SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (PRWEB)
June 03, 2020

Sommers Schwartz, P.C., today announced it has brought a lawsuit on behalf of a class of similarly situated Michigan businesses forced to shut down their operations because of the COVID-19 emergency. The plaintiffs allege Hanover Insurance Group and Citizens Insurance breached their policies by denying the plaintiffs’ business interruption insurance claims.

The action, captioned Stanford Dental, PLLC v. The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. and Citizens Insurance Company of America, Case 2:20-cv-11384, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.

“At a time when the global coronavirus pandemic is wreaking havoc on public health and the U.S. economy, insurance companies are engaging in a public campaign declaring that COVID-19-related claims aren’t covered,” said Andrew Kochanowski, who represents the plaintiffs with fellow Sommers Schwartz attorneys Jason Thompson and Robert Sickels. “Insurers appear to be loudly proclaiming to policyholders, ‘If your business closed because of the virus, we can’t help you.’”

On March 24, 2020, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued Executive Order No. 2020-21, which required non-essential workers to stay at home and businesses not involved with maintaining critical infrastructure to close their operations. The plaintiffs were all subject to, and not excepted from, the emergency Order.

The lawsuit alleges the plaintiffs each purchased a standard-form all-risk “Businessowners Coverage Form” property and casualty insurance policy from the defendants. The plaintiffs assert that the policy promised to cover direct physical property loss or damage, and that under a “Civil Authority” provision, the defendants were to pay lost net income, payroll costs, and other business expenses if the plaintiffs’ businesses were “suspended” for any non-excluded reason.

When the Michigan statewide shutdown order forced them to suspend their operations, the plaintiffs say the defendants invoked a so-called “virus exclusion” to systematically deny all business interruption coverage claims associated with the pandemic.

“Hanover and Citizens conveniently – but wrongly – interpret the virus exclusion in their favor,” added Mr. Kochanowski. “COVID-19 was not the direct cause of our clients’ property damage, nor were any of their businesses suspended because their premises needed to be decontaminated. Instead, Governor Whitmer issued the emergency order to ensure COVID-19 did not contaminate their premises or infect their personnel. The shutdown caused the losses, not the coronavirus.”

The plaintiffs seek damages from the alleged breach and a declaratory judgment that the defendants’ policies provide coverage for loss of business income and expenses precipitated by the March 24, 2020, Executive Order.

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Sommers Schwartz, P.C., based in Southfield, Michigan, represents plaintiffs in complex and class action litigation. Sommers Schwartz has extensive experience representing investors, homeowners, consumers, employees, and borrowers in class action litigation, and the firm has played lead roles in major cases for over 25 years resulting in recoveries of many millions of dollars for their clients and the classes they represent. For further information about Sommers Schwartz, please visit http://www.sommerspc.com.

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LOS ANGELES (PRWEB)
June 03, 2020

Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is urging residents along the Eastern Seaboard and the Gulf of Mexico to take precautions and prepare themselves, their families and property in advance of the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 until November 30).

“Hurricane season off to a fast start with three tropical storms already named, so it’s critical for residents on the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico to make preparations before more severe weather threatens their families and property,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Mercury’s vice president of property claims. “Create a plan with your family so everyone knows where to go, what to pack and how to get your home ready for any upcoming storms. This way, you won’t be caught off-guard if a hurricane is heading your way and you’re instructed to evacuate.”

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced that this year’s Atlantic hurricane season is forecasted to most likely be “above-normal,” with an estimated 13 to 19 named storms, of which up to 10 could become hurricanes. Tropical Storms Arthur and Bertha already formed in May, and Tropical Storm Cristobal is currently churning its way through the western portion of the Gulf of Mexico.

O’Rourke advises homeowners to take the following steps to prepare their homes for a hurricane:

Pack a go-bag. There are several essential items to have at the ready in case of an emergency, especially if you need to leave your home quickly. A primary go-bag – or emergency kit – should be stored in an easily accessible place within your house or garage. Smaller kits can be kept in your car or at work. Take stock of your go-bag yearly to make sure your items are up-to-date, including:

• A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person), non-perishable food items and pet food, if applicable;
• A battery-powered or hand-crank radio (and extra batteries);
• A phone charger;
• A flashlight;
• A first aid kit;
• A whistle to signal for help;
• A can opener;
• Gloves, face masks, hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes;
• Blankets;
• Pliers or a wrench to turn off utilities;
• At least $200 in cash in small bills, as power may be out, making ATMs, debit and credit cards unusable; and
• Prescriptions for you, your family and your pets.

Create an emergency plan. Know where family members will meet if instructed to evacuate, as well as several options to get out of the city in case routes are blocked. Establish a meeting point ahead of time. Staying with friends or family who live outside of the local area is a good option, but you should also research hotels and shelters, as resources may be limited this year due to the pandemic.

Be aware of flood zones in your area. Hurricanes can cause high winds, flying debris and flash flooding. Get out of town and go to higher ground. If your home is located in a flood zone and you can’t leave before the storm, remain indoors and get to the highest level possible.

