With the new year, lots of us make "new year resolutions". A resolution is defined as "a firm decision to do or not to do something." Admittedly, it can be tough to get out of our own way and take the time to do things that will truly provide long-term benefits because change isn't always easy. It takes commitment, but the rewards can be great.

Maybe it's the natural human aversion to thinking about our mortality combined with various myths about life insurance that results in procrastination and avoidance of this topic. If you're among those who have avoided addressing your life insurance needs, we'd like to encourage you to take action by dispelling some life insurance myths.

Tips for buying commercial auto insurance that will help you manage costs and ensure you’re properly protected. Whether you need commercial auto insurance for a single vehicle or a whole fleet, you want insurance that is both affordable as well as provides the proper protection.

Personal umbrella policies are growing in popularity. In the past, only wealthy individuals and families purchased this coverage. Today, middle-income families also may procure this policy for protection in our society's increasingly litigious climate. As the tendency to sue for damages rises and awards granted by the courts grow, the personal umbrella policy is increasingly seen as an insurance necessity, rather than a luxury. It is especially attractive because of its relatively low cost.

Many people face a variety of community-related and volunteer-related loss exposures. For example, if you or a family member holds some type of leadership role in a community, charity, religious, not-for-profit, or political organization, you should consider certain risk management recommendations.

For most people, their home is their greatest asset, so it's crucial to avoid being underinsured. To protect their investment from disasters, homeowners should update their insurance regularly to include improvements, major purchases and increased rebuilding costs. Here are four key questions to ask your insurer.

No business is totally immune from disaster. Every year, businesses temporarily shut down—or close forever—because of a disaster such as a flood, fire or hurricane. You can take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of a disaster on your business. In addition, carrying adequate insurance coverage can help your business get back on its feet quickly.

Consider these simple steps to make your home safer, warmer and cheaper to live in. Ice, snow and wind can have devastating consequences on your home; fortunately, there are precautions you can take to avoid winter related damage. Keep in mind, the time to winterize is when the leaves begin to turn and not when the snow begins to fall.

Increased deer activity during October thru December, their migration and mating season, cause a sharp increase in auto accidents involving deer. Deer-vehicle collisions are dangerous and costly. To avoid hitting a deer, follow these defensive driving tips.

How are you paid? Who gets the check? Do you need to replace items immediately? After a disaster, you want to get back to normal as soon as possible, and your insurance company wants that too! You may get multiple checks from your insurer as you make temporary repairs, permanent repairs and replace damaged belongings. Here's what you need to know about claims payments.