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Insurance Knowledge Database

Q:

Auto Insurance Legal Requirements in Nebraska?

A:

Nebraska requires all drivers to have car insurance. Nebraska's minimum car insurance requirements include: 

  • Bodily injury liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident 

  • Property damage liability coverage of at least $25,000 

  • Unless you request explicitly not to pay fort it most policies contain uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident 

These minimum requirements are designed to help protect drivers in the event of an accident by providing financial coverage for damages and injuries. It is important for drivers in Nebraska to make sure that their car insurance meets the state's minimum requirements. 

Q:

Should I Get Auto Insurance? 

A:

Yes, it is generally a good idea to get car insurance. As stated above car insurance is required by law in Nebraska, and it can provide financial protection in the event of an accident or other loss. In the event of a covered accident, car insurance can help pay for the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle, as well as medical expenses and other costs. Without car insurance, you may be held financially responsible for any damages or injuries that result from an accident, which could be financially devastating. It is important to shop around and compare car insurance policies to find the one that best meets your needs and budget. 

It is important to know your policy, as most policies have limitations of coverage. These insurance policy limitations are specific restrictions or exclusions that are included in the policy. These limitations specify the types of events or circumstances that are not covered by the policy, as well as any limits on the amount of compensation that the policy will pay in the event of a covered loss. Policy limitations are designed to protect the insurance company from having to pay excessive amounts for losses that are outside the scope of the policy. It is important for policyholders to carefully review their insurance policies to understand the limitations and exclusions that may apply in the event of a claim. 

Q:

What is Subrogation?

A:

Subrogation is a legal principle that allows one party to step into the shoes of another party in order to pursue a legal claim. This may occur in a variety of situations, but is commonly used in insurance law to allow an insurer to recover the amount of a loss that it has paid to an insured party from a third party who is responsible for the loss. 

For example, if an individual is involved in a car accident and their insurance company pays for the damage to their vehicle, the insurance company may have the right to subrogate the claim against the party who caused the accident in order to recover the amount that it paid out to the insured individual. 

Subrogation is a way for an insurer to protect its own interests by ensuring that it is not left holding the bill for a loss that was caused by the actions of a third party. By allowing the insurer to pursue a legal claim against the party who caused the loss, subrogation helps to ensure that the insurer is able to recover the amount of the loss and is not left out of pocket. 

Subrogation can also be beneficial for the insured individual, as it allows them to recover the amount of their loss without having to pursue a legal claim themselves. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who are not familiar with the legal process or who do not have the resources to pursue a legal claim on their own. 

In order for subrogation to be effective, there must be a legal relationship between the parties involved. This means that the party seeking to subrogate the claim must have a valid insurance policy or other legal relationship with the party who suffered the loss. In addition, the party seeking to subrogate the claim must have a valid legal claim against the party who caused the loss. This means that the party seeking to subrogate the claim must be able to prove that the third party was at fault for the loss and that they are therefore responsible for paying for the damage. 

Subrogation can be a complex area of law, and the specific rules and requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. It's important to consult with an experienced attorney if you have questions about subrogation or if you believe that you may be entitled to subrogate a claim, call Joseph D Hall & Associates today. 

Q:

What Is General Liability Insurance? 

A:

General liability insurance is a type of insurance that provides protection to businesses against claims arising from injuries or damage to third parties or their property. This type of insurance is important for businesses of all sizes, as it can provide financial protection in the event that a customer, vendor, or other third-party files a lawsuit against the business for damages. 

The coverage provided by general liability insurance typically includes: 

  • Bodily injury: This covers the costs associated with injuries sustained by third parties on the business's property or as a result of the business's operations. 

  • Property damage: This covers the costs associated with damage to third parties' property caused by the business's operations. 

  • Advertising injury: This covers the costs associated with claims arising from advertising activities, such as libel, slander, and copyright infringement. 

  • Personal injury: This covers the costs associated with claims arising from non-advertising activities, such as false arrest and invasion of privacy. 

General liability insurance is typically purchased as part of a business owner's policy (BOP), which also includes property insurance and other coverages. This type of policy is designed to provide comprehensive protection for small to medium-sized businesses. 

