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A home or office building is the most significant purchase most of us will make during our lifetime. Most of us buy insurance coverage - windstorm, liability, flood, homeowners, and business interruption - to protect our homes and businesses. Yet, today's insurance policies are lengthy, complex contracts full of exceptions, exclusions, deductibles, and conditions that make the policy difficult to read, and sometimes even more difficult to recover from for your damage. The Maus Law Firm has the best Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyers to handle property damage claims. These are just a few of the questions you may deal with after suffering a house water damage claim, plumbing backup, or a broken pipe above your condominium unit.
Worried about the 2019 Hurricane Season? Read more here.
Disagreeing with Your Insurance Claim for Property Damage

You have four options if you disagree with the amount the insurance company is offering you for your damage:

Most insurance companies create entire TV marketing campaigns designed to say that you're part of the insurance company's "family". However, the reality of the insurance business is that insurance companies exist to make money. That means that insurance company needs to minimize the amount of claims it pays out; meanwhile, maximizing the premiums that it collects.

When an insurance company doesn't offer to pay you the full (or fair) amount of your property damage, you need to be prepared to fight. While many homeowners are hesitant to go to court - fearful of a lengthy or expensive legal battle against a big-name insurer - settling for less than your claim was worth can end up costing you more in the long-term. The repairs your home needed can continue to pile up, lowering the value of your property. Hiring the best Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer you can find will save you the headache later.

The Process for Property Damage Claims

When making insurance claims for property damage, it is helpful to know how the process typically unfolds. Our Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer knows that while there are many potential scenarios, the property owner should first understand their own obligations under the insurance policy. Second, the property owner should understand the reasons for the insurance company's denial of their claim.

Florida Property Owner's Obligations

Any property insurance policy will impose some obligations on the property owner when they make a claim for property loss. These obligations will differ from policy to policy, but the following are several of the most common requirements.

Notice of Loss: The property owner is generally required to provide notice of the loss to the carrier promptly. The policy should provide a specific deadline. Failure to meet this deadline could result in the claim being barred.

The property owner is also required to take reasonable steps to protect the property from further damage. For example, if the roof of a property is Protect Against Further Damage: damaged by a hurricane, the property owner must attempt to place temporary covering to protect the interior. However, the exact conduct that is considered "reasonable steps" will often be subject to interpretation.

Proof of Loss: After making a claim, the property owner will need to submit a proof of loss statement. This statement is generally signed under penalty of perjury and itemizes the damages. A typical deadline for the proof of loss is 60 days after a request by the insurance carrier.

Our Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Lawyer Can Help You Deal With Insurance Company Denials

The following are some common reasons for Florida insurance companies to deny property damage claims.

▪ Failure to Pay Premiums: This is one of the more common reasons to deny claims, since nonpayment of premiums can end policy coverage. While carriers are allowed to cancel coverage due to nonpayment, there are certain exceptions that can serve as excuses for late payments.

▪ Exclusions in Coverage: Often the type of claimed damage is listed in the policy's exclusions and therefore not covered. Common examples include flood damage, earthquake damage and mudslides. Although these exclusions are perfectly legal under insurance law, each particular case is different. Whether some types of damage are properly excluded from coverage is open to interpretation of the facts and the policy language.

▪ Inadequate Proof of Damage: When a carrier claims a policyholder did not provide adequate proof of damage, it often relies on the proof of loss provision in the policy. This provision may set certain requirements for the type of proof that must be submitted.

▪ Non-disclosures by the Policyholder: This reason for denial rests on the insurer's contention that the policyholder failed to disclose key information when they applied for the policy or made the claim.

A Note About Mold Damage Insurance Claims

The problem with water damage at a house or condo is that if the water leaks into the walls or flooring, there is no way to determine the full extent of the damage without looking into the wall or underneath the flooring. However, the only way to do that is to open the wall or lift up the flooring.

If you have mold damage at your house, condo or business, or you have had a water leak that spread into a wall or through your flooring, you should have the area inspected to make sure that mold has not started to grow. Very often the mold will not become visible for weeks or months following the water leak. Insurance proceeds paid through a mediation or appraisal may require you to sign a release, releasing the insurance company from damage you discover after the settlement such as mold. Make sure your property damage lawyer has your house or condo water leak, drain pipe leak or other property damage fully inspected so that any property damage insurance settlement you enter into covers you for mold damage.

Keep in mind, most policies include exclusions for mold insurance coverage. Your property damage insurance policy also provide mold coverage but limit the amount of the policy limits for mold damage. Have your property damage lawyer review your policy's coverage to determine how much of a mold insurance settlement you may be entitled to.

Trust a Top Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Lawyer with Your Claim

In addition to these questions, there are several different types of policies offered by homeowner insurance companies that contain various types of coverage. There is a policy used for owner occupied properties, one for properties that are rented out, and yet another type policy used for condo units. Where do you turn to get help?

When an insurance company denies a property damage claim or delays payment, there are numerous ways in which a Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer can help. Your lawyer can review the facts of your claim, review and analyze your policy and navigate the claims process on your behalf. In addition, your Fort Lauderdale property damage attorney can pursue litigation against the carrier if needed. In fact, the carrier may be more likely to pay your claim or provide a reasonable settlement when it knows you have a well-qualified property damage attorney on your side.

