our Veterans.” “How is that acceptable in the United States of America? The answer is, it’s not. It’s an outrage. And it’s a betrayal, a betrayal of the ideals that we ask our troops to risk their lives for.” [ Source ] Candidate Barack Obama had no hesitation to blast George W. Bush for not having corrected the problems at the VA when The Underwriter’s Insider
under his watch, yet that same Barack Obama, now President Obama, said when the VA Scandal first came to his “alleged” notice that the Republicans should not make this scandal political, in his typical hypocritical and narcissistic manner. Hypocrisy, disingenuous statements, and downright lying have been the norm for President Barack Obama, demonstrated in the revelations of the truth about Obamacare (you cannot keep your policies, period!), in the fabricated story about the attack in Benghazi on our Consulate that resulted in the deaths of our Ambassador and others (it had nothing to do with the 13 minutes anti-Islamist video), in the IRS scandal in which Tea Party and other conservative groups were targeted for audits and delays by the Obama IRS (a few Left wing organizations thrown into the hundreds of conservative groups targeted to throw off the hounds of investigative journalism), the erasing of the Red line in Syria Obama drew in the sand, and then scraped away with his shoe when push came to shove, the lifting of
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sanctions against Iran, the lauding of Mohammed Morsi as the new face of democracy in Egypt by Obama and his mouthpiece Hillary Clinton (who then declared his dictatorship two days later and was ultimately overthrown by the Egyptian Military) - and the list goes on. How does narcissism fit the Obama personae? These are some of the symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder:
Sound familiar? President Barack Obama has never taken full and unequivocal responsibility and accountability for a single misstep or lie he has stated to the Public in his efforts to further his political goals. Not once! How does all this apply to Obamacare? The ultimate goal See VA SCANDAL Page 35
• Are self-centered and boastful • Consider themselves better than others • Exaggerate their talents and achievements • Believe that they are entitled to special treatment • Might take advantage of others to achieve their goals • Preoccupation with fantasies that focus on unlimited success, power… • Expectation that others will automatically go along with what he or she wants • Arrogant behavior and/or attitude [ Source ]
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Continued From Pg 7
2014 STORM SEASON
Niño, and by cooler Atlantic Ocean temperatures than we’ve seen in recent years. “Atmospheric and oceanic conditions across the tropical Pacific are already taking on some El Niño characteristics. Also, we are currently seeing strong trade winds and wind shear over the tropical Atlantic, and NOAA’s climate models predict these conditions will persist, in part because of El Niño,” Bell said. “The expectation of near-average Atlantic Ocean temperatures this season, rather than the aboveaverage temperatures seen since 14
1995, also suggests fewer Atlantic model (HWRF) shows a 10 percent hurricanes.” improvement in this year's model compared to last year. Hurricane NOAA is rolling out new tools at the forecasters use the HWRF along with National Hurricane Center this year. An other models to produce forecasts experimental mapping and issue tool will be used to warnings. show communities The HWRF their storm surge flood m o d e l threat. The map will be is being issued for coastal areas adopted by when a hurricane or a number of tropical storm watch is first issued, or Western Pacific and Indian Ocean rim approximately 48 hours before the nations. anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds. The map will show land NOAA’s seasonal hurricane outlook areas where storm surge could occur is not a hurricane landfall forecast; it and how high above ground the does not predict how many storms water could reach in those areas. will hit land or where a storm will strike. Forecasts for individual storms Early testing on continued and their impacts will be provided improvements to NOAA’s Hurricane throughout the season by NOAA’s Weather Research and Forecasting National Hurricane Center.
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HURRICANE STORM SURGE: THE GREATEST THREAT TO LIFE DURING A STORM
owerful winds aren’t the only deadly force during a hurricane. The greatest threat to life actually comes from the water - in the form of storm surge. Storm surge is water from the ocean that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the hurricane. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides and can increase the water level by 30 feet or more.
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Storm surge combined with waves can cause extensive damage. It can severely erode beaches and coastal highways. The pounding waves can take out boats and buildings. As the waters move inland, rivers and lakes may be affected, and add to the rising flood levels.
the water and hide from the wind. Don’t take unnecessary risks during a storm. Conditions can change in the blink of an eye. Watch the Video!
When a hurricane slams our coast, it’s important to be aware of all the dangers. As a reminder, emergency managers want us to run from
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INTERNATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE UPGRADES POPULAR “THE GAPPER” SOFTWARE
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allas, TX, May 9, 2014— International Risk Management Institute, Inc. (IRMI), has released a new and improved version of The Gapper, a software-as-a-service (SaaS) tool for identifying insurance coverage gaps in commercial lines policies. The Gapper employs a Risk Questionnaire to uncover exposures faced by the client and then uses a coverage questionnaire to guide the agent through a coverage gap analysis. The result is a fully customizable Executive Summary Report for existing clients and new business prospects that identifies the gaps and explains how to close them. IRMI surveyed subscribers to its e-mail newsletter and members of its LinkedIn group to identify 101 of the most common commercial lines coverage gaps faced by American businesses. IRMI research analysts then developed the questions that would be needed to determine if a business faces the exposures that relate to those gaps along with the corresponding coverage questionnaire. The Gapper now identifies gaps in commercial auto, commercial liability, commercial property,
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inland marine, errors and omissions, professional liability, directors and officers liability, employment practices liability, and workers compensation insurance policies. The coverage questionnaire that guides the agent through the process of identifying gaps includes links to more than 100 “Gap Insights” that define and explain the coverage issues being considered. The Gapper enables the agent or broker to be an effective risk consultant for customers or prospects. As a sales tool, it can identify errors in the programs competitors have sold. The Gapper can also be utilized to audit the coverage of accounts in an existing book of business to reduce the possibility of embarrassing errors that can lead to lost accounts or E&O claims. To learn more about The Gapper, please visit http://www.irmi.com/ products/store/the-gapper.aspx.
