Imagine facing a surprise six-figure bill for direct damages and legal fees for an issue your team didn’t cause. You hired a subcontractor to provide specialty services that later proved to be defective. It’s easy to assume that the subcontractor will cover the costs, but if that assumption isn’t backed by a solid contract, you… Read More »
Even the best businesses can hit unexpected roadblocks. When something like this happens – a fire, cyberattack, severe storm, power outage, supply chain failure – insurance is critical, but only part of the picture. To recover quickly, you need a business continuity plan. What is a Business Continuity Plan? A Business Continuity Plan (BCP) is… Read More »
Harvest season brings unique safety challenges – especially for those working around grain bins. Grain handling is one of the most dangerous tasks in the farming world, and each year, preventable accidents occur in and around grain bins. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new hand on the crew, understanding the dangers and precautions… Read More »
As extreme heat events become more frequent, heat safety in the workplace isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential. In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about heat illness prevention, including OSHA standards, state-specific regulations, and actionable steps to keep your workplace and employees safe. Why Heat Safety Matters Heat is… Read More »
When a client chooses Continental Western Group, they’re not just buying a policy. They’re choosing us—and the experience that comes with it. And that experience? It’s a choice. One that agents like you, and those of us at CWG, make every day. Let’s talk about how we turn great customer service into something more: a… Read More »
Keeping your fleet safe isn’t just about following rules. It’s about protecting your people, your company, and your bottom line. A strong fleet safety system helps you stay ahead of risks, keep drivers accountable, and ensure smooth operations. Let’s break down the key elements of a rock-solid, defensible fleet safety system. Why a Defensible Fleet… Read More »
The topic of tariffs has been dominating headlines across the country and around the globe. This complex geopolitical issue has far-reaching implications across many industries. While there is still some uncertainty around when and how the tariff actions will unfold, we’ll explore the potential implications of tariffs and how that may impact insurance buyers. What… Read More »
Even the most well-prepared businesses can be thrown off course by unexpected disruptions. Whether it’s a fire, storm, or another covered event, the sudden loss of income can be devastating. That’s where Business Income and Extra Expense (BIEE) coverage comes in—helping businesses stay financially stable and get back on their feet faster. What Exactly is… Read More »
Workplace safety is a top concern for both employees and employers. One crucial aspect of maintaining a safe work environment is the timely reporting of work-related injuries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the private sector in 2023. Of these, 946,500 cases involved days away… Read More »
Trends in Combined Ratios and Mitigation Strategies The commercial auto insurance industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, marked by persistent losses and rising premiums. As we move into 2025, understanding the trends in combined ratios and rate increases is crucial for businesses and insurers alike. Combined Ratios: A Measure of Profitability The combined… Read More »
Accidents happen. We all know, expect, and try to prepare for this inevitable reality. If a driver hydroplanes on a wet highway, only the weather is often to blame. However, a cost will still be incurred as the damage is assessed. If no injuries or other vehicles are involved, the cost will be limited to… Read More »
In the past 3 years, our country has experienced record-high inflationary pricing increases in almost every aspect of life. From construction materials to groceries, and new cars to vacation rentals, most Americans have felt the pinch in our wallets. The insurance industry has been similar when it comes to inflation. CWG, along with many other… Read More »
The Warner Bros Studios summer blockbuster, Twisters, tells the story of tornado chasers during a record-setting storm season in Oklahoma. While the movie’s science may be fiction, its references to the increase of volatile weather patterns, throughout the Midwest particularly, are not. In CWG’s home office state of Iowa, this violent and tumultuous weather has… Read More »
Today, businesses need to constantly be aware of all aspects of their operations. Company auto usage can create uncertainty and lead to costly accidents and losses due to potential negligence. Therefore, accountability and coaching for company drivers are key factors in ensuring drivers engage in safe behaviors and follow company policies. Collaboration is necessary for… Read More »
Continental Western Group (CWG), a Berkley company, announced today that it has been named in the annual Best Places to Work in Insurance program, which recognizes employers for their outstanding performance in establishing workplaces where employees can thrive, enjoy their work, and help their companies grow. This is the third time in a row that… Read More »
The Farm-to-Table movement is over a century old and much more than just a trend on social media. Many are unaware that its origins lie back in the early 1900s with the US Post Office delivering fresh produce from rural communities into urban areas. All across the country, Farm-to-Table restaurants source their ingredients directly from… Read More »
When operating a business, many things can be done to reduce the possibility of claims. One of the simplest–and often overlooked–is to maintain a quality housekeeping service or protocol. This not only ensures a pleasing environment but also a well-maintained and low-risk property. As a general rule, walking surfaces and working areas should be clean,… Read More »
