J.M. Doherty Insurance, Inc.

Commercial Insurance: Easy as 1, 2, 3…

2011-10-05T11:45:00.001-07:00

With the economy in that state of disarray there are many people starting their own businesses. Contractors, bakers even our local car wash changed hands recently. When these individuals are looking for the easiest path to an appropriate insurance plan they turn to J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency. www.jmdins.com

We can do most requests for coverage right over the phone and internet. We work with all sorts of contractors from plumbers and electricians, masons and builders too. We can handle the general contractor and the handy man too.

Restaurant insurance with and without liquor, NO problem, this is what we do everyday. We even insure small farms and cranberry growers. There are very few businesses we can’t insure. Please give us a call.
What we have in common with your business is the fact that we are small business too. Everyone that works here lives here in the area. We shop at the local grocery stores. We attend the same schools and churches. We are community minded and support local charities.

One thing we don’t do is talk down to our customers. We want you to fully understand what you are paying for each month. There are always questions that need to be answered. You will have some. We will have some. This is so we get your insurance program correct and in place as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Did I mention we can offer NO down payment plans with some of our companies. With your signature, we can have he company bill you directly. There are several payment plans available. Most carriers now offer Electronic Funds Transfer or EFT. That’s an automatic withdrawal system that eliminates the need to write a check every month, EASY! *this option will eliminate the billing fee with most companies.

J.M. Doherty Insurance helps other businesses get noticed. Have you checked out our partner page? http://www.jmdins.com/service-center/partners There you will find local trade people, marine experts, even a local florist with a flair for the exotic. This is how we plan to move into the future. Think global and act local.
Technology is our friend. We know that the next generation will not even find you unless you have a solid presence on the World Wide Web. Our website is easy to navigate. There are many useful tools there. We have a resource center if you need to look up a book value. We have all our companies web addresses there for your ease of use. I would direct your attention to the testimonials page. You’ll see Real customers giving real feedback.

We would love to help your business get noticed too. Please call or click today!!
Business in Massachusetts can be challenging. Business Insurance in Massachusetts doesn’t have to be!!
Thank you!!

Cut to the Chase: What’s This Gonna Cost Me?

2011-10-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

When you’re searching for Massachusetts Insurance quotes, you don’t want to spend all day on the phone. You want to get a price and move on, OR DO YOU? With the availability of numerous carriers and competitive rates, the time you spend could save you hundreds or oven thousands of dollars.

I was referred to a customer from an existing client. This was her mother in law. She spoke broken English so her son joined us at the meeting to help translate. I had done some quotes based on what coverage she had and also some alternate quotes. I had spoken to her on the phone so I knew a little bit about her going into the appointment.

I began by reviewing the existing coverage limits. We went through her Massachusetts auto insurance policy first. Line by Line, parts 1 through 12. We reviewed her Massachusetts homeowner insurance policy next. She asked me whether she had enough insurance. I replied to her by saying “You can never have enough insurance”. “I’m sorry for being sarcastic” I said to her. We all laughed.

She did have enough insurance on the house. I was happy about that. My bigger concern was the fact that she had no mortgage on the house. She had also recently paid for a brand new car with cash. Those are important facts. I saw the coverage limits that she had on her auto policy and they were low.
I asked her if she had ever received a review from her current agent. She turned to her son and she shook her head, no. They said no one had ever explained things to them.

I recommended that she increase her policy limits to provide her enough insurance to protect those assets. In order for her to do that we also needed to add an Umbrella Liability Policy to her insurance picture.
After we applied the companion discounts for having both home and auto together, applying low mileage and the retiree credit we increased her limits and still saved her over $600.00 That’s a grand slam home run in my play book! She is so pleased with her new plan and savings, she has referred us to her neighbors and friends too.

It’s no always a grand slam. Sometimes it’s a homerun. We’ll take it!
Sometimes the time you spend can save you lots of problems down the road as well as cash up front.
We are happy to offer a professional review or second opinion to you and your referrals.
We offer auto, home, and commercial insurance. We do antique auto, boats…Just about every type of insurance.

We are licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Please give us a call or click today! 508-992-9557 or www.jmdins.com
Thank you!

Cut to the Chase: What’s This Gonna Cost Me?

2011-09-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

When you’re searching for Massachusetts Insurance quotes, you don’t want to spend all day on the phone. You want to get a price and move on, OR DO YOU? With the availability of numerous carriers and competitive rates, the time you spend could save you hundreds or oven thousands of dollars.

I was referred to a customer from an existing client. This was her mother in law. She spoke broken English so her son joined us at the meeting to help translate. I had done some quotes based on what coverage she had and also some alternate quotes. I had spoken to her on the phone so I knew a little bit about her going into the appointment.
I began by reviewing the existing coverage limits. We went through her Massachusetts auto insurance policy first. Line by Line, parts 1 through 12. We reviewed her Massachusetts homeowner insurance policy next. She asked me whether she had enough insurance. I replied to her by saying “You can never
have enough insurance”. “I’m sorry for being sarcastic” I said to her. We all laughed.

She did have enough insurance on the house. I was happy about that. My bigger concern was the fact that she had no mortgage on the house. She had also recently paid for a brand new car with cash. Those are important facts. I saw the coverage limits that she had on her auto policy and they were low.
I asked her if she had ever received a review from her current agent. She turned to her son and she shook her head, no. They said no one had ever explained things to them.

I recommended that she increase her policy limits to provide her enough insurance to protect those assets. In order for her to do that we also needed to add an Umbrella Liability Policy to her insurance picture.
After we applied the companion discounts for having both home and auto together, applying low mileage and the retiree credit we increased her limits and still saved her over $600.00 That’s a grand slam home run in my play book! She is so pleased with her new plan and savings, she has referred us to
her neighbours and friends too.

It’s no always a grand slam. Sometimes it’s a homerun. We’ll take it!
Sometimes the time you spend can save you lots of problems down the road as well as cash up front.

We are happy to offer a professional review or second opinion to you and your referrals.

We offer auto, home, and commercial insurance. We do antique auto, boats...Just about every type of insurance.

We are licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Please give us a call or click today! 508-992-9557 or www.jmdins.com
Thank you!

Earthquake Insurance

2011-08-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Massachusetts Homeowners Insurance carriers will be getting numerous calls today after the 5.8 magnitude earthquake hits the east coast. It was felt as far south as Georgia and as far north as Canada.

Earthquakes a more common on the west coast because the ground is softer, and not as dense. Here along the east coast there is granite and hard pack which makes it harder for the earth to shift and move.

Your homeowners insurance policy does not automatically include earthquake coverage. There is an extra premium and usually a 5% deductible with it. That means if you have a $250,000 house the deductible would be a $12,500 deductible. That's high. However many new homes near the ocean are elevated because of flooding concern. The average cost of an elevated foundation is more than $40,000. A standard foundation can cost upwards of $20,000. At that rate, even the 5% isn't too bad.

We can answer your questions about how you can benefit from having Earthquake coverage. It's peace of mind knowing if your foundation, tile floors, plaster walls will be fixed if we have another one.

Please call or click today!
www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

Never Fail Business Insurance

2011-08-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

Have you ever bought an item because it came with a never fail promise? Never fail chocolate cake is one thing…Never fail Insurance is another!
Murphy’s Law: If something is going to fail, it will be at the absolute worst possible time!
I had my own experience with Murphy’s Law recently, when my neighbor and I decided that we would
put his small sailboat on its mooring for the summer. We loaded everything on the trailer and set out on our mission. We rigged the mast, set the tension, and launched it. The small outboard motor had been running just fine until we left the dock. We get about 200 feet from the dock when…the engine dies!

My neighbor is frantically trying to start the thing! We are heading closer and closer to the rocks…when putt, putt, putttttt…she goes! WHEW!! The engine is running strong we are on our way. Did I mention we are taking this boat through the Hurricane Barrier out from New Bedford harbor? Well just as Murphy’s Law states that an engine will fail at the worst possible time! We are smack dab in the middle of the channel, in the middle of the Hurricane Barrier when…She dies again!!!

The engine cover was already off. My neighbor is pulling and pulling on the starter cord. There are some BIG boats coming in and going out. We are getting rocked all over. I see one of my customers on his boat. He’s asking me “are you OK”? Yes, thanks…I tell him. ALL SET!!! I no sooner tell him we are good when that little engine fires up, no sputter, no hesitation…off we go. AGAIN WHEW!!!
Murphy’s Law is why people buy Business Insurance in Massachusetts. When you have a catastrophe, it’s there to protect you.

You want to be proactive with your insurance planning. Commercial General Liability Insurance is the first place to start. You can add property to that and save on the over all premium. We can help you determine what’s necessary to get your business covered.

Commercial Auto Insurance: We offer free registry services to our customers. If you are incorporating and don’t have a vehicle in the business name yet, we will take the paperwork to the registry and get you on the road. That saves you time. Time = money!! Let’s say you’re buying a vehicle from a private party and not a dealer. The same free registry service applies.

Attention: Builders, plumbers, electricians, Excavators…Contractors Insurance is something we do everyday. Are you being asked for a certificate of insurance? We issue certificates every day! No more waiting 2-3 days for them to be sent out. Get paid sooner! We can handle your needs better. We know which questions to ask.

We invite you to click today. www.jmdins.com or please give us a call. It’s not rocket science. It’s business insurance.
Thank you!! HD

Get More Spend Less

2011-08-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

It is possible in this economic climate to get more auto insurance coverage for less money. That may
sound hard to believe, but it’s true.

I recently had a customer who was insured with one of the national companies. They called in for some
quotes. We asked them about current their current coverage. What kind of limits do you have now? We
asked if they owned a home, and if they would like us to quote some different options. We could see,
based on the answers they provided that the “minimum” was not enough.
To our surprise when we ran the figures for the higher coverage limits, the cost was less than what they
were paying for basic insurance. This customer had always thought the cheapest coverage had to be the
lowest coverage. That is NOT true!