In addition to the coverage provided by a BOP, businesses can also purchase additional endorsements or stand-alone policies to provide additional protection. For example, a business that operates heavy machinery or vehicles may need to purchase an endorsement or stand-alone policy to cover damages caused by those assets. 

It's important for businesses to carefully consider their specific needs and risks when purchasing general liability insurance. The amount of coverage a business needs will depend on factors such as the size of the business, the type of operations it conducts, and the potential for claims arising from those operations. 

In some cases, businesses may be required to carry a minimum amount of general liability insurance in order to comply with state or local regulations. For example, businesses that operate in the construction industry may be required to carry a certain amount of insurance in order to obtain a building permit. 

In the event that a claim is filed against a business, the general liability insurance policy will typically cover the costs associated with defending the business in court, as well as any damages or settlements that may be awarded. However, it's important to note that general liability insurance policies typically have exclusions and limitations, so it's important for businesses to carefully review their policies and understand what is and isn't covered. 

In conclusion, general liability insurance is an important type of insurance for businesses of all sizes. It provides protection against claims arising from injuries or damage to third parties, and can help businesses avoid financial hardship in the event of a lawsuit. By carefully considering their specific needs and risks, businesses can ensure that they have the right amount of coverage to protect themselves and their assets. 

Q:

What is Umbrella Insurance? 

A:

Umbrella insurance is a type of personal liability insurance that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of your existing policies, such as your homeowner's or auto insurance. This type of insurance can help protect your assets and income in the event of a covered loss, such as a lawsuit resulting from a car accident or damage to your home. 

Umbrella insurance is designed to kick in when the limits of your other liability policies have been reached. For example, if you're found liable for a car accident that causes $100,000 in damages, and the liability limits on your auto insurance policy are only $50,000, your umbrella policy would cover the remaining $50,000. 

In addition to providing extra coverage for liability claims, umbrella insurance can also cover certain types of lawsuits that may not be covered by your other policies. For example, it can provide coverage for libel, slander, and defamation of character. It can also cover you if you're sued for damage to someone else's property while on your property, or if you're sued for injury to someone while on vacation. 

One of the key benefits of umbrella insurance is that it can help protect your assets and income in the event of a lawsuit. Without this type of coverage, you could be forced to pay out of pocket for any damages or legal fees that exceed the limits of your other policies. This could put your savings, investments, and even your home at risk. 

Another benefit of umbrella insurance is that it can provide extra peace of mind. Knowing that you have additional coverage can give you added confidence when driving, hosting events at your home, or engaging in other activities that could potentially result in a liability claim. 

While umbrella insurance is not required by law, it is a smart option for anyone with significant assets or income to protect. It is also a good choice for people who are at a higher risk for liability claims, such as those who own a swimming pool or trampoline, or who frequently host large events at their home. 

To determine how much umbrella insurance you need, it's important to first assess your overall liability exposure. Start by reviewing the limits of your existing policies, such as your homeowner's insurance and auto insurance. Consider any potential sources of liability, such as owning a swimming pool or engaging in high-risk activities. 

Next, consider the value of your assets and income. This includes not only your home and car, but also your savings, investments, and other valuable possessions. If you have a significant amount of assets and income to protect, you may want to purchase a higher amount of umbrella insurance coverage. 

It's also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your umbrella insurance policy. Make sure you understand what is and is not covered, and what exclusions may apply. Be sure to ask your insurance provider about any discounts that may be available, such as a multi-policy discount for bundling your umbrella insurance with your other policies. 

Umbrella insurance is a valuable type of personal liability insurance that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of your existing policies. It can help protect your assets and income in the event of a covered loss, and can provide extra peace of mind. If you have significant assets or income to protect, or if you are at a higher risk for liability claims, umbrella insurance is worth considering. If you have any questions about potential legal issues or liability, give us a call today! 

Q:

What is “Renter’s” Insurance?

A:

Renters insurance is an often-overlooked but incredibly important type of insurance that can provide financial protection for individuals who rent their homes or apartments. While many people assume that their landlord's insurance will cover their belongings in the event of a covered loss, this is often not the case. In fact, landlord's insurance typically only covers the building itself, leaving renters to fend for themselves when it comes to protecting their personal property. 

