Tag Archives: Farm Bureau Insurance

April Showers Bring…Potholes?

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We all know the old adage “April showers bring May flowers.” And while that may be true, all of that rain also brings a major driving hazard–potholes.

Each year, about 1 in 10 drivers experiences car damage severe enough to require a repair, according to AAA, which says the average cost is about $600 per repair.

Luckily, there are several smart moves drivers can make to help minimize and hopefully steer clear of the damage that these rocky pavement pits might cause.

How to Avoid Pothole Damage

Drive Cautiously and Stay Alert

Maintaining a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you will make it easier to see potholes and other hazards well before you encounter them. A 3-second distance, or at least a car length, is recommended. Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions, especially on unfamiliar roads. Before swerving around a pothole, check your surroundings so you do not collide with another vehicle or endanger nearby pedestrians or cyclists.

Avoid Puddles

Drive slowly or avoid puddles altogether if possible, as they can conceal a deep pothole that could cause major damage.

Minimize Damage

Avoiding a pothole is not always possible, but there are ways to minimize damage.

  • Slow down: If impact is unavoidable, try to slow down as much as possible before hitting the pothole. However, do not hard brake into the pothole, as that will transfer the weight to the front of the car, compressing the tires. Doing so could increase the risk of damage.
  • Stay Straight: You most likely will not have time to check all of your mirrors before hitting the pothole, so do not swerve into another lane. Instead, stay straight and attempt to strattle the pothole as much as possible.
  • Hold on Tight: Grip the steering wheel tightly to prevent the tires from jerking.

You’ve hit a pothole, now what?

Pay attention to how your car drives immediately after impact. If you feel any pulling, shaking, or other unusual behavior it is a good idea to find a safe, flat place to pull over to assess damages. Check all tires and wheels, and take photos of any issues you see. Even if there is no visable damage, there could be problems with the alignment or suspension, so it is a good idea to have the vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic.

Remember, at Farm Bureau Insurance we have local agents and adjusters ready to help. If you have suffered damages due to a pothole, please call our toll-free, 24/7 claims number at 1-866-275-7322.

Water Leaks and Fallen Trees-Prepare for the Unexpected

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Water leaks and storm damage are unexpected, messy and create an unwanted stress on your household. Preparing for them ahead of time can help ease some of that stress.

Water Leaks

Some common causes of water leaks are: cracked pipes, malfunctioning appliances, loosened connections, worn out seals, and freezing temperatures. Although it is difficult to know when a pipe or appliance will leak, regular inspections of old pipes and keeping an eye on aging appliances can help prevent water leaks in your home. As pipes age, they will show visible signs of rust and corrosion. Any slow leak needs to be addressed promptly by a plumber. Appliances that use water, such as water heaters, washing machines, ice makers, refrigerators, and dishwashers, will be at a higher risk to develop leaks as they age. When appliances near their 10-year mark their seals can become old and worn. If this occurs or the appliance is not performing as normal, it might not be a bad idea to call an appliance repair professional to inspect and service the appliance.

We live in a state that has extreme weather–and with this extreme weather comes freezing temperatures. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. However, this can be avoided with proper insulation and allowing faucets to drip during freezing weather. The small cost for a dripping faucet is far less compared to the costly repairs from a busted frozen pipe. In addition, water damage to your home can displace your family for weeks or months. Addressing leaks promptly, routine maintenance, and preventive steps can help your family avoid being displaced due to a significant water loss.

Should you be one of the unfortunate ones that does have a busted pipe or water leak, it is important to know what to do. Know ahead of time where the main water supply shut off to your home is. Turning off the main water supply is the first and most important step to take if there is a leak. Once you shut off the water supply, you will need to contact a plumber or appliance repair professional to locate the leak and do the proper repairs. The next step will be to start cleaning up the water immediately. A local and reputable water mitigation company can assist with the water cleanup. Friends and family that have had recent home repairs done are a good source to find a reputable water mitigation company. Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent is another great resource to help answer questions and provide additional information regarding what water damage your policy covers. 

