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Did you know “the trial lawyer industry is working overtime to pass new laws that make it easier for them to profit from American employers?” Have you seen the TV ad with mocking reference to the McDonald’s coffee case and the kicker, “So, I sue you because that’s what I do.” Or the “Please Don’t Feed The Trial Lawyers” campaign featuring an attorney with $20 bills stuffed in his mouth? Visit our new Justice Bashers blog where Attorney Art Kosieradzki is tracking the relentless attacks and distortions on your profession and your clients. Then consider fighting back… Let America Know the truth.
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Home insurance liability covers the family
dog if it bites someone and you are sued.

Take time to review your home insurance policy if you are buying a new home, didn’t understand your policy in the first place or haven’t checked the details for awhile.

• DON’T wait until it’s too late. Start by knowing what is and (very important) what isn’t covered. You can extend coverage to include common exclusions like flooding, for example, or rare valuables.
  
  
• DO buy full-replacement coverage. You should be able to rebuild your house from scratch based on the actual cost of construction, not on market value.
  
  
• DO guard your assets. If you have a lot to lose, the $300,000 in liability provided by a standard policy may not be enough to protect your assets if someone is hurt on your property.
  
  
• DO inventory your belongings. And buy “replacement cost” coverage rather than actual cash value. You may also need endorsements for rare valuables like art or antiques.
  
  
• DON’T forget the “loss of use” provision. This is the amount your insurer will pay for rent while your damaged home is rebuilt, which can take several months to a couple of years.
  
  
• DON’T make a disaster worse. Beware of fly-by-night repair companies, con artists calling themselves insurance adjusters or insurance companies that ask you to sign away future rights for a quick settlement. (See 10 After-the-Disaster tips from MSN Money.)

Covered or Not Covered?: That is the Question
Here are some coverages and exclusions that might surprise you:

You Can Save Some Money
Don’t cut corners if it means you can’t rebuild your house as is, or replace all of your possessions. However, you can save a few dollars if you:

• Shop around, get several quotes and find a financially sound company.
  
  
• Raise your deductible, and pay a bit more up front for extra coverage when you need it later on.
  
  
• Insure your home, but don’t include the value of the land it sits on.
  
  
• Upgrade security and fire prevention measures.
  
  
• Buy your home and auto policies from the same company.
  
  
• Ask about discounts for seniors, nonsmokers and longtime customers.