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FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, INC. TO ACQUIRE INSURANCE AGENCY
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ARSAW, N.Y., May 28, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -Financial Institutions, Inc. (Nasdaq:FISI), the parent company of Five Star Bank, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Scott Danahy Naylon Co., Inc. ("SDN"), a full service insurance agency located in Amherst, NY, a suburb of Buffalo. SDN provides a broad range of insurance services to both personal and business clients. Upon closing of the acquisition, SDN will operate as a subsidiary of Financial Institutions, Inc. and an affiliate of Five Star Bank. "The acquisition of an insurance agency of this quality and magnitude is a strategically important first step to diversify our revenue base by increasing noninterest income. It also provides a scalable platform to support our future growth in insurance sales and meets our internal rate of return standards to add value for our shareholders," stated Martin K. Birmingham, president and chief executive officer of Five Star Bank. "We are extremely excited to be joining the Five Star family," said William H. Scott, Jr., president and Glenn W. Quackenbush, managing partner at SDN. " The Underwriter’s Insider
FLORIDA ANNOUNCES SENTENCING OF TAMPA CLINIC OWNER FOR INSURANCE FRAUD
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ALLAHASSEE – Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced that Dailin Rojas Perez, 30, has entered a plea agreement and been sentenced to 24 months house arrest because of her involvement in a major insurance fraud scheme at a Tampa accident clinic. Perez is also required to pay $350,000 in restitution to victim insurance carriers and nearly $40,000 in investigative costs. She was charged in September with racketeering and money laundering involving more than $340,000 in fraudulent proceeds. “I am proud of our investigators for bringing this fraudster to justice,”said CFO Atwater. “We will not tolerate
anyone who commits insurance fraud and causes the rates of hardworking Floridians to increase.” An investigation by the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Insurance Fraud found that Rojas Perez’s company, Today’s Medical Marketing, LLC worked with Medical Therapy Practitioners to fraudulently bill insurance carriers. The fraudulent charges included services not rendered, services procured as a result of staged automobile crashes, services for patients who had no injuries and services not compensable because the business license was obtained fraudulently.
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for 2014 with only $41 million paid in 2013.
Breaking News
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e’ve all been warned about dangerous mercury levels in sushi tuna, but what about canned tuna - often fed to children? You have a right to be worried. You can’t remove mercury from tuna like you can remove caffeine from coffee. Based on EPA guidance, canned white albacore tuna contains 0.32 parts per million of mercury and children should not consume more than 3 ounces per month. Somewhat safer is canned light tuna with 0.12 parts per million of mercury. Yet a better, healthier choice might be canned salmon - with little or no measurable mercury.
you are sufficiently politically left, in which case actuarial underwriting be damned. So far as the Insider can learn, there is no move to advocate for gender-neutral rates on life insurance or auto insurance where men have historically been charged for than women. No surprise.
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IG reported $1.6 billion in net income for the 1st quarter 2014 - a 27.2% decrease from the same period in 2013. Catastrophe losses on its P&C side made the difference with $262 million in losses on the books
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fter disclosing an additional $63 million of prior year reserve development and declines in statutory policyholders’ surplus, A.M. Best Co. Inc. on Friday said it lowered the financial strength ratings of subsidiaries of troubled insurer Tower Group International Ltd. to C++, or “marginal,” from B, or “fair.”
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he widow of Roger Rodas, the driver of the Porsche in which movie actor Paul Walker was riding when they were both killed in a fiery crash last November, has sued the car company claiming that certain design flaws caused
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here is a movement in California to make long-term-care insurance rates gender neutral. Women live longer, hence more cost to the insuror resulting in a higher premium. Actuarial science 101, right? Not if 18
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the car to crash - rather than as a result of “unsafe speed” as determined by the California Highway Patrol. CHP had made the determination that
the vehicle was traveling approximately 90mph when it struck a light pole while Rodas’ widow’s suit claims the vehicle was only traveling at 55mph at the time of the accident. The suit blames the car’s suspension for the accident. “The Carrera GT was unsafe for its intended use by reason of defects in its manufacture, design, testing, component and constituents, so that it would not safely serve its purpose.”
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his month’s stupid lawsuit award goes to Webster Lucas who is suing a California
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McDonalds for only giving illis Group Holdings him a single napkin along the global risk adviser, with Quarter Pounder Deluxe insurance and reinsurance order. Really. broker, today announced the appointment of Anne Pullum ussia is threatening as Director of Corporate to cease cooperation Development to succeed with the U.S. on the Simon Gaffney, who becomes International Space Chief Operating Officer (COO) Station after 2020 if of Willis Global. Ms Pullum will sanctions imposed on play a key role in determining it after the ongoing the group’s strategy, working Ukraine crisis are across a number of key not lifted and an accord functions. reached. Thanks to Obama Administration budget cuts IG has sold it’s last nonand the retirement of the core asset for $7.6B. the Space Shuttle fleet, the U.S. aircraft leasing company, currently has no vehicle for International Lease Finance transporting humans to Corp., was sold to AerCap orbit. Russia is reportedly Holdings N.V. in a cash and charging about $60 million stock deal. AIG has reversed per astronaut it flies to the ISS it’s diversity culture - returning - and we assume that figure is entirely to it’s insurance corefor a round-trip. The U.S. has a business. manned ship in development but it will not be ready for A insurance companies flight operations until well in paid $64.7 million in to 2017. In addition to halting dog bite claims last year - the its cooperation on the ISS, highest state in the union. Russia is also threatening to Dog bite claims have climbed terminate 11 GPS stations 5.5% nationwide in 2013 to the U.S. is operating on its $484 million in total claims. territory as well as the sale of Russian made rocket FREE engines used on Atlas V CLASSIFIEDS! rockets carrying, among HELP WANTED — POSITION other payloads, military WANTED 4 — SALE ITEMS satellites. What, we can’t CLICK HERE! make our own rockets?
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BENGHAZI
On September 11, 2012, the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Benghazi came under a sustained, planned, coordinated, multi-front attack by a group of Militant Islamic savages. Four brave Americans died during the battle, including our Ambassador to Libya, J. Christopher Stevens, Sean Smith, U.S. Foreign Service Information Management Officer, Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty, both former Navy Seals who rushed in to join the battle. It has been reported that Stevens was sodomized and had his genitals cut off. Although recent testimony from military commanders confirmed that Washington knew within a few minutes that the embassy was under a coordinated military-style attack, the Obama administration failed to bring military assets to defend the compound, and, in full election-time cover-up mode, advanced a fabricated story of a spontaneous riot protesting a Youtube video critical of Islam to explain the Benghazi attack. For two weeks, U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice and President Obama himself continued to lie to the American people and the world about the events of September 11th. Finally, Congress is going to be holding hearings chaired by U.S. Congressman Trey Gowdy, a talented former-prosecutor with a reputation for getting to the truth.
