The Navigator Blog

Changes in Michigan’s Mini-Tort Law Take Effect

We wish to make our Michigan clients aware that due to the recent passing of House Bill 5362, the Michigan Mini-Tort limit has now increased from $500 to $1,000. For those unfamiliar, the mini-tort law (also known as limited property damage liability), was developed in response to Michigan’s no fault insurance laws.  No fault laws limit the instances in which an individual can be sued for being at fault in an accident.  The mini-tort exception allows individuals to sue the party who was 50% or more at fault in an accident to recuperate those physical damage losses not covered by

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FMCSA Extends SMS System Review Period

On June 6, 2012 the FMCSA’s CSA Web Team issued notification that the SMS System review period has been extended until July 30, 2012.  This allows motor carriers additional time to address areas where improved compliance is necessary and provide the FMCSA feedback on the SMS System.  Following is the request in its entirety, including information regarding upcoming webinars that will help to explain the SMS improvements: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is proposing changes to the Safety Measurement System (SMS) (http://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/sms/) to improve the Agency’s ability to prioritize its workload. In keeping with its commitment to continually

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The Benefits of Insuring Low Value Equipment

We commonly encounter clients who wish to “self-insure” their low value equipment, including tractors and trailers, for physical damage.  When asked why clients often respond that they assume it will save them money.  While it may be correct that rejecting physical damage coverage for older equipment will create a small savings in terms of monthly premiums, it is also important to consider the costly payout you may face in the event of an accident.   Let’s take an example of a tractor that is not insured for physical damage.  In the event of a disabling loss, i.e. one where the

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Certificates of Insurance

The following article was written by Bill Wilson, CPCU, ARM, AIM, AAM and is condensed from a larger white paper called “Certificates of Insurance: Issues and Answers”.   A certificate of insurance is an informational document issued by, or on behalf of, an insurance company. The certificate indicates that an insurance policy exists of a certain type and limits. Certificates are simply snapshots of basic policy coverages and limits at the time of issuance of the certificate. Certificates are not intended to modify coverages or change the terms of the insurance contract and they convey no contractual rights to the

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Safety Belts – More Than Just a Policy

In the transportation industry we regularly see the inclusion of a Safety Belt policy as part of the standard safety manual.  It goes without saying that we should be wearing our safety belts given the daily exposure to catastrophic accidents that can result in severe bodily injury and even death, right?  Well, the truth is that many drivers, despite signed pledges and policies, still do not routinely wear their safety belts.  This month I wanted to dispel some common misconceptions regarding seat belt usage in order to address why seatbelts are so incredibly important to the health and safety of

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Trucking Through the Years

Each month we focus on the here and now and pressing topics facing the trucking industry.  But this month I thought it might be interesting to take a look back at the early years of the trucking industry.  In that spirit, here are some “fun facts” for your enjoyment this month:   1900-20:  In 1904 trucks begin being regarded differently than cars.  Trucks are primary used to assist the postal service and brewing companies.  In 1908 the first highway, located near Detroit, Michigan, is unveiled.  Kenworth manufactures its first truck in 1915 and around this same time new trucks begin

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