The Maus Law Firm has been successfully handling insurance related claims since 1993. The Firm is "AV" rated by Martindale Hubbell, the highest ranking for legal ability and ethics. The Maus Law Firm has been recognized continuously since 2011 by Florida Trend Magazine's "Legal Elite" ranking, and named a " 1-888-999-5297 SuperLawer " by West Thompson Publishing. The property damage attorneys at The Maus Law Firm will competently and aggressively represent you in your homeowner property damage insurance claim, or commercial business insurance claim. Call now for a free consultation. We come to you and do a free inspection!

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Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Lawyer - Maus Law

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A home or office building is the most significant purchase most of us will make during our lifetime. Most of us buy insurance coverage - windstorm, liability, flood, homeowners, and business interruption - to protect our homes and businesses.

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Personal injuries can occur in numerous ways and are all too common in Fort Lauderdale. When you are injured in an accident that is another person's fault, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. However, recovery is not likely to be simple, nor is it guaranteed.Insurance companies may deny your claim or offer nothing but a "low ball" settlement offer. That said, if you need to take legal action, the Florida legal system is complex and often difficult for laypeople to navigate. Thus, the importance of hiring a personal injury lawyer early in the process cannot be overstated. At the Maus Law Firm, a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can assess your case and fight for your rights.

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Florida

Fort Lauderdale is a busy, vibrant community, with numerous visitors every year. Unfortunately, this results in the area having more than its fair share of accidents that result in personal injuries. The following are some common types of personal injuries:

Car Accidents: Florida has one of the highest rates of car accidents, as well as accident-related injuries and deaths, in the nation.

Slip and Fall: Under the legal doctrine of premises liability, a person who trips and falls due to a dangerous condition on another person's property may be able to recover compensation.

Cruise Ship Accidents: A person injured in an accident or assault while aboard a cruise ship may be able to recover damages. There may even be liability for injuries suffered while boarding, deboarding, or even while in port.

Boating Accidents: A fun activity for Floridians and tourists, boaters need to operate watercraft with care to prevent accidents.

Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcycles are popular in the Fort Lauderdale area, and motorcyclists face the same dangers on the road as they do elsewhere.

Pedestrian Accidents: In addition to slip-and-falls, pedestrians must also beware of motor vehicles. Auto-pedestrian collisions are common in Fort Lauderdale.

Uber/Lyft Accidents: Rideshare apps are widely used in Fort Lauderdale, and this brings with it a high amount of passengers being injured in accidents. These injured passengers, as well as injured pedestrians or occupants of other cars, may be able to recover compensation from the rideshare company.

Bicycle Accidents: Bicyclists have to share the crowded Fort Lauderdale roads with cars, which inevitably results in auto-bicycle collisions.

When seeking out a Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorney, it is best to ensure that he or she has experience with your type of accident.

Establishing Fault in Florida Injury Claims

Even when an insurance company settles with an injured person before trial or even before a lawsuit is filed, this is generally done with the understanding that the injured person may be able to prove liability. However, if the insurance company denies payment or fails to offer an adequate amount, you will have no choice except to take legal action. This is why it is important to be able to establish legal fault for your personal injuries.

When a case proceeds to trial, the injured person and their attorney typically seek to prove that the defendant's misconduct, more likely than not, caused their injuries. The legal misconduct could be negligent or reckless driving, failure to maintain safe premises or other activities. No matter the misconduct alleged, the plaintiff must generally prove the defendant fell below a reasonable standard of care.

Even if the injured person was partially at fault, they still may be able to recover damages. Florida is a comparative liability state where fault can be divided or "apportioned" between different parties. The partially at-fault plaintiff can still recover damages, but their award is reduced according to their percentage of fault. So, if the plaintiff is found to be 40 percent at fault with $100,000 in damages, their award would be reduced by 40 percent to $60,000.

A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can first assess your case and determine if another person could potentially be at fault. If so, your attorney can marshall the evidence and navigate the legal process to obtain just compensation for you and your family.

Recoverable Damages for Personal Injuries Under Florida Law

Under Florida law, an injured person can recover compensation for the following after an accident:

Medical Expenses: The injured person can recover for the medical expenses resulting from their injuries. This includes past, continuing and future estimated expenses.

If the injuries cause the person to lose time from work, or otherwise lose income, the lost amount can be recovered as damages. The injured party can also recover for income lost due to reduced earning capacity. (Note: If the accident occurred at work, you'll want to pursue a Lost Wages: workers' compensation claim.

Rehabilitation Expenses: If the hurt individual requires physical therapy, occupational therapy or other rehabilitation, the associated expenses can be recovered in a lawsuit.

Pain and Suffering: An extra element of damages is the injured victim's pain and suffering, which generally increases for more serious injuries.

Wrongful Death: When the accident results in death, the family and loved ones of the decedent may be able to recover for loss of financial support and companionship.

Why You Need a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer

You need a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer to fulfill the following roles for you:

Point of Contact for Insurance Companies: Your attorney can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf and negotiate any related settlements.