“We’re investigation exactly what happened, but my biggest priority now is bringing those folks to justice.” - President Barack Obama in September 2012 “No one has been arrested, no one has been prosecuted, no one has been ‘brought to justice.” We don’t even have access to the witnesses!” - U.S. Congressman Trey Gowdy in October 2013. (As of June 2014 - No Change)
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SUNZ INSURANCE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH ENTERPRISE HR
a consultative approach for every client we work with and policy we underwrite. With 10 years of experience in the industry, we recognize the need to provide workers' compensation insurance options that do not begin and end with the printed policy. What sets us Enterprise HR's Director of Sales, apart from the competition is our Tim Russell, said, "We are thrilled to approach to providing clients with renew our Workers' Compensation workers' compensation solutions policy with SUNZ for 2014-2015. that are unique to their individual We consider SUNZ a vital part of our needs." business model and have always felt like they feel the same way. In To learn more about SUNZ a business where small mistakes Insurance visit their website at www. can cost millions of dollars, having sunzinsurance.com or contact them SUNZ look after our best interests toll free at (800) 684-2157. provides a level of comfort and security that you only develop To learn more about Enterprize with a trusted and proven partner. HR and PEO broker opportunities, We were the original insured for contact Tim Russell at 888.770.7676 SUNZ and 10 years later, we can or email him at: tlrussell@encorehr.com. only hope for 10 more." ARASOTA, Fla., SUNZ Insurance Company announced today the renewal and start of their tenth year as the workers compensation carrier for its first insured, St. Petersburg-based Enterprise HR.
Celebrating its 10th year with their first insured, SUNZ has continued to build a proven track record of successfully providing workers' compensation programs to various Professional Employer Organizations (PEO) and staffing companies
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HERE WYOMING SUPERCELL T-STORM CAUGHT ON VIDEO These Rotating Thunderstorms Can Spin-Off Hail, Torrential Rain and Tornados. Watch The Video!
SUNZ Chief Operations Officer Glen Distefano said, "We are obviously very humbled and proud of the trust that our original insured continues to place in us. Our continued growth is through www.underwritersinsider.com
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“The Final Authority on Everything!” Duck & Run...
I
’m a 28 year old guy and I’ve finally found my dream job working for an agent (just about my age) that inherited a really nice operation from his dad. Trouble is, we are both dating the same girl, Becky (not her real name), his personal secretary, and he doesn’t know it. I love this girl and I believe she loves me! The boss has shared some intimate details of his time with her and I am very uncomfortable with the developing situation. How can I keep the girl and the job? BTW, the girl is going through a divorce and her soon-to-be-ex-husband is trying hard to win her back and taking her to dinner twice a week and sending roses to the office. — H.Y. Somewhere in S. Carolina
ADVISOR
Becky is having a ball and playing the three of you for complete fools. The Advisor, being an expert on women, can tell you that women going through a divorce can be half-crazy, unstable, experimental, very dangerous — and a helluva lot of fun.
now, substitute another chemical. (Beer works). Get back to your aged accounts receivables and keep your back to the wall so you can be the first to duck when the estranged husband figures out what’s happening, goes nuts and comes in shooting.
You don’t have to worry But If Becky was that into about keeping both the job you, she wouldn’t be dating and the girl - you never had two other guys. You’ve the girl - keep the job! got to wrap up your puppy love and get back to work. Remember this H.Y. - love is a chemical reaction. For — The Advisor
Hang on here — let me get my Dear Abbey wig on... OK, H.Y., you, your boss and this girl’s estranged husband are all chumps. www.underwritersinsider.com
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FREE CLASSIFIED RULES: Submit all ads online at: www.underwritersinsider.
4-40/2-20 Agent Wanted Deerfield/Boca Raton
com/classifieds. Ads must be less than 501 characters plus a title line. Eligible Licensed 440/220 Wanted in free classifieds include help wanted, position wanted, personal ads, agency the Boca/Deerfield area for for sale/purchase, or the one-time sale of an item or items. Place Ad HERE! Active office. Great oppor-
Submit all ads online at: www. tunity for the right person. underwritersinsider.com/classifieds. Only $1.00 per word, including title line and response info. Payment must be received prior to print date. Ads run 3 mo. Contact:insure4u954@aol.com
REGULAR CLASSIFIED RULES:
Wholesale Broker Wanted Hallandale, FL
Regency Insurance Brokerage Services is seeking a top quality broker with deep relationships in the industry. If interested, please respond with your resume to the email address provided below. Thank you. mmartinez@riemerinsurance.com 11-6
2-20/2-15 AGENT POSITION WANTED MELBOURNE, FL AREA
Licensed 220/215 Agent with over 30 years experience looking for a position to help your agency grow. Prefer the Brevard County / Melbourne area Please send any inquiries to aainsctr@yahoo.com Thank you for your consideration. aainsctr@yahoo. com 11-6
QQ Evolution
Independent Contractor Agency seeking individual with experience in QQ EVOLUTION management system. Part time and project requirements,possible ongoing. Central Florida Coastal can work remotely. Send Resume to Ins4Biz@gmail.com or fax to 321-574-5915. 11-6
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2-20 Agent Wanted Port Orange, FL
Part-Time Up to $18/hr -Independent Agency looking for a licensed 2/20 insurance sales producer. Don’t bother responding unless you are the best in sales and are able to prove it. Start now at the ground level of a new independent insurance agency in Port Orange. Must be good at sales and have a great ability to close deals and round out accounts. Email resume for additional information. If you are an ambitious insurance sales producer email me now: PortOrangeInsuranceAgent220@gmail.com 11-6
EXPERIENCED COMMERCIAL LINES CSR PALM BEACH,FL AREA Boca Raton,Fl- MGA/Wholesaler looking for experience commercial lines CSR/ Rater ,must be highly motivated,energetic with good communication skills. Good salary and benefits. Contact: ccalver@niuw.com 11-6
2-20 AGENT WANTED! BROWARD COUNTY, FL Broward County Ins Agency needsan energetic, hardworking, experienced Commercial Lines Producer. Pls fax resume to 954-208-0011. 11-6
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11-6
Roswell, GA Premium Finance Sales Opportunity Are you ready to take your sales career to the next level? Est. in 1984 and based in Roswell, GA, Advanced Insurance Systems Inc. is a fast paced, highf growth technology company that develops and markets premium finance software throughout N. America. While working mostly inside-sales in our Roswell office, you will be challenged by the development of new business and the on-going support for existing clients. Help move sales opportunities through demos, proof of concept and responding to requests for information and proposals. Resumes to:
Arthur@financemaster.com
10-10
Experienced CSR Wanted
Lake Worth/Lantana, FL Busy Lantana/Lake Worth insurance office seeking a full time customer service representative. Office experience is a must. A 440 is preferred however, not required. Hours are M-F 8:30-5:30 with 1 hour lunch. Please email resumes to csr@sfcins.net 11-6 The Underwriter’s Insider
