As we adapt to our new normal, we must consider what we’ve learned from this pandemic experience and how we can be better prepared for the next event. Every part of our lives involves risk, from driving to work or school to making investment decisions. We each need to evaluate what our risks are, then decide how we will eliminate or manage them.
When it comes to our own health and that of our families, we’ve learned the importance of cleaning and disinfecting everything that may have been touched. Having a healthy lifestyle, eating right and getting exercise will make us more resilient against infection. Social distancing is a new term that we now embrace, as well as the use of face masks and protective gloves – and don’t forget to change your air filters!
Should you become ill, having good health insurance is beneficial to assist with medical bills. A low-cost addition of a tele-medicine subscription allows you to consult with a health care professional from the convenience of your home or while on vacation. If your employer offers short-term disability and/or long-term disability coverage, you will be paid a part of your income should you experience a major illness or disability. Critical Illness coverage will provide a lump-sum payment if you are diagnosed with one of the illnesses on the predetermined list. Life Insurance will help your family if you are no longer in the picture. There are many ways to protect you, your family and your assets.
Smart businesses know the value of workers’ compensation insurance to cover an employee’s medical and indemnity costs if they contract an illness on the job or are injured in an accident. For legal protection against accusations of wrongdoing, employers and business organizations should consider employment practices liability insurance and directors and officers liability insurance. To stay afloat if your business location is damaged by a covered loss, consider business interruption coverage. If you have changes in your business operations, such as working remotely or making deliveries, you will need to discuss the changes with your insurance agent because you may need protection from a cyber liability policy and hired/non-owned vehicle coverage.
Plan ahead to keep your family and business prepared and protected. Our world has changed, and we will all be more cautious, but we can work together to get back to living and enjoying our lives.
Zeringue is president of SouthGroup Insurance Services, a CPA, PWCAM, CBIA and licensed Trusted Choice insurance agent. Reach her at www.southgroupgulfcoast.com, (228) 385-1177 or azeringue@southgroup.net.