Accident Investigator: Your lawyer can inspect the scene of the accident, interview witnesses, obtain police or accident reports and thoroughly investigate the accident.

Legal Advocate: Your personal injury lawyer will be your advocate in court, guiding you through the legal process, gathering evidence for your case and standing ready to take the case to trial.

Contact an Experienced Attorney at the Maus Law Firm

If you have suffered a personal injury in South Florida, contact the Maus Law Firm today. A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer at the firm will work hard to obtain the compensation you deserve. or call us at Complete our contact form 1-855-599-5297 for a free consultation.

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Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer - Maus Law Firm

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Personal injuries can occur in numerous ways and are all too common in Fort Lauderdale. When you are injured in an accident that is another person's fault, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. However, recovery is not likely to be simple, nor is it guaranteed.Insurance companies may deny your claim or offer nothing but a "low ball" settlement offer.

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Do You Have A Florida Premises Liability Claim?

Injuries suffered on another's property - whether it is a home, store, shop, office, sidewalk, or commercial building - are often the result of negligent maintenance or even complete disregard for the safety of others. Our Fort Lauderdal slip and fall attorneys have handled a wide range of premises claims such as:

Falling in potholes

Slipping or tripping and falling

Being hit by falling merchandise or other objects

Victims of crime on properties with inadequate security measures in place

Falling on curbs or stairs which violate building codes

Unsafe conditions

If you or a family member suffered injuries from a slip and fall or some other type of accident away from your home, contact us for a consultation, you may have a premises liability claim. But how you go about proving your claim can make all the difference.

Our Fort Lauderdale Slip and Fall Lawyer Explains The Legal Process for Slip and Fall Claims

It is important for a person who has been injured in a slip and fall accident to understand the legal process for making claims for compensation in Florida.

Making a Claim With the Insurance Company: Your attorney is likely to first make a claim with the property owner's insurance company. This is usually done in the form of a demand letter. The demand letter will state that the property owner is at fault for the client's injury and make a demand for settlement. An experienced Fort Lauderdale slip and fall attorney will include critical information in the demand letter, such as information about the accident and evidence of the client's injuries.

Filing the Lawsuit: If the insurance company does not make an adequate settlement offer, your attorney may have no choice but to file a lawsuit against the property owner. However, the insurance company may still settle after the lawsuit is filed. In fact, filing the lawsuit can be exactly the leverage you need to force the insurance company to take your claim seriously.

The Discovery Process: This is the phase of litigation where the two sides exchange information. The parties exchange written questions and answers and take depositions. In addition, an accident investigation will take place, and accident report will be created and statements may be obtained from witnesses.

Trial: If the case reaches this point, the trial may be before a judge or jury. Both sides will present evidence and witness testimony, and the attorneys will present their arguments. Settlement may still be reached during trial or even after trial if there is the threat of an appeal.

A Fort Lauderdale slip and fall attorney is essential for every step in this process. From dealing with the insurance company to taking the case to trial if necessary, your attorney will provide you with the best chance of recovering compensation.

Damages Recovered in Florida Slip and Fall Cases

Serious injuries and even death can result from Fort Lauderdale slip and fall cases. Bone fractures, internal injuries and injuries to the head and spinal cord are all too common. Below are the most common forms of legal damages an injured victim can recover in slip and fall cases:

Medical Expenses: This category includes bills for both past and future medical treatment. If a lawsuit is filed and the case proceeds to trial, expert testimony will likely be necessary to estimate future expenses.

Pain and Suffering: While the amount of a pain and suffering award is unpredictable, it can be a substantial portion of a victim's damages. If a slip and fall victim has to live with a serious injury that is long-lasting or even permanent, the amount of the pain and suffering award could potentially be high.

Lost Wages: A person who misses work due to their slip and fall-related injuries may be entitled to recover lost wages.

Lower Earning Capacity: If the injured victim can no longer perform the work they did before the accident or if they cannot earn as much, they may be able to recover damages for loss of earning capacity.

The family and loved ones of a person killed in a slip and fall may be able to recover Wrongful Death Damages: wrongful death damages, such as loss of financial support and loss of companionship. Contact a Fort Lauderdale slip and fall attorney to discuss your options.

What to Do if You've Been Injured in a Trip and Fall or Slip and Fall Accident

The facts of each accident claim are extremely important. The location of the fall, the location of store employees near the fall, the type and size of the condition that caused you to fall, the lighting - these are all facts that play an important role in making a slip and fall or trip and fall claim. Photographs will document the area where you fell and prevents an insurance company from disputing a dangerous condition existed when it comes time to make your claim.

DO NOT GIVE A RECORDED STATEMENT

Employees of large businesses are trained, by the insurance company, and by the business itself, on how to protect the business from a claim by a person injured on their property. One of their tools is to get a recorded statement from you shortly after your accident, when you may still be suffering from the initial impact, and a little disoriented. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO GIVE A STATEMENT. That is why the insurance company or business will try and get in touch with you at the scene, or shortly after the accident. They are taking a statement to help their position - to deny or minimize your claim - NOT to help you. We advise all our clients that if they are contacted by the business or an insurance company, refer them to us, your attorneys. Once the insurance company knows they are dealing with a competent attorney, the phone calls to you will stop.

