Is Your E-Commerce Business Protected?

An e-commerce business in Evergreen Park, IL still needs to have the right kinds of insurance in order to stay protected. An agent at Martin Insurance Team can help you find the right insurance for your business.

Liability Insurance: Liability insurance is needed because someone could hurt himself or herself with your product and sue your business. If you think that no one could possibly hurt himself or herself using your product, think again. Liability insurance is useful no matter what type of product you sell. Someone could have an allergic reaction to the material in your clothing or a child could choke on a small piece that isn’t supposed to break off. Even if the legal claim isn’t founded, someone will have to pay for the legal fees.

Property Insurance: Your e-commerce business will have products stored somewhere, so it’s important to protect those products in case something goes wrong. It can cover any loss, theft, or damage to your inventory. It can also cover any equipment that is damaged. If you run your e-commerce business from your home, then note that home insurance won’t cover any items related to your business.

Transit Insurance: This insurance applies if you are shipping products. If you are getting large batches of inventory from distributors or shipping batches to a warehouse, then this protects items in route. When transporting your items there may be contractual protection for distributors, warehouses, or suppliers, but you need to understand what is covered and what isn’t and fill in the gaps.

Data Security: Online businesses need to keep customer data secure, and if a breach were to happen, you could be held liable for each customer’s lost information. Data security insurance can provide coverage for these events.

Business Interruption: This insurance can help if you rely on third-party providers to help with Internet or shipping services. If there is an issue that stops business, then you can recuperate losses.

Contact Martin Insurance Team, serving Evergreen Park, IL, to get a quote on commercial insurance. 

What is Malpractice Insurance?

Medical malpractice insurance is not a requirement in the state of Illinois, however, many professionals opt to buy this indemnification for that protection it provides. Industries, where malpractice insurance is most common, are among doctors, those working in the field of dentistry, psychology, those who work in pharmacies, and in various levels of nursing, optometry, and physical therapy. 

What Does Malpractice Insurance Cover?

Malpractice insurance is a type of commercial insurance, and it will protect you in situations where you are sued due to errors that result in damage to your patients. In the event that a lawsuit is brought against you, your policy will help cover costs that are from legal fees and bills arising from arbitration, going to settlement and damages that are awarded for punitive, compensatory, and medical reasons. 

You’ll need to consider if you want ‘claims-made’ coverage that will address suits and injuries that arise during the time in which you are insured or an ‘occurrence’ policy that will cover those that are filed regarding incidents that happened while you were insured, even if they occur at a later date.

It is always important to remember that legal action can be taken long after the offending action was taken, and you can also purchase ‘tail’ coverage to extend past the date when you cancel your insurance by a certain number of years. Also important to remember is that malpractice insurance does not apply to criminal activities or falsification of medical records. 

Martin Insurance Team Located in Evergreen Park, IL Wants to Help You

Bring your insurance needs to Martin Insurance Team, and we will do our best to tailor a commercial insurance package to you. We have experience serving customers in the Evergreen Park, IL and look forward to working with you. Stop by or contact us online to discuss any questions you may have about commercial insurance today!

Does Commercial Insurance Cover Losses From Lightning?

One of the most destructive and feared incidents for a business is lightning. Lightning can cause an array of issues ranging from fire to loss of vital electronic equipment. If you are shopping for commercial insurance, this is an issue you want to understand and know how the terms and conditions outline coverage and exclusions.

Lighting Coverage

Most commercial policies will cover any damage that results to the structure or even electronic equipment as a result of the lightning strike. It is important to understand the limits of the coverage and know what items will be covered. For example, there may be some instances where refrigerated inventory may not be covered. Always discuss the policy in detail with your insurance agent before making a policy purchase.

Finding Appropriate Coverage

When you are looking for the right commercial insurance coverage, you should do business with an established, reputable insurance company. Finding the right insurance company to provide you with protection is one of the most important steps you can take towards protecting your business investment. Martin Insurance Team provided quality insurance products, including commercial insurance, to the business owners in and around the Evergreen Park, IL area. They will sit down and discuss their policies in great detail with prospective customers and make sure that they understand the limits of coverage completely before making a decision. 

If you are interested in getting more information about commercial insurance and live in or around the Evergreen Park, IL area, then you should call or stop by the Martin Insurance Team office and speak with a knowledgeable representative. Get the commercial insurance protection you need today to have a more secure future tomorrow. 

Do I need workman’s compensation insurance if I only have a few employees?

Workers’ compensation insurance is a way that employers can help protect their employees if they become hurt of sick because of the job. The employees who are covered are not able to sue the employer in a civil suit for the damages, as they have to give up that right in exchange for the workers’ compensation protection. This protects both the employer, who cannot be sued into insolvency, and the employee.