We always try to find the happy medium between cost and coverage. The staff at J.M. Doherty
Insurance will look to balance your budget with your insurance needs. For some individuals “basic”
insurance is OK. However, most people realize that state minimum insurance doesn’t protect them well
enough I n our, sue happy, society.

I would like to invite you to contact us today for a no obligation quote for your Massachusetts Auto
Insurance, Massachusetts Home Insurance, or even your Massachusetts Business Insurance.
We have been offering straight talk and advice for almost “40” years.

If you are looking for a professional review or second opinion for any of your insurance, we can help.
For us at J.M. Doherty Insurance it’s about getting it right the first time. We know that 95% of our clients
are not insurance people. We don’t fluff it up with fancy terms that you need a dictionary to figure them
out.
Save time, save money, get expert advice at J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency.
For almost “40” years we have been “steering you in the right direction.
Thank you!!
www.jmdins.com
H. Doherty

Back to School and Insurance; What You Should Know

2011-08-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

It’s important to know that the premium you are charged for your Massachusetts Auto Insurance policy is partially based on garaging, that means where the vehicle “sleeps at night”.

You can understand. If you live in a small country town and the crime level is low then the cost for insurance is less than if you live in the city where crime is more prevalent.

If you have a student lives at school and they take a car with them, it’s important that the
insurance company knows it. We have seen claims delayed by incorrect garaging. Sometimes
it’s easier to pay the additional premium, than it is to find out that the company is denying
your claim for this reason.

Something else we see regularly, lack of renters insurance. If your child lives in the dorm then
your contents (your stuff) is covered by the parents home owner insurance policy. Watch out
for items like computers, golf equipment, cameras, bicycles. These things can have a high
value. Many insurance companies will have a maximum limit on how much they will pay for
such items. Get the values, notify your insurer. Then there is no question about what’s
covered and for how much.

We recommend Renters Insurance for those students that live off campus in an apartment.
Renters insurance covers the items you bring into that dwelling. Your clothing, furniture,
dishes, drapes…This insurance policy also includes liability protection. If someone gets hurt in
the apartment and says you were negligent, the insurance company will help defend the
claim. Be aware that some policies exclude things like dogs or animals completely. Other
plans don’t cover you for host liquor.

Let’s say your college student has a party at their off campus house. Someone has too much
to drink and hurts another person later that night in an automobile accident. The injured
person could bring litigation against the people who supplied the booze. No Host Liquor
means NO defense in that situation.

We handle Massachusetts Auto Insurance, Massachusetts Renters Insurance and everything
in between. Our staff is waiting for your call regarding student away at school. We invite you
to call or click today. www.jmdins.com

For almost “40” years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency has been “steering you in the right
direction”. Thank you!! HD

Classic Antiques, Muscle Cars, Modified, Show Cars: We drive ‘em! We insure em’!!

2011-07-06T08:24:00.000-07:00

From the Classic 1968 Chevy Camaro with cowl induction, to the Turbo Charged 1987 Buick Grand
National, We invite you to bring your quote request to us today. (I mention the 1987 GN because that’s
what I drive.) This car won’t officially be an antique until January 2012. For now I have it on a standard
MA auto insurance policy!

Are you familiar with the terms Agreed Value or Actual Cash Value? Perhaps your policy reads Stated
Value. We can explain the difference and let you decide which policy fits your needs best.
Have you had an appraisal done lately? What’s your collectable worth? We have both www.nada.com
and www.kbb.com Kelly’s Blue Book available through our service center via the resource center. We
can recommend a couple of local appraisers if that’s helpful.

I am happy that my Grand National will finally be an antique. In Massachusetts you can’t be “collector or specialty” car insurance unless the vehicle is officially “25” years old.

We would like to review your current policy for accuracy. We want to make sure that you’re getting
what you think you’re getting! The more you know about your plan the better prepared you’ll be after a
claim.

The coverage our carriers offer is excellent!! You can buy full collision and comprehensive (fire and theft, vandalism) for very little premium dollars. The more you plan the better the outcome after a claim.When insuring these types of machines the insurance company will need a couple of good clear photos from the front and side and the read and side. They want it parked in a locked garage, and it can’t be a daily driver.

The photos of the classic car fire were taken April 30, 2011. The car had a rusted fuel line. It leaked onto the hot manifold and POOF! The local Fire and Police had not arrived on scene. I stopped to see if I could help. The owner and passenger were standing outside the car. As the police pulled up and started
waving people away I asked the owner, did you have collector car insurance? He replied, YES! For more than “37” years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. “steering you in the right direction”.
Thank you!!

Hans Doherty, CIC LUTCF
www.jmdins.com

See Insurance Be Insurance

2011-06-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

When is the right time to buy Business Insurance in MA? Before the claim, that’s obvious. But really, is it OK to go without for a while? That is not a trick question.

Let’s say you’re a contractor and you want to bid on the local community center project. You probably
already have the commercial general liability and workers compensation and maybe even a commercial
auto policy. But do you have the right coverage limits? You have the “bid” sheet that has all the specifics
on what insurance you need. Is what they are asking for attainable for a small business like yours? Let us
help you today.

There are staff members at J.M. Doherty Insurance know business insurance. Jim and Hans, Dennis and
Denise all work on Commercial Insurance. We take time to review the current policies you have. We will

confirm that what you have is “what you think you have.” From there we can discuss the requirements
for the job and see what kind of insurance program fits your business best.

We see business owners struggle with balancing their coverage with the cost. It can be expensive to
insure yourself properly. That is where www.jmdins.com comes in. Massachusetts Commercial
Insurance is a competitive market. Business Auto Insurance is not like private passenger auto insurance.
Many carriers will offer huge credits for good driving history. I have seen customers save more than 40%
on the premiums just by shopping coverage with a different carrier.

Even workers compensation insurance can be less expensive with certain companies. Depending on the
type of work you do, we can look into other options? We represent several work comp carriers that will
“deviate” from the regular state rates if you have a clean track record. Perhaps you think you’re being
over charged for the payroll you’re reporting now? We help our clients by keeping the companies
honest too. We are independent insurance brokers. We represent you and your business, not the
company. We won’t stand by idle while you deal with an auditor who won’t work with you.
Commercial Insurance is not that complicated when you’re speaking to someone who is thinking about
what the problems are, that can affect your business. We want to earn your trust and earn your
business.

We appreciate your time and thank you for reading.
J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. For more than “37” years “Steering you in the right direction”.

HD

Attention Massachusetts Boat Insurance Shoppers!!

2011-06-09T08:06:00.000-07:00

When you insure a boat there are two ways that the company will settle a claim. Actual Cash Value or Agreed Value.

Actual Cash Value: This is the same way the insurance company settles your auto insurance claims. ACV is taking into account the year, make, model, of the vessel. It also takes out depreciation. That means as the boat ages, the value decreases eventually to the point where it’s worth very little in the eyes of the insurance carrier.

Agreed Value Insurance is far superior to ACV. Agreed Value means that the insurance carrier will pay the face amount shown on the coverage selections page if the vessel is a total loss. That’s a big deal because, in most cases, each year the value does decreases.

I know a person that owned a really nice cabin cruiser. It was a bit older, 1960’s fiberglass over wood. He was given the vessel by his dad, so there was a lot of sentimental value. The boat was updated with new diesel engines. Carpets, cushions… It had two state rooms down below and was in excellent condition. At the advice of the agent www.jmdins.com , the boat owner reluctantly paid for a new survey. (another $500)
The survey came back with a new value of $165,000. We increased the coverage limit to that amount. The insured wasn’t happy because the premium went up too.
Your insurance policy is like a clock. Tick, Tock, Tick, Tock…All day long.

Not long after that coverage was increased, the phone rings at J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc…

That newly updated boat was on the bottom of the harbor. Somehow a hose, connected to a through hull fitting, had burst and flooded the boat. That customer was crying for about 1 minute when he found out that the company was going to pay him $165 grand! He was “new” boat shopping within 1 minute after that. He had an agreed value policy.
If his policy were ACV, the carrier would have depreciated that amount by as much as 50%. That’s a huge difference.

Don’t find out after the claim that your policy is not AGREED VALUE! We can review your current plan with you and find out. www.jmdins.com
For more than “37” years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. “steering you in the right direction”.
Thank you!!
HD

ECOMMERCE: Small Business Insurance

2011-05-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

I have a “wicked smart” neighbor. He can re-wire a car radio. He can draw designs for a new shed, and build it too. He is great on the computer. He knows how to write “code” He can cut, crop, and paste with the best of them. He even builds websites at home in his free time. I’m envious because I am lacking in all of those areas.

What I do know is insurance! Massachusetts Ecommerce Business Insurance to be specific.
Are you working from home designing and building websites? Are the websites you’re creating designed to help increase sales or manage online sales for somebody else’s business? Maybe you are an “independent contractor” for someone else? Do you enter businesses or peoples’ homes to do repair work? What happens if you damage something someone gets hurt? What happens when what you’ve created crashes and this customer can no longer sell their product? The potential for big losses can be a problem, especially if you don’t protect yourself properly.

Advertising placement, graphic design, copyright and trademark design, photography, marketing, consulting, merchandising…There’s more, but you get the point. Many facets of Ecommerce work can leave you vulnerable to litigation. Most of these issues mentioned are all related to your professional opinion. When you “hang your shingle” out there as “webmaster” you are the expert. When your expertise leads to loss of business, whether intended or not, you could have a problem.

I recently heard of a case where a webmaster was hosting a customers’ website in house and it crashed. Sure it was backed up. The down time was costing this client $70,000 a day in revenue. It only took three days to get it up and functioning property. That’s right. Here comes a $210,000 law suit for ya!

We ask the right questions. We have several options. Maybe a simple “in home business” policy is the answer? Perhaps it’s more involved. www.jmdins.com We try harder. Please click or give us a call today.