REQUEST AN INCIDENT REPORT BE COMPLETED

Businesses and insurance companies are infamous for the defenses they use when a person gets injured on their property. The defenses are:

It didn't happen

If it did happen, the business didn't do anything to cause the accident; and,

If the business did do something to cause the accident, you should have seen the dangerous condition and avoided it, so its your fault.

Most business employees are trained to complete an incident report which supposedly will contain all the details of the accident. But you will also see the employees try to fix or clean up the dangerous condition that caused you to fall. Requesting an incident report at the time of your accident will make the business document that a fall occurred, that you were injured, and will hopefully contain notes about what caused you to fall. If your signature is requested on the incident report, MAKE SURE THE DETAILS ARE CORRECT, or the insurance company will try to use it against you in the future.

REQUEST IN-STORE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE BE PRESERVED

This is something that should be done in writing, and done as soon after your accident as possible. Most businesses video recorders will tape over whatever is recorded after a certain period of time. It may be a few days, or as long as two weeks. But once the accident is taped over, the video cannot be reproduced. And you can be assured, if the videotape shows that the business did something to cause your accident, that videotape will be deleted. Florida law says that if a company is put on notice to preserve its videotape, but doesn't, you are entitled to a presumption at trial that the videotape was advantageous to your case, and that a dangerous condition is presumed to have existed.

Our Firm recently obtained a settlement on behalf of one of our clients against a large South Florida Resort Hotel after the Resort destroyed its surveillance video. We also recently obtained a large settlement for a client against a national grocery store chain after it was discovered that the grocery store video had been preserved, BUT WAS MISSING TWO MINUTES OF TAPE WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED!

GET WITNESS NAMES AND CONTACT INFORMATION

There is strength in numbers. An insurance company and their attorneys will attempt to attack your credibility. But when your story is corroborated by another independent witness or two, who tell the same version of events that you have given, it makes it difficult for the insurance company to deny your claim.

DOCUMENT YOUR INJURIES

Make sure you tell the business where you were injured ALL the injuries you are feeling at the time of the accident. Don't wait for a week or two to see if your injuries will go away, then go back to the store to report the accident. If there is nobody around to record what happened, and you are seriously injured, call for 911/EMS. The EMS report will document where you fell, and what injuries you are experiencing. And, follow up with a doctor as soon as possible. Tell the doctor about ALL your injuries from your accident.

Get the Help You Need from a Top Fort Lauderdale Slip and Fall Lawyer

Your claim deserves a lawyer that is experienced in slip and fall accidents and premises liability cases. We know the law and we know how to successfully pursue a claim for you. Speak to an attorney in our South Florida office to have your questions answered. Call 1-855-999-5297 today.

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Fort Lauderdale Slip and Fall Lawyer | Maus Law

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Injuries suffered on another's property - whether it is a home, store, shop, office, sidewalk, or commercial building - are often the result of negligent maintenance or even complete disregard for the safety of others.

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205 West Davie Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315

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Phone: 954-784-6310

Fax: 954-784-6313

Website: https://www.mauslawfirm.com

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The Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers of Maus Law Firm assist clients throughout South Florida, The Keys, and Southwest Florida with accident and personal injury claims.

Our attorneys also handle cases involving homeowner and commercial property damage claims, and have recovered millions of dollars of insurance proceeds for our clients.

The firm is AV-Rated by Martindale Hubbell, as well as recognized by Florida Trend Magazine as one of Florida's "Legal Elite."

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Driving Edition of “I Was Today Years Old When I Learned”

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Driving Edition of “I Was Today Years Old When I Learned”

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Whether it was your overactive childhood imagination at work, a white lie your parent told you, or something you just never realized, there are so many things we all didn't know we didn't know. When it comes to driving, something most people do every day, you might be surprised at what you don't know.

When did you find out that turning on the interior light isn't illegal, or discover that there's a little holder for your gas cap? For many, the answer is "today years old."

In fact, a recent study found that nearly 40% of adults don't know the basic "rules of the road." They would fail the knowledge section of their learner's permit test if they had to retake it. The worst part, the passing score is usually only 80%.

Read more to learn about the most common misconceptions about driving.

Turning On the Interior Light Is Not Illegal

It isn't illegal to drive with the interior light, in any state. This is one of those white lies that parents tell that creeps into adulthood. While the light itself isn't illegal, it can be distracting and impair the driver's vision, which is dangerous.

Turning on the light and then taking your eyes off the road is distracted driving. Taking your eyes off the road for just 5 seconds while driving at 55mph is like driving the length of an entire football field.

The reflection of the interior light on the windshield can make it difficult for the driver to see clearly. So while it's not illegal, the interior light should only be used safely and for a good reason.

The Speed "Grace Zone" Is Not Real

If you've ever thought, "I won't get pulled over for going under 10 mph over the speed limit," you are wrong for so many reasons. The posted speed limit is the speed limit if you drive any amount over the posted speed you can get a ticket.

