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View Information on Crash Tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Insurance 411: New Web Tool Helps Consumers Keep Track of Insurance In An Emergency

Nov. 07, 2007 --

If a tornado struck right now, you would wish you hadn't left home without it. But all too often, homeowners discover that they don't have basic insurance information at their fingertips.

The Georgia Insurance Information Service today unveiled "Insurance 411," a free Web tool designed to help consumers keep track of their insurance policies in the event of an emergency. The site, located at http://www.giis.org, allows users to enter critical insurance information, such as the names of their insurance companies, policy numbers and claims center telephone numbers, and confidentially print them as a wallet-sized card.

Web users need only enter, print and cut the form to size, and then carry it with them in the event that they suddenly need their insurance information. The Insurance Information Network of California developed Insurance 411 after receiving numerous calls for assistance from consumers who in some cases did not even know the name of their insurance company, said GIIS Executive Director David Colmans.

"We often hear from people who have lost their homes in a fire or other catastrophe who can't find their insurance information," Colmans said. "While we still recommend that you keep a copy of your insurance policies in a secure location outside the home, like a safe deposit box, the Insurance 411 card provides the basic info you need in an insurance emergency."

The process is simple: Copy key information from your insurance policy, such as the policy number, agent's name and phone number, enter it into the Insurance 411 card formatter, click "Create Card" and print. Insurance 411 is printed pre-formatted the size of a credit card. When you are finished with the formatter, simply close your Web browser to delete the information. The data that is entered is completely private, and cannot be accessed or shared by GIIS.

Colmans likens the card to the insurance information card drivers are required to carry in Georgia, only for all household insurance policies.

"It's a simple concept and an even simpler process - and we hope that it will encourage Georgians to keep a record of their insurance policies," Colmans said.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

HOT WHEELS: VEHICLE THEFT IN THIRD YEAR OF DECLINE

For the 2006 FBI Crime Report for Georgia Metro Areas...including stolen vehicles, Click here.

10/08/2007

Even So, Every 26.4 Seconds a Vehicle is Stolen in the U.S.; Georgia Ranked 7th

Hot Wheels, the National Insurance Crime Bureau's companion study to its annual Hot Spots auto theft report examines data reported to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and determines the vehicle make, model, and model year most reported stolen in 2006. See the full report at www.nicb.org.

For 2006, see the table below for the most stolen vehicles* in the nation.

In 2006, 1,192,809 motor vehicles were reported stolen which is 42,417 fewer than in 2005. Using the FBI's average valuation of $6,649 per stolen vehicle, this amounts to over $7.9 billion in losses in 2006-just in vehicle value alone.

"The decrease in vehicle thefts is certainly welcome news to law enforcement, the insurance industry and vehicle owners nationwide," said Robert M. Bryant, NICB's President and Chief Executive Officer. "At NICB, we have been providing the latest technology in auto theft detection and recovery equipment to law enforcement agencies from California to Florida. Through the support of our member insurance companies, NICB acquires and deploys License Plate Recognition systems and bait vehicles in an effort to reduce vehicle theft."

According to David Colmans, executive director of the Georgia Insurance Information Service, "In Georgia last year, the number of stolen vehicles, 43,163, decreased by 1,314 or -2.9 percent from 2005, but the state still ranks 7th in the country as a place to steal someone else's wheels."

Although overall thefts are down for the third consecutive year, only 59% of stolen vehicles were recovered last year-the lowest recovery rate in over a decade. Thus, the question becomes, what happens to the over 700,000 vehicles still outstanding? The short answer is that they fuel a number of related insurance fraud and vehicle theft activities. For example:

Exports: NICB Agents have recovered a significant number of stolen vehicles from foreign countries. It is not unusual for stolen vehicles to be shipped intact to other countries where prospective buyers can have them for a fraction of what they would legitimately cost and with no questions asked.

Whether enclosed in shipping containers at coastal ports or simply driven across the border into Canada, Mexico, or Central and South America, exports contribute to the tens of thousands of stolen vehicles which are never recovered.

NICB's Foreign Operations group actively pursues the repatriation of stolen vehicles in foreign countries and works closely with U.S. embassy personnel and foreign government officials to return those vehicles. In 2006, over 4,000 vehicles with a value of nearly $42 million were returned to the U.S. from Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Lithuania, México, Nicaragua and Italy.

Owner Give-Ups: An owner give-up is the term that describes a vehicle that has been reported stolen by its owner when the owner is actually making a false theft report. In these situations, vehicles are driven into ponds, lakes, or quarries, set on fire in sparsely populated areas, or even driven into Mexico and abandoned with their owners filing "theft" reports later.

Owner give-ups are often motivated by economic factors. If a person owes more on a vehicle than it is worth, having it stolen allows the owner to walk away from the debt. Similarly, on a lease where the usage has exceeded the terms of the lease, a staged theft becomes an option.

Chop Shops: A good percentage of stolen vehicles end up in chop shops. These are places that disassemble stolen vehicles and sell their parts to individuals, dealers, body shops-just about anyone who has a need but lacks scruples. Thieves can sell the individual parts from older models for more money than the vehicle is worth intact.

A Layered Approach to Protection: To protect their investment, vehicle owners are urged to follow NICB's "layered approach" to auto theft prevention by employing simple, low-cost suggestions to make their vehicles less attractive to thieves. NICB's four layers of protection are:

Common Sense: The cheapest form of defense is to simply employ the anti-theft devices that are standard on all vehicles: locks. Lock your car and take your keys.

Warning Device: Having and using a visible or audible warning device is another item that can ensure that your car remains where you left it.

Immobilizing Device: "Kill" switches, fuel cut-offs, and smart keys are among the devices which are high and low tech, but extremely effective. Generally speaking, if your car won't start, it won't get stolen.

