Avoid Hurricane Damage With These Preventative Tips

How to Avoid Hurricane Damage

Once an impending hurricane hits, there often is little that can be done. Luckily, there are preventative measures that you can take to protect your property against wind and water damage.

These steps range from those best left to professionals to those for do-it-yourselfers.

Before making structural changes to your property, check local building codes and keep in mind that not all homes require the same degree of storm protection. For example, areas with a high likelihood of hurricanes and other strong storms may benefit greatly from "hurricane straps," while this may not be an advisable investment for other property owners.

Check with your local American Red Cross or other emergency management offices for information on the area's flood elevation, which can help you determine how much water is likely to flow into your property.

Also, remember that homeowners insurance does not cover flooding, so it is important to purchase flood insurance. Note: It will be 30 days before the policy takes effect, so don't wait until the storm warning appears.

Securing the Roof

High winds can cause your roofing structure to fail, if the sheathing is not properly installed.

Roofs are designed to transfer the force of high winds down to the foundation. If the roof sheathing is not nailed into the rafters or trusses of your roofing structure, then it can fail to perform as designed.

From the attic, examine the roofing boards for proper installation. When replacing your roof, make sure that the sheathing complies with the latest industry standards.

Check for proper bracing of your roof's gables, the upper portion of a sidewall that comes to a triangular point at the ridge of a sloping roof. From inside the attic space, you should see X-shaped supports in these areas. If these supports are not in place, be sure to hire a contractor to brace them properly.

Hurricane straps, which are galvanized metal braces that keep the roof securely fastened to the walls of a home or building, are advised for properties in areas with a high hurricane risk. Installing braces should be left to a licensed professional.

Securing Windows and Doors

Your property's windows and doors must be properly braced to withstand the high winds of hurricanes, because, if breached, the resulting high pressure can cause serious damage to your walls and roofing structure.

Protect your property's vulnerable openings with storm shutters. They can be purchased for exposed windows, skylights, doors and other glass surfaces. They are available in steel, wood or aluminum. Their protection benefit can be mimicked with plywood.

Also most bolts that come with your doors are not capable of withstanding the high winds associated with hurricanes. Reinforcing bolts to secure your doors to the top and bottom frame will ensure that your doors will be able to handle the storm.

Protecting Home Systems from Flooding

Your electrical system can be ravaged by flooding. To minimize and prevent damage to this vital system, make sure that the main electrical panel board and all electrical outlets and switches are located at least 12 inches above the flood elevation for your area. If not, consider elevating all wire and service lines 12 inches above the flood elevation, but be sure that all electrical wiring is done be a licensed electrician.

Electrically run units, such as washers, dryers, furnaces and water heaters, should be moved to a higher level or elevated at least 12 inches above the flood elevation, if possible. A base of concrete or pressure treated lumber that can hold the weight may be used to elevate the units. Consider building a flood wall around these units, if they cannot be relocated.

To prevent floating and potential spills, anchor fuel tanks to the floor and be sure that vents and openings are above projected flood elevation.

To protect your floor drain, install a float plug and a licensed plumber should put in a backflow valve to prevent sewage back up.

ACCORD Restoration specializes in clean-up, repair, restoration and rebuilding after fires, floods, storms or natural disasters. We offer reliable, 24/7/365 emergency services carried out with expert craftsmanship.

To learn more visit http://www.accordrestoration.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Nemshick

Tornado Damage Ratings - Understanding the Enhanced Fujita Scale

When you hear about an F-2 tornado in Stokesdale, NC or see an F5 tornado video on the Internet the "F" refers to the Fujita scale (F-Scale). The Fujita scale was introduced in 1971 as a way to rate the intensity of a tornado based on the amount of damage done to man-made structures and vegetation. It was developed by Tetsuya Fujita and Allen in Kansas City, Missouri.

Because many of the factors used by the Fujita scale were subjective and ambiguous a new scale was introduced. This new scale is called the Enhanced Fujita Scale or EF Scale and went into effect on February 1, 2007. The Enhanced Fujita Scale better reflects tornado damage in relation to wind speeds. The EF Scale also introduced 28 damage indicators to reflect the types of structures or vegetation that were damaged.