Account Executive Washington, DC area AHT Insurance is seeking an Account Executive to work closely with clients in the marketing, servicing, development, and retention of commercial insurance accounts. The Account Executive will take a consultative role, making recommendations on the most appropriate and cost effective insurance solutions with a focus on high service satisfaction. For more information about this opportunity, visit www. ahtins.com. For consideration, please send your resume to smiley@ahtins.com. smiley@ahtins.com 11-6
Position Needed Workers Compensation Orlando - Fl E. Coast
Experienced Workers Compensation underwriter/marketing representative. Years of experience in the Florida market. Also experienced in the PEO industry and all casualty lines including Trucking. Please contact Tom @ toogreatt@yahoo.com 11-6
Marketing Rep Wanted
Orlando or Jacksonville The Marketing Sales Representative is accountable for the daily management and business relationship between the Company and a specific group of independent agents. Responsibilities range from establishing and managing agent’s sales against the Company’s strategic business goals; developing and monitoring sales; to training all levels within the agency regarding specific rating and service functions. Contact: marketing@windhaveninsurance.com 11-6 www.underwritersinsider.com
INSURANCE AGENCY FOR SALE Well known South Florida based insurance agency with over 35 years of experience. Opportunities in Broward, West Palm, Orange and Hillsborough Counties. Great opportunity to get into the business with one of the industry’s most locally recognized brands. 8 week training and ongoing support. Operations Manual, marketing & advertising. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY, INSURANCE EXPERINCE WELCOMED. contact: franchise@estrellainsurance.com or call us at 1-888-511-7722 11-6
Insurance Agent Tampa St Pete Area Are you interested in a long term career that builds your income from year to year; is a great place for a selfmotivated person to succeed; allows you to be the expert others look to for answers; provides you a training period working side-by-side with an experienced agent; gives assistance to people, who will really appreciate it. Uses a business model that is cutting edge and when you follow, duplicate and master, you will be successful¡Kand we will show you how! jeanette@floridabestquote.com 11-6
Broward County 2-20 Agent Wanted Broward County Ins Agency needs An energetic, hardworking, experienced Commercial Lines Producer. Pls fax resume to: 954-208-0011 11-6
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Insurance Agent up to $60K 4-40 / 2-20 (Near Boca Raton)
QQSolutions, field Beach
Inc.,
Deer-
agency management software Train new customers in use of QQSolutions products & services. 220 / 440 at least 3 years of customer service experience working in a P&C insurance agency. Experience in using agency management systems, such as QQSolutions, QQEvolution/ QuickFile, QQCatalyst, TAM/DORIS, AMS 360, Hawksoft, etc.Excellent verbal & written communications skills Great presenter and trainer. Contact: dsteinberg@qqsolutions.com 11-6
Experienced CSR/Agent Boca Raton-Deerfield Established agency seeks experience CSR/Agent for non-standard agency. Good opportunity to grow with us.Excellent working conditions. Contact: insure4u954@aol.com
11-6
Position Wanted Worker’s Comp Underwriter Orlando/East Coast of FLA Experienced Workers Compensation underwriter/marketing representative. Years of experience in the Florida market. Also experienced in the PEO industry and all casualty lines including Trucking. Please contact Tom @ toogreatt@yahoo.com 11-5 25
SAY WHAT? Notable Quotes You May Have Missed!
Cops Gone Wild - Execute Suspect Along With Innocent Man
four-hour ball games. Umpires have tried to speed up the game by widening the strike zone, but that move has unintended consequences -- a record number of strikeouts. During Guidry’s playing career in the 1970s, it took 2 ½ minutes to put a ball into play; now it’s every 3 ½ minutes.” Mark Skousen, Editor of Forecasts & Strategies, lamenting on one reason why professional baseball may no longer be America’s pastime.
“
The policemen that had on the black and white vests were out there laughing like it was so funny, because they got a free shot off them people. Shooting all them bullets like that, that don’t make no sense.” - A resident of a Miami neighborhood after 23 frenzied police officers discharged at least 377 bullets into a blue Volvo firmly wedged between a tree and a post and occupied by two unarmed men - only one of which had committed a crime for which he was being pursued. Both men in the Volvo died and two police officers were injured in the wild cross-fire. The incident is still under investigation. [MORE]
Slow Ball...
“
Today, pitchers pace around the mound, while batters step out of the box excessively. Pitching changes occur so frequently that the average game now goes beyond three hours. Add in the decision this year to review close calls with instant replay cameras, and concern is mounting about the risk of
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Climate Zealots Force Leading Scientist out of Global Realists Group
“
I have been put under such an enormous group pressure in recent days from all over the world that has become virtually unbearable to me. If this is going to continue I will be unable to conduct my normal work and will even start to worry about my health and safety. I see therefore no other way out therefore than resigning from GWPF. I had not expecting such an enormous worldwide pressure put at me from a community that I have been close to all my active life. Colleagues are withdrawing their support, other colleagues are withdrawing from joint authorship etc. I see no limit and end to what will happen. It is a situation that reminds me about the time of McCarthy. I would never have expecting anything similar in such an original peaceful community as meteorology. Apparently it has been transformed in recent years. Under these situation I will be unable to contribute positively to the work of GWPF and consequently therefore I believe it is the best for
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The Underwriter’s Insider
me to reverse my decision to join its Board at the earliest possible time.” - Professor Lennart Bengtsson, one of the most distinguished climate scientists in the world, on resigning from the board of Londonbased think tank Global Warming Policy Foundation, a group of climate change “realists.” GWPF was established to counter the shameful bullying and pressure that Bengtsson relates exists in the climate change “community” against anyone with dissenting opinions. This forced and contrived “consensus” is antithetical to the scientific process - yet a perfect example of what happens when left-wing politics, grant money and career advancement pollute the scientific and academic environment. For a full review of the climate fraud being perpetrated against all people, review the April Advisor [HERE]
A Metastasizing Culture of Death
“
The threat of radical Islam is not abating. It is growing. It is spreading across the world. It is de-stabilizing communities and even nations. It is undermining the possibility of peaceful co-existence in an era of globalization. And in the face of this threat we seem curiously reluctant to acknowledge it and powerless to counter it effectively…” Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair warning last month about the spread of radical Islam (may we add Sharia Law?) while lamenting that the west may be more concerned about political correctness,
www.underwritersinsider.com
tolerance and diversity than we are about staying alive.
