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Distracted Driving: How To Break the Habit

by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Safety | 0 comments

We’ve all seen it—or maybe even been guilty of it ourselves. A quick glance at a text, adjusting the GPS, or sipping that morning coffee behind the wheel. Distracted driving is a dangerous habit that can have devastating consequences. But what exactly is distracted driving, and how can we break the cycle?

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road. It’s often associated with texting or talking on the phone, but it also includes:

Eating or drinking
Adjusting the radio or GPS
Using electronic gadgets
Personal grooming
Tending to Rover or Kitty
Daydreaming or zoning out

Distractions come in three forms:

Visual – Taking your eyes off the road
Physical – Taking one or both hands off the wheel
Cognitive – Mental distractions that shift your focus away from driving

Many distracted driving habits involve one or more of these forms, but using a cell phone or electronic device is especially dangerous because it engages all three at once.

The Science Behind Distracted Driving

Driving demands our full attention, yet many of us still text, call, or use electronic devices behind the wheel. Why do we do it, even when we know it’s dangerous? One reason is that our brains crave the small dopamine boost we get from checking messages—almost like a drug, it can override our sense of risk. We may also feel pressure to respond quickly to work or friends. And often, we overestimate our ability to multitask, believing we can manage both driving and distractions.

However, the reality is that multitasking behind the wheel is dangerous. Studies show that even hands-free phone use can cause “inattentional blindness,” where drivers fail to notice crucial details like stop signs or pedestrians. Distracted driving significantly delays your reaction time.

When attention is split, the brain struggles to process different tasks efficiently, increasing the risk of an accident. Staying fully present while driving isn’t just a good habit—it’s a necessity.

The Impact: Alarming Statistics

Research suggests that sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds—long enough to travel the length of a football field at highway speeds. That’s a terrifying thought. Think of what could happen while driving that distance at that speed if you’re not paying attention.

More statistics paint a grim picture of distracted driving’s consequences:

In 2022, over 3,300 people in the U.S. lost their lives and nearly 290,000 people were injured in crashes involving distracted drivers.
About 1 in 5 people killed in these crashes were not in vehicles—they were pedestrians, cyclists, or bystanders.
Texting while driving increases your crash risk by 23 times compared to driving undistracted. It can double or even triple your reaction time.
Talking on the phone increases risk of a crash by 4 to 6 times.
Cell phone use while driving is comparable to driving under the influence.

These statistics are sobering, but the good news is that distracted driving is preventable.

Laws to Keep Drivers Safe

Today’s cell phones and electronic devices allow us to scroll through social media, watch videos, stream music, take photos, and more. That increases our chances to be allured by distracted driving. To combat this growing problem, many states have implemented strict laws, particularly against electronic devices. These include:

Handheld device bans – Prohibiting texting or holding a phone while driving
Hands-free laws – Requiring drivers to use voice commands or Bluetooth systems
Teen driver restrictions – Limiting phone use for young drivers, who are at higher risk

Currently 16 states ban drivers from holding electronic devices. There are 34 states and DC that ban teens from electronic device use, including hands-free use. Fines and penalties for violations are becoming more severe, reinforcing the message that distracted driving is not worth the risk.

How to Break the Habit

Stopping distracted driving starts with personal responsibility. You can take the steps needed to break the habit. Here are some strategies that can help you to stay focused behind the wheel:

Put your phone away. Keep it in the glove compartment or enable “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving or try one of the many safe driving apps available to minimize distractions. Some apps even “pay” you to drive with your phone locked down. You earn points toward discounts and coupons.
Plan ahead. Set your GPS, load your playlist, and adjust climate controls before you start driving. Make sure your children and pets are securely seated for the ride.
Designate a “co-pilot.” Let them adjust audio, GPS or other settings for you. You can ask them to respond to texts as needed.
Use voice commands. If you must take a phone call, use a hands-free system.
Pull over if needed. If something requires your full attention, find a safe place to stop.
Suggest a distracted driving policy for work. Talk to your employer about setting a policy that allows work calls or texts to wait until you are safely parked.
Avoid reaching. If something falls while driving, don’t reach for it. Either ask a passenger to do so, wait until you’re parked to get it, or pull over safely before you reach.
Model good behavior. Your passengers are noticing, and so are your kids. Teen drivers often inherit their parents’ driving habits. Remind them, and yourself, why you are doing this. Take the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Pledge to reinforce your commitment.