Tracking Device: If your vehicle is stolen, these systems help law enforcement track and recover it quickly. Some systems will even inform you if your vehicle has been moved without your knowledge.

You can do your part in helping to stop this criminal activity by reporting fraud and vehicle theft to NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB (1-800-835-6422). Your call can be anonymous and you could be eligible for a reward. Or you may report fraud and theft by visiting our Web site www.nicb.org.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization dedicated exclusively to preventing, detecting and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through information analysis, investigations, training and public awareness.

* This report reflects only stolen vehicle data reported to NCIC in 2006. No further filtering of information is conducted, i.e., determining the total number of a particular make and model currently registered in the U.S. for comparison purposes.

2006 USA Top Ranked Hot Wheels
Rank	Vehicle Make/Model	Year
1.	Honda Civic	1995
2.	Honda Accord	1991
3.	Toyota Camry	1989
4.	Ford F150 Series	1997
5.	Dodge Ram Pickup	2005
6.	Chevrolet Full Size C/K 1500 Pickup	1994
7.	Nissan Sentra	1994
8.	Dodge Caravan	1994
9.	Saturn SL	1994
10.	Acura Integra	1990

2005 - 2006 Vehicle Theft Totals
State	2005	2006
Georgia	44,477	43,163
Alabama	13,140	14,840
Mississippi	7,492	8,347
Florida	75,303	76,437
Tennessee	25,078	22,593
Louisiana	14,389	15,640

2006 Georgia Hot Wheels
1.	Honda Accord	1994
2.	Chevrolet Full Size C/K 1500 Pickup	1994
3.	Chevrolet Caprice	1989
4.	Oldsmobile Cutlass	1986
5.	Ford F150 Series	1997
6.	Honda Civic	1995
7.	Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee	1994
8.	Ford Explorer	2000
9.	Toyota Camry	1994
10.	Ford Taurus	1990

2006 Alabama Hot Wheels
1.	Chevrolet Full Size C/K 1500 Pickup	1994
2.	Chevrolet Caprice	1989
3.	Ford F150 Series	1997
4.	Honda Accord	1992
5.	Ford Explorer	1996
6.	Oldsmobile Cutlass	1984
7.	size	1997
8.	Toyota Camry	1994
9.	Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee	1997
10.	Chevrolet Cavalier	1997

2006 Tennessee Hot Wheels
1.	Chevrolet Full Size C/K 1500 Pickup	1994
2.	Honda Accord	1994
3.	Toyota Camry	1991
4.	Oldsmobile Cutlass	1993
5.	Ford F150 Series	1997
6.	Ford Taurus	1999
7.	Ford Explorer	1999
8.	Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee	1995
9.	Buick Century	1996
10.	Buick LeSabre	1990

Vehicle Thefts - State Ranking
Rank	2005	2006	2005-2006 Difference	2005-2006 % Change
1.	California 257,543	California 242,693	-14858	-5.7
2.	Texas 93,423	Texas 95,429	+2006	+2.1
3.	Florida 75,303	Florida 76,437	+1134	+1.5
4.	Arizona 54,905	Arizona 54,849	-56	-0.1
5.	Washington 49,287	Michigan 50,017	+1794	+3.7
6.	Michigan 48,223	Washington 45,899	-3388	-6.8
7.	Georgia 44,477	Georgia 43,163	-1314	-2.9
8.	Ohio 41,379	Illinois 37,641	-1744	-4.4
9.	Illinois 39,385	Ohio 37,425	-3954	-9.5
10.	New York 35,736	New York 32,134	-3602	-10.0

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org
IRC Report Documents Property-Casualty Insurance Industry Investments in Municipal Bonds in 2005

07/12/2007 --
In Georgia: More than $9 billion
In Alabama: More than $4 billion
In Mississippi: More than $2 billion
In Louisiana: More than $3.5 billion
In South Carolina: More than $5.7 billion
In Tennessee: More than $5.6 billion

Insurance industry investments in municipal bonds help fund the construction of schools, roads, and hospitals, and supports a variety of other public sector activities.

The Insurance Research Council's latest report demonstrates that in 2005, property-casualty insurers held investments of more than $320 billion in municipal bonds and nearly one-fourth (23 percent) of those investments funded education-related activities and projects. Overall, the insurers invested in education, utilities, transportation, healthcare, other and unspecified purposes such as general obligation bonds.

David Colmans, executive director of the Georgia Insurance Information Service, noted that more than $29.8 billion was invested in six Southern states at the end of 2005. "Insurers make investments that not only provide a sound economic return, but in the process, they do a huge amount of good for the communities and people they insure. This is a grand two-way street that many people don't know about."

In Georgia, utility related municipal bonds were the most common type, accounting for 29 percent of the municipal bonds and 22 percent of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers.

Both transportation and education municipal bonds were also commonly held by insurers, representing 13 percent and 11 percent respectively, of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers in Georgia.

In Alabama, municipal bonds for utilities were the most common type of purpose bond held by P-C insurers. The second largest purpose area was education. These related bonds accounted for 24 percent of all industry-held municipal bonds and 26 percent of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers.

In Mississippi, municipal bonds for education-related purposes were the most common type of purpose bond help by P-C insurers, accounting for 15 percent of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers.

Two-thirds (67 percent) of the value of the Mississippi municipal bonds held by insurers did not include a specified purpose.

In Louisiana, almost one of five (19 percent) of Louisiana municipal bonds held by insurers were for education, accounting for 10 percent of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers.

Municipal bonds for public buildings in Louisiana made up 12 percent of the bonds' total value held by insurers.

In Tennessee, municipal bonds involving utility projects accounted for 16 percent of the total combined value of all municipal bonds held by insurers.