ObamaCare Reality Check
“
How could this not be working? The United States government has set this up. It’s this whole big deal; there are commercials everywhere saying we need to use this. And they’re just saying, ‘No, no, no.’” - Nick Robinson of Dallas Texas on discovering that few of the doctors listed in his Obamacare coverage actually accepted the coverage - and his wife Rachel was 4 months pregnant. Nick and Rachel stopped paying for the policy, worthless to them, and enlisted the help of a mid-wife to assist in an at-home birth. The out-of-pocket cost of the at-home birth was $4,000 - but at least they received value for their money.
From The Land of Governor Moonbeam...
“
People should have a right to these things.” Nathalie Hrizi, 33, a San Francisco teacher and candidate for the office of California insurance commissioner running on the “Peace and Freedom Party” ticket. She seeks to create a government-run, single-payor health insurance program that offers no-cost coverage for all - paid for by the state and/or the federal government. Her platform includes outlawing for-profit insurance companies (for all lines) and the establishment of publicly owned “low-cost” agencies selling auto and homeowners coverage. Hrizi is another “redistribute-the wealth” socialist ideologue in the Obama mold.
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May 2014
April 2014
March 2014
February 2014
January 2014
December 2013
November 2013
October 2013
September 2013
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The Underwriter’s Insider
August 2013
July 2013
June 2013
May 2013
April 2013
March 2013
February 2013
January 2013
December 2012
www.underwritersinsider.com
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BOEING PERFORMS EXTREME TESTING ON LATEST VERSION OF VENERABLE 747 JET
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HERE THE REAL WAR ON WOMEN:
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SHARIA LAW
And the Deafening, Hypocritical Silence From The Political Left...
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ZALMA
including fracturing of the plaster walls and building structure.” The plaintiff notified the defendant of the two claimed losses, but never filed a proof of loss for those claims. With respect to the claimed loss from September, 2006, the plaintiff hired a public adjustor, Allen Sabel, to negotiate with the defendant on his behalf. The defendant ultimately denied coverage for both claimed losses and damages, citing the plaintiff’s failure to submit a proof of loss as required under the policy. The proof of loss provision set forth in the insurance policy provides as follows: “After a loss to which this insurance may apply, you shall see that the following duties are performed … e. submit to us, within 60 days after the loss, your signed, sworn proof of loss…” In addition, the policy barred suit until all conditions had been met.
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of law in opposition to the The plaintiff also brought an action defendant’s motion for summary against Sabel, Sabel Adjustors, judgment, claiming that summary LLC, and Sabel & Associates, Inc. judgment was not warranted (Sabel defendants), alleging failure because there remained a genuine to negotiate with the insurance issue of material fact as to whether companies—the defendant the defendant was prejudiced and Nationwide by the plaintiff’s “The court I n s u r a n c e failure to submit Company—on a proof of loss. concluded, the plaintiff’s The plaintiff therefore, that the behalf. He subsequently brought another filed a plaintiff failed to action against supplementary satisfy a condition Nationwide brief in precedent of the I n s u r a n c e opposition to Company and the defendant’s insurance policy, Oscar Fernandez, motion for and, accordingly, alleging that s u m m a r y granted the Fernandez and judgment fully his workers defendant’s motion adopting the negligently arguments set for summary caused the forth in the Sabel judgment.” damage to the defendants’ plaintiff’s home memorandum whose situation of law in was not the subject of the appeal. opposition to the defendant’s motion for summary judgment. State Farm filed a motion for summary judgment claiming that TRIAL COURT it was entitled DECISION to judgment as a matter of law because The trial court issued a of decision the plaintiff memorandum breached a granting the defendant’s motion c o n d i t i o n for summary judgment. In p r e c e d e n t reaching its decision, the court of coverage determined that “an insured must by failing file a proof of loss prior to making to submit a a claim against his insurance proof of loss. company and prior to bringing The Sabel suit if the insurance company defendants filed a See Zalma Pg 39 memorandum
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Experts and Consultants for Insurance Disputes 4441 Sepulveda Boulevard Culver City, California 90230 310-390-4455 zalma@zalma.com http://www.zalma.com
Consultation from Zalma Insurance Consultants (ZIC) can save you or your client thousands of dollars in the defense or prosecution of an insurance dispute. ZIC provides expert advice and counsel insurers and plaintiffs’ counsel find indispensable. Consultation from ZIC can save you, your counsel or client hundreds of hours of investigative and legal work. ZALMA INSURANCE CONSULTANTS is a service of Barry Zalma, Inc. a California professional corporation. Barry Zalma is an internationally recognized expert on insurance coverage, insurance claims handling, insurance bad faith, insurance fraud detection, the defeat of false and fraudulent claims, Barry Zalma, Esq. insurance claims handling, and the resolution of insurance disputes. As a consultant, expert witness, lawyer, author, mediator or arbitrator he serves all parties who need consultation or expert testimony on matters relating to insurance coverage, insurance claims handling, insurance fraud and the tort of bad faith. Barry Zalma founded Zalma Insurance Consultants to help resolve any insurance claim problem faced by you or your clients that do not need Mr. Zalma’s services as a lawyer. His experience and skill as a consultant and expert witness can make the difference before a jury or other trier of fact. For more than 44 years as a claims person and insurance coverage attorney, Barry Zalma has represented insurers, advised insurers on claims handling, interpreted coverages and testified as an insurance coverage, insurance bad faith, insurance claims handling and insurance fraud expert on behalf of insurers and policyholders in state and federal courts.