Distracted driving is a preventable danger. By understanding the risks, following the laws, and making a conscious effort to stay focused, we can all do our part to keep the roads safer. Breaking the habit starts with a single decision—choosing to prioritize safety over distractions. Safe travels.

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

Driving Tips for Senior Drivers

by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips, Safety | 0 comments

Age may bring wisdom, but it also comes with new challenges behind the wheel. From adapting to changing reflexes to navigating the latest technology in cars, senior drivers face unique hurdles. If you are a senior driver, or know one, here are simple tips to help stay safe and confident on the road.

How does age affect your driving?

As we get older, changes in our bodies can affect how safely we drive. Stiff joints, muscle weakness, or arthritis can make it harder to turn your head, press the brakes, or react quickly in traffic. If you’ve lost some feeling in your fingers or feet, it might slow down your reaction time or make it harder to stay in control of the car. Vision changes can make it tough to see at night or read road signs quickly, and hearing loss might mean you don’t notice important sounds like sirens or horns. On top of that, some medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slower reactions, which can all affect your driving.

Tip #1: Stay on top of your health.

Regularly check your vision, hearing, and mobility to ensure they’re not affecting your ability to drive safely. Minimize distractions, such as loud music or other sounds, to help you hear important traffic cues like horns or sirens.
If you have limited mobility, consider vehicle modifications. For example, hand controls can replace traditional gas and brake pedals if leg movement is a challenge. Consult with your doctor and an occupational therapist to explore your options.
Be mindful of how medications impact driving. Avoid driving if you’re taking anything that causes drowsiness or lightheadedness.

Tip #2: Make sure your car is the right fit for you.

If it’s an option, select larger dials and easy to read symbols on your car’s dashboard. Turn brightness up on your instrument panel so it is easy to see.
Adjust your seat so you’re not sitting closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel. Make sure your feet can easily press the pedals, without your having to reach with your toes. Pedal extensions are available for those who need it.
Check out the CarFit program sponsored by AAA, AARP Driver Safety, and AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association). This program can help educate you on ways you can make your car more comfortable and safer as you age.

Tip #3: Understand your car’s safety technology.

Check your owner’s manual to determine the advanced safety technologies in your vehicle. This may include blind spot monitoring, automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, rearview camera, automatic crash notification, navigation, and more.
Seek help from tech-savvy family or friends who can explain features and help you practice. Watch online tutorials—many car manufacturers offer easy-to-follow videos on their websites or YouTube channels. You can also ask your dealer for a demonstration when servicing your car.
If new tech seems overwhelming, take it slow. Practice one new feature at a time to get comfortable with it. Start with the safety features like blind spot monitors. Don’t get discouraged as it can take time to learn new technology.

Tip #4: Drive safely and defensively.

Maintain a safe following distance. Avoid tailgating and give yourself plenty of space to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic. This is especially important in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Drive at a comfortable speed. Stick to the speed limit and, if you prefer driving slower, stay in the right lane to let faster traffic pass safely.
Stay focused and alert. Avoid distractions like using your phone, eating, or multitasking while driving. Never drink and drive and be mindful of any medications that might impair your ability to focus.

Tip #5: Avoid driving certain times of the day or night.

If driving at night feels difficult or uncomfortable, try to avoid it. Similarly, be cautious around sunrise and sunset when glare from the sun can impact your visibility.
Refrain from driving when you’re stressed, tired, or not feeling alert. Skip rush hour or heavy traffic areas to reduce stress and risk.
Avoid driving in rain, snow, ice, or other challenging weather conditions. Consider using rideshare services, public transportation, or asking for a ride from friends or family during these times.

Tip #6: Know how to deal with night driving.

Make sure your headlights, taillights, windshield and side windows are clean.
Allow for more space between you and the car in front to allow for additional stopping room – it’s harder to judge speed and distance in the dark.
If headlights of oncoming vehicles are too bright, look down and to the right. It will help deflect the light and you can use the right side of the road as your guide.
Do not wear sunglasses or tinted lenses at night. It reduces the amount of light that reaches your eyes and can make driving hazardous.