More than half (54 percent) of the Tennessee municipal bonds held by insurers did not include a specified purpose, representing 58 percent of these bonds' total value.

In South Carolina, education-related municipal bonds were the most common type held by insurers, representing 29 percent of the bonds held and 30 percent of the total combined value of all South Carolina municipal bonds held by insurers.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org
IBHS Contact: Wendy Rose (813) 675-1045
CEHFH Contact: Virginia Brown (912) 353-8122

Dedication Set for Georgia's First Fortified…for safer living® Habitat for Humanity Homes

06/20/2007 -- Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity(CEHFH) is ready to hand over the keys to two homes that earned the Fortified…for safer living® designation for disaster resistance.

Fortified…for safer living® is the new-home construction designation program sponsored by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), a national nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida. The "Fortified" program specifies criteria that go beyond building codes to increase a home's overall resistance to natural hazards based on its location.

On June 23, 2007, Habitat for Humanity will dedicate the homes and present the keys to their owners, the King and Lewis families. The event will be held at Noon, at 2108 and 2110 Essex Avenue, in Savannah's Tremont Park neighborhood.

Should a hurricane bear down on Savannah, Bianca Lewis, 23, said that she plans to evacuate her Habitat home on Essex Avenue with her son Yazid, 3. But her new house gives her faith about returning after the storm has passed. "You'll have a house when you come back," she said.

These are the first Fortified…for safer living® homes in Georgia. The Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS), a trade association of property and casualty insurance companies that do business in the state, introduced the program to Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity and funded the "Fortified" upgrades. Owners have already taken possession of a third "Fortified" home, which was a Lowe's® Women Build project. GIIS will provide weather alert radios for all three families.

In Georgia, "Fortified" guidelines are designed to better safeguard homes primarily against high winds and flooding, the state's costliest natural perils. Construction features in the Savannah Habitat homes include:

Better connections tying the roof, walls and foundation together, to help the home withstand 130 mile per hour wind speeds;
All openings (windows and doors) protected from impact;
Roofing materials that provide resistance to water penetration and high wind;
Securely anchored exterior structures, such as carports and porches; and
Building site and landscaping techniques that reduce flooding vulnerability.

Any home can be built to earn the Fortified…for safer living® designation and existing homes can be reinforced for greater disaster resistance. Learn more at www.DisasterSafety.org.

IBHS, a national nonprofit initiative of the insurance industry, works to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation practices. CEHFH, an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, uses volunteer labor and donations to build and sell homes to Savannah families at zero percent interest. Partner families make monthly mortgage payments and work 350 hours of "sweat equity" building their own homes. The Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity has complete construction of 98 homes in the Savannah/Chatham County area.

30 Shopping Days Until Hurricane Season...Property Owners Beware

05/01/2007The Georgia Insurance Information Service reminds homeowners and renters that the start of Hurricane Season '07 is just 30 days away.

Of greater importance is that flood insurance must be in effect for at least 30 days before a claim can be filed.

While the Atlanta metro is fairly well insolated from hurricanes, tropical storms are another story. Heavy rains, flooding, tornadoes, hail and high winds can cause serious damage all across Georgia.

Homeowners and renters should contact their insurance agents or insurance company to find out the details and cost of obtaining flood insurance, since most homeowners and renters policies exclude flood (or rising water) from the standard policies. Only flood insurance will provide coverage for this particular hazard.

GIIS reminds all homeowners and renters that to find out what the level of risk is for any specific property, go to http://www.floodsmart.govand one can enter an address. The web page will provide a level of risk for flooding for that address based on flood maps created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Car Thieves Not So Busy In Georgia View Auto Thefts By Georgia Metro Areas
View Auto Thefts By Tennessee Metro Areas
View Auto Thefts By Alabama Metro Areas
View All States Report

04/25/2007 -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported today that after three consecutive years as the area with the worst per capita vehicle theft rate in the nation, Modesto, CA has fallen into the number five position -- a dramatic improvement. Taking over the “Number One Hot Spot” is Las Vegas, NV.

As in 2005, the western United States still ranks as the area of the country with the highest auto theft rates. All of the nation’s top 10 areas are in the west with five of them in California.

The Georgia Insurance Information Service asks, “Where are the most stolen vehicles reported in Georgia?” According to Executive Director David Colmans, “The Columbus, Ga./Phenix City, Al. MSA ranks 23^rd in 2006, followed by Macon, Ga., ranked 34, and the Atlanta metro ranked 35^th.”

Colmans added that the rankings and the number of vehicles stolen are a reflection of the population.

In Columbus, 1,911 vehicles were stolen in 2006, while the number was 1,323 in Macon, but in the Atlanta metro, there were 27,913 vehicles stolen.

The rankings for other Georgia municipal areas are as follows:

Savannah, 66^th, 1,417
Augusta, 75^th, 2,269
Gainesville, 119^th, 580
Chattanooga, Tn./North Georgia, 124^th, 1,694
Rome, 144^th, 281
Brunswick, 146^th, 293
Athens/Clark Cty., 153^rd, 505

According to Hot Spots, its annual report on auto theft rates, NICB reviewed data supplied by the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) for each of the nation’s 361 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). MSAs are designated by the Office of Management and Budget and may include areas surrounding a specific city.

The rate is determined by the number of vehicle theft offenses per 100,000 inhabitants using the 2005 U.S. Census Population Estimates, the most current figures available.

Preliminary FBI data shows a 2.3% decrease in motor vehicle thefts during January-June, 2006, when compared with the same period in 2005. Nationally, this is the third straight year of decreases in vehicle theft.

“People can take any number of precautions to protect themselves from vehicle theft and, in most cases, those are sufficient to prevent a theft,” said NICB President and Chief Executive Officer Robert M. Bryant.