For almost “40” years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency Inc. “steering you in the right direction”.
Thank you!!
HD

Massachusetts: Small Business Insurance

2011-05-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

Has your small business grown over the past 12-24 months? Are you working from an office in your home? Are you worried that if something were to happen, that you won’t be insured correctly? These are real concerns. As an independent insurance agent, we can help answer your questions and get you covered. You may need commercial general liability Insurance. You may need property Insurance. You may need workers compensation. You may need all three. We do it all here.

We get calls every week from local business people that are not happy with their current insurance program. Why do they call us again and again? We return our calls promptly. We take the time to answer your questions. We give you real practical advice. www.jmdins.com Perhaps, we can even save you money.

Are you a contractor who is looking to bid on local, state, or federal work? These entities ask for a lot of insurance. Maybe you aren’t sure where to begin? Call J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. today.

The technology industry continues to blossom. I have seen a dozen or more local “web masters” take businesses to the next level in this economy. Our office works with the best carriers in the business for Massachusetts Technology Insurance. From hardware to software, installation to service, call us first. You will be pleasantly surprised when we ask you all the right questions.

Small business insurance doesn’t have to be a mystery for you to figure out. We will give you the answers to the riddles and then let you decide what’s important now. We take it one step at a time.

If you use us once, you will use us again and again.
For more than “37” years J.M. Doherty Insurance agency, Inc. “Steering you in the right direction”

Thank you!!
HD

Insurance for First Time Home Buyers

2011-05-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

Home ownership, it’s the American Dream. For most people buying your first house is both exciting and daunting. There’s a mountain of forms to fill out, appraisals and inspections to be done. Now they’re telling you that you need to buy insurance too…This sounds like a bad dream, not the American dream.

The people you work with should be providing you guidance and advice so that you know what to expect next. They shouldn’t be pushy or rude. If they don’t understand that you have not done this before, then I would go elsewhere for services. You’re in control. It’s your money!
Professional Realtors like Steve Medeiros www.justleaveittosteve.com render much more than a guided house tour. You can tell a nice kitchen or bath when you see it. You don’t need a realtor to tell you that.

Steve will let you know what’s next in the process of home buying.
So your offer has been accepted, and the bank has approved your loan. “We will close on May 31st” the banker says. What exactly is a closing any way? The closing date is when the actual sale of the house is recorded at the registry of deeds. It’s officially yours (and the banks) on that day. The name(s) on the deed are recorded in book form. You own it!

You’re told by the lender that you will need to provide them with a “binder” effective the date of closing. A binder is a legal document that informs the lender who the insured is, which insurance company is insuring the house, and the coverage amounts. Many times a first time home buyer will be asked for a one year paid receipt be included with the binder. In that case, you will need to pay for one year worth of insurance up front. A lender will usually ask for this receipt because they plan to escrow your Massachusetts home owner insurance premium.
Each month you pay your mortgage the bank takes 1/12 of the annual insurance premium. They put that money into a separate ”escrow” account. At the end of the year there is enough money accumulated to pay the following annual bill from the insurance company. Nothing too complicated.

It’s my job as a local independent Insurance agent is to find you the right coverage at the right price. www.jmdins.com We take photos. We take measurements. We ask about the home AND about the customer. You’re making a big purchase. J.M. Doherty Insurance takes away the guess work. We are going to do it right. We do this every day!

The realtor, the bank, the lawyer are all looking to close the deal. No one gets paid until you close on the loan. That’s understood. You are in charge of the insurance buying process, here. There are certain things you need to be mindful of, coverage limits, deductibles (very important), liability limits.

For almost 40 years J.M. Doherty Insurance “steering you in the right direction”.
Thank you!!
Hans Doherty CIC, LUTCF

Massachusetts Business and ECommerce Insurance

2011-05-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

Attention Web Masters: Does your business rely on the internet for revenue? Do you render computer services, remote, or on site? What about website design and implementation? Are you offering your opinion on what they should do with regards to Ecommerce?

If you answered yes to any questions above J.M. Doherty Insurance can help cover that! We offer one of the most comprehensive ECommerce programs in Massachusetts.

Hardware, software, website design, so much more... www.jmdins.com Making sure your coverage covers what you do, is what we do.

The issue comes down to your "professional opinion". Any time you call your self or portray yourself as the "expert" you're the fall guy when it doesn't all work out according to plan. My business is on that line too. All day long we render professional opinion. If I get it wrong...I'm required to protect myself.

Doherty's done this before. Our clients know the web, they work the web, they sell the web. Let us "get your back". In todays "not my fault" society everyone can be dragged in for ANY reason.

Call today, answer some detailed questions. Let's get it right!! Right now!!! Call or click today.

For almost "40"years J.M. Doherty Insurance has been "steering you in the right direction"

Thank you!

Massachusetts Business Insurance and Internet Marketing

2011-05-03T20:05:00.001-07:00

Have you had outstanding service somewhere and want to spread the word? Do you want to reward your local grocer, cabinet shop, accountant for doing a good job, treating you well or saving you money? What about the landscaper, chiropractor, or painter? You know the ones I’m referring to.

We all want to do business locally with people who are NICE! Is that so much to ask for!!
Here’s how you can help them get found. (unless you’re a hoarder of nice people)
Write a Google review!

It takes no time at all, 30 seconds to 5 minutes at most, and that’s getting detailed.
This kind of real world feedback is what people like to read. It’s no canned or scripted. It’s from the heart and that’s why it matters. Your opinion matters!

I guess it could go either way…if you mess up bad, someone could write a bad review too. But we are focusing the effort in a positive light.

I will take time to seek out my fiends businesses on Google and write a review for them. It’s amazing how a review can boost their search results. We help each other that way.

Help a local business!! Write a review today.

www.jmdins.com “Steering you in the right direction”

Thank you!!

Business Insurance for Dummies

2011-04-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

It’s not rocket science! It’s business insurance.

What do you do? Who do you do it for? Describe your top 3 customers, and your last 5 jobs. That’s not all. What did you report for receipts (income) on your taxes? Do you have any employees? Seems like it’s a lot of questions…

There’s a reason for all the questions. It’s important to ask the right questions in the beginning so that in the end you get the right coverage. There’s nothing worse than paying money for something that will never protect you, right?

We insure lots of different businesses; small repair shops and auto dealers, restaurants and lawyers offices too. We want to be your one stop shop for Massachusetts business Insurance.

Our services don’t stop. We work with the best local CPA’s, business consultants, lawyers, and marketers all to get your business to the next level. Whether it’s incorporating or moving out of your home garage J.M. Doherty Insurance is helping to “steer you in the right direction”.

There are many facets to all businesses. Because of this, there is no “one size fits all” insurance policy. Let our agents answer your questions and debunk the myths about what’s covered and what’s not. Being proactive with your insurance plan is very important. Even though the catastrophes we see on television and read about seem distant and not relative, “stuff” happens every day. We see it because we get the calls.

The process doesn’t take long. There is an application to complete. There might be some clarification needed by the insurance carrier about this or that. After the questions and answers we receive the quotes and review them with you. We determine what’s important to you and your business and secure coverage.

We can usually quote and secure coverage in less than a day in some cases. If the business is more complicated, maybe a week on the quotes. We encourage you to contact us today at www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

Coverage Declined Because of Your Website

2011-04-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

If you’re shopping for Massachusetts business insurance please be aware that the first place most
insurance company underwriters look to determine your scope and scale is your website.
I have seen more than one business policy non-renewed or cancelled because the website lists
something that the insurer doesn’t like. It’s important to understand that your insurance companies
don’t like it when you have too much going on.

I had a friend refer me to his dad. Their primary operations include sewer work. His crew does mostly
septic tie-ins and pipe laying. He has equipment for this type of stuff. The crew takes extra training so
they will be the best in the business for this type of service.

I’m getting him some new quotes. I think we’re looking good. I’m excited because perhaps I will be
writing the insurance for him. Then the phone rings...Out of 7 possible companies, no one will quote on
it because they went to his website.

Upon further inspection, I see why they don’t want to insure him.

According to the website he is not just an excavation contractor. He’s a general contractor. That means
he’s in charge of the jobsite and all permits and all liability. The site also says he does DEMOLITION!
(Just watch the video as the wall comes crashing down) This is NOT GOOD!!
I asked him about the site. Do you do any general contracting? NO, but I could...Do you do demolition?
NO, but I could...

Keep your website focus on what you do primarily. If you are a contractor and you do only framing, or
only siding and windows, don’t list demolition on your website. If you sell cars, but don’t service them,
don’t list car repair on your site.

These companies don’t take your word for it either. According to them, it’s on there, then it must be
true.

Before your website causes problems, please give us a call today. www.jmdins.com
Thank you!!

Coastal Home Owners Insurance

2011-04-18T07:14:00.001-07:00

We are lucky to live here in New England. The four seasons are questionable. We might have a summer
that starts in April, or a winter that ends in late June. None the less, we all take pride in our hardiness as
we should. After all* “if you don’t like the weather in New England wait a minute or drive a mile”. Don’t you feel better already?

Living in the coastal regions of New England has its challenges. Our homes take a beating because of the constantly changing conditions. Massachusetts has more than 1500 miles of coast that is subject to
Nor’easter’s and deadly hurricanes. Thankfully, the last category two hurricane was back in the late
1960’s named Donna.

Now with improved satellite imagery we have a full seven day forecast. The predictions aren’t always
totally accurate. *I’ll send you back to paragraph one for clarification. For the most part, the reports are
far more precise than in years past. We all benefit from that.

The reason many Massachusetts home insurance carriers are not so willing to insure your home near
the ocean has nothing to do with the fear of flooding. Your Massachusetts home owners insurance
policy DOESN’T cover flood. (a flood insurance policy covers that). It’s the WIND!
Wind is a covered peril and your insurance carrier would have to respond to this type of claim. Be aware
that all carriers have some form of deductible. It might just be a standard $500, $1000, $2500. Your
policy might also have a separate deductible for WIND. I have seen wind deductibles as high as 5% of th
dwelling amount.