Reinforce your home. Close shutters or use plywood to board up windows and doors. Secure outdoor furniture, potted plants and other items that could become projectiles during the storm.

Store important documents in a safe place. This includes copies of insurance policies, birth certificates, medical records and prescriptions, social security cards, important financial documents, passports and other identification, which should be stored in a waterproof container. Upload scanned copies of these documents to a cloud-based digital storage site so they’re easily accessible from your smartphone or computer if needed.

“Homeowners insurance doesn’t usually cover weather-related flooding, but flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a high-risk area, consider purchasing a policy,” adds O’Rourke. “Vehicle damage may be covered by your auto insurance policy if you carry comprehensive coverage, but it’s best to make sure. Your local Mercury Insurance agent is able to help verify what is and is not covered in the event you’re affected by a hurricane.”

O’Rourke also advises policyholders to follow a few simple procedures to help speed up the claims process if your home or vehicle is affected by a hurricane.

When filing a claim:

• Contact Mercury immediately to report your loss.
• Be prepared to provide your policy number.
• Do not remove debris or damaged property that may be related to your claim.

Steps after filing a claim:

• Prepare a detailed inventory of destroyed or damaged property.
• Offer photos or videos of your home and possessions to your claims representative.
• Keep copies of communications between you and your claims representative.
• Keep records and receipts for additional living expenses that were incurred if you were forced to leave your home, and provide copies to your claims representative.

Visit Mercury’s Catastrophe Center to learn more about how to protect yourself, your family and your property before a natural disaster happens.

About Mercury Insurance

Mercury Insurance (MCY) is a multiple-line insurance organization predominantly offering personal automobile, homeowners and commercial insurance through a network of independent agents in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia. Since 1962, Mercury has specialized in offering quality insurance at affordable prices. For more information visit http://www.mercuryinsurance.com or Facebook and follow the company on Twitter.

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FISHERS, Ind. (PRWEB)
June 03, 2020

As the hunting industry continues to recruit new hunters and promote the conservation efforts of hunters, The American Hunting Lease Association (AHLA) has established itself as the leader in making private land access a reality for thousands of hunters across the country. AHLA is proud to announce it is now offering a $2 million liability policy to satisfy the demand of landowners requiring higher coverage limits.

For the last 10 years, the AHLA has provided hunters and landowners across all 50 states with the risk management tools they need to responsibly and safely enter into a private land hunting lease agreement. “We are always paying close attention to the needs of our hunters and landowners,” said Sean Ferbrache AHLA Chief Operating Officer. “As land values rise, landowners are requesting more coverage from their hunters leasing access or even friends and family members who are hunting their property.

The $2 million policy provides hunters and landowners with a new and higher coverage option. AHLA’s standard policy provides $1 million of coverage per occurrence. Returning members and new members will always have the option of purchasing the standard $1 million policy or upgrading to the new $2 million policy to protect their landowners. The AHLA policies cover every member of a lease or hunt club and all their landowners. The AHLA is the only provider of hunting lease insurance that includes up to seven landowners for no additional charge.

Landowner liability is typically one of the biggest barriers preventing access to private lands. That barrier is easily overcome with a standard liability policy created specifically to address the risk a landowner assumes when he/she allows other access onto their property. AHLA provides an easy online buying process or if customer prefer they can also secure coverage over the phone. Rates are surprisingly affordable with most farms and properties fully covered at $1M for $215 annually or $2M at $365. Convenient monthly coverage start dates are available with the $1M policy.

According to Ferbrache the AHLA remains committed to opening up as much acreage as possible for hunters and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoor experience. Given the pandemic lockdowns and unfortunate domestic meat shortages, hunting seasons are

highly anticipated outdoor events this year for a safe and enjoyable experience to fill a freezer with quality, organic meat.

“As a trade association, our mission has been clear from day one. Offer guidance, education and the tools needed to give landowners the peace of mind to create income from hunting or recreation on their property while minimizing risk. In addition, AHLA also offers Vacant Land (Timberland) policy for landowners that allow free access to their properties and affordable coverage for professional Guides and Outfitters who are passionate about taking Americans hunting and fishing” said Ferbrache.

He continued, “the key to hunting’s comeback is to improve the experience; and the best way to improve the experience is to make access to quality hunting habitat a reality.”

About American Hunting Lease Association

The American Hunting Lease Association is an Indiana-based trade organization that provides Members across all 50 states with more benefits and opportunities to hunt on private land and continues to innovate on behalf of outdoorsman everywhere. Additionally, the AHLA’s website http://www.ahuntinglease.org, provides an easy online buying process, hunting lease template, an informative hunting blog, advocacy on behalf of hunters and landowners and Leasespotter, a hunting lease listing service.

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SALT LAKE CITY (PRWEB)
June 03, 2020

Today, FloodPrice.com launched as a new digital flood insurance agency designed to provide consumers with convenient, cost-effective access to private flood insurance. The user-friendly platform offers homeowners and business owners a much-needed alternative to the government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), while ensuring a fast, simple quoting process.