Speeding doesn't even really save a significant amount of time. Going 75mph when the speed limit is 65mph:

Saves you 3.6 minutes on a 30-mile trip

Saves you 6 minutes on a 50-mile trip

Grace zone or no grace zone, it's just not worth the risk. According to NHTSA for more than two decades, speeding has been involved in approximately one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities.

There's a Built-in Holder for Your Gas Cap

Based on the thousands of retweets and memes, not many people knew this. It's not on every car and solves a problem not many people driving today remember.

Gas caps weren't always attached to your car. They used to be completely removable. This led to lots of lost gas caps. The solution was to attach the cap to the vehicle with plastic coated wire. The hanging gas cap will scratch the car over time, so hooks, clips, and other methods of securing the cap were added to the door of the gas cap.

Driving in Headphones is Illegal (In Some States)

Currently, it is entirely illegal for drivers to wear headphones in many states. The following states either prohibit headphones and earbuds completely or have a significant restriction:

Many states enforce these laws through fines. In Florida, driving with headphones is punishable by a $150 ticket. Driving with your headphones is usually accompanied by cell phone use. Using your cell phone while driving is incredibly dangerous. If you cause an accident because you were distracted by your phone, in many states, you are automatically "at-fault." This means you could be held financially responsible for any property or personal injury.

How Four-Way Stops Work

Not sure how four-way stops work? The basic rule is surprisingly simple, first come, first served. The first car which arrives at the intersection goes first. Unfortunately, the simplicity ends there.

What if another car gets there at the same time? This answer is where most people get confused. It depends on the position of the vehicles.

When multiple cars arrive at the same time and are next to each other, yield to the car furthest to your right.

If three cars arrive at the intersection at the same time, the car furthest to the left must yield until both vehicles to the right have gone.

If you arrive at the intersection and there is a car across from you, the car going straight has the right of way.

If you are both turning the car going right has the right of way.

Driving Barefoot Isn't Technically Illegal

Although driving barefoot isn't technically illegal, the fact that there are no rules against shoe-less driving doesn't make it a good idea. In California, you can even ride a motorcycle barefoot - though it is at your own risk.

Flip flops, bare feet, and high heels are all footwear choices that can impair driving. In California, if the fact you aren't wearing shoes causes an accident, you could be charged with reckless driving.

So You Thought You Knew How to Drive But...

Even if you've been driving for years, you may not know as much about driving as you think you do. But it's not your fault if your parents taught you misinformation, or if some things simply weren't covered in your Driver's Ed class. And of course, it's never too late to learn more about driving, so there is no shame if you were "today years old" when you learned some of the things above.

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Driving Edition of "I Was Today Years Old When I Learned"

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Whether it was your overactive childhood imagination at work, a white lie your parent told you, or something you just never realized, there are so many things we all didn't know we didn't know. When it comes to driving, something most people do every day, you might be surprised at what you don't know.

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Owning a car can make life more convenient, but it can be a big expense. According to AAA, the average cost of owning a car in 2019 was a whopping $9,282 a year. For families struggling to make ends meet, that extra $773.50 a month per car can stretch an already thin budget even thinner. The good news is, there are ways to reduce this amount, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars a month. This car cost calculator will tell you how much you are already spending, and the tips below can help you bring that number down.

1. Lower Your Depreciation

A lot of the increase in the yearly average of owning a car is due to the rise in the finance costs of purchasing a new car. Vehicles lose value over time, especially in the first two years. In fact, new cars lose about 25% of their value when you drive them off the lot. The best way to reduce this financial loss is to purchase a used car rather than a new one. If you are buying a new car, you can lower your depreciation loss by purchasing less expensive cars, looking for a car that has good resale value, and avoiding purchasing large vans or trucks unless you actually need one.

2. Minimize Fuel Costs

Fuel costs can be a large part of the necessary expense of owning a car. These costs can vary depending on the current fuel prices, where you live, and how much you drive. The type of car you buy makes a significant difference, as vehicles which require premium fuel can increase your costs, while those with good gas mileage, such as hybrids or PZEVs (Partial Zero Emission Vehicles) can reduce them drastically. Keeping your car well-maintained with the proper oil type and tire pressure will also keep costs lower, as will searching for the least expensive gas station on your route by using apps like GasBuddy.

How you drive can affect how much you spend as well. Driving around with extra weight, such as having a roof rack or a full trunk, will increase the amount of fuel you use. Other things that increase your fuel usage are speeding, fast acceleration, using air conditioning, and idling for long periods. Your fuel will go farther if you can avoid these things. In addition, using cruise control can increase your mileage, so try to use it more often.

3. Reduce Repair Costs

Keeping up on regular maintenance may increase your costs in the short term, but it can save you significant amounts of money in the long term. See the owner's manual for your vehicle to see what scheduled maintenance is recommended, and keep a copy in your records. Reviewing your owner's manual can also prevent you from wasting money on unnecessary maintenance. For example, most modern cars don't need an oil change every 3,000 miles; in fact, some can go up to 7,500 miles before it is recommended.

When taking your car to a mechanic, there are ways you can reduce your final bill. First, it is wise to research reputable mechanics ahead of time via online reviews or recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers. Researching the average price of the repair that is needed can also help prevent you from being overcharged. In general, independent mechanics tend to have lower prices than dealerships, as do non-OEM parts compared to those made by the vehicle manufacturer. If you are able to, doing simple repairs yourself can also save on labor costs.