This means if you have your home insured for $300,000 and you have a 5% WIND
deductible, that’s $15,000. That’s the cost of a whole new roof for some people.
Be proactive! Pull out your policy and look at it with your broker. If you would rather, contact us at
www.jmdins.com We are here to “steer you in the right direction”.

Before the 2011 hurricane season begins, we want to hear from you!!

Thank you!!

I'm a Believer!

2011-04-10T21:37:00.001-07:00

True story: When I was 6 or 7 years old there wasn't much slowing me down. This particular day, things were no different when I decided it was time to jump my bicycle over a large rock on the roadside. After all, it was only about 8 inches tall, shaped just like a ramp. I hit that thing at top speed and took off for the sky. Well like any skyward adventure, eventually all things crash to the ground. You know when you're that age you can only ignore gravity for so long...bang, boom, crash, smash onto the hard earth I came.

The term yard sale was putting it lightly. Everyone in the neighborhood was there to see me laying there on the ground. "He's hurt" I hear my neighbor say..."get his mother, she's a nurse". The neighbor was right. I had come down on my right arm with so much force, I broke my elbow, collar bone, and my upper arm in 4 places. This is NOT good!!

My mom (my hero) was on the scene in a flash. We only lived on the next street over. "get me some shingles for a splint, I need ice. Someone call the ambulance." She had things under control. It wasn't a pretty site. My arm was all busted up and the summer had just begun!!

They took me to the hospital in the back of a cop car. I guess the ambulance was busy with another patient? I remember that ride. Every bump in the road was a nighmare. I didn't go into shock. My mom was keeping me awake and conscious.

I spent 2 months at the hospital in traction. Pins and weights and sleepless nights in pain.

Fast forward...age 10 diagnosed with Migraine headaches, age 15 cat scans and MRI's, age 20 vision issues, flashing and light sensitivity, missing work for 2-3 days with head aches. Neurological exams, tests, medications...NO RELIEF! The medications made me feel worse than having the migraine!! Years and years, on and on...

Age 38, I hear Dr. Thomas Crabbe speaking to a group of business owners about how chiropractic care can help alleviate these symptoms and restore normal blood flow to the brain.

Tom says " when I was 7 years old a chiropractor cured me of my headaches, that's why I decided to become one too".

I was still skeptical until three or four people in the crowd tell me that Tom cured them too! I figured it was worth a $20 co-pay to see if they were right.

I made the appointment and arrived on time. Tom started by asking me several questions about the activities and sports that I like to do. He asked me to perform some basic movements.

He says "your range of motion is very limited on the right side of your body. Did you have any trauma there in the past"? I said yes, I had an accident when I was younger, spent time in traction and then in a cast. He tells me that my body healed itself in that position. He began working that area. Rubbing some "minty" gel on that spot. He massaged and worked his fingers onto the spot that always tingled and burned. Finally, Tom asked me to stand up. He put his two hands, one on my chest in front of my shoulder, one on my back right on that burning spot. He gave a squeeze and "POP".

In that instant my migraines were cured! IN THAT INSTANT!!!!!!!!! It was a miracle!!!!!!!! AHHHHH, RELIEF. I wanted to hug the guy, but I refrained.

I go to see Tom once every 60 days or so just to stay in line. I have not had a migraine headache since I've seen him. No Drugs, No side effects. I refer all my friends too. I'm a believer!! Thank you Dr. Tom.

Dr. Thomas Crabbe www.crabbechiro.com "keeping you in the game"!

For "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. www.jmdins.com "Steering you in the right direction".

Thank you!!

Try Sea Salt!

2011-04-10T21:36:00.001-07:00

The varieties are remarkable, Mediterranean Sea Salt, Italian Sea Salt, Hawaiian, Organic, Smoked...there's more.

Often harvested by hand these specialty salts are famous for their unique flavors and crystal formations. Colors like, pink, grey, black are common. You will need a mill or grinder when using sea salt. Some will come in a "fine" granular form. But, I recommend the course style milled directly into your dish.

Sea Salt is a part of our culture and history. Long before we had refrigeration the only methods of preservation were salting, smoking, or drying food. Sea water flooded huge collection areas and was dried on the wind. The natural heat of the sun slowly evaporated the sea water and eventually crystalized. When there was enough dried crystals it was collected in barrels for storage.

Wars have been waged for Salt and Pepper, for that matter. (but that's another story)

Today we have the luxury of choosing from a huge list of salt options. I encourage you to give one a try.

Some salts may contain Iodine, some salts do not. Iodine is important in protecting your thyroid gland, and vital for overall good health.

Too much salt isn't good either. Your doctor will agree, too much of a good thing will eventually cause a problem.

In balance with other herbs and spices, Sea salt can really perk up a meal.

J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc "steering you in the right direction" www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

Dog Insurance

2011-04-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

Please understand that we are pet lovers here. I remember my first dog Brutis. The little scrapper was more apt to bite than some doberman pincers I've met. He was a wire haired mix between beagle and terrier. Small dog with a big attitude. Don't mess with Brutis. LOL. I still have a scar on my wrist from a fight between him and Ace, the neighbors black lab. These two didn't see eye to eye. One day at the bus stop the two of them went at it. Tearing and biting...I grabbed Brutis by the collar, Ace jumped for his neck. But before Ace could strike my dog twisted around and bit me so I would let go. Great!!

Who decides what dogs make the "Bad Dog" list? Each company has data on which breeds of canine that they will "insure". It's up to them. If your dog bites someone they will have to defend you and your dog and possibly pay for injury. Even if the dog doesn't bite anyone and it's just alleged to have bitten, the defense cost alone can be $20,000. That's not short money.

Other companies just flat out EXCLUDE ALL DOGS: Look under the exclusions page for the words CANINE EXCLUSION or ANIMAL EXCLUSION.

Pit bull, American bull dog, Rotweiller, German shepherd, Akita, Chow, Doberman pincer, Husky, Wolf hi-bred. Notice I didn't include Black lab, or Poodle. Let's face it any dog can bite. So why are these breeds selected verses others? It's because some of these have been bred over years to be guard dogs. They also have something called "lock Jaw".

Have you ever seen a dog bite onto a stick of a rope and you can't get it free because they are biting down on it so hard? When a dog can bite and hold, that's lock jaw.

Most dogs bite and retreat. They don't bite and hold.

There is hope for those people who own "bad dogs". We have some options if you've been declined. www.jmdins.com

The best case is when your dog has been trained! If your pet has a Good Canine Citizen (GCC) certificate, then you might have more options.

Please give us a call today. We can answer your questions and help provide some relief.

Thank you!!

Liability Insurance

2011-03-31T08:11:00.001-07:00

Are you a contractor in Massachusetts that needs a certificate for Commercial General Liability Insurance? Maybe you're the owner of a surveying and engineering company and you need professional liability insurance. We know the difference between these policies and why each is important to you and your business.

For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance has been providing quality advice to business owners and professionals in our area. We invite you to visit our testimonials page. There you will read our own customers telling you about their experiences at Doherty Insurance. www.jmdins.com

Commercial General Liability is your traditional "slip and fall" insurance. For any business owner this is the foundation of your insurance program. If you combine some business property (tools, computer) with the "CGL" you can "package the coverage and get better coverage and save money. It's often less money to buy some property insurance along with the liability insurance and have a lower overall cost. Don't short change your coverage for a few dollars in premium.

Professional Liability Insurance deals with a persons advice or professional opinion. You want to be sure that if you're installing a new septic tank in the ground, it's going in the right place. The last thing you want to find out is that you've put the tank in the wrong location. Who decides that? A licensed surveyor and engineer. These are the professionals. What if they provide incorrect data? What if they put the flags in the ground incorrectly? These types of professions require Errors and Omitions insurance. Lawyers, accountants, your doctor. They all have Professional Liability Insurance.

If you own a home and have home owners insurance then your Massachusetts Home Owners Insurance policy automatically includes $100K for "liability".
Personal liability insurance deals with things like liable and slander, invasion of privacy, things like that. You need to add personal liability to some home owners insurance policies. (for a minimal fee) It's not automatically included.

When can this be important? Lets say you're vacationing at some resort away from home. You open the door to the changing room at the Spa and there's an innocent person still changing behind the door. You see them NAKED...AHHH!!! Is that invasion of privacy? Can you get sued for that? I guess anything can happen.

Before it does, please contact J.M. Doherty Insurance. We don't want to see anyone get caught with their pants down!!

Thank you!!

College Planning Seminar

2011-03-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

NEW for 2011!

Fast Track Programs

Now accepting reservations for the Class of 2012.
Space is limited!

Congratulations to the Class of 2011!

This year's College Edge students have been accepted to:
Bates College
Bridgewater State U
Curry College
Dartmouth College
MA Coll. of Pharmacy
Northeastern U
Providence College
Quinnipiac U
Saint Anselm College
Salve Regina U
Simmons College
Springfield College
Stonehill College
U of Connecticut
U of Maryland
U of MA-Amherst
U of MA-Dartmouth
U of Rhode Island
U of Vermont

...and many more!

Referrals Always Welcome!

If you know anyone interested in College Edge's services, please share my information. I greatly value client referrals, and always offer discounted services to those who refer others.

Just a quick reminder about next week's

FREE College

Planning Seminar

April 6th at Baker Books

Dear Reader,

Next Wednesday evening (April 6th) I will present a college planning seminar for high school sophomores, juniors, and their parents. I am sending one more reminder because in case you are interested, or perhaps know some families beginning the college search process who will benefit from attending this informative event:

Start Your Engines!

Practical College Planning Tips

for Sophomores & Juniors

Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.

at Baker Books - 69 State Road, N. Dartmouth, MA

At this free seminar, I will provide sophomores, juniors, and their parents with practical tips to begin the college application journey. I'll tell you how to get the most out of your summer vacation, manage challenging academics, plan potential essay topics, maximize college visits, and match your strengths and interests with the best college for you.