The damages include basic medical expenses and some wage replacement for time the employees miss from work. The coverage also gives benefits to families of workers killed on the job. Martin Insurance Team can assist business owners in Evergreen Park, IL in comparing workers’ comp policies.

Who Is Required To Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In Illinois, Workers’ Compensation is required for almost every work situation and of almost every employer, even if the employer only has one part-time employee. Workers’ Compensation is required for those working in construction, trucking at a construction site and any other hazardous job, in order to protect employees who might come to harm.

Sole proprietors are exempt from carrying Workers’ Compensation Insurance, although they are still allowed to buy a policy to cover themselves. Even family members must be insured, unless they are corporate officers, work less than 400 days of agricultural labor per year, or are immediate family members in the same household. 

While there are some exceptions, most businesses in Illinois are required to purchase their Workers’ Compensation insurance from a commercial provider. The only exceptions are those who qualify to insure themselves. If you have any questions about Workers’ Compensation Insurance in Evergreen Park, IL, or would like to compare policies, the agents at Martin Insurance Team would love to talk to you.

When Should You Buy Commercial Insurance?

If you are a business owner, then it is time for you to get commercial insurance if you do not already have it in place. Commercial insurance is the best way to protect you and your business. Here at Martin Insurance Team, serving Evergreen Park, IL, we are here to help you make the right decision and get a commercial insurance policy for your business as soon as possible. 

  • You have invested a lot in your business. The last thing that you want to do is find yourself in a bind and possibly losing your business simply because you did not have the right coverage. One wrong move without commercial insurance can result in you losing the entire business that you have worked hard for. 
  • You should protect yourself and your employees. If you have employees, you not only want to ensure that you are protected but you also want to make sure that they are protected. Your employees are valuable and you should protect them as such. 
  • You want to protect yourself against employees. Even though you value your employees, there is never a guarantee that one will not file a claim against you in court. It is a good idea to have this coverage so that one of these claims does not take your business under as a result. 

No matter where you are in the stages of your business, you need to have commercial insurance as a way to protect you and your business. If you are interested in exploring your options and finding the right commercial insurance policy for you and your business, be sure to reach out to Martin Insurance Team, serving Evergreen Park, IL, today. We will help you find the right policy and find one that fits within your budget. 

Do you need commercial insurance when you work from home?

Commercial insurance is designed to protect your business from losses related to things like theft, liability, and property damage. While the average company owner seeks out indemnity coverage for his traditional brick and mortar establishment, the new age millennial may deem commercial insurance as unnecessary for his work-from-home business. The reality, however, is that homeowners or renters insurance is not enough to cover your company in the event of an incident. You need commercial insurance if you have a home business in Evergreen Park, IL, which is why Martin Insurance Team is here to help. 

What homeowners insurance covers and leaves behind
Yes, homeowners insurance protects if your family gathering turns tragic and someone falls down the stairs. The policy, however, does not cover a client falling down those stairs after having a productive meeting to discuss services offered. A traditional homeowners insurance policy also leaves behind all property damage occurring on the premises except $2,500. Many small business owners have computers costing more than such amount. 

Commercial insurance has you fully covered
A liability insurance policy for your small business can guard against losses related to accidents if you, like several work-from-home entrepreneurs, do not have the significantly expensive equipment. You may also want to search out a comprehensive package policy, known as a business owner’s policy (BOP), that provides general liability coverage as well as property protection. Some BOP options include business income that pays you for wages lost should your company need to close due to extensive damage. 

Whichever option you choose for coverage, you want to make sure that you have an expert explaining the nuts and bolts of commercial insurance. Do not be caught underinsured, Evergreen Park, IL. Call Martin Insurance Team today for a consultation. 

Why Commercial Insurance is good for your business

By purchasing a commercial insurance policy, you will have made one of the most important investments especially if you are starting a new company. A good commercial insurance policy will protect your business from financial loss ensuring that you remain afloat even during turbulent times. According to Martin Insurance Team, Evergreen Park, IL, you should seek information regarding different types of commercial insurance policies and also work with a reputable agency to ensure that you choose the right policy.

Significance of the policy
If you own a small business, this policy is very crucial since it will protect you from common liabilities resulting from employee injury, theft, and property damage. The adequate insurance coverage offered by this policy reduces the risk of going out of business.

Types of commercial insurance
There are three major types of commercial insurance namely; worker’s compensation insurance, property insurance, and liability insurance. The worker’s compensation insurance will protect you in the event your employee is injured while on the job. Also, it will prevent employees from filing negligence lawsuits due to the injury they sustain in the workplace. Secondly, the property insurance will cover any property damages within your business which includes flood and fire damage. Finally, liability insurance will protect you from the damages inflicted on third parties by your company.