There are several reasons why renter’s insurance is important. For one, it can provide financial protection in the event of a covered loss. This can include things like theft, fire, and water damage, among others. If a policyholder experiences a covered loss, their renter’s insurance policy will typically provide them with funds to replace their lost or damaged belongings. This can be a lifesaver for individuals who have invested a significant amount of money in their possessions and don't have the financial means to replace them on their own. 

Renters insurance can also provide liability coverage. This means that if someone is injured on the policyholder's rental property, the policy will typically cover the associated medical expenses and legal fees. This can be especially important for renters who may be held responsible for accidents that occur on their property, even if they are not at fault. 

In addition to providing financial protection, renters insurance can also offer peace of mind. Knowing that their belongings are covered in the event of a loss can give renters a sense of security and help them to feel more at ease in their rental property. This can be particularly important for individuals who live in areas that are prone to natural disasters or other types of loss, as they may be at an increased risk of experiencing a covered loss. 

Renters insurance is also relatively inexpensive, making it an affordable option for most people. The cost of a renters insurance policy will vary depending on factors such as the value of the policyholder's belongings and the level of coverage they choose, but in most cases, it is a relatively small price to pay for the protection it provides. 

So why do so many renters forego insurance? One reason may be a lack of awareness about the importance of renters insurance and the protection it provides. Many people simply assume that their landlord's insurance will cover their belongings, and as a result, they don't think about getting insurance for themselves. 

Another reason may be a misconception that renter’s insurance is only for people with high-value possessions. While it's true that renter’s insurance can provide protection for valuable items like jewelry and electronics, it is also important for individuals with more modest possessions. After all, even if someone doesn't have many expensive items, they still have likely invested a significant amount of money in their belongings and would likely be financially impacted if they were lost or damaged. 

In conclusion, renter’s insurance is an important and often-overlooked type of insurance that can provide financial protection and peace of mind for individuals who rent their homes or apartments. While it may not be at the top of everyone's list, it is a relatively inexpensive way to ensure that one's belongings are protected in the event of a covered loss. If you have experienced a loss and are having trouble dealing with a claim, give Joseph D Hall & Associates a call today! 

Q:

What Happens if I Get Hurt and The Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance? 

A:

If the driver that hits you does not have insurance, you still might have the ability to make a claim. Most policies sold in Nebraska have what is known as UIM provisions. UIM stands for uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, and is a type of auto insurance coverage that is designed to protect individuals who are injured in accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. UIM coverage is part of most policies, and it can provide important financial protection in the event of an accident. 

UIM coverage is typically included in most auto insurance policies sold in Nebraska. UIM coverage is designed to provide financial protection for individuals who are injured in accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. Uninsured drivers are drivers who do not have any auto insurance, while underinsured drivers are drivers who have insufficient insurance to cover the costs of an accident. 

UIM coverage typically provides financial protection for the policyholder and their passengers in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. The coverage typically includes payment for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and it can help to compensate individuals for their losses in the event of an accident. 

UIM coverage is important because it can provide financial protection in the event of an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Accidents with uninsured drivers are relatively common, and they can result in significant financial losses for individuals who are injured. UIM coverage can help to protect individuals from these losses, and it can provide important financial security in the event of an accident. 

In order to qualify for UIM coverage, individuals must typically prove that they were injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. This typically requires showing that the other driver was at fault for the accident and that the driver did not have sufficient insurance to cover the costs of the accident. 

In summary, UIM auto insurance, or uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, is a type of auto insurance coverage that is designed to protect individuals who are injured in accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. UIM coverage also comes into play when a driver leaves the scene and is unknown by the injured party. If you need help navigating the difficult aspects of insurance, please call us today. 

Q:

How Do Insurance Companies Make Money? 

A:

Insurance companies make money by collecting premiums from policyholders and by investing these premiums in a variety of financial instruments. Insurance companies use the funds they collect from premiums to pay claims and to cover the costs of operating their business, and any excess funds are typically invested in order to generate additional income. 