Fallen Trees and Storm Damage to Roof   

Storms are unpredictable, but some of the resulting damage can be avoided. Wind and trees near your home are not a good combination, so a little preventive care can avoid a storm turning into a disaster. Keep an eye out for dead trees near your home and have them removed promptly. In addition, keep trees near your home trimmed and remove any leaning or shallow root trees such as pines. Often a little routine maintenance and a preventive mindset can help avoid a major disaster.

What do you do if a storm topples a tree onto your home? First, remove the fallen tree from your home. You can do this yourself or call a local tree removal service/roofer. Once the tree is removed from your home the roofer/contractor needs to cover your roof to prevent additional interior damage.  Depending on your policy and the cause of the damage, insurance will often provide help to pay for the removal of the tree and the covering of your roof.

Always try to call a local tree removal service or local roofer/contractor to get the tree off your home. It’s also a good idea to agree to a reasonable price up-front and in writing if possible. Beware of door-to-door solicitors after a storm or anyone asking for payment for the entire job up-front. Verify that the contractor is licensed and insist upon a contract in writing. Friends and family that have had recent home repairs done are a good source to find a reputable contractor/roofer. Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent is another good resource to help answer questions and provide additional information regarding what storm damage your policy covers.  

If something does happen to your home and you need to file a claim, please call our toll-free number any time at 1-866-275-7322.

Article provided by: Chris Vandergriff, Claims

Guide To Buying a Motorcycle In Arkansas

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The open road is calling and in a state like Arkansas, one filled with near endless outdoor beauty, there’s never a bad time to get out and explore. One of the best ways to do so is on the back of a new motorcycle. If you’ve had an interest in purchasing a motorcycle, this blog will give you a quick rundown of what you’ll need to buy a motorcycle in Natural Beauty.

What Are Your Needs

Before embarking on your motorcycle-buying journey, understanding your preferences is key. Arkansas offers a range of terrains and environments, so your choice of motorcycle should align with your intended use. Are you into high-speed thrills or do you envision long, leisurely rides across the state? The former might lean you more towards a sports motorcycle, while the latter may suggest a touring motorcycle for comfort over long distances. Consider the engine size too; a larger engine will provide more power, but can be a bit harder to manage for beginners. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Little Rock or planning a scenic ride through the Ozarks, finding the right motorcycle type and engine size for your needs is the first step in a successful purchase process.

Do Research on Prices

To ensure you are making an informed decision, conducting diligent price research should be the next step in your motorcycle purchasing journey. Motorcycles, like any other vehicle, can vary significantly in price based on factors such as make, model, year, and condition. New motorcycles often feature the latest technology, but they can also come with a hefty price tag. On the other hand, used motorcycles can be a more affordable option, especially for beginner riders. However, they may require more maintenance and don’t usually come with a warranty. Check various selling platforms, like dealerships, motorcycle-specific websites, and even auctions. 

State Requirements in Arkansas

In Arkansas, there are certain legal requirements that must be met when purchasing a motorcycle. The process can seem tedious, but these steps are in place to ensure the safety and legality of your motorcycling experience are as follows:

  1. Obtain a class M license from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA).
  2. Register your motorcycle with the DFA. Items need to register include:
  • Primary document (Arkansas title, bill of sale, manufacturer statement of origin, out of state title)
  • Insurance card
  • Federal odometer statement

Arkansas does nor require a motorcycle safety course, but beginners are encouraged to take motorcycle safety courses.

Purchase Safety Gear

Safety should always be your top priority when riding a motorcycle, and an essential aspect of this is investing in the right safety gear. In Arkansas, riders under the age of 21 are required by law to wear a helmet. Irrespective of age or the state’s legal requirement, wearing a helmet is always a smart decision. A good helmet will significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries in the case of an accident. There are other pieces of safety gear that merit your attention beyond a helmet. These include a sturdy jacket to protect against wind and minor scrapes, gloves to ensure a good grip, and sturdy boots to protect your feet. 