Sophomores can use what they learn to prepare for a stellar junior year, in both the classroom and the community. Juniors will learn how to finish the year strong and prioritize the tasks they'll soon need to complete as they begin their applications.

Students and parents are encouraged to attend together, and to start the crucial college dialogue early!

Advance registration is NOT required. However, to ensure adequate seating and materials, I would appreciate a brief reply to this email if you are planning to attend.

As always, please feel free to share this information with anyone you believe may be interested in attending. If there is any way I can help your family with the college search process, call or email me anytime!

I look forward to seeing you on April 6th at Baker Books!

Regards,

Elizabeth Murphy
elizabeth@collegeedgeprogram.com
(508) 496-5406

PS: Visit College Edge online for more information. It is never too early to start planning for college!

New Driver Insurance: Proceed With Caution

2011-03-29T08:29:00.001-07:00

For any parent of an inexperienced driver there are several area to be concerned about. Most importantly is their safety. We know many serious accidents are caused by young drivers. You probably already know that.

What we do differently at J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. is provide you with good information and then let you decide what works best for you.

Lets start with advanced driver training. Through IN Control you can participate in something more than the standard "drivers ed" course. You will be set up on an open driving course. Cones are set up, the corners are tight, and the track conditions vary in order to give a realistic sense of true driving situations. Hard braking, skids, distractions are all part of the educational process. This will help a new driver recognize adverse conditions quickly and more apt to react correctly when things are coming at them at 65 miles per hour. For more information please call 1-888-301-SAFE, www.InControlADT.com There is a credit on your insurance for taking participating. Please make sure you keep the certificate.

When you call us for insurance information on a new operator we will give you straight answers. It's about the right protection for the right price. We won't strip down a policy just to gain a customer. You will be calling us first if there is an accident. That's the last time you want to find out that your coverage limits are low and you might not be insured adequately.

Should I insure the car in their name? How much coverage does my kid need? How can I save money and still do this right? All good questions. Questions that may need some time to figure out.

We generally recommend that all the vehicles in the household carry the same amount of liability insurance. One car or the other, if there's an accident it's the same "assets" you are trying to protect.

One solid piece of advice we can offer and will help keep your premium down is buying an older model car that doesn't need to have "full collision and comprehensive". When a new driver buys a car that needs financing, the bank will require "full collision and comp". That's the physical damage to the car, fire, theft, vandalism... The bank is going to make you insure their interest in the vehicle. The added cost for full physical damage can add $1000 or more to the bottom line.

I see customers trying to get creative with this issue. Please keep in mind that insuring new drivers is expensive for a reason. THEY HAVE ACCIDENTS!! Insurance companies don't mind creativity as long as they are getting the premium due to them.

New Massachusetts Auto Insurance buyers, please call us first. We are here to help you make informed insurance decisions.

For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. "steering you in the right direction" www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

New Bedford: History, Architecture, Home

2011-03-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

New Bedford has a past that is legendary. Throughout time our small community has celebrated being at the pinnacle of world culture and prominence twice. Once with it's rich whale trade. A time when boat owners and captains searched the vast oceans for their pray. Returning to New Bedford to build spectacular homes and amass grand wealth. Many of these magnificent homes still survive today. Grand foyers, crown molding, multiple fire places, details that would cost a small fortune to have replaced today. It's possible to own a peice of history here. That's cool.

The second time in history was during the textile industry. Expert seamstresses, craftsman in their trade, would produce fabric for the worlds markets. Taking the finest raw materials like silk, cashmere, wool and cotton, then weaving it into limitless patterns and designs. New Bedford still captivates the heart. www.newbedford-ma.gov

From the cobble stone streets, to the Whaling Museum the charm and character harken back to a simpler time. The shops, restaurants, gallerys, offer the best of living by the sea. Your selection of "prairie" paintings might be limited. But sea scapes, ocean views, boats we've got lots of that. Jewelry items, T-shirts of course.

New Bedford is where you can travel to Martha's Vineyard in one hour. The new "fast ferry" gets you to Oak Bluffs "fast" Look up the Steamship Authority for trip schedules.

We have the nicest beaches in the area. From the beaches off Rodney French Blvd to Horseneck Beach in Westport to Fort Phoenix in Fairhaven.

We invite you to visit us today.

Keep it local: www.jmdins.com

Boats, Boats, Boats!

2011-03-18T10:30:00.001-07:00

At J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency we know boats. With more than 50 years experience on the water Jim Doherty and his team can get your boat insured quickly and easily.

Do you know the difference between Agreed Value and Actual Cash Value? There's a BIG difference between these two settlement options. We can explain the two and see which one fits your needs best.

We have an extensive network of marinas and boatyards that can service your vessel as well. Triad Boat Works in Mattapoisett, www.triadboat.com; Niemiec Marine in New Bedford, www.niemiecmarine.com; Windward Power Systems in Wareham, www.windwardpower.com All these guys know there stuff, from repairing that wooden hard top to installing those brand new Catipillar Diesels. We're confident you will be happy with the service and expertise.

We can quote and bind coverage right over the phone in most cases. Please note that in some cases we will require a survey, depending on the age of the vessel.

What about Hurricane Haul out coverage. Do you have it? How about emergency towing? That can be very important for any boater.

We ask that you call us today for a review and quote.

For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc has been "steering you in the right direction".

Thank you!!

Facebook, YouTube, Google and Insurance

2011-03-18T07:17:00.001-07:00

If you ask any "kid" between the ages of 10 and 30 where they find out about the world around them, they will give you one answer, the internet. Clothing, shoes, food, entertainment, and even insurance, the list is endless. The best part is it's all right at your fingertips. Don't get lost in the soup!

We know at J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. www.jmdins.com that the competition is fierce. The "big Box" insurers are beating folks on the head every day with ads on the TV, radio, and of course the internet too. Frankly, that's just fine for us. We know we can't compete with multi million dollar advertising budgets.

What we can do is offer superior service (*like free registry runs and free notary) We offer local representation. Most important, we want to help educate our customers about the real world of insurance. The world in which insurers don't pay claims unless the coverage is there.

When your only concern is price then 1-800 direct is the answer to your prayers. Many direct write carriers offer a 6 month policy. That way if they give you a low quote in the beginning and your full driving history is not reviewed prior to issuing that policy, they can hike up your premium on the 6 month renewal. We see it all the time. Ask around!

Coverage limits, the cost, and deductibles; all these things effect the rates on every kind of insurance. We will take the time to walk you through your insurance needs. By asking the right questions we can help you determine what's important and what's not.

Massachusetts car insurance, home insurance, business insurance, even life and health, we do it here.

Simple questions, we love them! Complex business coverage, we love that to.

Let's take your inquiry to the next level. Please give us a try today call or click www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

A Pound of Flesh and Fraud

2011-03-18T07:16:00.001-07:00

I got a call from a local business owner that was looking for some Massachusetts Auto Insurance quotes. He asked me to stop by his store to review his current policy.www.jmdins.com We save you money by coming to you.

When I arrived he had both his auto and home policies ready. He knew that there is money to be saved by combining them.

We went through all 12 parts of his policy. The coverage was better than average $100,000 per person $300,000 per accident on part 5 Optional Bodily Injury.

I noticed that he was the only listed operator, no problem.

I asked him several questions about his situation. We discussed assets and his future plans for his family...

No sooner do I mention the family when his wife pulls in driving the 2007 Acura. She has the baby and all is well.

"I thought you said you were the only driver"? I say to him. "Well this is my wife...she moved here recently from Vietnam" he replies. "

That's fine but I don't see her listed anywhere on your policy. Let me get her date of birth and drivers license number and I will revise my quotes. Which I did.

A day or two later I went back with my figures. She is a brand new driver here in Massachusetts. If we can provide verification that she has prior driving experience in Vietnam then we can adjust the quotes. My numbers were more than $2000 higher than his current premium (obviously).

"No, No, No...this premium is too much...My wife, she only drives once in a while...Can we do it without her? My current agent did it that way"!!!

I explained "what ever your current agent did is going to be their problem when it happens". Every company asks that all household members be listed" If she has an accident the company will deny the claim.

I told him, No, I can't write the policy without listing her. Your first phone call will be to me saying my wife just had an accident. At that point the company promptly denies to pay the claim because they didn't get their "pound of flesh". They didn't get any premium dollars for her lack of experience. It's fraud in their eyes. I closed my file and left.

Maybe three of four months later my cell phone rings. It's the store owner. His wife had been in an accident! He's explaining how it happened. She had missed a stop sign and crashed into another vehicle. "What's going to happen now" he says. I told him to call his current agent and see what he says. I never heard back from him.

In the end, this person got ZERO, $0, nada, zip! As I told him it's misrepresentation, fraud, what ever you want to call it. Insurance companies play hard ball at claim time. They aren't going to pay anything unless they've received their due compensation.

We hear stories like this all the time. A customer wants to save money. We want to save that customer money too. But we won't reduce our standards just to write the business. In the long run it doesnt pay. It's doesn't pay for us. It doesn't pay for the customer.

You don't be "penny wise and pound foolish" now... That's another lesson for another day.

Thank you!!

In Home Business

2011-03-11T17:08:00.001-08:00

Let's face it, everyone is doing everything to make ends meet lately. Whether it's your neighbor who has a perpetual "garage sale" going on, or it's the "Avon Lady". We do what we have to do to make ends meet. We understand. Don't get caught without the proper insurance.

The exclusions page clearly states: Business related issues are NOT covered.
In home businesses can be easy to insure. Give us a call 508-992-9557 or click today www.jmdins.com

We can help determine whether your situation requires something quick and easy, or if it's something more. We will ask you some specific questions about the scope and scale of your operations. If you have business property to insure, no problem. That's what we do.

At some point every business owner realizes they can't roll the dice any longer. We see businesses survive and continue into the future because insurance paid a claim. From Business interruption to commercial general liability Doherty's looking out for you.

For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. "Steering you in the right direction"

Thank you!!