Expert Testimony
Zalma Insurance Consultants serves insurers, policyholders, underwriters, brokers, agents, adjusters, public insurance adjusters, lawyers and any person involved in an insurance dispute. Because he is an attorney licensed to practice law in the state of California M r. Zalma may be prohibited by California case law from acting as a consultant or expert witness and, therefore, refuses to serve in any situation where a past client of his law firm, Barry Zalma, Inc. is adverse to anyone seeking his services.
Y ou can obtain M r. Zalma’s C.V . at http://www.zalma.com and his e-book publications http://www.zalma.com/zalmabooks.htm and blogs daily at Zalma on Insurance, http://zalma.com/blog.
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KIM KOMANDO
Click the Edit button to view the saved passwords.
Unfortunately, aside from keeping people out of your computer to see the actual saved password. entirely, there is no way to stop a If you don’t have an account snoop once they’re in Safari itself. password set for Windows, Again, you need to set a password however, snoops can just waltz in. for your computer and have it lock That’s just one good reason to have automatically to keep people off of an account password - click here to it when you aren’t around. learn how to set one up.
Other solutions The best solution is a hard password that you can remember. Yes, you can do this. I have passwords more complicated than Calculus
See Kim Komando Pg 38
Internet Explorer Surprisingly, Internet Explorer is the browser that’s strongest against this kind of casual snooping. It’s also the weakest if the snoop knows what they’re doing. Confused? Well, on the “strong” side, IE doesn’t have a way to see your saved passwords in the browser itself. However, on the “bad” side, a good snoop will know to download and run the free program IE PassView to get the full list. And there’s no setting in IE that can stop it. You can minimize the risk by running Windows in Standard mode instead of Administrator mode. This prevents people from installing programs without your Windows password. Click here to learn more about setting up the best type of Windows account.
Safari For Safari, go to Safari>>Preferences>>Auto-fill. www.underwritersinsider.com
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CELEBRATE DIVERSITY?
S
Pregnant Sudanese Christian Shackled and Jailed Awaiting Death Sentence For Failure To Renounce Her Religion
udan - Merian Ibrahim, 27, is an eight months pregnant Christian woman married to a Christian man who happens to be a U.S. citizen. She is in a Sudanese prison, along with her 20 monthold-son shackled and awaiting 100 lashes to be followed immediately by a death sentence.
Her crime? She has refused to renounce the religion of Christianity in which she was raised, and convert to Islam. She was convicted by a Sudanese Sharia court in Khartoum of apostasy - a Muslim leaving Islam - and adultery for marrying a Christian man. The prosecution claims she was born a Muslim which Merian disputes. Her husband, Daniel Wani, has been living in the United States awaiting 34
the completion of the paperwork to bring Merian into the country, rushed to Sudan to see if he could free his wife and son. After a prolonged wait, he was allowed to visit his family in prison - yet he will not be allowed custody of his 20-month-old son since the court has ruled the child is Muslim. Sharia
Many in this country and abroad like to draw a big, rhetorical distinction between radical Islam and so-called moderate Islam, claiming moderate Islam is completely benign. Only if you believe a death penalty for converting from Islam is benign. They should know this atrocity being committed against Merian Ibrahim has nothing to do with so-called radical Islam. Sharia law, advocated by most Muslims, is loaded with all sorts of similar “crimes” and punishment. (see The Real War Against Women) If that was not enough cultural diversity to celebrate, read the story of this 25-year-old Pakistani Muslim woman who was dragged away from her new husband to be stoned and beaten to death with bricks by a crazed mob - including her own father and brothers and former fiance.
Farzana Iqbal “dishonored” her family, they claim, because she married the man of her choice rather than her cousin - a marriage arranged by her family. Thousands law does not permit a Christian man of young women are killed every year in these so-called honor to raise a Muslim child. killings. There appears to be some familial intrigue going on as well since When she refused to leave her new the woman was initially charged husband’s side, outside one of the with having illegitimate sex since main courthouses in Pakistan, she her marriage to a Christian man is was murdered in cold blood, dying considered adultery as her marriage of massive head wounds. to a Christian man is considered by Sharia law to be illegitimate. Certain Ed - Perhaps it’s time to stop members of her father’s family reflexively celebrating so-called “multiculturalism” when it’s American brought the charges against her. culture we should be encouraging. Ours is just better!
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VA SCANDAL OFFERS WINDOW INTO OBAMACARE
the means of accessing it, Reid said: “Yes, yes. Absolutely, yes.” [ Source]
That goal has never, not once, been disavowed, nor has it been claimed that it has changed. A single payer fully government run and owned system remains the goal of the Democratic Party leadership and of the passage by those who did its head “leader” Barack H. Obama. of the PPACA is to establish a fully Government Run and Owned Given the Single Payer Health reprehensible “It is time to ‘just say manner in which Care System: no’ to government we now have “Sen. Harry Reid: Veterans who ‘run and owned’ Obamacare deserve the best anything. It is ‘Absolutely’ A Step this country can Toward A Single- time for the private offer them, dying Payer System. waiting for sector to be ‘owning’ while treatment because Reid said he thinks and ‘running’ of the ineptitude the country has to and corrupt our entitlement “work our way past” manner in which programs, and let the VA is being run, insurance -based health care during the government it begs credulity a Friday night handle regulating to think that the appearance on health care needs those programs Vegas PBS’ program of the 330 Million “Nevada Week in Americans who under the strict Review.” would be forced supervision of into a system that our United States has been proven “What we’ve done with Obamacare is to be harmful to Congress.” have a step in the their health. right direction, but we’re far from having something It is time to “Just say no” to that’s going to work forever,” Reid government “run and owned” said. anything. It is time for the private sector to be “owning” and “running” When then asked by panelist our entitlement programs, and let Steve Sebelius whether he meant the government handle regulating ultimately the country would those programs under the strict have to have a health care system supervision of our United States that abandoned insurance as Congress. www.underwritersinsider.com
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America deserves far better than she has been receiving from our Congress (in desperate need of reform) and President Barack Obama.