“The start of the 2020 hurricane season presents an excellent opportunity for homeowners and business owners to rethink flood insurance. We’ll be there to help them obtain coverage, enhance their current coverage and save money,” said Ashley Pulver, general manager of FloodPrice.com. “We want to help consumers understand their flood insurance options and the quality private solutions that can offer them more coverage and rate flexibility than the NFIP.”

FloodPrice.com connects consumers to the affordable rates, advanced mapping, and superior customer service provided through private flood insurers, unlike the NFIP, which offers generalized premiums and policies tied to outdated flood maps. Coverage options available through FloodPrice.com include:

• 
  Building coverage policy limits up to $5,000,000
• Coverage for belongings for building contents up to $200,000
• Coverage for garages or additional structures up to policy limits
• Additional living expenses up to $5,000
• Coverage for basement contents up to $15,000

Further, FloodPrice.com offers customers coverage following a 15-day waiting period, while the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period. Also, the NFIP can require homeowners to present elevation certificates, but FloodPrice.com has no such requirement. FloodPrice.com bases rates on risk analysis utilizing advanced mapping technology, and is admitted in all 50 states.

To learn more, receive a quote, complete an application or use our flood insurance calculator, homeowners can visit FloodPrice.com. During this initial roll out, commercial quotes can be obtained by contacting a member of our support team at (866) 503-5663. Online quoting will be available for commercial risks in the future.

About FloodPrice.com

FloodPrice.com is a flood insurance agency created to address the need for consumer access to private flood insurance as an alternative to the National Flood Insurance Program. Our online platform offers homeowners and business owners a simple, convenient, cost-effective online solution for purchasing private flood insurance. FloodPrice.com is administered by INX Insurance Services, LLC, a pioneer in using technology to deliver consumer solutions. Follow FloodPrice.com on social media for updates and useful tips: LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

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SAN DIEGO (PRWEB)
June 03, 2020

Financial Fitness Group (FinancialFitnessGroup.com) announces the addition of Tricia Rothschild, CFA to its board of directors. Rothschild recently served as Chief Product Officer and Co-Head of Global Markets for Morningstar. In her 26-year tenure at Morningstar, she built and led numerous aspects of the firm’s business serving each of its three core audiences: individuals, advisors and financial institutions. She currently serves as an advisor and board member for a small portfolio of fintech firms and the CFA Institute.

“I first had the chance to meet Tricia Rothschild and Joe Mansueto, the founder of Morningstar when I was in graduate school. At the time the two of them were willing to listen to a Midwest college kid with a big idea”, said Joe Saari, Founder of the Financial Fitness Group. “Mr. Mansueto was even kind enough to invite me to lunch and shared his own experiences in starting Morningstar, and the meeting inspired me to pursue my own entrepreneurial dreams”.

Joe Saari continued, “Now, after more than a decade of collaboration, innovation, and hard work, thanks to partners like Tricia Rothschild and Morningstar, we are well-positioned to meet the growing need for financial wellness in turbulent times. The addition of Tricia to our Board of Directors will add immeasurable value to our ongoing growth.”

During Tricia Rothschild’s time as an executive officer at Morningstar, she was responsible for the firm’s software, data, research and index business lines serving asset managers, wealth managers, and individual investors. Her team of more than 1,500 product developers, product managers, designers, and business leaders drove product strategy, innovation, technical development, and the related business success for these multi-million-dollar global product lines.

“I’ve supported the Financial Fitness Group’s evolution over the past decade through the Morningstar relationship, and I now look forward to contributing to the organization as a Board Member”, said Tricia Rothschild. “Through the years I was always impressed with the content Financial Fitness Group produced, and, importantly, the delivery of that content. As investors of all levels of sophistication strive for the best possible financial outcomes for themselves and their families, Financial Fitness Group can play a unique and meaningful role in building confidence and healthy financial habits.”

Patrick D. Quirk, Executive Chairman said, “Tricia Rothschild will play a critical strategic role in future market opportunities, strategic partnerships, and product vision at Financial Fitness Group,” he continued, “Her experience in product direction for the financial services industry adds to our well-rounded management team and board of directors, and we welcome her enthusiastically to our organization.”

With the addition of Tricia Rothschild to the Board of Directors, Rick Hernandez will be stepping down as an active board member. Rick will continue to play an active advisory role as Board Observer in the company’s strategic growth.

Financial Fitness Group Board Members:

• Joe Schlidt, Director, Godfrey & Kahn, S.C.
• Joe Saari, Founder, Financial Fitness Group
• Deb Karstetter, Founder & President, Executive nSight
• Patrick D. Quirk, Executive Chairman, Financial Fitness Group
• Tricia Rothschild, Strategy Consultant, Oehme Rothschild, LLC

Board Observer:

• Rick Hernandez, President, Capital Holdings

About Precision Information, DBA Financial Fitness Group:

Financial Fitness Group is a leading financial e-learning software company providing unbiased, FINRA-compliant educational content. Our interactive platform maximizes participant engagement and is proven to improve a user’s financial aptitude, behavior, and confidence. Financial Fitness Group is the leading provider of personal finance and investing online learning solutions to financial service providers and Fortune 500 companies.

For additional information, images, and press materials, please contact Georgette Regan, georgette@financialfitnessgroup.com.

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