Need College Application Help?

2011-03-11T17:07:00.001-08:00

If you are a planning to send your child to college you already know how much paperwork, time and expense goes into the process. The application forms, financial aid forms, income verification, tax info...on and on it goes.
Elizabeth Murphy founder of The College Edge Program can make your experience smooth and painless. She's done it before for so many of her clients. What if you want your child to apply to numerous schools? Elizabeth can coordinate and streamline your efforts so you don't waste time on things that aren't going to help your child get accepted. After all, that is the main objective, right?

The knowledge of having someone there to guide you along the track can be such a relief to a parent. You know the stress level increases when you're working on these issues with your child. You also know how important getting into the school you both agree on can make the difference between a lack luster college experience or something more.

We are all seeking time to do the things that really matter. Family time, vacation time, just "TURN IT ALL OFF TIME"! The services offered through the College Edge Program www.collegeedgeprogram.com will make that a reality.

Parents that both work full time with or without other children, single parents, grand parents, don't waste more time searching the web for answers! She will work one on one with your child. She can help find their true potential. She will provide you with a realistic picture of what schools are a good match for both mom and dad, and your child too.

Give Elizabeth Murphy a call today at 508-496-5406.
She is your answer! Ask her for the name of a family she has helped. She can give you 20.
More than just insurance for more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency Inc. "Steering you in the right direction" www.jmdins.com

Thank you!!

Local Business: Giammalvo's Market

2011-03-03T09:24:00.001-08:00

Can you say local "INSTITUTION"!! Jimmy, Paul, Dennis, David...The list goes on. For more than 60 years the Giammolvo's staff has been serving the New Bedford citizens without bias or opinion. These guys see em' all. From working class assembly employees to the local professionals that call this home, those guys are all right!!

Where else can you cash your paycheck and buy dinner in one stop? How about if you're a little shot on funds? Ask Paul...If there is something he can do...

Did someone say FRESH burgers. If their burger was any fresher there would be a cattle lined up out the back door ready for the grinder. They grind the beef fresh to order! WOW, who does that anymore?

They were delivering food to city residents long before "Pea Pod" was too. Give them a call, place an order and see for yourself. 508-997-3973

I can't say enough, Party platters, Salads, Sandwiches by the boat load, fresh cut meats, Steaks, Chops, Chicken...You have to check them out.

Giammolvo's Market is located at 1914 Purchase Street New Bedford, MA. Stop in, tell them "Doherty Insurance" referred you.

www.jmdins.com Helping local business!!

Why is the Fire Chief Calling Me?

2011-03-01T07:27:00.001-08:00

I never like getting those calls. This case was no different. The time was about 6 pm, and I wasn't in the office.

My client is freaking out because he doesn't recall if the trailer is insured. More important; are the thousands of dollars worth of contractors tools inside the trailer insured?

I had to wait until the following morning before I could check the policies for him. My fear was that there had been a prior cancelation. I checked the auto policy to see if the trailer had coverage. It did! Next, I checked the contractor policy that we had on file to see what tools we had insured. It WAS canceled for non payment of premium!

I called my client to gather some details and go over what I had found out.
He started in by saying that the fire had only scorched the outside of the trailer. None of the tools inside were damaged. I almost fell out of my chair in relief.
When I told him that his policy had canceled for non payment, he almost fell out of his chair! "Really?" he says to me. "I thought I had paid that bill".
This is the exception to the rule. This client was extremely lucky that it wasn't a catastrophe. That's the only way to sum it up! He told me "I would be out of business right now"!

We often get calls from customers that have a claim to make, but they have NO coverage because of non-payment of premium. There is no worse feeling for the customer or for us!

Insurance carriers don't have remorse when a customer doesn't have coverage for a claim. It's a happy day when they don't have to pay!
The customer is the one that feels the pain.

In order to prevent these situations from happening we offer EFT, or automatic payment from the checking account. We can make a call to the carrier to see if it's possible to pay a lower amount. We will look at all the options in order to prevent a policy cancelation.

www.jmdins.com for over 37 years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. "steering you in the right direction".
Thank you!!

First Time Home Buyers: Insurance

2011-02-24T07:50:00.000-08:00

We had some basic real estate knowledge; location, location, location! Armed with that, this simple ranch was prime. It was worst house in the nicest neighborhood. The house had holes in the floor, holes in the roof, a big space heater in place of real central heating system. A diamond in the rough. The price was within our price range. I said to my girl "let's make an offer". There's a beach, water views...perfect. She agreed.

We contracted with a real estate agent and made the offer.
The owner of the home lived in Florida so we had to wait for everything. Our first offer was rejected, but countered with a high figure...we countered again, and the price was set. I remember the day we got that call. My dad says "It looks like you're going to be a home owner!" I said "YA HOO!" I was pumped!!
Now for the financing: The lender that provided us the "commitment letter" already had our taxes, pay stubs, all our financial info. There was no delay in getting a closing date from them. Being first time home buyers however, we were "green" to say the least.

Our realtor gave us some good advice. When we made our original offer, he suggested that we offer more then the asking price but ask for a credit at closing to fix some of the issues. The asking price was $125,000. We offered $130,000 with a $9,000 credit coming back at closing. This would be a net $121,000 cost to us. This suggestion was OK with all parties and the date was set.
Things were moving along when I received a phone call from the lender 4 days prior to the closing. We have re-evaluated your closing documents. The lender has determined that your car loan (which I've had all along), needs to be paid down by at least 10 payments in order to close your loan on friday! I was floored. "Are you @%*# kidding me?", I said to the mortgage officer. Nothing has changed since we first applied for this loan, and now 4 days before the closing I need to come up with another $3500 to pay down my car loan? Yes, that's right Mr. Doherty...

We were tapped out on everything. I cashed in my IRA's. We took every bit of money from the savings just to get here. Now what?
The writing was on the wall. What we did was BEG! That's right, mom, dad, the inlaws, $1000 here, $500 there. We made it with no time to spare. I was angry as a badger with that mortgage person. That added more stress to our lives than we needed. That's understating it! The closing went smooth. No more hurdles.
Because we are considered "coastal" our home insurance options were (at that time) limited. Mass Property (the Fair Plan) was the only option.
Now 10 years later there are numerous options for the coastal Massachusetts Home Owner. www.jmdins.com

We offer at least 5 different carriers that will insure you within a mile of the coast. Many more than that if you are over a mile from the coast.
We know the stress of home buying. Let us help you minimize the pressure and enjoy it.

The right coverage, deductibles, and price...at J.M. Doherty Insurance Inc. "Steering you in the right direction".
Call or click today.
Thank you!

Massachusetts Workers Compensation: "The state will shut you down"

2011-02-20T09:11:00.001-08:00

It is no joke to say the state is serious about shutting down businesses that do not comply with the law. When your business is incorporated that business requires a work comp policy. There are exceptions to the rule. If you are the business owner/ corporate officer you can apply for an exemption. The exemption, which is granted by the ruling authority, Department of Industrial Accidents must be in writing and on record at there office.

At J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. www.jmdins.com we are able to eliminate the constant worry about whether you're about to get shut down. In most cases, we can quote coverage right over the phone.
What does it mean to be "audited" by your carrier? Is your company looking for payroll figures for last year and now this year. You should pay attention to those notices! Don't let that policy cancel.
The state has you on the radar once you have purchased a policy. If that policy cancels for any reason, then a red flag goes off. Sooner or later you're going to have a visit from a representative of the Department of Industrial Accidents. It can never be a good thing when they show up. Hopefully, no one got hurt first!! Then you're in big trouble. I can't emphasize the importance of work comp insurance.

Does "The Station Night Club" fire sound familiar? The owners of that facility went to jail for not carrying workers comp for their employees. They figured it was better to save their money vs save their employees.
I hear from employers "my family works here, my own family wouldn't sue me." Well in the real world families sue each other all the time. When uncle Larry can't give auntie Jane a hug because he was hurt working at your garage, this could be a problem. When uncle Larry and auntie Jane can't pay their mortgage anymore because of an injury that happened while uncle Larry was working for you, the problems get worse.
Workers Compensation can be purchased to cover the employees injury and their lost wages.
If you are running a small business without work comp, please contact us today. We provide solid solutions, to real problems. (even if you just have a question, please call)

For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. "Steering you in the right direction"
Thank you!!

Main Street Business Insurance

2011-02-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

When you get started in business the costs are overwhelming. From state and local inspectors to the "darn" insurance, it's expensive to be in business. We know that here. We try to balance your coverage and your budget. Let's discuss your options. We know business insurance.

We are a locally owned family insurance agency. Over the past 15 years we have positioned ourselves to be able to handle most all "Main Street" businesses.

Trades people; Plumbers, electricians, masons, General Contractors, and every trade in between Doherty can handle it.

Lawyers, engineers, accountants and other professionals use us too. Read our testimonials page... www.jmdins.com

It's about getting it right the first time. When you need a helping hand or you know the ropes already, give us a call. Check us out!!

The term service is not just "lip service" at J.M. Doherty either. We do the leg work. If you're too busy to get in to see us, then we will come to you.

Need to get that new company vehicle registered and you don't have two hours to waste at the registry? We will take care of that!! Free Registry Service for our clients.

We can offer a professional second opinion of all your insurance policies. Business Auto (fleet), Business Property, Business income, Non-Owned and Hired Auto, Workers Comp, Commercial General and Professional liability too. If we can't get it, then we will find out who can.

The Doherty staff will ask you important questions about your business. The process is not complicated. Ask yourself, is a few minutes of your time worth being compensated the way you expect after a claim? You know the answer to that.

For over "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency Inc. has been "Steering you in the right direction".

Thank you!!

My Massachusetts Auto Insurance Company and Surcharges

2011-02-12T10:40:00.001-08:00

The story goes like this...
You've pulled into the local grocery store. It snowed the night before so the parking lot conditions are icy and dangerous. The plows have piled the snow up so high, you can't see over them. You're using all those years of driving experience just to keep from skidding into something or worse, someone!
You grab some goodies inside and manage to get yourself back into the vehicle without incident, hurray. You look over your shoulder to make sure the coast is clear and start backing up...That huge snow bank isn't helping matters either...