“In my many years, I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm an three or more is a congress.” -John Adams 35
VERTAFORE UNVEILS NEW CLOUDBASED TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS FOR INSURANCE AGENCIES TO SUPERCHARGE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCIES AND DRIVE PROFITABILITY
V
ertafore, the leading optimize every facet of their provider of software that organizations. In fact, the total transforms the business insurance IT spending across of insurance, today introduced North America, Europe, Latin a major upgrade across its entire America, and Asia-Pacific is portfolio of comprehensive expected to reach $162.1 billion and technologically advanced in 2014, with continued growth agency solutions for small, mid- to $176.7 billion by 2016 . Despite size and enterprise insurance increasing budgets, Ernst & Young agencies. Based on demand by reports that 80% of insurance Vertafore’s customer base of over executives see themselves as 20,000 insurance businesses, the technology laggards in customer Sagitta 2014, engagement, Vertafore Agency analytics and Platform 2014 adoption of FREE CLASSIFIEDS! and AMS360 mobile. To 2014 solutions alleviate these HELP WANTED — POSITION incorporate the hardships, WANTED 4 — SALE ITEMS latest in cloud, Vertafore CLICK HERE! data, mobile breaks the and automation mold of technologies to traditional help today’s modern insurance insurance software by agencies increase operational incorporating cloud, mobile efficiencies and grow profitability. and big data capabilities into With over $50 million invested their technologies – providing into product development the industry’s most advanced, annually, the new wave of agency comprehensive portfolio solutions demonstrates Vertafore’s of solutions for agencies to commitment to driving the maximize performance and drive success of independent agencies profitability. of all sizes. A recent Gartner market share Technology investments are at analysis has ranked Vertafore an all-time high for insurance second as the top 12 self-serve providers looking to software insurance vendors (VSS) worldwide and IT solutions to innovate and for 2012 and 2013 . Today, over
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20,000 insurance businesses use Vertafore, including 96% of the top independent agencies, 80% of carriers, and 13 of 25 leading brokers. In addition to the company’s recent partnerships with DocuSign, Progressive and the National Flood Service, the new enhancements in Sagitta 2014, Vertafore Agency Platform 2014 and AMS360 2014 solidify Vertafore’s leadership position.
Sagitta 2014 As the only customizable enterprise-level solution in the market, Sagitta 2014 is designed for scalability and provides an extensible architecture to meet the unique needs of enterpriseclass agencies. Sagitta 2014 includes enhanced services at scale, such as access for remote users, analyzing and managing multiple lines of business, 3rd party application integration, and custom development capabilities – all showcasing the strength of the Sagitta product. As part of the new Vertafore Enterprise Suite, Sagitta 2014 works in tandem with integral agency products such as WorkSmart, BenefitPoint, and PL Rating to deliver user efficiencies unique to complex agency processes and tasks. The Underwriter’s Insider
“I've been a Vertafore customer and Sagitta user since 1997, and our agency has built our business and processes around the Sagitta solution,” said Beth Jerauld, Senior Vice President of Mesirow Insurance Services, one of the largest independent insurance brokerages and consulting firms in the Chicago area, ranking among the top 40 in the country. “The new enhancements are incredibly advanced, customizable and scalable, allowing us to continue meeting the growing needs of our enterprise. The developmental efforts going into the Sagitta product are core to achieving our goals, and we’re looking forward to seeing additional innovations unfold in the coming months.”
Vertafore Agency Platform 2014 Since introducing the Vertafore Agency Platform in March 2013, the company has signed one new agency customer per day, signing more than 500 incremental new users each month. To help agencies overcome the challenge of managing disparate technologies even more, the Vertafore Agency Platform 2014 now offers an integrated single application experience that allows independent agents to make accurate business decisions and efficiently execute work tasks. New enhancements include Vertafore Single Sign-On, Vertafore SmartFlows, and a new “My Agency Home” dashboard that offers a personalized www.underwritersinsider.com
summary of each agent’s work status – including key tasks and outstanding issues. This automated guidance also helps reduce human latency and errors that hinder excellence in client service. "Transitioning to the Agency Platform was a no-brainer, particularly due to the seamless integration of our core business applications and advanced reporting functionalities,” said Whitney Malone, Agency Operations Specialist at Gardiner Allen DeRoberts Insurance, one of the nation’s largest, locally owned independent insurance agency supporting clients in all 50 states. “Since making the switch, our agents can manage leads and sell more effectively, resulting in exponential revenue growth.”
AMS360 2014 As the most cost-effective standalone agency management system, AMS360 is a starting point for fast growing agencies before upgrading to the Vertafore Agency Platform. Currently serving over 60,000 users, AMS360 2014 offers a rich set of new features that helps agencies drive revenue growth and better serve customers, including new accounting, billing endorsement processing, and on-demand access to ACORD forms. AMS360 2014 also supports the latest PC software versions, including Windows 8.1, IE 10 and 11.
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“Not long after taking over our family-owned agency, it became apparent that technology could resolve a majority of our day-today inefficiencies,” said Rex Caton, CEO of Caton-Hosey Insurance Agency, known as Florida’s most respected property, casualty and benefits insurance agency. “Vertafore’s agency solutions put us ahead of competition and have played a significant role in helping achieve our business goals. AMS360 allows our team to automate processes, and spend more time focusing on client needs and improving the customer service experience.”
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APPLIED SYSTEMS USERS GROUP ADDS TWO NEW CHAPTERS ASCnet Atlantic and ASCnet Ottawa to Hold Meetings in June
users," said Chapter President Karen LeBlanc, IT manager at Huestis Insurance Group in Saint John, New Brunswick. For meeting ES PLAINES, Ill. (May 28, information, visit ASCnetAtlantic. 2014) -- Applied Systems ca. Client Network (ASCnet) Chair Chris Gory announced the Members of the ASCnet Ottawa formation of two new chapters Canada chapter, who hail from that will deliver local education, throughout eastern Ontario, will networking opportunities and come together for their chapter other member benefits in their meeting on June 12 in Ottawa. regions. The new ASCnet Atlantic "We look forward to welcoming Canada and ASCnet Ottawa members and non-members alike Canada chapters will host inaugural to take part in this networking and chapter meetings in June. learning day, featuring presenters from ASCnet and Applied Systems," "We are pleased to be able to said Chapter President Cory expand our local offerings and to Villenueve, CAIB, CIP, CRM, partner provide more opportunities for at Assurances Palladium Insurance increased member engagement in Brokers in Ottawa. For meeting the areas these new chapters serve," information, visit ASCnetOttawa. says Gory, president of Insurance ca. Portfolio Financial Services in Toronto. "Chapter involvement "We are excited to work with the and meeting participation provide volunteers who will be leading great opportunities for members these new chapters, helping to realize an even greater return on them deliver great programs and their ASCnet membership." member services and learning from their experience and The ASCnet Atlantic Canada expertise," said ASCnet Chapters chapter serves members in the Committee Chair Amber Bosma, four Atlantic Provinces -- New CIC, CISR, partner at Prins Insurance Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova in Sanborn, Iowa. "ASCnet offers Scotia and Prince Edward Island -- a wide range of learning and and will host its first chapter meeting networking opportunities, June 10 and 11 in Dartmouth, and the ability of local Applied Nova Scotia. "We have a great Systems technology users to help agenda packed with information, and interact with fellow users education and networking is a tremendous benefit for our opportunities for Applied Systems members."