“But a determined thief, a serial vehicle thief, is someone for whom there is no absolute deterrent—except prison.

NICB, through the support of its member companies, has pursued an aggressive “Bait Vehicle” and License Plate Reader Program around the nation.

These cutting-edge enforcement tools offer law enforcement the latest in high-tech crime fighting, and are partly responsible for the absolutely outstanding results achieved in Modesto.

When used in conjunction with comprehensive legislation and aggressive prosecution, police on the street can have a tremendous impact on vehicle theft and other crimes,” added Bryant.

GIIS recommends the following actions under its “layered approach” to protection that automobile owners can take to minimize their risk and prevent their car from becoming the next statistic:

Common Sense--

An unlocked vehicle with a key in the ignition is an open invitation to any thief, regardless of which anti-theft device you use. The common sense approach to protection is the simplest and most cost-effective way to thwart would-be thieves.

Secure your vehicle even if parking for brief periods. You should always:

Remove your keys from the ignition
Lock your doors /close your windows
Park in a well-lit area

Warning Device--

The second layer of protection is a visible or audible device which alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected.

Popular second layer devices include:

Audible alarms
Steering column collars
Steering wheel/brake pedal lock
Brake locks
Wheel locks deflators
Theft deterrent decals and Identification markers in or on vehicle VIN etching
Micro dot marking

Immobilizing Device--

The third layer of protection is a device that prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle.

Some electronic devices have computer chips in ignition keys. Other devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch or button is activated.

Popular third layer devices include:

Smart keys
Fuse cut-offs
Kill switches
Starter, ignition, and fuel pump disablers
Wireless ignition authentication

Tracking Device--

The final layer of protection is a tracking device which emits a signal to police or a monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.

Some systems employ “telematics” which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle.

If the vehicle is moved the system will alert the owner and the vehicle can be tracked via computer.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau is the nation’s leading non-profit organization exclusively dedicated to preventing, detecting and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through information analysis, investigations, training and public awareness.

For 2006, the ten metropolitan statistical areas with the highest vehicle theft rates are:

Las Vegas/Paradise, NV
Stockton, CA
Visalia/Porterville, CA
Phoenix/Mesa/Scottsdale, AZ
Modesto, CA
Seattle/Tacoma/Bellevue, WA
Sacramento/Arden-Arcade/Roseville, CA
Fresno, CA
Yakima, WA
Tuscon, AZ

Allen Green Elected 2007 GIIS President

01/22/2007 -- Allen Green, president of Southern Mutual Insurance Company of Athens, Georgia, is the 2007 President of the Georgia Insurance Information Service.

The membership has also elected Birmingham, Alabama-based Jerry Workman, Governmental Affairs Director, Farmers Insurance Group, as Vice President.

The new GIIS Secretary/Treasurer is Jeff Gleason, Georgia Product Manager for Atlanta-based AssuranceAmerica.

GIIS is a non-lobbying, not-for-profit association of insurance companies. Members write more than 70% of the auto, homeowners and renters insurance policies in Georgia.

GIIS provide information about homeowners and renters, automobile, business and workers compensation insurance to the state's news media and the public.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Construction Begins on Georgia's First Fortified…for safer living® Habitat for Humanity Homes

12/14/2006 -- Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity is building three homes that will earn the Fortified…for safer living® designation for disaster resistance.

Fortified…for safer living® is the new-home construction designation program sponsored by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), a national nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida. The "Fortified" program specifies criteria that go beyond building codes to increase a home's overall resistance to natural hazards based on its location.

The three homes will be built in Savannah's Tremont Park neighborhood on Essex and Paige Avenues. These will be the first Fortified…for safer living® homes in Georgia, thanks to the efforts of the Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS), which introduced the program to Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity.

"We firmly believe that the 'Fortified' program is most appropriate for coastal Georgia in light of the potential for active hurricane seasons in the next several years," said David Colmans, GIIS executive director. He added, "Our member companies are proud to bring the 'Fortified' program to Georgia and to begin with the Coastal Empire Habitat homes, and we would like to see this program expand with homebuilders across the state." GIIS is a trade association of property and casualty insurance companies that do business in Georgia.

Better connections tying the roof, walls and foundation together, to help the home withstand 130 mile per hour wind speeds;
All openings (windows and doors) protected from impact;
Roofing materials that provide resistance to water penetration and high wind;
Securely anchored exterior structures, such as carports and porches; and
Building site and landscaping techniques that reduce flooding vulnerability.

"We're excited to help demonstrate the importance of disaster safety," said Virginia Brown, Executive Director of Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity. "Our partnership with IBHS will show that disaster protection can be affordable to all. This program will make a significant difference in the lives of Habitat homeowners and the Savannah community."

IBHS launched the Fortified…for safer living® program in October 2000 with the construction of three homes in west central Florida. There are now nearly 2,500 homes either complete, under construction or part of large development plans in 12 states.

For more information to help protect your home or business from disasters or more common causes of loss, visit the IBHS web site www.disastersafety.org.

The Institute for Business & Home Safety, an initiative of the insurance industry, works to reduce the social and economic effects of natural disasters and other property losses by conducting research and advocating improved construction, maintenance and preparation practices.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Courtesy of State's Insurers…
All GA Welcome Centers To Feature Weather Alert Radios

12/06/2006 -- All eleven Georgia Welcome Centers will soon be equipped with weather alert radios to help insure the safety of visiting motorists and the state's on-site employees. The radios are being provided free-of-charge by the Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS).

The property and casualty insurers' trade association purchased and donated the radios to the Georgia Department(s) of Transportation and Economic Development, the agencies responsible for the maintenance and operation of the welcome centers. The weather alert radios are programmable by county so that each radio will be set up to receive weather alert warnings in the near-by counties that surround each center.