4. Keep Your Insurance Premium Low

Insurance costs can vary widely, so it is always smart to shop around. Ask your agent what discounts they offer, and take advantage of as many as you can. Many insurance companies offer various discounts for things such as teenage drivers having good GPAs, having a safe driving history, or having anti-lock brakes or an anti-theft device on your vehicle. Choosing a higher deductible plan can also keep your monthly costs lower, as can forgoing comprehensive coverage if you have an older vehicle. Finally, it is important to drive safely, as being found at-fault in a car accident can have many devastating and expensive consequences, one of them being causing your insurance premium to skyrocket.

5. Use a Credit Card For Car Rentals

It's important to have insurance when renting a car in case of an accident or other damage, but not everyone is aware that many credit cards offer free insurance when you use that card to rent a car in your name. This can save you from purchasing additional insurance from the rental car company itself.

Keep in mind though, that most credit card companies only offer collision and comprehensive coverage, and only as secondary coverage. This means, you will have to file a claim with your primary insurance company first (which could increase your premium), and the card company will cover what the primary insurer did not, such as deductibles or towing fees. In addition, there are usually restrictions and exclusions on what they will cover, so be sure to know the specifics for your card before using it for this. If you rent cars often, it may be worth it to look for a card that offers primary rental car insurance.

Do You Really Need a Car?

For some people, owning a car is a necessity, for others, it is a convenience. If you live somewhere that has good public transportation, or live close enough to your job that you could walk or bike to work, you may be able to forgo the expense of owning a car altogether. Even if you do own a car, using other means of transportation when you can will reduce your fuel costs and the frequency of maintenance. However, many have no choice but to rely on their cars as their primary means of transportation. If that is you, then you will benefit the most from the tips above for cutting your vehicle expenses.

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Owning a car can make life more convenient, but it can be a big expense. According to AAA, the average cost of owning a car in 2019 was a whopping $9,282 a year. For families struggling to make ends meet, that extra $773.50 a month per car can stretch an already thin budget even thinner.

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How To Deal With Legal Issues While Traveling

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How To Deal With Legal Issues While Traveling

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TRAVELHOST - The Premier Destination Resource

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While traveling, most of us want to focus on enjoying our time away from home, or on the business at hand if it is a work-related trip. However, not all trips go as smoothly as we would like. There may be issues with your hotel or rental car, or someone may be in an accident and sustain an injury.

If you are traveling outside your home state, any legal issues you encounter will fall under the jurisdiction of the state in which the incident occurred. This means that if you need to seek the advice of an attorney, you will need to find one in or near the city of which you traveled, and you may need to return to the state to appear in court.

Air Travel

Lost luggage, refunds, or flight delays/cancellations can usually be resolved by the airline. Most will have an online form you can use to submit a dispute. If they do not fix the issue, you can file a consumer complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT).

If you have a safety concern regarding an airplane or airport, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has a Hotline Reporting Form.

For issues with airport security or screenings, your best bet would be reporting it to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Rental Cars

When renting a car, do a thorough walk around the car with the rental agent and make sure any damage is documented, and photograph it with your phone. If you get a damage bill, demand time-stamped photos of the car from immediately before and after your rental, as well as the rental records of the vehicle. Most companies will drop the claim if they cannot prove the damage was caused by you.

Since rental car companies are not liable for damages caused by car accidents, ensure that you have sufficient insurance coverage. If your primary insurance carrier or credit card does not offer coverage, you can purchase it from the rental car agency.

Hotel

Many disputes with hotels can be resolved with the company itself. Issues with employees or unexpected charges should be reported to the management immediately. You can also initiate a chargeback on your credit or debit card if they do not remove an incorrect charge.

Injuries

If you are injured while traveling, seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait until you return home. It is wise to ensure that you have medical insurance coverage for your trip before you leave, as you never know when an accident will occur.

Should you be involved in a car accident while driving out of state, your insurance coverage will apply. However, the claim must be filed in either the state the accident occurred or the defendant's home state. Since state laws vary, it would be wise to look into which state has laws that are more favorable for your case. This is also the case if you are injured on a motorcycle, boat, bus, bike, or as a pedestrian. If you are injured in a rideshare (like Uber or Lyft), you will be covered under the company's insurance.

Slip and falls and other accidents can occur on another's property, such as stores, hotels, airports, restaurants, and cruise ships. You may be eligible for compensation from the business, especially if you can prove their negligence caused the accident. If that is the case, it is recommended to contact an attorney that specializes in premises liability cases.

About the Author

Brandi Ivy is an SEO freelancer for PaperStreet Web Design and an online content creator. She writes in a variety of niches, including travel, health, pets, and cultural events. She is a California native currently residing near the beach in Mexico with her rescue cats.

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How To Deal With Legal Issues While Traveling

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While traveling, most of us want to focus on enjoying our time away from home, or on the business at hand if it is a work-related trip. However, not all trips go as smoothly as we would like. There may be issues with your hotel or rental car, or someone may be in an accident and sustain an injury.