One of the main ways that insurance companies make money is by collecting premiums from policyholders. Policyholders are required to pay a regular premium in order to maintain their insurance coverage, and these premiums provide a steady stream of income for the insurance company. Insurance companies use the funds they collect from premiums to pay claims and to cover the costs of operating their business, such as salaries, office expenses, and marketing costs. 

Another way that insurance companies make money is by investing the funds they collect from premiums. Insurance companies typically invest their premium funds in a variety of financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. These investments generate income for the insurance company, and they can help to offset the costs of claims and other expenses. 

Insurance companies also make money by underwriting policies. Underwriting is the process of evaluating the risks associated with providing insurance coverage to a policyholder, and it involves determining the premium that will be charged for the policy. Insurance companies use underwriting to manage their risk and to ensure that they are collecting enough premium to cover the costs of claims and other expenses. 

In addition to collecting premiums and investing funds, insurance companies also make money by charging fees for certain services. For example, some insurance companies charge policyholders a fee for processing a claim, and they may also charge fees for additional services, such as providing replacement documents or making changes to a policy. 

In summary, insurance companies make money by collecting premiums from policyholders and by investing these premiums in a variety of financial instruments. Insurance companies use the funds they collect from premiums to pay claims and to cover the costs of operating their business, and any excess funds are typically invested in order to generate additional income. Insurance companies also make money by underwriting policies and by charging fees for certain services. If you have questions about an insurance claim that you might have, give Joseph D Hall & Associates today! 

Q:

What Is the Difference Between a Personal and Commercial Insurance Policy? 

A:

Personal and commercial insurance policies are two types of insurance coverage that are designed to provide financial protection in the event of a loss. Personal insurance policies are designed to provide coverage for individuals and their families, while commercial insurance policies are designed to provide coverage for businesses and other organizations. 

Personal insurance policies are typically designed to provide coverage for individuals and their families. Personal insurance policies can provide coverage for a wide range of losses, including losses related to health, property, and liability. Personal insurance policies may be purchased by individuals on their own, or they may be provided by an employer as part of an employee benefits package. 

Examples of personal insurance policies include health insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance, and auto insurance. Health insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, such as doctor's visits and hospital stays. Life insurance provides financial protection for an individual's family in the event of the individual's death. Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage to an individual's home and personal property. Auto insurance provides coverage for damage to an individual's vehicle. 

Commercial insurance policies, on the other hand, are designed to provide coverage for businesses and other organizations. Commercial insurance policies can provide coverage for a wide range of losses, including losses related to property, liability, and workers' compensation. Commercial insurance policies are typically purchased by businesses, and they may be required by law in some cases. 

Examples of commercial insurance policies include property insurance, liability insurance, and workers' compensation insurance. Property insurance provides coverage for damage to a business's property, such as its buildings and equipment. Liability insurance provides coverage for legal claims against the business, such as claims for personal injury or property damage. Workers’ compensation provides insurance for compensation claims from injured employees. 

Q:

How to Maximize an Insurance Claim? 

A:

Maximizing an insurance claim can be a challenging task, but it is an important one for individuals who want to ensure that they receive the full amount of compensation they are entitled to under their policy. Here are some tips for maximizing an insurance claim: 

  1. Familiarize yourself with your policy: Before you can maximize your claim, it's important to understand exactly what is covered under your policy. Take the time to read through your policy carefully and make sure you understand what is covered and what is not. This will help you to avoid making any mistakes or overlooking any important details when it comes time to file your claim. 

  2. Document everything: In order to maximize your claim, you will need to provide your insurance company with evidence of the loss or damage you are claiming. This may include things like photos, receipts, and other documentation. Make sure to document everything related to your claim, and keep all of your documentation organized and in one place so that it is easy to access when you need it. 

  3. Be proactive: Don't wait for your insurance company to come to you with an offer. Instead, take the initiative and reach out to your insurer to begin the claims process. This will help to ensure that your claim is processed in a timely manner and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to as quickly as possible. 

  4. Be thorough: When filing your claim, make sure to provide as much information as possible. Include details about the loss or damage, such as when and how it occurred, and provide any relevant documentation to support your claim. The more information you provide, the easier it will be for your insurer to evaluate your claim and determine the appropriate amount of compensation. 