BANG, CRUNCH, RRRRT... WHAT WAS THAT???

You look again and suddenly there is a full size cargo van stopped directly in your path. "OH MAN" you say to yourself. Where did that guy come from? He wasn't there a second ago.

After assessing the damage, the driver of the van says "I saw you backing up. I tried to stop but I slid right into you".

The police come and take a report. It states you were backing up and struck the other vehicle. "But Officer, the ice, the piles of snow... it wasn't my fault"!

Am I going to get surcharged by my Massachusetts car insurance company? Most likely, Yes.
Insurance companies use "reasonable standards of fault" to help them make calls like this. That means if you were backing up, then you're at fault. It means if you rearend someone, then you're at fault.
The insurance company uses the police report as a major factor in determining what's what as well.
They look at several factors before ultimately making a decision to surcharge based on your percentage of fault. (50%-50% is the best outcome, then no one gets surcharged!)
If you are found to be more than 50% then you will be penalized. Depending on the amount of money paid out by the insurance company will determine the number of "points" you are assessed. Points are to punish you for bad driving. Points = more premiums!

There is an appeals process if you feel as though there were mitigating circumstances in the collision that could vindicate you, like snow and ice.

You will be notified in writing by the insurance carrier that it has been determined that you caused the accident and therefore are going to be surcharged.

YOU ONLY HAVE THIRTY (30) DAYS TO SEND IN YOUR APPEAL NOTICE, after that NO more appeal.
When you appeal the case you are given an opportunity to plead your case in front of the Merit Rating Bureau. This is the only organization that can make the surcharge go away.
Take pictures, get witness statements, weather reports, any detail that might help prove your innocence.
It might take two (2) years to get your day in court. You have to pay the increased premium the entire time. If you are able to prove you were not at fault, the points drop off and you can request return of your increased premium during that time.

www.jmdins.com Real answers to real problems!
For more than "37" years J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. "Steering you in the right direction"

Why are my Massachusetts Car Insurance Rates Increasing?

2011-02-09T05:34:00.000-08:00

If you want to maximize your premium savings it's important to know that most carriers are offering substantial discounts if they are able to "bundle" both your Massachusetts auto policy with your Massachusetts home insurance policy. That's the companion discount.

Do you pay your bills in full? There's a discount for that!

Do you drive a hybrid vehicle? There's a discount for that too!

Is the driver of the vehicle in school, and a good student? Discount!

There are numerous credits and discounts available through most companies.

What about my coverage? Many companies will reward you with a discount for having "better" coverage.

What that means is that if you can probably buy better coverage limits and still keep your premiums just about the same as buying minimum coverage limits.

If you want a full explanation of your policy limits look us up. www.jmdins.com

We can offer you a professional review and second opinion of all your insurance policies.

The staff at J.M Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. are trained to ask key questions about YOU! Once we have a good understanding of your situation we can provide quotes.

Founded by Jim Doherty in 1974, Doherty Insurance is about educating our clientele about their options. Helping you make an informed decision is what we are all about.

No one wants to make a mistake, especially when there are thousands, if not millions of dollars on the line.
Be informed about all your coverage options at J. M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc.
For more than 37 years " Steering you in the right direction"

Thank you.

"I can't find my wedding ring"

2011-02-02T07:47:00.001-08:00

It's difficult to retrace the steps. Where did you last see it? Did I take it off to wash you hands, put on lotion??? You have checked the drain trap out from under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. You went through all the boxes of linens that were packed away in the attic. You even asked all your friends to come over to help you locate the wedding ring that you "lost" the other day.

You make a call to your insurance agent to see if you have coverage. The response is not good. "No Mrs. Smith, there is nothing scheduled on your policy. Your gut sinks further!!

"I've been reading my policy and I do have coverage for jewelry, $1500.00. The agent says that $1500 is subject to the deductible, you have a $500 deductible. The agent continues, " your policy has an EXCLUSION for mysterious dissapearance.

Should I make a Claim?

2011-02-02T07:46:00.001-08:00

Recently, I received a phone call from a customer that found a fresh water spot on the ceiling in their basement. The customer was wondering if they should notify the insurance company or not.
I asked them if they had found the source of the water? Was it a burst pipe? Was it a leak in the bathtub drain or perhaps just some over flow of a toilet or sink?

They were not sure. I asked them to find the source as soon as possible. If the problem is nothing more than an over flow, not a big deal.

However, if the source of the water is not found, the problem could go from bad to worse very quickly.
When we get a call like this the end result is what we are concerned with, not whether a customer should submit a claim because they may be canceled. www.jmdins.com
Some customers think that an insurance carrier will cancel them simply because they have a claim. Well, that can be true. However, cancelations are usually about too many claims being submitted (frequency) or one major claim (severity).

Please understand that insurance companies don't like to pay claims. They might say they do. But you and I know, like most businesses, they are motivated by profit.
Our concern is getting your claim resolved, large or small. We don't want to delay in submitting a claim. You do have a duty to notify the carrier of a loss in a "timely" fashion.
In this case, our customer, and the plumber found the leak. It was coming from a second floor laundry room. The water pressure had popped a tiny pin hole in a pipe seem at an elbow. The resulting cost to repair was over $10,000. If this customer had ignored that water spot and didn't address the problem right away things could have been much worst. We could have been dealing with mold, and rot. Those things can lead to health issues, and so on.

Your Massachusetts home insurance policy covers many things. If you have a claim or what you think might be a claim make that call. Don't wait until it gets worse.
Your agent can provide guidance. If they can't WE can.
Thank you!!

How to know when you're old...

2011-01-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it hits you right between the eyes. You can never anticipate what words will come from your childs mouth. Just laugh and take it in stride.

Last night I had an epiphany. At that moment I realized, I am old. Not old and "in the way" like some might think. Just a old in the sense of how my children look at me. To them I am the authority figure. The guy who says NO to another bowl of ice cream. The one that has to break the news that no one will be leaving the table until dinner is done. ( and turn off that TV too)

Just like generations before, adults are perceived as a drag by younger generations. Studies have shown that a 6 year old child will smile more than 300 times per day. An adult age 34 only smiles 150 times. Something is getting lost in between.

We can debate the reasons for that another day.

Right now I want to get on living, smiling, enjoying my childrens company. I love listening to their comments good, bad and ugly!

Our conversation revolved around motorcycles. I'm 42 now. I'm pretty sure they had motorcycles back then?

<a href="www.jmdins.com">www.jmdins.com</a> for down to earth insurance advice. For family advice see Lucy, Charlie Brown's advisor. $.05

Situation Narrowly Averted

2011-01-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday my neighbor called to say that his microwave oven stopped working. I go by there to see what's up.

When I get there he has the stove pulled out from the wall. There are some parts to an electrical outlet on the table. I look at the pieces more closely and see that the outlet itself has burned nearly in half. The electrical wiring that connects the outlet to the wiring of the house is melted, and burnt. There is visible gray- black soot from electrical arcing around the electrical box that contains the outlet. Even the sheetrock had visible scorching.

I shook my head in disbelief. "This could have been a catastrophe" I said to my neighbor. He totally agreed!!

The electrical wiring from the circuit breaker box to the microwave was only 10 amps. The electrical draw was too much. The oven should be wired for 20 amps or greater to prevent overloading. That was the problem. The microwave oven was pulling so much power through the line that it burned and the wires, the outlet, and the box that contains the outlet. (Other household items that draw alot of power are space heaters, air conditioners, toaster ovens)

It could have burned the house down. One more cup of tea, one more bag of popcorn...Who know's???

This time we can talk about the situation that was averted by luck alone. "The machine just stopped working so I had to check" my neighbor says to me.

"That oven hasn't been away from that wall in 5 years. The only reason I had to look back there is because that's where the outlet is." NO kidding!!

Insurance is there in case disaster strikes. www.jmdins.com Your Massachusetts home owners insurance policy covers fire.

When insurance carriers want to know if you have updated wiring, this is why. The risk is real. The possibility of serious injury, even death can be the result of bad or improperly installed wiring. Hire a qualified, licensed electrician that knows the current codes. Get everything up to date.

Your safety, your families safety depends on it!

Thank you for reading.

http://www.jmdins.com/

That won't happen to me...

2011-01-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

Recently I was offered an option to replace my Massachusetts Home Owners Insurance policy. My coverage was with Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association. MPIUA; The Fair Plan. www.mpiua.com The premium was high, in my opinion and I'm the agent.

We do shop coverage. We have access to many carriers. In this case my home insurance was renewing and I had a chance to save $500 a year. The only difference was I had to take a $5000 wind deductible instead of $2500. I figured that if I can go 5 years without a claim, then I would be even. What ever could happen, It wasn't going to happen to me, RIGHT???... WRONG!!!

Less than 3 months after I had changed carriers we had a bad "wind" storm. That storm took down a massive (dead) willow tree in my neighbors back yard. Yes, my neighbors tree. (It's my responsibility to insure my stuff, not my neighbors) That tree crushed two sheds, one uninsured convertible, a small boat, and a ton of camping, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, equipment. Tools, misc stuff...

It was a total loss. The insurance carrier (that shall remain nameless) took a couple of weeks to show up. The adjuster came by, shook his head and said..."It's a total, I can see that". He took some pictures and said send me a list of the damaged items.

The total claim I submitted was about $15000. Right off the top went $5000 for that " wind" deductible. They depreciated everything. I mean, what's a 10 year old snowboard worth, not much? We settled at $7300 = or -. That's alot less than $15000.

The insurance carrier treated me exactly in accordance with the policy that I purchased. I didn't make out on the savings of $500. The change of deductible cost me $2500.

What could happen I said..."It's not going to happen to me". Right? Before bad things happen to you, see us at www.jmdins.com for professional, honest insurance advice.