The Ag market continues to shift and understanding its trends matters now more than ever. What changes can we expect to see in the Ag market throughout 2024? How do previous and anticipated catastrophic events continue to impact the Ag market? How can we help? Working with an agency representative experienced in the Agribusiness industry… Read More »
Despite its everyday occurrence, driving a company or personal vehicle for business remains one of the highest risk exposures for companies. We live in a busy world, and distracted driving is happening all around us. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that 3,522 crash fatalities occurred in 2021 due to distracted driving, and another 362,425… Read More »
I’ve been reflecting on the last 4 years and how suddenly the insurance world changed. I know everyone is exhausted talking about COVID but it really challenged the way that we, the insurance provider and agencies, interact – specifically from a social aspect. Don’t get me wrong – being social is still important but think… Read More »
While appropriate valuations certainly can increase the cost of premiums, your clients will be grateful to have been fully covered if the worst happens. Property Valuations and Insurance Levels: Dos and Don’ts A recent Risk & Insurance article quotes a property appraisal study by Kroll, revealing that “68% of buildings valued from 2020 to 2021… Read More »
In recent years, insurance carriers have faced a growing concern known as “social inflation.” Social inflation has significant implications for liability insurers, insurance agents, and insureds. Economic Inflation vs. Social Inflation Generally speaking, economic inflation is the rise in the cost of goods and services resulting from market supply and demand. It’s often measured using… Read More »
You’ve seen the images–even if it’s only in commercials. An inspector sweeps a camera across a facility, identifying in a splash of red and orange where an electrical fire has begun. But is the technology of thermal imaging a true necessity for your business? What is thermal imaging? Thermal imaging is not as complicated as… Read More »
The rush of harvest will soon begin and it’s important to make every effort to avoid work-related incidents that could cause severe injuries or even fatalities. Review these 5 tips to ensure you get safely through harvest. Tip #1: Focus on Preventative Maintenance Preventive Maintenance is critical to both safety and efficiency and breakdowns during… Read More »
Each year, fireworks cause an average of 12,000 fires which include 2,000 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and almost 10,000 outside and other fires. These incidents caused 9 deaths, 29 civilian injuries, and an average of $59 million in direct property damage. Precautions are necessary to keep workers, spectators, and property safe during fireworks handling… Read More »
Grain dust explosions are often severe, involving loss of life and substantial property damage. Grain dust is highly combustible and the main fuel source for explosions in grain handling facilities. CWG Risk Services has developed a white paper to give you the facts about how grain dust explosions happen and tips to prevent them.
The CWG Workers’ Recovery Unit (WRU) is focused every day on a holistic approach to claim handling. Our team of experts concentrate on what matters most to our customers—providing the best care and outcomes for your Workers’ Compensation claims. Hear more about the team in this video:
At CWG, we structure our business operations with the customer’s experience in mind from start to finish to ensure excellent service.
Award Recognizes Outstanding Employers in the Insurance Industry Des Moines, Iowa, October 18, 2022 – Continental Western Group today announced it has been named in the annual Best Places to Work in Insurance program, which recognizes employers for their outstanding performance in establishing workplaces where employees can thrive, enjoy their work, and help their companies… Read More »
Companies have experienced talent shortages across industries, causing concern for many. In recent times, we have seen baby boomers retiring and young professionals changing jobs and careers more frequently. Associates and employers are adapting to the ever-changing climate of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At CWG, we make a promise every time we write a policy. Living up to and executing those promises with a high level of service, clarity, and transparency are critical to building a trusting relationship with our clients. We believe it is important to follow through and do what we say we will do.
The single most important factor powering analytics is people. At CWG, we understand the potential power of analytics and the importance of a people-centric approach within the commercial insurance industry.
An important part of the planning process includes how you will handle Custom Application and Misapplication Prevention.
These past 12-18 months have changed the workplace dynamic and have many associates feeling unmotivated and unsettled. How can we as leaders help our associates with a fresh start; to break out of this pattern of being stuck – of languishing?
Setting expectations and making decisions are core to being a solid leader. A leader who sets high expectations for themselves and their team must work efficiently. Team collaboration, input, and alignment are essential to make well-informed decisions as well as setting expectations.
Humility takes practice, there’s no denying that. Being showered in accolades can feel empowering, encouraging, and confidence-boosting – and it’s important to be proud of your accomplishments – but practicing humility and service to others can be even more rewarding than hanging another plaque on the wall.
We’ve all heard people say that motivation is the key to success. Is that wrong? Not necessarily. Likely, motivation does not complete the picture of your team’s journey to success, but it is a great catalyst.
Without a team, there is no network – without a network, there is no connection – without connection, there is no opportunity. A team is an intricate network of connections that opens a world of opportunities for ideas, solutions, and results. Building a sustainable team is the first step toward success. The key to building… Read More »