Hitting the road on your new motorcycle should be a free and fun experience, and Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas has you covered with high-quality motorcycle insurance. Get a fast and free quote today.

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Winter Weather Safety: How to Handle Black Ice

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Winter weather brings with it a world of snowy beauty–but with that comes some perils. One of the more dangerous cold weather hazards is black ice. The term “black ice” in itself is somewhat of a misnomer, as the ice is actually transparent, which is what makes it so perilous. However, you can protect yourself by understanding and knowing how to deal with this winter issue.

Places to expect black ice include areas with shade, tunnels, overpasses, and bridges—where the cold nature of metal causes ice to form quickly. Early morning and overcast days also tend to allow ice more time to form, as the sun has not had a chance to melt any formations.

It is not always possible to avoid black ice however, so here are some tips on how to drive safely over the hazard:

  1. Remain calm. While it may be difficult at the time, the biggest thing you can do if you hit a patch of black ice is to react calmly and do as little as possible and allow the car to pass over the ice.
  2. Try not to hit the brakes. While it is natural to want to brake when you feel your vehicle swerve, braking will actually make you lose control and skid. It is best to instead ease off of the gas and calmly tap the brakes to slow down.
  3. Keep the steering wheel straight. It is important to firmly hold your steering wheel straight to avoid swerving off the road or into oncoming traffic. However, if you feel the back end of your vehicle sliding left or right, make a very gentle turn in the same direction to help correct the issue.
  4. Head for areas of traction. Look for areas with gravel, sand, white snow, etc. These spots will give your vehicle some much-needed traction and give you time to right the course.
  5. Practice makes perfect. If possible, try to practice your winter weather driving as often as possible in safe surroundings. Large, empty parking lots are an ideal spot on an icy day to practice braking on the ice, and learning how your vehicle handles in these conditions.

If you do happen to get into an accident due to black ice, remember that Farm Bureau Insurance’s Claims Department is here for you 24/7—with local adjusters and fast, friendly service. Just report any type of claim through our Customer Service Center toll-free number: 1-866-275-7322.

Farm Bureau Insurance Kickball Team Wraps Up Season in the Playoffs

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The Farm Bureau Insurance kickball team, also known as F.B.I., recently wrapped up their second season of play in the Little Rock Kickball Association. The team is made up of staff from many of our departments, including: underwriting, claims, finance, and information systems.  Finishing the season ranked 4th in their league and with a record of 6-4, F.B.I. was proud to represent Farm Bureau Insurance and had a fantastic time bonding and working as a team.

The Farm Bureau Kickball team is just one of many ways the company strives to be an active, positive force in the community–and show that Farm Bureau Insurance is a local company with local employees.

We are looking forward to the next season of Kickball. GO F.B.I.!!

Farm Bureau Insurance Summer Interns

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Farm Bureau Insurance in Arkansas has a long history of involvement in our local communities. One way we do that is through our internship program. The intent of the program is to provide a hands on work experience to students that will increase their understanding and knowledge of Insurance and Agriculture. To be eligible to participate in the program, students must be actively enrolled in an accredited Arkansas College/University, entering junior or senior level status and pursuing a degree in insurance, business, agriculture or a related field.

This summer our interns were Chance Redfearn, Kaylee Brasko and Kasen Bloodworth. All three interned in our Claims Department, this allowed them to work at different locations across the state. Each spent time working with our adjusters and learning about the crucial role that our claims employees have in the success of our company.

Our interns have diverse backgrounds and interests. Chance is from Ashdown and is a student at SAU where he majors in Ag Business. He is President of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity and a Senator for the College of Science and Engineering.

Pictured: Chance Redfearn

Kaylee is from Stuttgart and attends UAM where she is a Plant and Soil Science major. She participates in Collegiate Farm Bureau, Collegiate Cattleman’s Association and is involved with the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority.