Tip #7: Take advantage of available support.

Refresh your knowledge of driving rules with a program like AAA’s RoadWise Driver Course. Completing the course may even qualify you for a discount with certain insurance providers.
Consider hiring a driving rehabilitation specialist. These professionals assess key factors such as muscle strength, flexibility, reaction time, and decision-making skills to help ensure safe driving.
Talk to trusted friends and family about your driving. Their honest feedback and support can help you identify areas for improvement and give you confidence behind the wheel.

Tip #8: Is it time to stop driving? Know the warning signs.

Be alert for warning signs such as multiple accidents, near-misses, or new scrapes and dents on the vehicle. Pay attention if you have received two or more tickets or warnings within the past two years.
Watch for signs of erratic, unsafe, or aggressive driving from your loved one, or if you’re the driver, for times you felt out of control.
Take seriously any recommendation from a doctor to change driving habits or stop driving altogether.
Approach the conversation with your loved one with empathy, focusing on positivity and support. Together, you can explore alternative ways to maintain their freedom and connection to the world around them.

Finally, make sure your car is fully protected for added peace of mind. Safe travels.

2025 California Liability Limit Increases: What You Need to Know

by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, News | 2 comments

Imagine getting into a fender bender and realizing your insurance won’t fully cover the damages. With rising medical costs and repair expenses, California is making its first major update to auto insurance requirements in over 50 years. Starting January 1, 2025, new higher minimum liability limits will better protect drivers from unexpected financial burdens. But what do these changes mean for you? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Liability Coverage

Liability insurance helps cover damages if you cause an accident. It does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage—that’s where collision and comprehensive coverage come in.

Because accidents can lead to costly damages, liability insurance is required by law in most states to protect victims of accidents. It consists of two parts:

Bodily Injury Coverage – Pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering for the other driver and passengers.
Property Damage Coverage – Pays for repairs or replacement of the other vehicle or damaged property, such as a fence or building.

Why Coverage Limits Matter

When you buy liability insurance, you choose a coverage limit. If the costs of an accident exceed your limit, you’ll have to pay the difference out of pocket. For example, if your policy covers $50,000 per person, but the injured driver’s medical bills total $60,000, you would be responsible for the extra $10,000.

The main goal of liability insurance is to protect your assets, and so you may choose a higher limit than the state specifies. You’ll want to take into account the amount of medical expenses that could be incurred in an accident. You could be responsible for lost wages for the driver. If tragically he or she dies, you could be providing lost wages for the driver’s family.

On the other hand, if you’re the victim of an accident and the at-fault driver has higher liability limits, their insurance will be better equipped to cover your medical expenses and property damage. So, that’s good news.

What’s Changing in 2025?

California’s previous minimum coverage limits—set in 1967—were among the lowest in the nation. The costs of medical car and car repairs have increased substantially since that time. The new limits under Senate Bill 1107 (the Protect California Drivers Act) increase the minimum amount of coverage to align more closely with today’s costs. They seek to reduce the financial burden on crash victims.

Effective, January 1, 2025, the new limits are as follows:

$30,000 for injury or death to one person (previously $15,000)
$60,000 for injury or death to multiple people (previously $30,000)
$15,000 for property damage (previously $5,000)

While increasing liability limits provides better financial protection, it can also lead to a slight rise in premiums, especially for those who currently have only the minimum required coverage. However, this added cost is often minimal compared to the potential financial burden of an accident that exceeds your policy limits.

Time to Review Your Auto Policy

With these new requirements, now is the perfect time to review your auto coverage. While many insurance companies will automatically update your policy if you reside in California, you’ll want to make sure the new limits are in place. After all, failing to meet the new minimums could result in:

Legal penalties, fines, impoundment of your vehicle, or suspension of your driver’s license and/or registration
Out-of-pocket expenses for medical bills, property damage, and legal fees

How to Save on Coverage

Higher limits don’t always mean higher costs. At California Casualty, we offer package discounts and savings for customers carrying higher coverage levels. Additional discounts may apply if you:

Are a member of an eligible group (educators, nurses, first responders, firefighters and law enforcement);
Bundle home and auto insurance;
Take a driver safety course; and/or
Maintain a good insurance score known as the Financial Responsibility (FR) Score.

