Workers’ Compensation: What Do Your Employees Need to Know?

Posted on by admin

If you’re a Virginia business owner, you’re required to carry commercial insurance. Our team at Bacon Insurance Group can help you make sure you have all the coverage your business needs. Companies near Richmond, VA, are encouraged to visit our office to discuss your insurance options. We’ve been working with Virginia companies like yours since 1997.

Workers’ Compensation: What Do Your Employees Need to Know?

One type of coverage you’re required to carry is a workers’ compensation policy. During employee onboarding and annual training, it’s important to make sure your team understands the basics of the program. One of the most important concepts is reporting any work-related incident to a supervisor as soon as it happens, whether or not there’s a visible injury. Accurate, objective documentation of the incident matters a great deal from the very beginning.

After the incident is reported, the employee should be examined by a medical professional. If your company has a designated medical provider, that provider’s name and address should be posted somewhere accessible to all employees. Once the employee is examined, the medical professional will determine the appropriate treatment, assess the extent of the injury, and decide when the employee can return to work. Your HR department can further support employees as they navigate their workers’ compensation benefits.

Schedule Your Appointment With Us Today

There are many types of commercial insurance required under Virginia law. Our team at Bacon Insurance Group is dedicated to building a lasting relationship with your business. Companies near Richmond, VA, have placed their trust in our team for almost 30 years. Contact us today for an appointment, and let us have the privilege of working with your company.

Read More

The Benefits of Checking Your Home Insurance Policy Annually

Posted on by admin

At Bacon Insurance Group in Richmond, VA, we talk with homeowners all the time who haven’t looked at their policy since the day they first signed it. Life changes, home values shift, and what worked for your coverage a few years ago may not be enough to protect you today. A quick annual review is one of the simplest things you can do, and it can make a real difference.

Your home’s value doesn’t stay the same: A common issue we see is homeowners who become underinsured simply because their home’s value has increased since they first bought their policy. If rebuilding costs in your area have risen and your coverage hasn’t kept pace, you could end up with a serious gap right when you need to file a claim. Reviewing your policy each year gives you the chance to catch any gaps before they become real problems.

Life changes can create new coverage gaps: Did you finish a basement, add a deck, or invest in expensive equipment for a home office? Major purchases and home improvements can all change what your policy needs to cover. The same goes for life events like getting married, having children, or welcoming a family member into your home. These shifts can change your coverage needs in ways that are easy to overlook if you’re not checking in regularly.

An annual policy review doesn’t take long, and it can save you from an unpleasant surprise when something goes wrong. Reach out to Bacon Insurance Group in Richmond, VA, today and let us take a closer look at your policy to ensure your home is covered the way it should be.

Read More

Is My Life Insurance Still in Effect if I Move Abroad?

Posted on by admin

Virginia residents planning to move overseas sometimes worry that relocating outside the United States will void their life insurance coverage. For most policyholders, this concern is not supported by how life insurance policies are typically structured.

Do Life Insurance Policies Require U.S. Residency?

In most cases, life insurance policies do not require you to maintain residency in the United States to keep your coverage active. Once your policy is issued and you continue to pay your premiums on time, your coverage generally remains in force, regardless of where you live. Moving abroad does not automatically cancel your policy, so it is important to maintain consistent payments.

Managing Premium Payments While Living Abroad

Life insurance policies typically include a grace period, often around 31 days, before coverage lapses due to nonpayment. However, living overseas can sometimes complicate payment arrangements. Changes in banking, closed accounts, or issues with international transactions can interrupt automatic payments.

Before relocating, it is a good idea to confirm that your payment method will continue to work internationally. Setting up reliable payment options and monitoring your account regularly can help prevent an unintended lapse in coverage.

Keep Your Personal Information Updated

Relocating abroad often involves changes in contact information, including your address, phone number, and possibly beneficiary details. Keeping this information up to date with your insurance provider is essential to ensure smooth communication and timely claim processing if needed.

Updating your beneficiary designations is especially important if your family situation has changed. Accurate records help ensure your policy benefits are distributed according to your wishes.

Maintain Your Coverage With Confidence

Moving overseas does not usually affect the validity of your life insurance policy. By keeping your premium payments current and your personal information up to date, you can maintain reliable coverage no matter where you live. For guidance, contact Bacon Insurance Group, serving Richmond, VA, to review your policy and ensure everything is in order before your move.

