You could probably guess that companies need to take steps to reduce their risks, including safety programs, cybersecurity, and more. But should you be taking risk management steps for yourself? Do you have ways you can lower your own risks and potentially reduce the chances you have a loss or an insurance claim? The answer to both these questions is “yes” of course!
Driving Risks
Over 36,000 automobile accidents occur every day1 in the U.S. Many of these accidents are caused by distracted driving. One of the simplest steps you can take for better personal risk management is to avoid using your devices while driving. And while texting may be the most obvious, many people are using their phones for searches, looking up directions, or even watching videos! Avoid these while you aren’t parked in your vehicle whenever possible.
In addition, keeping your car in good working order is also a way to reduce your risk. Keep your tires properly inflated, have brakes and safety mechanisms checked, change windshield wiper blades as needed, and keep up regular maintenance to prevent mechanical issues that could cause an accident.
Cyber Risks
The average American accesses the internet for around seven hours of their day!2 Much of that may be for work, but many Americans also work from home. If you’re using your personal devices, take steps to protect your data:
- Protect your passwords and create stronger passwords whenever possible.
- Use multifactor authentication when it is an option for logins.
- Avoid using “open” or unsecured internet network connections.
- Be careful visiting websites and especially entering data on sites that do not have SSL encryption (https://).
Liability Risks
Lawsuits are on the rise in our country, and larger verdicts and judgments are more common. You can protect your own liability at home by taking steps that include:
- Fence in your yard, especially if you have a trampoline, pool, treehouse, etc.
- Avoid “overserving” alcohol to adults at your home – even friends and neighbors.
- Monitor and control your dog and/or other pets, even if they haven’t been known to bite.
- Talk with your family about being careful in their interactions with others, and the importance of safety.
These are just a few of the examples of ways you can be safer and also lower your risks. But accidents can still happen, and you need to have the right coverages in place in case they do. Contact Brandon Patterson from our team to better understand what those coverage options may be for you – brandon@ownbyinsurance.com or 865.453.1414.
1-per Progressive Insurance data
2-per Forbes data