  5. Don't be afraid to negotiate: If you are not satisfied with the initial offer made by your insurance company, don't be afraid to negotiate. You have the right to ask for more compensation if you believe your claim is worth more than the initial offer. Be prepared to provide evidence to support your request and be willing to compromise to reach an agreement. 

  6. Get help if you need it: If you are having difficulty maximizing your insurance claim, consider seeking help from a professional. There are many individuals and organizations that can provide assistance with the claims process, such as public adjusters and attorneys. These professionals can help you to understand your rights and guide you through the process of maximizing your claim. 

In conclusion, maximizing an insurance claim can be a challenging task, but it is an important one for individuals who want to ensure that they receive the full amount of compensation they are entitled to under their policy. By familiarizing yourself with your policy, documenting everything, being proactive, being thorough, and being willing to negotiate, you can maximize your claim and get the financial support you need. And if you need help, don't hesitate to call Joseph D Hall & Associates today. 

Q:

Can a Lawyer Help with An Insurance Claim?

A:

A lawyer can help with an insurance claim in several ways. First and foremost, a lawyer can provide advice and guidance on the legal aspects of the claim process. This can include explaining the rights and responsibilities of the policyholder, as well as the insurer, under the terms of the insurance policy. 

A lawyer can also assist with the preparation and submission of the insurance claim itself. This can include gathering and organizing relevant documents, completing and submitting the necessary forms, and negotiating with the insurer on the policyholder's behalf. 

Furthermore, a lawyer can represent the policyholder in any legal proceedings that may arise as a result of the insurance claim. This can include filing a lawsuit against the insurer if necessary, in order to seek a fair settlement or judgment in the policyholder's favor. 

In short, a lawyer can provide valuable support and assistance throughout the insurance claim process. With their knowledge of the law and their expertise in dealing with insurers, a lawyer can help ensure that the policyholder receives the full benefits of their insurance policy, and that their rights are protected at every stage of the process. 

Q:

What Is an Insurance Adjuster, and What Are They Adjusting?

A:

Insurance adjusters are professionals who are responsible for evaluating insurance claims and determining the appropriate amount of compensation to be paid to the policyholder. Adjusters work for insurance companies, and their primary job is to investigate claims made by policyholders to determine if the claims are valid and if the policyholder is entitled to receive compensation. The main thing they are adjusting is the amount of compensation you are going to receive from the insurance company. Insurance companies do not simply write blank checks, the amounts they pay out are critically evaluated by adjusters. 

When a policyholder files a claim with their insurance company, the claim is typically assigned to an adjuster. The adjuster's first step is to gather information about the claim, including the details of the incident, any relevant documentation, and the policyholder's account of what happened. The adjuster will also review the policyholder's insurance policy to determine what types of coverage are available and what conditions must be met in order for the policyholder to receive compensation. 

Once the adjuster has gathered all of the necessary information, they will evaluate the claim to determine if it is valid and if the policyholder is entitled to receive compensation. This may involve conducting interviews with the policyholder and any witnesses, inspecting the scene of the incident, and reviewing medical records or other documentation. The adjuster will also consider the policyholder's insurance policy and any applicable laws or regulations in making their determination. 

If the adjuster determines that the claim is valid and the policyholder is entitled to receive compensation, the adjuster will calculate the amount of compensation that the policyholder is entitled to receive. This calculation will take into account the policyholder's losses, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and any other costs resulting from the incident. The adjuster will also consider any applicable deductibles or policy limits in determining the amount of compensation. 

Once the adjuster has calculated the amount of compensation, they will present their findings to the policyholder and the insurance company. The policyholder can then decide whether to accept the adjuster's determination and receive the compensation, or to challenge the determination and seek additional compensation through the courts. 

In summary, insurance adjusters are professionals who are responsible for evaluating insurance claims and determining the appropriate amount of compensation to be paid to the policyholder. Adjusters work for insurance companies, and their primary job is to investigate claims made by policyholders to determine if the claims are valid and if the policyholder is entitled to receive compensation. If the claim is valid, the adjuster will calculate the amount of compensation that the policyholder is entitled to receive and present their findings to the policyholder and the insurance company. 