Read More

Car Break In? What to do and How Insurance Can Help

Posted on by admin

Discovering that your car has been broken into is stressful. Unfortunately, car break-ins affect thousands of drivers in Virginia each year. Knowing what steps to take can help you protect yourself, document the damage, and move forward more efficiently.

Step 1: Assess the Damage and Document Everything

If you return to your vehicle and notice signs of a break-in, avoid entering the car right away. Start by carefully inspecting and documenting the exterior damage exactly as you find it. Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles.

Once the outside has been documented, check the interior. Record any additional damage and create a detailed list of missing items. Writing everything down will help ensure accuracy when filing reports and insurance claims.

Step 2: File a Police Report

After documenting the damage, contact the non-emergency police line to report the incident. Depending on the situation, an officer may respond in person, or you may be instructed to file a report online.

Be prepared to provide details about the damage, stolen items, and the location of the incident. A police report is an important step for both legal documentation and potential insurance claims.

Step 3: Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

If personal information, credit cards, or identification documents were stolen, act quickly to protect yourself. Contact your bank or credit card companies to report the theft and cancel affected accounts.

It may also be wise to place a fraud alert on your credit profile to help prevent unauthorized activity.

Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Provider

Reach out to your auto insurance agent as soon as possible to discuss your options. The decision to file a claim often depends on the cost of repairs and the value of stolen items compared to your deductible.

Keep in mind that:

  • Damage to your vehicle is typically covered under your auto insurance policy, often through comprehensive coverage
  • Personal belongings stolen from your car are usually covered under a homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy

If you have questions or need guidance after a break-in, contact Bacon Insurance Group in Richmond, VA. Our team can help you understand your coverage and determine your next steps so you can get back on the road with confidence.

Read More

What Do Your Employees Need to Know?

Posted on by admin

If you are a business owner in Virginia, carrying commercial insurance is a legal and practical necessity. Business owners in the Richmond, VA, area turn to Bacon Insurance Group for guidance and education on required coverage. Since 1997, we have helped Virginia companies understand their insurance responsibilities and protect their operations.

What Employees Should Know About Workers’ Compensation

One essential type of commercial insurance is workers’ compensation coverage. This insurance is designed to pay for medical expenses and lost wages when employees are injured or become ill as a result of work-related activities. Because claims are infrequent for many businesses, employees may not fully understand how workers’ compensation works or what steps to take if they are injured.

Employers play an important role in ensuring employees know how and when to report workplace injuries. Clear communication and training can help prevent delays that may complicate the claims process.

How the Workers’ Compensation Claims Process Works

According to the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, employees should report any workplace injury as soon as possible to their supervisor or the designated on-duty person. The supervisor will assist the employee in completing an accident report and provide information for an approved medical provider.

The treating physician will document the injury, recommend appropriate treatment, and determine when the employee may safely return to work. Medical documentation, along with the completed accident report, must be submitted to the Virginia Workers Compensation Commission to support the claim and ensure benefits are properly administered.

Get Guidance on Commercial Insurance Coverage

Every business has unique risks, and your insurance coverage should reflect your specific operations and workforce. Bacon Insurance Group works closely with business owners to explain workers’ compensation requirements and build customized commercial insurance portfolios.

Businesses in the Richmond, VA, area have trusted our team for decades. Contact Bacon Insurance Group today to schedule an appointment and ensure your employees and business are properly protected.

Read More

Bacon Bit: Your Needs are Unique to YOU: Not All Insurance Quotes Are Created Equal

Posted on by Nicole Coleman

When comparing insurance quotes, it’s easy to focus on price but here’s what most people don’t realize: two policies can look similar but provide drastically different protection. We all have different protection needs for our families or businesses, here at Bacon Insurance Group, we make sure your policies are fit for your needs.

Here are a few key things to keep in mind at before choosing a policy:

  1. Policy Forms & Perils: What’s actually covered (and what’s not)?
  2. Loss Settlement: Will your claim be paid at full replacement cost or depreciated value?
  3. Deductibles: Is it a flat amount or a percentage that could cost more later?
  4. Water Backup Coverage: Included, limited, or missing entirely?
  5. Liability Limits: Enough protection if something serious happens?
  6. Discounts: Are all available savings applied?

