If you think teens are the primary culprits, think again The number of traffic deaths in the U.S. rose sharply in 2015 and 2016, marking the greatest increase in five decades. Many safety advocates point to distracted driving as one of the primary reasons. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reports that in 2015 alone, distracted driving was the
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If you’re like most people, you are likely already aware of the benefits of bundling. Perhaps you bundle your cable, internet and phone service. Or maybe you bundle your order as a value meal at your local fast-food restaurant (would you like fries with that?). Bundling your insurance policies––for example home, auto and life––can also save you both time and
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David W. Griffin Sr., executive vice president and treasurer of The Dowd Agencies, LLC, a leading insurance provider serving New England for over 120 years, is the 2018 recipient of the Daniel J. Gallivan award from the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. “We are honored that one of our own has received this well-deserved honor,” said John E. Dowd Jr.,
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A little caution and some common sense can prevent a cozy fire from turning into a devastating blaze Relaxing in front of a roaring fire is standard practice for many of us in New England, especially with the frigid temps we’ve experienced so far this month. But before you strike a match, take a few minutes to review these standard
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One of the standout quotes from the movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, back in 1986, was: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” The same holds true with your insurance coverage. While most people remember to update their insurance after major life events, like a marriage or a
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Know how to protect your rental property. When you buy a home, you buy homeowners insurance—usually. The exception? When the home you own isn’t for you to occupy. Rental property, whether a single-family home or one split into multiple units, is a whole different ballgame in terms of insurance. Although one or more parties call the place home, homeowners insurance
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Before you measure twice, think twice—and consider the implications Across the nation, it’s happening every day. Executives and editors channeling their inner electrician. Stockbrokers and sous chefs playing professional plumber. Teachers, office managers, personal trainers and innumerable others embarking on a serious building endeavor. And, in many cases, insurance agents cringing for them. Yes, it’s a DIY world out there,
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The Dowd Agencies, LLC, a leading insurance provider serving New England for over 115 years, recently welcomed Mason Lebron, a resident of Springfield, as an account executive. “The Dowd Agencies continues to grow to meet the needs of the communities we serve,” said John E. Dowd, president and CEO. “Mason is a welcome addition to our team, bringing experience with
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Not every holiday fire is so delightful
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire… candles in the window… despite the lovely images they may elicit, some traditional holiday lyrics should carry a disclaimer: Don’t try this at home!
We’re not trying to dampen spirits (honest!); on the contrary, we want everyone to enjoy a season that’s merry and bright. We just want to make sure the source of that brightness is a safe and well-controlled one. Many of the classic joys we associate with winter holidays—candles, decorative lights, indoor greenery and plenty of home cooking—are also classic fire hazards, making fire safety a key consideration this time of year.
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Simple safety measures make for a happily memorable Thanksgiving On Thanksgiving Day, millions of Americans fall into one of two categories: the travelers and the hosts. As to which represents the smaller piece of the furcula (better known as the wishbone; #TurkeyTrivia), that depends heavily on whom you ask. Some would rather spend hours crawling a highway than days cleaning
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