Q:

Can the Insurance Adjuster Deny My Claim? 

A:

Yes, your claim can always be denied. If your insurance claim is denied, it can be frustrating and stressful. However, there are steps you can take to challenge the denial and potentially receive the compensation you are entitled to. 

First, it is important to understand why your claim was denied. Your insurance company should provide you with a written explanation of the reasons for the denial, and this explanation should be based on the terms of your insurance policy and any applicable laws or regulations. It is important to carefully review this explanation and to identify any errors or misunderstandings that may have led to the denial of your claim. 

If you believe that your claim was wrongly denied, you can challenge the denial by providing additional information or documentation to support your claim. This can include additional evidence of the incident, such as photos or witnesses statements, or additional documentation of your losses, such as medical records or receipts for expenses. If you are able to provide additional evidence that supports your claim, you can submit this evidence to your insurance company and request that they reconsider their decision. 

If your insurance company continues to deny your claim, or if you are unable to provide additional evidence to support your claim, you may need to seek legal advice. An attorney who is experienced in insurance law can review your case and advise you on the best course of action. This may include negotiating with your insurance company to try to reach a settlement, or filing a lawsuit to seek compensation for your losses. 

In summary, if your insurance claim is denied, it is important to understand the reasons for the denial and to carefully review the terms of your insurance policy. If you believe that your claim was wrongly denied, you can challenge the denial by providing additional evidence or documentation to support your claim. If your insurance company continues to deny your claim, or if you are unable to provide additional evidence to support your claim, you may need to seek legal advice. An attorney can help you navigate the process of challenging a denied insurance claim and can advise you on the best course of action. 

Q:

What Is Bad Faith in The Context of Insurance?  

A:

Insurance bad faith is a term used to describe a situation in which an insurance company acts in a dishonest or unfair manner towards its policyholders. This can take many forms, but some common examples include failing to pay out valid claims in a timely manner, denying legitimate claims without a good reason, and making it difficult for policyholders to access the coverage they are entitled to under their policy. 

Insurance bad faith can have serious consequences for policyholders. For one, it can leave them without the financial support they were counting on in the event of a covered loss. This can be particularly devastating if the policyholder has suffered a significant loss, such as a major accident or natural disaster, and is already struggling to cope with the aftermath. 

Additionally, insurance bad faith can be emotionally taxing for policyholders. Dealing with an insurance company that is uncooperative or unresponsive can be frustrating and stressful, and the process of trying to get a claim paid out can be time-consuming and difficult. Policyholders may feel like they are being treated unfairly or like their insurance company is not looking out for their best interests. 

Insurance bad faith can also damage the reputation of the insurance company involved. If an insurance company is known for engaging in bad faith practices, it may find it difficult to attract new policyholders, and existing policyholders may be more likely to switch to a different insurer. This can lead to financial losses for the insurance company and ultimately harm its bottom line. 

So how can policyholders protect themselves against insurance bad faith? One way is to carefully review their insurance policy before signing on the dotted line. This can help them to understand exactly what is covered under their policy and what is not, so that they are not caught off guard if a claim is denied. 

Policyholders should also make sure to document everything related to their claim, including any communications with their insurance company and any relevant receipts or other evidence. This can help them to build a strong case if they need to dispute a denied claim or take legal action against their insurance company. 

In addition, policyholders can educate themselves about their rights under the law. In many cases, state laws provide protection against insurance bad faith, and policyholders can use these laws to hold their insurance company accountable if it fails to act in good faith. 

If policyholders believe that their insurance company has acted in bad faith, they have several options for addressing the situation. They can try to resolve the issue directly with their insurance company, either through informal discussions or by filing a formal complaint. In some cases, policyholders may need to seek legal assistance to help them fight for the coverage they are entitled to. 

Insurance bad faith is a serious issue that can have significant consequences for policyholders. By understanding their rights and taking steps to protect themselves, policyholders can help to ensure that they get the coverage they are entitled to under their insurance policy. If you think you have experienced bad faith, give Joseph D Hall & Associates a call today.