EF-0 category tornadoes have wind speeds of 65-85 mph and are known to have caused light damage often from fallen trees and branches. It should be noted that a tornado that did not cause any confirmed damaged is always rated an EF-0.

EF-1 category tornadoes have wind speeds of 86-110 mph and are known to have caused moderate damage. This could include mobile homes being overturned and damage to rooftops.

EF-2 category tornadoes have wind speeds of 111-135 mph and are known to have caused considerable damage. An EF-2 tornado is powerful enough to lift a car off the ground and destroy some small structures.

EF-3 category tornadoes have wind speeds of 136-165 mph and are known to have caused severe damage. At this intensity level well constructed homes will be destroyed and larger buildings will suffer considerable damage.

EF-4 category tornadoes have wind speeds of 166-200 mph and are known to have caused devastating damage. At this level even well constructed homes can be completely leveled. Cars can also be picked up off of the ground and thrown great distances.

EF-5 category tornadoes have wind speeds of over 200 mph and are known to have caused incredible damage. At this level entire neighborhoods might be swept away.

Since the Enhanced Fujita scale went into effect in 2007 there has only been one recorded EF-5 tornado. That tornado occurred in Greensburg, Kansas on May 4, 2007. Video footage from this tornado reveals widespread devastation rarely seen before.

Jerry Iannucci operates a website devoted to online tornado videos. For the best tornado videos please visit: http://www.BestTornadoVideos.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Iannucci

Cleaning Fire Smoke Damage Smell

Cleaning fire and smoke smell is one of the most important activities that is required after the fire has damaged your homes and its contents. It is important to take immediate and appropriate action. Carpets, draperies, upholstered furniture and clothing usually can be refurbished after a fire, unless they have been scorched or severely water damaged. The most iportant thing to do is get professional help from a experienced fire smoke damage company.

Smoke odor could remain in clothing, upholstered furniture, carpets and draperies unless it is properly deodorized. Fire restoration professionals and some dry cleaners use a deodorizing process for cleaning fire and smoke smell. They actually break up the smoke molecule to eliminate the odor. This deodorization process is called the ozone treatment. The ozone treatment produces an oxidizing agent that creates the same sweet smelling air associated with a rain storm. The ozone treatment can be done by a fire restoration professional at the home with an ozone generator. Sometimes household textiles are deodorized in an ozone room. If the process is done at home, clothing, upholstered furniture and other textile items are put under a tent while the ozone generator is operating. It is an effective method for cleaning fire smoke damage smell. Clothing and other textile items should be deodorized before they are cleaned; otherwise, the smoke odor could be set in the fabric.

Smoke can enter and remain in and between the walls of the living space. If it is not properly removed, the smoke odor reoccurs from time to time, particularly during damp periods. Therefore, action should be taken to properly remove all smoke odors. Fire restoration professionals can help you in cleaning fire smoke damage smell and eliminating the smoke odor with a process called thermal fogging. This process opens the pores in the walls and neutralizes the smoke odor. There is probably no process a home owner could use that would work as effectively as thermal fogging. If the attic has been insulated prior to the fire, it may be necessary to remove the insulation. Insulation cannot be cleaned; unfortunately, it will need to be replaced because insulation retains smoke odors. Also cleaning the walls and ceiling and painting them is a good idea depending on the amount of smoke damge.

Soiled clothing is cleaned by a variety of laundry methods. Cleaning fire and smoke smell from all clothes with same method is not possible. To effectively remove soot and smoke damage from household textile items such as carpet, draperies and upholstered furniture, it is necessary to use the appropriate chemicals, the right equipment and judgment that come from experience. Properly trained fire restoration professionals have the knowledge and materials to refurbish household textiles after a fire.

The most important guideline for home owners to remember while cleaning fire and smoke smell is not to begin cleaning until the visible soil and smoke odor are removed. In the long run, money can be saved by contacting a fire restoration professional immediately. These experts can be identified through friends whom may had to go through this, or in the yellow pages under water and fire restoration and generally are willing to travel several miles to restore a home.

For more information about fire smoke damage please have a look at this link: Fire smoke damage | Dallas | Houston | San Antonio | Austin | Fort Worth

Ross Morrell is an industry professional and a specialist in fire and flood restoration, mold remediation, disaster clean up, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, tile and grout cleaning and air duct cleaning. He has written numerous articles on these various topics for http://www.fireandfloodrepair.com He has many intresting topics and ideas to give our customers important information and basic knowledge... Check out more of his articles.