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Safety Tips For Biking In Difficult Weather Conditions

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Safety Tips For Biking In Difficult Weather Conditions

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A nice long motorcycle ride can be a fun way to get outside and enjoy a nice sunny day. But what if the weather isn't so nice? Riding in extreme weather conditions such as strong rain and snow can be dangerous, and potentially result in a deadly accident. But while it's advisable to avoid riding in these conditions, sometimes riders have no choice.

If you have no other vehicle and need to get somewhere, your only option may be to hop on your bike. Or, you may be one who enjoys riding in the fog or light rain. In order to make the journey safer, here are some tips for riding in extreme weather conditions, so that you can avoid the need to call an accident lawyer and get to your destination safely.
Riding in the Rain
While some riders leave their bike in the garage when the rain starts coming down, others enjoy a rainy ride. The trick is to know how to ride in the rain safely, and that starts with having the . Waterproof rain suits, gloves, and boots can help keep you dry, and extra layers can be added for warmth if needed. However, you also want to make sure you are easy to see, so if your rain gear is black, be sure to incorporate an orange or yellow vest to add contrast so that you are more visible to drivers on the road. In addition, if your helmet's visor does not include an anti-fog feature, you may want to substitute goggles instead.

While riding, take your time and stay focused. Throttle and brake adjustments should be done gradually and smoothly. Ride in a dry lane whenever possible, and avoid shiny surfaces and puddles, especially at intersections. Puddles may be deeper than you expect, and shiny surfaces can be slippery with oil or hiding other hazards underneath such as manhole covers and sealer pavement. Rainbows on the surface are a sure sign of oil on the road.
Riding in the Fog
Riding your motorcycle in the fog can also be an enjoyable experience if done safely. Keep your headlights set to low beam to avoid glare. With the decreased visibility, leave more space between the vehicle in front of you, so that you have plenty of time to avoid sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. Follow the lines on the road with your eyes to ensure you are staying in the lane. For your comfort and safety, wear waterproof gear that is highly visible. Finally, if the visibility is reduced to near zero, the safest course of action is to turn on your hazards and find a safe place off the road to pull over until it improves.
Riding in Snow and Ice
If you live in an area of extreme snow, your only option may be to winterize and store your bike until the weather improves. And while riding in the middle of a snowstorm is never recommended, it is possible to ride in icy and snowy conditions safely if caution is used.

As with riding in the rain, it is important to have highly visible gear that will keep you warm and dry. Hypothermia and frostbite are concerns when riding in the winter. Also similar to biking in rain, you will want to ride slowly and cautiously, knowing that there can be unexpected slick patches or other hazards hidden by the snow. Give yourself plenty of time to speed up and slow down, don't make sudden changes in direction, keep your headlights on low beam, and ride in a higher gear to give you more control.

The condition of the snow will also impact how you should ride in it. Fresh virgin snow is the safest to ride in, as long as you can see the sides of the road and potential hazards. The fresh snow will get compacted under your tires to provide a better grip. Riding on hard and slippery snow that is already compacted is much riskier. If possible, ride on any fresher snow you can find in the lane, and avoid the compacted tire tracks. Slushy roads can be safer than compacted snow, as your tires can cut through the snow to grip the road underneath. However, it can also hide dangerous black ice.
Riding in Strong Winds
Riding when strong winds are pushing your motorcycle around the road can be frightening, and fatigue tends to develop more quickly as you are fighting to keep your bike in the lane. You will need to allow more space between yourself and other vehicles to give yourself more wobble room and avoid collisions. If possible, re-route your trip to keep to more sheltered roads. Keep in mind that while buildings and large trucks may block the wind temporarily, they can create wind tunnels that can push you around once you come out. In addition, be sure to secure all loose items and try to avoid unnecessary saddlebags that the wind may catch on. Eye protection is crucial as well, as the high winds can blow debris into your eyes.

When riding, the wind can come at you from any direction. Remember that your body will act as a sort of sail in the wind, so hunching up small behind your windscreen and tucking in your limbs will reduce how much it pushes your bike around. Driving into a headwind, where the wind is coming at you from the front, is relatively safe, but it can slow you down. A tailwind, where the wind is coming at you from behind, is also fairly safe and can actually improve your gas mileage, but it will speed you up and it will take more time to come to a stop. Crosswinds, where the wind is pushing from either side, are the most dangerous to ride in. To counteract the pushing, turn your knee in the direction the wind is coming from, or lean your weight and bike slightly into that direction.
Extreme Heat
When driving in extreme heat, it's important you keep yourself and your bike as cool as possible. Make sure to wear gear that protects your skin from the sun but provides proper ventilation, bring more water than you think you will need, and pull over to rest if you notice signs of heat exhaustion, such as cramps, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Don't be in a hurry to get back on your bike again, as heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke, a serious medical condition that can cause you to pass out. Make sure that the fluids for your bike are topped up as well, and that its cooling system is fully functioning before your ride. It is also important to make sure your tires are fully inflated, as underinflated tires are at a higher risk for blowouts when the temperatures are in the triple digits.