Considerations you should make
It is advisable to work with an insurance agency with extensive experience in the field of commercial insurance. As Martin Insurance Team, Evergreen Park, IL advises, the relationship between you and the insurance agency is crucial when it comes to a decision making process. A reputable agency will discuss the most common losses within your line of business and advise you on the best policy to choose. Before purchasing the policy, ensure that you seek clarifications in areas that you don’t understand to avoid future regrets.
 

In Evergreen Park, IL, Does Your Commercial Insurance Cover Worker’s Compensation Claims?

The agents at Martin Insurance Team serve businesses throughout the Evergreen Park, IL area. They can provide you with all types of commercial insurance ranging from general liability to umbrella policies, and everything in between. One of the main concerns for businesses who have several employees is finding quality Worker’s Compensation Insurance. The number of employees and the type of business you operate will determine how much insurance you will need.

Worker’s Compensation Insurance

Worker’s Compensation is used to cover an employee’s injuries if the accident happens while they are working or on the premises. It’s a specialized policy that is normally sold aside from your general liability and other types of business insurance. Most states require that you carry some type of Worker’s Compensation insurance to protect your employee’s from catastrophic loss if they are ever injured while on the job.

Umbrella Coverage

If you want to fully protect yourself, an umbrella policy can be purchased that includes several types of insurance. Umbrella policies are often used when a business needs multiple types of insurance. This can include fleet insurance for company vehicles, health insurance, life insurance coverage, Worker’s Compensation, and general liability coverage. Your insurance agent will evaluate what your business needs and put together a comprehensive policy that covers all aspects of your business.

If you’re  a business owner and live in the Evergreen Park, IL area, contact the agents at Martin Insurance Team to find out everything you need to know about Worker’s Compensation insurance. They have the knowledge and experience that will help them find a policy that matches your company’s individual needs.

Are You as Ready to Launch Your Business as You Think?

Preparation is Key

Opening a new business may seem simple, but it usually takes blood, sweat, and a few tears before it becomes a reality. Success is not guaranteed just because you have the money to get the doors open. Developing a solid business plan before launch is one key to longevity. The Martin Insurance Team encourages you to keep in mind the best-laid plans are those with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. 

Take Your Time

Research is your friend when it comes to establishing a business that will survive the first year in Evergreen Park IL. It takes a couple of years to complete sufficient research on demand, price expectations, and competitors in your area. Once you have determined your brand will sell, make sure your price points are reasonable for your area.

An online presence should be established before launch to take advantage of sales or conversions that occur after the customer has left your physical location. Many people want to get a feel for what you offer, but may not be ready to commit onsite. Establishing a website and social media account is an integral part of modern marketing strategies.

Opening Day

To go big or go small, that is the question you must answer before opening day. A soft approach, with little fanfare, works beautifully for some businesses. This is especially true if you have tapped a market that is in high demand. Choosing to open quietly often means sales start out slowly, but build momentum as your brand gains recognition.

A grand opening with all of the bells and whistles works wonders if you do your homework. Building a community event involves a lot of advertising and footwork ahead of time. The Martin Insurance Team reminds you to make sure you have permits and insurance in place ahead of time. Anything tangible like food and door prizes is part of a bigger plan to introduce Evergreen Park, IL to who you are as a business.

 

 

How to Safeguard Your Business Property

Smart business owners will take whatever measures necessary to safeguard their business property. Lax security can pose a risk of theft or vandalism, costing you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars’ worth of damage or loss. By taking the following precautions, you can increase the security and safety of your business property.

Maintain Business Premises

Regular maintenance and repairs will keep your building in good shape, reducing the risk of break-ins, fire or electrical hazards that can compromise your safety. Your business environment should be free of clutter and well maintained to reduce the risk of accidents. Plumbing and heating facilities should be up to par and there should be no risk of water leakage. Good work conditions will increase productivity while safeguarding the safety of employees.

Improve Security

A high security standard will help keep your business safe from theft and vandalism. Hiring security guards can help keep undesirable people at bay. Security personnel can monitor suspicious activity as well as check visitors as they enter and exit your premises.

At closing time, security personnel can check windows and doors to ensure they are locked up tight. Installing an alarm system can also help deter what would be intruders at night.  

Follow Fire Safety Standards

To protect your business from fire, make sure all employees follow your fire safety standards to include no smoking rules. Have someone check smoke alarms, fires extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors on a regular basis to make sure this equipment is working properly. Your business should also have clearly defined fire escape routes to help people escape safely in the event of a fire.

By obtaining commercial insurance coverage from Martin Insurance Team, you gain valuable protection for your business property. Contact us today to see how we can meet your business insurance needs.