At a presentation ceremony today at the Interstate 20 Welcome Center in Haralson County, Georgia DOT State Maintenance Engineer David Crim thanked the insurers. "We are very pleased that GIIS is helping to make our Welcome Centers the most sophisticated facilities of their type in the country. Soon, we will bring online WiFi capabilities as well so that motorists will be able to connect to the Internet while they relax at our centers."

"We have a good deal of severe weather in this state and our foremost concern is for the safety of our residents and passing travelers. These radios will provide vital life-saving information when severe weather rapidly develops," Haralson Sheriff Eddie Mixon added.

"Our organization is pleased to provide another level of immediate safety information to Georgia's welcome centers," said David Colmans, executive director of the Georgia Insurance Information Service, "Our industry protects the financial interests of people and their property and we are as concerned with the personal safety of visitors to Georgia as we are the state's nine million residents."

Jeffery Tatum, Director of Welcome Centers for the Georgia Department of Economic Development, concluded, "We are very proud of the services that our eleven welcome centers provide, and adding another level of information for our visitors and employees makes these weather alert radios very useful and important to our centers."

The Georgia Insurance Information Service represents insurers that write more than 70 percent of the auto, renters and homeowners insurance in Georgia. The GIIS website is www.giis.org.

The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia's economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. For general information on the Georgia DOT, please visit our website, www.dot.state.ga.us.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Have A Highway-Safe Memorial Day Weekend

05/08/2006 -- The Memorial Day 2006 holiday weekend begins at 6 PM Friday, May 26th and ends at midnight, May 29th. The long holiday weekend, especially the one that traditionally starts the summer vacation season, should be a time of outdoor fun and games, not one with traffic crashes, injuries and highway deaths.

The Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS) reminds all Georgians to pay particular attention to two important matters. Follow the rules of the road over the holiday weekend and drive defensively. There are two potential ways get into serious trouble over the holiday weekend:

Even with higher than usual gasoline prices, motorists will be on the road in large numbers traveling to holiday destinations, and that sets up the potential for high speed highway mishaps.

Georgia's law enforcement community will be out in force on the lookout for intoxicated motorists, those not wearing seatbelts and those who refuse to follow posted speed limits.

GIIS says it is easy to keep from being stopped by law enforcement by simply obeying the speed limits and other traffic laws. It's not always as easy to avoid being involved in a traffic accident, but consider this: drive defensively, do not follow too closely, avoid driving while drowsy and keep your eyes on the road. It's the best way to have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Bad Things Happen, So Make Sure You Know What Your Insurance Covers

04/14/2006 -- If your home or apartment is burglarized, damaged or destroyed by fire, crushed by a falling tree, pulverized by a tornado, or smashed by high winds and hail, your insured property is generally covered up to the policy limits for repair or replacement. But knowing what your insurance policy does not cover is as important as knowing what it does, especially with Hurricane Season fast approaching.

Coverage exceptions are the important issue to know before a catastrophe occurs, especially as Spring severe weather season transitions in June into hurricane season. The following reminders from the Georgia Insurance Information Service may help protect your property and/or belongings when the going gets rough.

Rising Water/Flood:

Most insurance policies exclude damage from rising water or flooding. Coverage is obtained through a separate flood insurance policy provided by the Federal Flood Insurance Program, and available through many insurance companies or directly from the federal government. On the Web: http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/index.shtm

Earthquake:

Earthquakes are generally not covered by most homeowners or renters (for personal property) insurance policies. In Georgia, an endorsement to your insurance policy can be added to provide specific coverages should your home or apartment be damaged by an earthquake. In many western states, entirely separate policies are required.

Sinkholes:

Another endorsement to your homeowner’s policy is available to cover damage or destruction from a sinkhole, usually associated with areas where limestone is found.

Wind and Hail:

In coastal areas subject to very severe weather, generally caused by storms such as hurricanes, insurers may exclude damage from wind and hail, whereas other perils such as fire or theft are covered. To obtain coverage for wind and hail damage, either the insurer will cover wind and hail, or the homeowner must obtain separate coverage for wind and hail through an “insurer of last resort,” such as the Georgia Underwriting Association.

Important Reminder:

GIIS Executive Director David Colmans says, “To make sure you have the coverage you need, review your property and casualty insurance policies every one to two years. Then, you’ll be confident you’re covered. Always consider costs for rebuilding your home, which often rise with inflation and increasing costs of raw materials. You’ll also need to think about repair or replacement of your vehicles, costs to rebuild rental property and special coverages such as extra liability insurance or additional endorsements for jewelry, furs and electronics.”

Contact your insurance agent or company to make sure your policies are current and that your coverages are sufficient to protect your property, liability risks and belongings.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Did You Have Substantial Property Damage In 2005? You May Be Able To Deduct A Portion Of Uninsured Losses From Your Taxes -- GIIS Suggests You Document Unreimbursed Losses

04/01/2006 --With tax day around the corner, taxpayers are sifting through their files to assess last year's gains and losses. An often-overlooked deduction is unreimbursed property and casualty losses, according to the Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS).

"If your home, car, boat or other expensive property was damaged by a fire, flood, vandalism or other sudden and unexpected disaster, you may be able to deduct a portion of the loss from your taxes," says David Colmans, executive director of GIIS. “And don’t forget to include your insurance deductible.”

To qualify for the deduction, the losses usually need to be substantial. If you were significantly underinsured or had a large catastrophe deductible you may have a sizable unreimbursed property loss. Losses can be caused by natural disasters or man-made ones such as vandalism, burglary, robbery or kidnapping for ransom.

"Generally, you can deduct the loss to the extent it exceeds 10 percent of your adjusted gross income, less one hundred dollars," says Jerry Love, CPA/PFS and president and chief executive office of Davis, Kinard & Co., P. C., a CPA firm based in Abilene, Texas and member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' (AICPA) personal financial planning membership section.