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KIM KOMANDO
formulas. Click here to learn how I remember them all. Another solution is to turn off password saving for every browser - just follow the steps above for seeing passwords and you’ll find the option - and use a third-party password manager like KeePass instead. Password managers work the same for every browser, you only need to remember one master password, and you can easily back up your passwords so you don’t lose them. For basic security, you should also take steps to keep people out of your account. Set up a guest account for visitors to use, put a password on your main account and be sure to lock your computer when you step away (the shortcut is Windows Key + L in Windows). Copyright 2014, WestStar MultiMedia Entertainment. All rights reserved. On the Kim Komando Show, the nation’s largest weekend radio talk show, Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, newsletters and more, visit her website at www.komando.com.
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turned on the distinction between a delayed filing of a proof of loss and a failure to file a proof of loss. The plaintiff does not dispute the fact that he failed to submit denies the claim, but if the insured to the defendant a proof of loss belatedly submits a proof of loss as required under the insurance and the policy does not specifically policy. This concession is fatal state that doing so is grounds for to his claim on appeal, as the denial, the insurer must prove appellate court could not find any that the late submission caused case law that requires an insurer some prejudice. The court found to prove prejudice following an that this is not a case in which insured’s failure to submit a proof the plaintiff belatedly submitted of loss under an insurance policy. a proof of loss; rather, it is a case in which the plaintiff never In light of the plaintiff’s failure to submitted a proof of loss, and, provide any persuasive support thus, the defendant’s burden for his claim on appeal, the Court to prove prejudice never arose. of Appeal concluded that the The court concluded, therefore, trial court properly granted the that the plaintiff failed to satisfy defendant’s motion for summary a condition precedent of the judgment. insurance policy, and, accordingly, granted the defendant’s motion ZALMA OPINION for summary judgment.
ZALMA
ANALYSIS The plaintiff claims that the court improperly granted the defendant’s motion for summary judgment because “[a]n insurer has the burden of proving prejudice when it refuses to compensate for a covered loss on the ground that the insured failed to submit a sworn proof of loss statement.” He contends, therefore, that because there remains a genuine issue of material fact as to whether the defendant was prejudiced, summary judgment was not warranted. The Court of Appeal’s decision www.underwritersinsider.com
The importance of a proof of loss, as a key promise made by every insured, is hoary with age. The New York Standard Insurance Policy, first enacted into law in the 19th Century, required that “within 60 days after the loss … the insured shall render to this company a proof of loss, signed and sworn to by the insured, stating the knowledge and belief of the insured…” stating the cause and amount of loss and claim. In this case the insured, who suffered a serious and disgusting loss with his home covered in human excrement, with the aid of a professional public adjuster, broke one of the most important promises he made when he
bought the policy. His failure to fulfill the promise made it impossible for the insurer to properly investigate his loss and claim to its prejudice. However, since he never filed a proof of loss, there was no need to prove prejudice – as obvious as it was – since the promise was broken. The insured, of course, is not without a remedy. He has sued, and should succeed in that suit, against the public adjuster and the person responsible for the loss.
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UNITED INSURANCE HOLDINGS CORP. TERMINATES LETTER OF INTENT TO ACQUIRE SUNSHINE STATE INSURANCE COMPANY
T. PETERSBURG, Fla.United Insurance Holdings Corp. (UPC Insurance or the Company) UIHC +0.88% , announced on May 28, 2014 that it has terminated its non-binding letter of intent regarding the proposed acquisition of 100% of Sunshine State Insurance Company (SSIC), a Florida domiciled property and casualty insurance company. The execution of the letter of intent was previously announced by the Company on May 15, 2014.
acquisition, we are confident that this decision is in the best interest of our shareholders,” said John Forney, President & CEO of UPC Insurance. “Our organic growth both in Florida and elsewhere continues to be robust, and that has always been the main driver of our policy growth. We will continue to seek other complementary growth opportunities, but we will always remain disciplined in our approach.”
About UPC Insurance
“While we are disappointed not to Founded in 1999, UPC Insurance be able to move forward with this is an insurance holding company
THREE SENTENCED IN JAX STAGED ACCIDENT FRAUD
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ACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Three individuals were recently sentenced for their involvement in a staged car accident and insurance fraud scheme in Jacksonville. George Orlando Ortiz, Jr., 33, received nine and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to four counts of Committing a Staged Motor Vehicle Accident, False Insurance Claims, and Schemes to Defraud. Noylan Barreto, 21, was sentenced to three years in prison followed by ten years of probation on two counts of Committing a Staged Motor Vehicle Accident and
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one count of False Insurance Claims. Freddie Alberto Freytes, 43, received 6 years in prison on two counts of Committing a Staged Motor Vehicle Accident and three counts of False Insurance Claims.
that sources, writes and services residential property and casualty insurance policies using a network of independent agents and a group of wholly owned insurance subsidiaries. United Property & Casualty Insurance Company, the primary operating subsidiary of UPC Insurance, writes and services property and casualty insurance in Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Texas, and is licensed to write in Louisiana, Georgia and New Hampshire. From its headquarters in St. Petersburg, UPC Insurance's team of dedicated professionals manages a completely integrated insurance company, including sales, underwriting, customer service and claims.
discovered that these three defendants, known as “mid-level recruiters”, were part of a group that would stage fake car accidents and then file Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims through rehab clinics. The clinics, which were owned by the “organizers” of this scheme, were the mechanisms used to provide bogus treatment to the staged accident participants for non-existent injuries. Insurance companies paid more than $150,000 for the accidents involving Ortiz, Barreto, and Freytes.
In 2012, the State Attorney’s Office (SAO) and the Division of Insurance Fraud (DIF) began its investigation into a series of staged accidents in Duval County. Investigators Noylan Barreto, Freddie Freytes & George Ortiz
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