Pictured: Kaylee Brasko

Kasen is from Brookland, he is a student at UCA and is an Insurance and Risk Management major. He enjoys spending his time outdoors and is involved with the Fisheries and Wildlife Society.

Pictured: Kasen Bloodworth

We hope that our program better prepares these students to enter the workforce after college. A number of our past interns have even transitioned into being employees here at Farm Bureau Insurance in Arkansas. Kasen had this to say about what he learned during his internship: “I learned the importance of interacting with insureds in a positive way. We are able to better people’s lives in the course of a claim, which is very rewarding.” We are proud that we are able to offer this internship program and thankful for these interns that spent their summer learning about the insurance industry!

2020 Farm Bureau Insurance Award Winners

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LITTLE ROCK – Farm Bureau Insurance is pleased to announce the winners for the 2020 Farm Bureau Insurance Awards.

The Farm Bureau Insurance Awards honor Arkansas’ top offensive player, defensive player and coach of the year for each classification. The veteran staff at Hooten’s Arkansas Football selected three finalists for each category, and those 45 finalists and their families were invited to attend the Farm Bureau Insurance Awards, held virtually for the first time this year, Monday night.

Mack Wallace, Vice President of Sales for Farm Bureau Insurance in Arkansas said: “Farm Bureau Insurance wants to congratulate the 15 award winners on their terrific performance this season. All 45 finalists should be proud of what they were able to accomplish in this unusual 2020 football season. As always, Farm Bureau Insurance is proud to honor excellence as the title sponsor of this outstanding event.”

Farm Bureau Insurance has supported education and community involvement in Arkansas for more than 70 years.

7A/6A OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR (winner in CAPS)
AUSTIN LEDBETTER, BRYANT
Bryce Bohanon, Conway
Hayden Schrader, Bryant

7A/6A DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
COLE JOYCE, BENTONVILLE
Jordan Hanna, Greenwood
Noah Perry, Little Rock Catholic

7A/6A COACH OF THE YEAR
CHRIS YOUNG, GREENWOOD
Chris Hill, Sylvan Hills
Buck James, Bryant

5A OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
COOPER WHITE, PULASKI ACADEMY
Torie Blair, Texarkana
Marterious Ross, Wynne

5A DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
FUTA SHINKAWA, PULASKI ACADEMY
Corey Platt, Little Rock Christian
Kam Robinson, White Hall

5A COACH OF THE YEAR
KEVIN KELLEY, PULASKI ACADEMY
Eric Cohu, LR Christian
Van Paschal, Wynne

4A OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
CAM WIEDEMANN, SHILOH CHRISTIAN
Hunter Smith, Joe T. Robinson
Buster Thomas, Arkadelphia

4A DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
KAM TURNER, RIVERCREST
Keystan Durning, Ozark
James Jordan, Joe T. Robinson

4A COACH OF THE YEAR
JEFF CONAWAY, SHILOH CHRISTIAN
Johnny Fleming, Rivercrest
Josh Price, Stuttgart

3A OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
CADEN SIPE, HARDING ACADEMY
Jett Dennis, Greenland
Jordan Owens, McGehee

3A DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
TY DUGGER, HARDING ACADEMY
Jacobi Nolen, Prescott
Justin Wilson, Prescott

3A COACH OF THE YEAR
MARCUS HADDOCK, MCGEHEE
Neil Evans, Harding Academy
Tom Sears, Hoxie

2A OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
JAHEIM BROWN, FORDYCE
Jaxson Carter, Poyen
Jameson Threadgill, Gurdon

2A DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
JOSH HARRINGTON, FORDYCE
Armando Harper, Gurdon
Chris Haywood, Foreman

2A COACH OF THE YEAR
B.J. PASCHAL, DES ARC
Tim Rodgers, Fordyce
Luke Starks, Bigelow

Farm Bureau Insurance names McKenzie GM, SVP

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Little Rock, AR – Kevin McKenzie of Lonoke has been named Executive Vice President – General Manager of Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc. and Senior Vice President – State Manager of Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company.