"If the property is used in a trade or business, slightly different rules apply, so it is important to ask your tax preparer for assistance," Mr. Love notes.

If you think you might qualify for an unreimbursed loss deduction, collect all receipts, insurance statements, the police report (if appropriate) and other documentation and present it to your tax preparer to see if you qualify.

If you prepare your own tax return, the IRS has created a hurricane-victim resource center on its Web site located at http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=147085,00.html; or call 1-866-562-5227. You can find additional information on un-reimbursed insurance losses at http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc507.html.

The AICPA and the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) have written and produced Disaster Recovery: A Guide to Financial Issues to help people affected by disaster minimize the financial impact of a disruptive event on their lives and well-being. The guide contains important tax information and is being distributed by participating local chapters of the American Red Cross across the United States. The guide can also be found at www.redcross.org.

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (www.aicpa.org) is the national, professional association of CPAs with approximately 350,000 members, including CPAs in business and industry, public practice, government, and education; student affiliates; and international associates. It sets ethical standards for the profession and U.S. auditing standards for audits of private companies; federal, state and local governments; and nonprofit organizations. It also develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Fire Deaths Are Often Preventable

03/13/2006 -- Recent deadly fires in Tennessee and Kentucky focus on the importance of functioning smoke detectors in every home, apartment, condo or mobile home.

Between these two events 14 people died because they could not escape their buring homes. This story told over and over, year in and year out, and the culprit most often is not necessarily how the fire started, but inadequate warning...no working smoke detector(s).

Functioning smoke detectors in those homes could, and probably would, have saved many of those lives.

Many people falsely believe these sad events happen to others. The fact is that a short circuit, an overloaded electrical socket, a bolt of lightening or a careless cigarette is enough to start a chain of events and then it's all over.

Make sure smoke detectors are in working order at least twice a year, typically when daylight savings time begins and ends. Purchase one or more smoke detectors if none are in the home, or contact your insurance company, Georia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine or your local fire department for information on obtaining a free detector. Lives depend on it.

David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Alfa's McNeal Elected to Second Term as GIIS President

01/27/2006 -- The Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS), at its January meeting, has reelected Darrell McNeal, Vice President of Georgia Sales, Alfa Insurance, as President of the statewide industry trade association.

Allen Green, president of Southern Mutual Insurance Company of Athens, Georgia, was reelected GIIS Vice President, and Jake Rocker, Assistant General Manager of Insurance, Georgia Farm Bureau, Macon, Georgia, was reelected Secretary/Treasurer.

GIIS member companies write more than 70 percent of the personal property and casualty insurance policies in the sate such as homeowners, renters and auto. The GIIS website is http://www.giis.org

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

How many ways are there to protect your holiday gift purchases?

December 5, 2005 -- The Georgia Insurance Information Service reminds you that from the time you purchase a holiday gift, it's your responsibility to take care of the item as you shop, as you travel, as your gifts are stored before the holidays and after you receive gifts from others.

While Shopping

Protect your identity, your money and credit cards and your purchases.

· Keep your receipts in a safe place · Protect your credit cards and don't let others see your name and credit card number while you are paying for items
· Keep your money in a safe place that is difficult for pickpockets to reach
· Make sure your gifts are secure in shopping bags or other containers so shoplifters cannot grab them while you are distracted

While Traveling

Whether you are moving from shopping center to shopping center or to your home, keep gifts and other purchases out of site

· Do not leave packages on car seats or anywhere in the vehicle where they can be seen by outsiders
· Keep your vehicle's windows raised and the doors locked at all times, even it you are on the road
· If you stop while traveling, make sure gifts are out of site while you are in stores, visiting neighbors or eating at a restaurant

At Home

After purchasing holiday gifts, make sure they are as safe as possible where they are stored.

· Keep your home's windows and doors locked at all times.
· Keep gifts out of site before the holidays
· If your home as a burglar alarm, the holidays are a good time to use your system especially when you are away from home
· Make sure your home is well lit

Insurance: Acquire and Divest

One of the most often overlooked actions is to properly insure new items purchased, especially high-cost jewelry, electronics, furs, antiques or artwork

· Standard homeowners, renters and condominium insurance policies include coverage for personal items but typically there are limits
· Talk with your insurance agent or company about an endorsement, sometimes called a rider or floater, to purchase additional coverage for new items you have purchased or received
· At the same time, if you no longer own certain items, make sure they are no longer on your insurance policy so you are not paying for items you no longer own

What You Need To Know

To make sure your jewelry or other expensive gifts are adequately protected, the Georgia Insurance Information Service suggests:

· Immediately contact your insurance professional · Let your agent or company representative know that you are in possession of jewelry or other expensive items
· In the case of jewelry, furs antiques or similar items of value, have them appraised before you insure them
· Find out how much coverage you have under your existing homeowners or renters policy and if additional insurance is needed and purchase it to cover these items should they be lost, stolen or destroyed.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

Heating Safely Is Vital To Prevent Fires, Serious Injuries or even Death

11/25/2005 -- Alternative heating may save money but can also pose risks if done carelessly.

The U.S. Product Safety Commission says more than 25,000 residential fires each year are associated with space heaters and that more than 300 people die in these fires.

Another trend that may be on the increase is the use of coal-powered space heaters due to the high cost of natural gas.

Whether powered by electricity, coal, natural gas or kerosene, there are similar concerns for home safety, according to the Georgia Insurance Information Service.