Knowing what affects your car insurance rate can help you make changes to reduce the amount you pay while still getting great coverage. Learn more about your options and get a free quote today.

Drunk Driving Prevention

by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips, Safety | 0 comments

Every day, lives are lost, and families are affected by drunk driving. Yet, these tragedies are entirely preventable. By raising awareness and taking action, we can help ensure safer roads for everyone. Whether it’s through planning a safe ride home or promoting responsible behavior, we all have a role to play in preventing drunk driving and saving lives. Let’s explore how simple choices can make a world of difference.

The Reality of Drunk Driving

The Numbers: Nearly 40 people die each day in drunk driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s about one person every 39 minutes. In fact, almost a third of all deadly crashes in the U.S. involve drunk drivers.

The Legal Consequences: The penalties for drunk driving include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Consequences vary from state to state, but most use blood alcohol content to measure intoxication. In nearly all states, 0.08% is the threshold for drunk driving. Some states have zero tolerance for drivers under age 21 with any amount of alcohol in their system.

The Emotional and Financial Costs: If you’re convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), it’s an expensive proposition. You may have fines to pay. Your insurance rates will increase. You will have to arrange for transportation if you cannot drive while your license is revoked. The emotional toll is significant as well, especially if the crash caused injuries and/or the loss of a loved one.

Why Drunk Driving Happens

Impairment: Alcohol affects your brain, causing you to react more slowly and lose coordination. It can make you drowsy. You may have trouble judging distances and tracking moving targets. If you have enough to drink, you could have difficulty maintaining your lane, braking appropriately, and controlling your vehicle.

Overconfidence: Many people overestimate their ability to function after drinking. They believe they are less impaired than they truly are. They may not realize how even small amounts of alcohol can affect their judgment and reflexes. This false sense of control increases the likelihood of accidents and mistakes.

Social Norms: Social pressure often plays a role in drinking. Friends or colleagues might encourage you to drink more, dismissing concerns about impairment or consequences. This can make it difficult to set personal boundaries or say no, leading individuals to drink more than they intended.

Practical Tips to Prevent Drunk Driving

Drunk driving remains a significant danger on the roads, but it’s one that can be prevented with proactive measures. Here’s how to play your part in keeping yourself and others safe:

Plan Ahead

A little foresight can go a long way in avoiding risky situations:

- Be the hero. Volunteer as a designated driver and coordinate with friends to rotate this role for group outings.
- Choose alternative transport. Opt for a rideshare, taxi, or public transportation if you plan to drink. These options are often cheaper than the cost of an accident or a DUI.
- Stay the night. If you’re attending a gathering where you’ll be drinking, ask the host if you can crash on their couch.

Know Your Limits

Understanding your own boundaries can prevent poor decisions:

- Be alcohol aware. Alcohol affects everyone differently based on factors like weight, drink strength, and tolerance levels. Know how it impacts you.
- Use tech tools. BAC calculators or personal breathalyzers provide a snapshot of your intoxication level—but don’t rely solely on them to decide if you’re fit to drive.
- Err on the safe side. If you’ve consumed any alcohol, you could be impaired. Make decisions accordingly.

Host Responsibly.

When hosting, you can create an environment that discourages drunk driving:

- Offer alternatives. Serve non-alcoholic beverages alongside alcoholic ones to give guests choices.
- Feed your guests. Snacks or meals can slow alcohol absorption, helping guests pace themselves.
- End alcohol service early. Stop serving drinks at least an hour before your event ends.
- Keep an eye out. Pay attention to your guests. If someone appears intoxicated, offer them a ride home or a place to sleep.

Speak Up.

Your intervention could save a life:

- Step in when needed. Offer to drive friends home if they’ve been drinking or insist they use alternative transport.
- Take the keys. It’s tough to confront someone, but preventing an impaired friend from driving is worth it.
- Be firm about your safety. Refuse to ride with anyone who’s been drinking.
- Educate teens. Have open conversations about the dangers of drunk driving and ensure they know they can always call you in an emergency.

