BC crop insurance claims near-decade low
The forecasted value of crop insurance claims in British Columbia is the second lowest of the last ten years. Data from the Ministry of Agriculture show that 2015’s total claims are expected to be $7,500,000; down from $11,494,467 in 2014. The lowest value of claims in the last decade was in 2011 when the total was $6,981,903, the peak was in 2006 when claims totalled $18,082,712. In volume terms 2015 is expected to have the fewest claims at 1280, down from 1343 last year and beating the previous low of 1329 in 2011.
Florida insurers’ relief as hurricanes miss again
Florida has avoided a devastating hurricane season for the tenth consecutive year. Residents and the insurance industry have once again made it through to the end of the Atlantic Hurricane Season without any direct hits although there is still risk of out-of-season storms. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has warned against complacency and the Insurance Information Institute’s Lynne McChristian told CBS Miami: “Nobody thinks we’re going to be hurricane-free for another decade.” The last hurricane to make landfall in Florida was Wilma on Oct. 24, 2005 but there have been 8 tropical storms since which have caused significant damage, mainly from flooding.
Ontario police launch “Lock It or Lose It” campaign
Police in Ontario have launched their annual campaign to remind motorists to ensure that their vehicles are secure in the holiday season. Although leaving valuables in sight in vehicles is an issue year-round this time of year brings added risk as motorists load up with Christmas shopping. The Insurance Bureau of Canada is one of the campaign’s partners. Its VP of Investigative Services Rick Dubin commented: In the lead up to the holiday season, there are more cars on the roads, in the parking lots, and everyone is more distracted than normal. This season is prime business time for thieves. So, as you go to park your car, do one simple thing: lock it down.”