We've been down the road before. Please contact us today.

Thank you!!

Easy Seafood Newburg

2011-01-04T07:20:00.001-08:00

Seafood Newburg: Serves 6

Ingredients: 1 pound fresh sea or bay scallops with chine removed. ( the chine is the tough, silvery white part of the scallop attached to the side of the scallop muscle )

1.5 pounds peeled and deveined shrimp (small)

1 pound fresh cod fish

1/2 pound lobster meat cooked and cleaned (buy the lazy mans lobster meat)

1 large shallot (diced fine)

2 tablespoons butter

5 ounces Sherry wine

1 pint lobster broth (you can buy lobster base in the jar. I found it at Market Basket)

1/2 pint heavy cream

1 teaspoon paprika

Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Corn Starch and COLD water

Puff Pastry shells: Frozen; then bake until golden

Start by sauteing the shallots in the butter until soft and tender, add in the Sherry wine. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add in all raw shellfish and cod, and cook on low.

Add in lobster broth and heavy cream, paprika,(add salt and pepper to taste). Simmer on low 5-7 minutes, stirring gently (DON'T OVER COOK THE SEAFOOD)

To thicken: add 3 tablespoons of corn starch to 1/2 cup COLD water. Add 1/2 this mixture to the simmering sauce and let thicken. See if the sauce is thick enough for your liking, if not add more cornstarch and water until you reach your desired thickness.

Serve over warm puff pastry shells.

www.jmdins.com Yum!

Samaritans Need Your Help!

2010-12-14T09:01:00.000-08:00

For those fortunate enough to be blessed with good cheer and tidings during this holiday season, be thankful. Share!

The friends and relatives that we seldom see throughout the year are preparing their homes for guests. They will be baking cakes and cookies in preperation of your arrival. They'll be wrapping gifts for loved ones. They will be praying for those who are less fortunate, as they should.

Celebrate the giving by donating your time this year.

We have read the news story of someone taking their own life because the stress of life has driven them to the edge. Sometimes they take loved one with them thinking that somehow they are giving them a "better" option too. It seems beyond comprehension. Yet it happens. Our relatives, neighbors and friends are under the pressure to succeed in a society that loves to see you down. You know, you live here.

These are the worst stories to hear about. I know I think of my own wife and children. It's upsetting to think about.

The expertly trained staff at The Samaritans of Greater New Bedford and Fall River are answering the phones everyday with another potential family disaster waiting to unfold. www.samaritanshope.org We are asking those of you with any time available to contact them and volunteer!! The business phone number is 508-679-9777.

If you are retired, a veteran, or perhaps lucky enough to have some free time, we implore you to act. The commitment can be a little as two hours a week.

***YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!

Thousands of U.S. Service men and woman have taken their own lives. More than have been killed in action since the start of the Iraq War.

The holiday season is here. With the economy still stuck in the mud, and more and more people struggling to make ends meet, the need for volunteer help is at crisis point. Get involved. Time is the commitment. The life saved cannot be replaced. www.samaritanshope.org Locally: 508-679-9777, Please.

J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency Inc. is helping to raise awareness of this issue. www.jmdins.com

Why You Should Buy Local!

2010-12-04T07:40:00.001-08:00

Each year around this time we like to remind people to shop at your local
stores. The large stores and malls have enormous visibility in the press and
I believe we all forget to think about the special things your local stores
can offer. With the economy still in question I ask you to please read the
following 10 items and shop where your home is! Happy Holidays.

1. Buying local supports you and your family. When you buy from an
independent, locally owned business, significantly more of your buying
dollar stays in the community and is used to make purchases from other local
businesses, like local service providers which helps strengthen the economic

base of your hometown.

2. When you buy from local businesses, you're supporting local nonprofits.
Studies show that small business owners give an average of 250 percent more

dollars in donations to local nonprofits than do large businesses.

3. Buying local keeps your community unique. Where we shop, where we eat and
have fun - all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind local
businesses give a distinctive character to a place, and add to quality of
life; they also bring in more tourist dollars. "When people go on vacation
they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being
someplace, not just any place," says National Trust for Historic

Preservation President Richard Moe.

4. Reduce your environmental impact. Locally owned businesses make more
local purchases, which means less wasted fossil fuel for deliveries from
afar. Also, when you shop in town or city centers, your purchases contribute

less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.

5. Local business creates more good jobs. Small, local businesses are the
largest employers nationally, and the jobs they offer create stronger links

to our communities.

6. When you buy local, you invest in community. Local businesses are owned
by your neighbors, people who live in your town, who are less likely to
leave, and who - like you - are more invested in the community's future.
Local businesses provide very important community allies in tough economic

times.

7. You get better service locally. Local businesses often hire people with a
better understanding of the products they sell, and take more time to get to
know customers. If a product causes problems, the local business is more

likely to respond to your concerns in a personal way.

8. Buying local puts your taxes to good use. Local businesses, particularly
those in town centers, require little public infrastructure investment, as
compared to nationally owned chains built at the edge of town with taxpayer

money for improved roads, water and sewer service.

9. You can buy what you want, not what someone wants you to buy. A multitude
of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales
plan but on the needs and requests of local customers, assure a

buyer-friendly range of product choices.

10. Buying local encourages local prosperity. A growing body of economic
research shows that, in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and
skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that
preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive hometown character.
This list was compiled through information from the American Independent
Business Alliance.

Restaurant Insurance

2010-12-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

Why should you invest in Cyber Risk Coverage?

Are you a restaurant owner that would like to increase coverage and also save some money too. That's our goal at J.M. Doherty Insurance. With a complete review and professional second opinion the friendly sales staff can answer your questions, and see how well you're currently protected.

We often see well known, high quality restaurants with less than stellar insurance carriers.

Does "surplus lines" sound familiar? Are you signing affidavits because your carrier is "non admitted"?

If so let www.jmdins.com see about changing that for your establishment. When your working with a national carrier like Zurich you know the plan is excellent.

We can even handle Liquor Liability Insurance through this program.

This policy is NON auditable! That means there are no annual issues with the carrier about payroll, receipts... www.jmdins.com helps make life easier, not harder.

There is an application process of course. Nothing complicated just a few specifics to make sure our quote will be accurate.

If you're concerned about your insurance, we are too. www.jmdins.com J.M Doherty Insurance is "steering you in the right direction".

Give us a call today. Thank you!!

Thinking of Others

2010-11-30T05:17:00.000-08:00

This year the staff members at J.M. Doherty Insurance are asking for your help this winter. New England winters can be cold and snowy. That is why we are seeking donations of gently used winter clothing; Coats, Hats, Mittens and Gloves, Scarves, Neck Warmers, Blankets. Just about anything someone can use to stay warm. (Snuggies are nice too)

You can contact us via www.jmdins.com We are accepting donations at our office located at 306 Mt. Pleasant Street in New Bedford. (near Building 19 & Ashley Ford)
The weather can turn quickly around here. The items collected will be combined with the collection efforts of Coastline Elderly Services.

Let's end 2010 by showing how generous we are here in the New Bedford area. So many families have been hit by severe economic difficulties. They might be forced to go without proper winter clothing for their children and possibly themselves.

Please look through your closets, attic, storage locker. Dig out a couple of items that you haven't used in a while. You won't miss it, and you'll be doing something good for your community.
We here at J.M. Doherty Insurance are part of the solution. Help us help others. Thank you!!

Massachusetts Auto Insurance, Like a sleeping dog?

2010-11-24T21:10:00.001-08:00

Can you picture it? It's late at night. You're driving home from dropping off a friend after the big event and "BANG" you hit a pedestrian walking down the side of the road. Yes, it's been raining so you couldn't see very well. "I didn't even see the guy. He was wearing dark clothes", you tell the officer.

Just like tripping over a dog in the dark, you don't know how bad the bite will be after a serious accident. If it's a small dog, no problem. But once in a while we see a claim that will take a while for the "pain" to go away. Your Massachusetts Auto Insurance policy is your first line of defense after an auto accident.

At J.M Doherty Insurance we have had that call. www.jmdins.com Are your coverage limits LOW? When was the last time you read your policy?

A new one comes in every year in that big white envelope. www.jmdins.com

The last time you did read your Massachusetts auto insurance policy, did you see the numbers $20/$40 anywhere other than line one, Bodily Injury to Others?

We can explain the difference between Bodily Injury to Others (part 1) and Optional Bodily Injury to Others (part 5). We know the coverage here.

A Massachusetts Auto Insurance policy with low limits of liability doesn't provide much protection. If you have assets to protect, contact us today at www.jmdins.com before that dog wakes up!!

Thank you.

To blog or not to blog. That is the question

2010-11-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

At J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency, Inc. we are using the world wide web to shed light on the new way of buying insurance. http://www.jmdins.com
We invite you to visit our state of the art website. Watch the videos, search the resource center for Kelly Blue Book value's or apply for identity theft protection. Use our partners page and shop for new tile for the bathroom at Garcia Imported Tile on Main Street in Fairhaven http://www.garciaimportedtile.com Joe Garcia has more selection than all the "big box" stores combined. You can even pick out some new interior furnishings at Surroundings-Rogers Gallery on Rt. 6 in Mattapoisett http://www.surroundings-rogersgallery.com. Louise has the best taste of anyone I know, ANYONE!!

Our blog is about issues that affect all consumers. http://www.jmdins.com is going beyond the typical local agent services. There are very few agencies with the capability of J.M. Doherty Insurance Agency. Go there and check it out for yourself.

Doherty and their staff goes above and beyond the call of duty. We are open on Saturday's til noon. We work early in the morning and late into the night by appointment.

When it's late at night your car get's broken into and you come out to find glass on your seat, Is your agent available? We have a 24 hour emergency answering service to help ease your mind. Try that too, 508-992-9557 anytime day or night if you have an emergency.

http://www.jmdins.com We strive for the best services, coverage, and price. Give us a call today.
Thank You!!