McKenzie has worked 32 years at Farm Bureau, most recently as vice president of claims.

Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc., and Southern Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company are two of the largest writers of property and casualty insurance in Arkansas, with agents and adjusters in each of Arkansas’ 75 counties.

As vice president of claims since 2016, McKenzie managed the statewide claims efforts, which includes claims representatives responsible for all property and automobile insurance claims. McKenzie also spent 11 years as a district claims manager, 10 years as a physical damage supervisor and seven years as a claims representative.

A two-time district adjuster of the year (1990, 1994), McKenzie was also twice named District Claims Manger of the Year (2010, 2015). McKenzie holds professional certifications as an Associate in Claims (AIC), Associate in Personal Insurance (API) and as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU).

McKenzie was previously a member of the Lonoke School Board, and a past board president. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business and economics from Arkansas State University in 1987. He is a 1983 graduate of Clarendon High School. He and his wife Lisa have two sons, Samuel and Daniel.

2020 Farm Bureau Insurance Awards

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Farm Bureau Insurance is proud to be the title sponsor of the 2020 Farm Bureau Insurance Awards. The Farm Bureau Insurance Awards honor Arkansas’ top offensive player, defensive player and coach of the year for each high school football classification.

Hooten’s Arkansas Football selects three finalists for each category based on the performance of those players and coaches throughout the season. Those 45 finalists and their families are typically invited to attend the Farm Bureau Insurance Awards in person. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the event is being held virtually for the first time this year.

Everyone is encouraged to watch the event live on December 21st at 7:00pm on hootens.com.

This year’s event will feature a welcome from Mack Wallace – VP of Sales and awards announcements from Chad and Chris Hooten.  Highlights of all the finalists will be shown before the winners are announced. Agents from across the state will be taking part in the event by delivering trophies and gifts to their local finalists and award winners.

Farm Bureau Insurance has supported education and community involvement in Arkansas for more than 70 years and we are proud to continue our involvement with this outstanding event.

Farm Bureau Insurance to Celebrate 70th Anniversary

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The Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc.  turns 70 on Tuesday, March 3, a testament to a local presence in each of Arkansas’s 75 counties and a commitment to customer service and client satisfaction.

An employee celebration is scheduled at the Farm Bureau Center in Little Rock.

“Farm Bureau started the property insurance business to provide stability and security for its members,” said David Moore, executive vice president and general manager of the Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc. “I believe we have delivered that over the 70-year history of the organization.”

“We like to say we are Arkansas’s insurance company. We are very proud of the fact that we are the largest Arkansas-based property insurance business.”

Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc.  has the second-largest market share for property insurance coverage in the state.

“Our business is based on relationships, with local agents, local adjusters in every county in Arkansas,” Moore said. “Delivering business through that local channel is what separates us from other insurance businesses in this state.”

“Our active local presence throughout Arkansas, combined with our excellent capitalization and solid operating results, have earned us an ‘excellent’ rating with A.M. Best, the only global credit rating organization with a unique focus on the insurance industry.”

The Farm Bureau insurance companies were formed by a group of Farm Bureau Federation leaders who shared a vision for providing better service to their members, including cost-effective insurance rates. Farm Bureau Insurance has been developing new products and services ever since, all to meet the changing needs of Arkansans.

As an example, Farm Bureau Insurance has developed over the past three years a product targeted at its clients involved in agriculture. The Ag Promise® farm insurance policy covers farm structures, personal property and liability.

“We make it a point to understand the complexity of the risks our customers face and provide them products that help secure their most meaningful family investments,” Moore said. “Our property business is a critical connection to meeting families needs, and fits hand-in-glove with our other lines of business, including life insurance and auto coverage, along with the health insurance coverage we market in partnership with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. The Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Arkansas, Inc.  is celebrating 70 years of business in Arkansas, the place we call home, and this is a great testament to our employees and our customers.”