Some safety tips:

· Equip your home with smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
· Use space heaters with guards protecting the heating element.
· Look for tested and certified heaters.
· Keep doors open to the rest of the house if you are using an unvented fuel-burning space heater.
· Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep or leave the area.
· Never use or store flammable liquids around a space heater.
· Place heaters at least three feet from objects such as bedding and drapes.
· Have gas and kerosene space heaters inspected annually.
· Keep your heater on a hard and nonflammable surface, not on rugs or carpets.
· Do not hide cords under rugs or carpets.
· If using an extension cord, use only ones marked #14 or #12 A WG. Light-duty extension cords with high-wattage appliances can start fires.

A concern for either coal heaters or the use of wood-burning fireplaces is the disposal of the ashes after the fire has been extinguished. There may be hot embers embedded in the ashes that can ignite a fire. Use a metal cans or dispose of the ashes in a way that is away from any structure and properly secure the ashes to prevent fires.

For Further Information, Contact:
David Colmans, Executive Director
Georgia Insurance Information Service
770-565-3806, cell 404-317-5749
dcolmans@giis.org

GIIS Offers Safety Tips To Protect Life and Limb in Disaster Situations

11/14/2005 -- Catastrophe situations have dominated the news in the last few years taking hundreds upon hundreds of lives from coast to coast. Many of these deaths were avoidable if more attention had been paid to fundamental safety and security measures. The Georgia Insurance Information Service reminds all Georgians to follow these basic guidelines and be aware of pending severe weather or other warnings.

· A weather alert radio with battery back-up, available at RadioShack and other electronics stores, will give the user an effective warning since broadcast radios or TVs are not always on when storms strike. The National Weather Service offers the best chance for at least a few minutes warning day or night.

· Winter Weather: Prepare water pipes against freezing by wrapping exposed pipes with insulation materials. Cover outside water hose connectors with foam covers and shut off water to external connectors. Be aware of pipes that are inside exterior walls that may freeze during extreme cold. When the temperature warms, be watchful for broken pipes. Be aware of potential freezing of water pipes that feed a dishwasher and/or a washing machine.

· Be prepared for power outages. Maintain at least three days of food and medical supplies. For homes with at lest one fireplace, maintain a supply of aged firewood that can be used for warmth and cooking. Proper ventilation is imperative.

· Winter weather driving is dangerous and requires experience as well as the proper tires, or sometimes chains. Learn the basics for driving on snow or ice.

· Working smoke detectors and/or fire alarm systems are a must in single-family homes and multi-family housing. All too often, when the batteries weaken in smoke detectors, someone in the home removes the batteries to stop the warning chirps that signify the batteries are weak. Instead of removing the batteries, replace them to maintain the safety of working smoke detectors at all times. More that one smoke detector is advisable especially if the home is multi-level.

· Emergency lights are very good investments, especially those that plug into wall sockets, since they are usually near floor level. In a fire, school children are taught to crawl on the floor since smoke rises. Inexpensive battery-back-up lights will help during an emergency evacuation of a home or apartment.

· Every family should have an evacuation plan that is practiced at least three times a year. It is important that all family members know how to escape the home, day or night, even if the main exits are blocked by fire. This may include the purchase of rope ladders for multi-story homes and very detailed plans for escape if doorways and/or staircases are blocked by fire.

For Immediate Release
Contact: David Colmans
770-565-3806 (ofc)
404-317-5749 (cell)
dcolmans@giis.org

Don't Take A Bath When Purchasing A Used Car, Warns The Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS); Learn How to Spot a 'Flooded' Car

10/06/2005 -- Buying a reliable used car has become even trickier. The severe flooding from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita flooded more than 350,000 used cars.

Thousands of formerly water-logged cars are expected to arrive in used car lots and be offered for sale in private street-corner sales in the coming months, warns the GIIS.

Water can be extremely destructive and cars that have spent several days underwater frequently experience all types of mechanical problems.

Cars considered a "total loss" by an insurance company sometimes is "cleaned" and resold as regular used cars.

It is not illegal to sell or buy water-damaged cars. It is, however, illegal in most states to not tell a prospective buyer that a used car was designated a "total loss," says David Colmans, executive director of the GIIS.

To avoid buying a flooded car, GIIS suggests:

Buy from a reputable used car dealer

-- Ask the dealer if the car has suffered any water damage. If the answer is no, request that the dealer put it in writing.

-- Find out if the car comes with a warranty, and make sure you understand all of the terms of the agreement.
Carefully inspect the car

-- Visually examine the car for rust, mildew and mud. Look inside the car under rugs, around the dashboard and inside the glove compartment. -- Check under the hood for water-stains, flaking metal, grit and rust around the engine and alternator as well as in cracks and crevices.

-- Sniff the upholstery, carpet and trunk for musty and moldy odors.
Have a professional examine the car

-- Hire a qualified mechanic to thoroughly inspect the car. A dishonest car dealer may try to hide the signs of water damage, making it difficult for non-professionals to determine if the car was flooded.
Conduct a title search

-- Contact the Georgia Department of Revenue, Tag and Title Division or to track the history of the used car you are thinking of buying.

-- Consider spending money on a service such as CarFax, which tracks a car's history through its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

If one needs additional help purchasing a used car, contact the local Better Business Bureau, the state or city department of consumer affairs or one's insurance professional.