The truth: The cheapest policy is not always the best value.

At Bacon Insurance Group, we focus on helping you understand both cost and coverage so you’re protected for your specific needs. We help you make confident and informed decisions for your family or business. 

If you’ve recently received a quote and want a second opinion, we’re happy to review it with you. Give us a call today! 804-967-9717

Read More

Do I Need Any Extra Coverage Besides My Homeowner’s Insurance?

Posted on by admin

Homeowners in Richmond, VA, may wonder whether their homeowners’ insurance policy provides sufficient protection. This is an important consideration, as unexpected events can result in losses exceeding standard coverage. The agents at Bacon Insurance Group are available to review your current policy, address any concerns, and recommend additional coverage options when appropriate.

What Standard Homeowners Insurance Covers

A standard homeowners insurance policy typically protects the structure of your home and your personal belongings and provides a set amount of personal liability coverage. While this coverage handles many common risks, liability limits may not be sufficient in every situation. When claims exceed policy limits, homeowners can be left financially responsible for the remaining costs.

Additionally, standard homeowners’ policies generally do not cover certain natural disasters, such as flooding or earthquakes. Separate policies or endorsements are usually required for these types of risks.

Additional Coverage Options to Consider

One important option for Richmond homeowners is flood insurance. Flooding can occur due to heavy rainfall, hurricanes, or other severe weather events, and even a small amount of water can cause significant damage. Flood insurance provides protection that is not included in most standard homeowners policies.

Umbrella insurance is another valuable option, especially for homeowners with significant assets. An umbrella policy provides additional liability coverage once the limits of your homeowners’ insurance are reached. This coverage may help protect against claims involving injuries, property damage, legal defense costs, and certain non-physical lawsuits. Homeowners who own rental properties or multiple residences often benefit from the added protection an umbrella policy provides.

Contact Bacon Insurance Group

Richmond homeowners do not have to guess whether their insurance coverage is sufficient. By contacting the agents at Bacon Insurance Group, you can review your current policy and explore options to better protect your home and financial future. Reach out today to gain confidence and peace of mind, knowing your coverage aligns with your needs.

Read More

Is Your Roof About to Cost You Thousands? Warning Signs & How to Mitigate Damage For Your Home

Posted on by Nicole Coleman

A roof issue rarely starts as a major problem.
It starts small… a crack, a loose shingle, a little discoloration…Then a storm hits. Suddenly, you’re dealing with water damage, mold, and a repair bill that can easily reach high costs. At Bacon Insurance Group, we frequently see claims that could have been prevented with simple inspections and early action. Most roof damage gives you warning signs long before it turns into a claim.

Here’s how to spot them early so you can protect your home and your wallet!

7 Early Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Attention:

  1. Granules in Your Gutters: If you’re seeing sand-like material in your gutters, your shingles are breaking down. Glandules protect your roof from UV damage, once they are gone, shingles age faster and fail faster.
  2. Curling or Buckling Shingles: Shingles that curl, ripple or look uneven are a sign of poor ventilation, heat build up in the attic and aging material. This can make your rook more vulnerable to wind damage.
  3. Cracked/Splitting Shingles: Cracks allow water to seep in, especially during freeze/thaw cycles in the winter which can lead to leaks in your home.
  4. Missing Shingles After a Storm: Urgent! This could mean direct exposure to water which can quickly lead to interior damage.
  5. Loose of Lifting Shingles: If your shingles lift easily, the seal has failed and could mean the wind ripping your roof right off.
  6. Black Streaks or Moss Growth: Those dark streaks on your roof are probably algae, and moss can trap moisture which causes rotting beneath the shingles.
  7. Damage Around Chimneys & Vents: Failures around chimneys, vents, and skylights can also cause hidden roof leaks.

Helpful Tips:

  1. Check your roof in the spring after winter freeze/thaw cycles. In the fall before storms and colder temps. After major storms and high winds. Any time you notice water spots.
  2. If you find damage that is isolated, under 15 years old or only a few shingles are affected a repair may be in order. Replacement may be smarter if the damage is widespread, shingles are brittle and curling, or the roof is pushing 15 years old.
  3. Trim trees at least six feet away from your roof.
  4. Keep gutters clean and flowing.
  5. Schedule professional inspections annually.