Beware of heat haze or heat mirages, which can look like waves in the air or pools of water on the road. While they are otherwise harmless, they can resemble hazards that aren't actually there. Pay close attention to be able to determine actual puddles from heat mirages. Turning on your headlights can help minimize their appearance as well.
Ride Safe Out There
Biking doesn't have to be an activity that is restricted solely to sunny days. With the right knowledge, skills, gear--as well as plenty of caution--many riders can enjoy a ride year-round and minimize their chances of a collision caused by weather conditions.

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safety tips for biking in difficult weather conditions by: brandi ivy

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Safety Tips For Biking In Difficult Weather Conditions By: Brandi Ivy - Cycle Connections Motorcycle Magazine

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A nice long motorcycle ride can be a fun way to get outside and enjoy a nice sunny day. But what if the weather isn't so nice? Riding in extreme weather conditions such as strong rain and snow can be dangerous, and potentially result in a deadly accident.

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The CDC Has Relaxed COVID Protocols on Cruise Ships

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The CDC Has Relaxed COVID Protocols on Cruise Ships

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In early 2022, the coronavirus protocols for cruise ships set by the Center For Disease Control (CDC) expired. Going forward, the mandatory rules which made up the Conditional Sailing Order will now become voluntary, due to the assessed lower risk of contracting the virus onboard ships. The CDC ranks international destinations into four tiers based on risk level, and as of February, cruise ships moved from the level three to the level two, or the "moderate" tier.

In the early parts of the pandemic, outbreaks on cruise ships were rampant, and many lines were not taking the proper precautions to protect their passengers and staff. Traveling via cruise ship was considered to be high risk, and cruises were suspended temporarily. However, the Conditional Sailing Order enacted when cruise travel resumed has shown to be successful in reducing the number of cases contracted onboard.

What COVID Protocols Will Be in Effect on Cruise Ships?

For those cruise lines which will continue to opt-in to the Conditional Sailing Order, which is most of those based in the United States, not much will change. They will still continue to follow the CDC's Operations Manual, which has protocols regarding testing, mask use, social distancing, and quarantining of infected passengers.

In addition, the CDC added a Cruise Ship Color Status system for the ships participating in the program. This will allow passengers to check before booking their travel plans which ships have active or previous outbreaks, what safety measures are being taken, and which ones need further investigation. Ships that have opted out of participating will show a gray color, but will still be required to submit to CDC testing and mandatory reporting of infection cases.

In terms of the safety protocols that will be taken onboard ships, this will vary from line to line. While they are all recommended to have testing and medical treatment available, individual lines will have their own policies regarding mask use, testing, quarantining, and vaccination status. If you are concerned with contracting the virus during the cruise, it is recommended to visit the website of the line you are wanting to travel on to review their guidelines.

While previously it was required for guests and staff to be masked in shared indoor spaces while not actively eating or drinking, those requirements are now optional. Individual cruise lines can decide for themselves how stringently they prefer to enforce masking.

Do I Need to Be Vaccinated or Tested To Take a Cruise?

While COVID-19 vaccinations are important for helping to contain the spread of the virus, they are generally not required for cruise ship travel. However, cruise ship travel without vaccination is risky and is still not recommended. In addition, many lines are now incorporating vaccinated-only cruises or areas of ships, and have less stringent testing and insurance requirements for those who have documentation showing that their COVID vaccinations are up to date.

Most lines are still requiring some sort of negative COVID test before allowing passengers to embark. However, the type of test required can vary from line to line, the port of departure, and whether the individual is vaccinated or has previously tested positive. Some lines also require all passengers to take an antigen test at the terminal, and have complimentary on-ship testing available for longer cruises.

Can I Sue If I Get Coronavirus on a Cruise Ship?

While there were a string of lawsuits against cruise lines towards the beginning of the pandemic, it is very difficult to win one if you contract coronavirus while on a cruise. First of all, many have waivers that are a part of the ticket that reduce the company's liability. These include restrictive clauses that prevent passengers from bringing class action suits, define the jurisdiction where claims can be sought, or enforce a statute of limitations. In addition, it is difficult to provide evidence that the virus was actually contracted on the cruise.

To make matters even more difficult for travelers, many states are also enacting laws to protect businesses from COVID liability. Bills such as SB 51 in Missouri and 87(R) SB 6 in Texas provide sweeping protections for businesses from those who would hold them responsible for contracting the virus on their premises. While the specifics vary by state, more than half have already passed legislation of this nature.

In order to have a case against a cruise line, you must be able to prove that they were grossly negligent, willfully failed to notify passengers of active cases onboard, or otherwise did not follow public health orders. The bar for holding cruise lines accountable is high, and since cruise ship travel often crosses state or country lines, it can be difficult to figure out which jurisdiction to bring the claim to. Due to the complexities involved in this type of litigation, if you believe you have a case, it would be wise to consult with a cruise ship injury attorney that specializes in COVID cases to discuss your options.

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The CDC Has Relaxed COVID Protocols on Cruise Ships

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In early 2022, the coronavirus protocols for cruise ships set by the Center For Disease Control (CDC) expired. Going forward, the mandatory rules which made up the Conditional Sailing Order will now become voluntary, due to the assessed lower risk of contracting the virus onboard ships.