For Immediate Release
Contact: David Colmans
770-565-3806 (ofc)
404-317-5749 (cell)
dcolmans@giis.org

Georgia's Auto Insurance Rates Below National Average, Study Says

Atlanta, September 17, 2005 - In 2003, Georgia drivers on average spent $758.96 on auto insurance versus the national average expenditure of $820.91, according to a study by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Factors that influence the cost of coverage may include: · The type of vehicle and specific safety features · The amount of miles driven and type of driving · Family claim record, including the number of accidents and their severity · Driving record, including speeding tickets · Age, gender and experience of the driver

According to the Georgia Insurance Information Service, there are ways that Georgia drivers can reduce their auto insurance costs even more:

· Shop around, but don't shop by price alone. Friendly service and fair claims handling are also important
· If you can afford higher deductibles, the cost of auto insurance can be substantially reduced
· Reduce coverage on older cars in the area of collision and/or comprehensive, but discuss such changes with your agent or company first
· Multiple insurance policies with the same company can reduce costs
· Ask for discounts such as low number of miles driver per year, safe driver, education courses, good student, and a good driving record

Average auto expenditures for other states in the southeast:
Florida	$1,015.11
South Carolina	744.49
Alabama	656.42
Mississippi	709.45
Tennessee	649.71
Louisiana	1,013.93

The highest average auto expenditures in the U.S.:
New Jersey	$1,188.42
New York	1,160.80
District of Columbia	1,129.31
Massachusetts	1,051.60

The lowest average auto expenditures in the U.S.:
North Dakota	536.30
South Dakota	563.81
Iowa	580.15

The Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS) is a not-for-profit, non-lobbying association of property and casualty insurance companies that do business in the state. GIIS provides insurance information to consumers and the news media.

For Immediate Release
Contact: David Colmans
770-565-3806 (ofc)
404-317-5749 (cell)
dcolmans@giis.org

Love May Be Priceless, But Valentine's Day Gifts Can Be Costly. Protect Diamond Rings And Other Expensive Jewelry With Appropriate Insurance, GIIS Warns

02/01/2005 -- If you receive an engagement ring or other piece of expensive jewelry on Valentine’s Day, make sure you have the necessary insurance, advises the Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS).

Standard homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for personal items such as jewelry. However, many policies limit the dollar amount for theft of valuable personal possessions such as jewelry, furs, and precious stones from $1,000 to $2,000.

"To properly insure jewelry and other expensive items, consider purchasing additional coverage through a floater or an endorsement," says David Colmans, executive director of the Georgia Insurance Information Service.

In most cases, you would also be covered for "mysterious disappearance." This means that if your ring falls off your finger or is lost, you would be financially protected. With floaters and endorsements, there are no deductibles and frequently you will get the option of having the insurance company replace the item for you, according to Colmans.

Floaters and endorsements are available as additions to home and renters insurance policies. Some companies also offer a stand-alone policy to cover jewelry without having to purchase home or renters policies.

"While there is no way to insure the sentimental value of jewelry, having it properly insured will provide financial protection in the event it is lost or stolen," says Colmans. To make sure your jewelry is adequately protected, the GIIS suggests:

Contact your insurance professional immediately
Let your agent or company representative know that you are now in possession of an expensive piece of jewelry. Find out how much coverage you have and if additional insurance is needed.
Have the item appraised
Heirlooms and items that were purchased several years ago will need to be appraised for their dollar value. Ask your insurer for recommendations regarding a reputable appraiser. It is important that expensive items are appraised properly. If you purchase a floater or endorsement, you will pay premium based on the appraised value and in the event of a claim, be compensated for this dollar amount.
Keep a copy of the store receipt
You will need to forward a copy of the receipt to your insurer so that the company knows the current retail value of the item. Keep a copy for yourself and include it with your home inventory.
Store valuables in a secure location
Protect your jewelry by storing it in a secure location in your home. If you don’t plan to wear the item regularly or are holding it for a child, consider keeping it in a safe deposit box. You may save money on the cost of insuring it, as some companies offer “in vault” coverage. If you want to wear the jewelry for a special occasion, many insurers will offer the option of purchasing additional coverage for the time it is out of the bank. You would, of course, have to notify your insurer ahead of time.
Update the value of your jewelry
Expensive items can go up or go down in value. Talk to your insurance professional about how to make sure the dollar amount of your floater or endorsement reflects these changes. Prices for floaters and endorsements will vary depending on the type of jewelry, the insurance company you choose, where you live and where the item will e kept.
Take a picture of the item or collection
Get into the habit of keeping a visual record of all of your personal possessions. This helps to document your loss and speed up the claims process. It is also useful to document antique and unusual pieces of jewelry.
Add the item to your home inventory
Everyone should have an up-to-date inventory of their personal possessions. This can help purchase the correct amount of insurance and speed up the claims process when there is a loss. To make creating a home inventory fun and simple, the I.I.I. created free, downloadable software located on www.knowyourstuff.com. You can add a digital photograph of your new gift and save scanned receipts. Computerizing your inventory also makes updating it faster and easier.

For more information regarding insurance, access GIIS' website at www.giis.org. There is a link on the front page of the site to the taking inventory software and extensive information property and casualty insurance covering home, auto, renters and workers' compensation.

GIIS is a non-profit, communications organization supported by the property/casualty insurance members.

For Immediate Release
Contact: David Colmans
770-565-3806 (ofc)
404-317-5749 (cell)
dcolmans@giis.org

Darrell McNeal Elected 2005 President of the Georgia Insurance Information Service

01/01/2005 -- At the Annual Meeting of the Georgia Insurance Information Service (GIIS), Darrell McNeal, Regional Marketing Vice President for ALFA Insurance, was elected president for 2005.

Karen Barone, Georgia Product Manager for Progressive Insurance, was elected Vice President and Jake Rocker, Asst. General Manager, Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance, was elected Secretary/Treasurer.

The 2004 Association President, Alice Heard, Compliance Attorney for GEICO Insurance, becomes Immediate Past President. Nancy Lemke, Senior Field Corporate Relations Manager for Allstate Insurance, and Rob Lowenthal, Public Affairs/Marketing Manager for State Farm Insurance, were re-elected to the Executive Committee.

GIIS is a not-for-profit industry trade association of property and casualty insurers doing business in Georgia. Member companies write more than 70 percent of the personal insurance in Georgia such as auto, homeowners and renters.