If you’re not sure whether your roof condition could impact your insurance or you just want help, we are just a phone call away at Bacon Insurance Group. We are happy to walk you through your current coverage, any potential gaps and ways to protect your home long term.

Learn More About Proactive Roof Maintenance on our article on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bacon-insurance-group/?viewAsMember=true

Read More

The Hidden Insurance Gap for Delivery & Rideshare Drivers: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Nicole Coleman

We’ve been seeing more and more people using their personal vehicles to earn extra income whether that’s delivering food, groceries, or driving for services like Uber or Lyft.

What many people don’t realize is this:

Your personal auto insurance typically does NOT cover your vehicle when it’s being used for delivery or to make money.

Most personal auto policies are designed for everyday driving, commuting, errands & family use.
But once you:

  • Turn on a delivery or rideshare app
  • Accept a job
  • Transport people or goods for money

You may be operating outside of your policy’s coverage. 

The “standard public or livery conveyance exclusion” in auto insurance policies denies coverage (liability, medical, and physical damage) when a vehicle is used for commercial transportation like Ubers, delivery, or ridesharing. This means a claim can be denied if the accident happens while you are on the app, on the way to pick up, while you are waiting, carrying goods or carrying a passenger. 

This exclusion exists because personal auto insurance isn’t intended for the increased risks of commercial use. Drivers must understand this exclusion to avoid significant financial risk during an accident while operating commercially.

Learn More about this exclusion here:

https://legalclarity.org/what-is-a-livery-conveyance-in-auto-insurance

In some cases, claims can be partially covered—or denied altogether.

A Common Risk We’re Seeing:

Teen drivers using a family vehicle to deliver food or groceries. Many families may unknowingly have a serious coverage gap. Examples include insta-cart or door dash, delivering pizza. 

If an accident happens during a delivery:

  • Coverage could be denied
  • The policy could be canceled
  • You could be responsible for major liability costs

What about insurance for delivery or rideshare?

Coverage does exist, but it’s different & can be costly:

  • Although some rideshares or restaurants may offer insurance to their drivers, it may be the bare minimum. You should always inquire about what coverages they are offering. Many people unknowingly drive uninsured during these activities because they wrongly assume their Auto Policy covers them during these times. 

The Good News:

Our Agents at Bacon Insurance Group can:

  • Identify if there’s a gap in your current policy
  • Help secure the correct and enough coverage
  • Make sure you and your family are protected

If you or anyone in your household is using a vehicle to earn income, even part-time, let’s take a quick look together. Make sure you check with the company you work for what/if any coverages they provide. Ask for a clear, detailed copy of what they are offering.

It’s a simple conversation that can prevent a major financial surprise.

Give us a call or email us anytime! 804-967-9717

Visit Our Blog For More Helpful Insurance Facts & Tips

Additional Resources:

https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/businesses/tnc/insurance

https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/businesses/tnc/faq

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter21/section46.2-2143.1

Follow Us On Social:

Facebook      Instagram     Bacon Bits Blog

Read More

Life Insurance for First-Time Buyers: What to Know Before Choosing a Policy

Posted on by admin

If you are exploring life insurance for the first time and you live in Richmond, VA, Bacon Insurance Group is here to help. Our agents have the experience and knowledge needed to guide you toward a policy that supports your goals and protects your family’s future. You do not have to guess which policy is right or struggle to understand your options when our team is ready to make the process easier.

Deciding on the Type of Policy You Want

One of the biggest advantages of working with an agent is receiving guidance on selecting the correct type of life insurance. The two most common options are term life and whole life insurance, and they function very differently. Costs, coverage structures, and contract durations vary, and it is important to understand these differences before making a decision.

Your insurance needs may also change over time. If you get married, welcome children, purchase a home, or experience other major life changes, you may need to update your coverage. An agent can help you review and adjust your policy, so you maintain strong protection as your circumstances evolve.

Working With an Agent to Find the Right Policy

If you live in Richmond, VA, and are searching for a life insurance policy, contact Bacon Insurance Group today. We assist first-time buyers and those with existing policies who want better coverage. Our goal is to help individuals and families in our service area secure the protection they need.

Reach out to one of our trusted agents today to gain peace of mind and choose a policy with confidence.

Read More