Drive Defensively.

Even if you’re sober, staying alert can protect you from impaired drivers on the road:

- Stay vigilant. Watch for erratic driving behavior like swerving, inconsistent speeds, delayed reactions, or incorrect signaling.
- Maintain distance. If you suspect someone is driving drunk, give them plenty of space to minimize risk.
- Report suspected drunk drivers. Call local law enforcement with details such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, license plate, and location. Never try to stop the driver yourself.

Finally, protect your vehicle with the right insurance. Happy holidays and safe travels from all of us at California Casualty.

Understanding Auto and Home Insurance Rate Changes

by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Calcas Connection, Finances, Helpful Tips, Homeowners Insurance Info | 0 comments

We understand that changes to insurance premiums can be concerning, and we want to help you understand the factors that influence your rates. Insurance rates are determined by a combination of external conditions and personal policy coverage selections. Below, we’ll explain some of the most common reasons rates can increase and what changes in your policy could impact your premium.

External Factors That Can Cause Rate Increases

1. Rising Costs of Repairs and Replacements
For auto insurance, advanced technology in vehicles, like sensors and cameras, makes repairs more expensive. In the case of a total loss, rising prices for new and used vehicles drives up the cost of replacement. Similarly, home insurance is impacted by increasing prices for building materials and labor, making it more costly to repair or rebuild homes after a loss.

2. Weather and Natural Disasters
Severe weather events, such as wildfires, floods, and hailstorms, are happening more frequently and with greater intensity. These events lead to higher claim payouts and cause insurance rates to rise, even in areas that haven’t been directly affected.

3. Inflation
General inflation affects nearly every industry, including insurance. The rising cost of goods and services —from everything associated with a minor vehicle repair all the way to restoring extensive home damage, like parts, materials, labor, rental cars, temporary housing, legal and medical expenses —can result in an adjustment of premiums to align with the amount that is paid out on claims.

4. Increased Claim Frequency
More claims being filed—whether due to a rise in car accidents, litigation, or property damage—paired with increased claims costs can lead to paying out more on claims than what is collected in premium. When this happens, a rate increase can occur.

5. Reassessment of Risks
Insurance companies regularly re-evaluate risks in specific areas. If you live in a region that’s seen more accidents, theft, or natural disasters, your premiums may increase to reflect the heightened risk.

How Policy Changes or Adjustments Affect Your Premium

1. Adding or Removing Coverage
Expanding your coverage—such as adding comprehensive auto coverage or increasing your home insurance policy limits—will raise your premium. Conversely, reducing coverage may lower your rate but could leave you underinsured.

2. Adjusting Deductibles
Choosing a higher deductible typically lowers your premium since you agree to pay more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim. However, a lower deductible means your insurer covers more upfront, which increases your premium.

3. Policy Discounts and Loss of Discounts
We offer many discounts including affiliated group membership, bundling auto and home, multi-vehicle, safe driving, home security, non-smoking, good student, mature driver, etc. If you no longer qualify for a discount, your rate may increase.

4. Changes in Your Personal Profile
Life changes such as adding a new driver to your policy, changes to the number or type of covered vehicles, or moving to a different area can impact your premiums.

5. Claims History or Driving Record
Filing a claim can result in higher premiums at renewal. Additionally, if a ticket or accident is charged against your driving record, you may be subject to a surcharge that will likely raise your rates.

How You Can Help Manage Your Premiums

While some factors are out of your control, there are steps you can take to keep your premiums manageable:

Bundle Policies: Combining your auto and home insurance or having multiple vehicles on one policy can help you save more.
Review Your Coverage: Call us for a free policy review to make sure you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need.
Increase Your Deductibles: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premium but be prepared to cover more out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim.
Maintain a Safe Driving Record: Avoid accidents and traffic violations to keep your auto insurance costs down.
Home Upgrades: A new roof, installing alarms, fire-resistive updates, or upgrading plumbing, electrical or HVAC systems can help you qualify for discounts.
Ask About Discounts: Let us know if there have been changes, like completing a mature driving course, a child away at school without a vehicle, or reaching a milestone like retirement. We also offer discounts for multi-home, years claim free, good student, safe driving, and driver training for youthful drivers