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Storm Damage Can Be 'Upsetting'

An increasing number of homeowners are finding their property has been damaged by the elements, it has been suggested.

Figures released by Abbey indicate that over the course of the past week, when high winds and storms have battered many parts of England and Wales, the number of insurance claims it has received has gone up by more than half. During the last seven days, the financial services firm reveals that claims made have gone up by over 55 per cent - the biggest increase noted since the floods seen in the summer of last year.

Tony Beckwith, spokesperson for Abbey Insurance, added that such damage can be "upsetting and inconvenient", with the insurance provider stating that storms and floods are increasingly becoming a part of the country's typical weather. As such, homeowners were advised to be "prepared for the worst".

Research from the company also showed that the typical claim received for storm damage over the course of last year stood at 913 pounds. Meanwhile, the average claim for harm to property via flooding accounted for 15,530 pounds.

However, it may be possible that those consumers who have failed to take out home insurance - or who hold a sufficient policy - may come under monetary pressures. After incurring damage to their property by the elements, whether this is from floods, fire or a storm, it is possible that these homeowners will have to dip into their own pockets to pay for the cost of repairs. This could have an impact upon their capacity to meet other demands on their finances, such as household bills, mortgage or rent costs, loans and credit cards.

To help minimise the impact of storm and flood damage, homeowners were advised to make certain all insurance documents and other important paperwork is kept in a watertight container, while details of a provider's hotline should also be kept close to hand. In addition, Abbey urged people to make sure that they keep a torch in a place that is easily accessible in the event of a power failure. Consumers were also reminded of the need to be aware how to turn off their electricity and water supplies.

For consumers looking for an effective way to fund the repair of a home after storm or flood damage, a home loan could be of assistance. By taking out such a loan it is possible that homeowners can afford the cost of materials and hiring qualified professionals to carry out such work and are left with a low-cost rate of repayment. Furthermore, getting out a homeowner loan could provide borrowers with the additional financial resources to allow them to take out comprehensive insurance cover.

This type of loan could be of particular help to people carrying out home improvement projects. Research by Halifax Home Insurance indicated that a quarter of all major property renovation tasks go over budget each year at a total cost of 4.7 billion pounds. Around a fifth of consumers claim that they simply underestimated the full expense of work such as refurbishing kitchens and bathrooms. Meanwhile, the average improvement project was revealed to be worth 10,320 pounds.

Tom Dawson writes for Essentially Home Loans UK where visitors can apply for cheap personal loans online, and also focuses on secured UK loans for homeowners. Visit Today

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Storm Damage and Mature Tree Pruning

One winter evening I was working on the computer when the power went out. The freezing rain that had been forecast must have been the culprit. It was getting late so I went to bed figuring we would have power again by morning.
Thunder and lightning woke me a couple times, but then I heard something a little different. An explosive popping sound followed by what seemed to be a shower of sparks. In my minds eye I tried to picture the cause of this sound. An exploding power transformer with hot lines arcing around it? There is nothing like a puzzle to keep me awake; but I didn’t want to get up and lose the warmth I had built up under the blankets. Just drifting off again I heard the sound repeated but up the hill behind my house and more distant... more crackly sounding but still accompanied by the sparkling shattering sound my ears were now more tuned in to analyze. Suddenly realizing the impact this freezing rain was having I shot out of bed and ran to the window. Large tree limbs were on the ground. Major branches were bending under the cumulative weight of the ice; then noisily busting sending thousands of 3” icicles to break with a sparkly shattering sound.
Well the power was out for days for many, and the damage to the trees and landscape is still being cleaned up. After a damaging storm you always see a migration of tree company trucks to the area. Many of the local tree care, and landscape businesses have their hands full assisting their customer base. The city workers are also busy as these crews and residents move debris to the street for collection. The effects of such a storm can be seen in the landscape for years to come. Storms can cause limbs to break and trees to fall. A large damaged tree branch can be extremely heavy and dangerous to remove or trim. Removing large branches from a mature tree safely requires special training and often specialized equipment. Also the way this damage is dealt with impacts on the health of the tree. If you value your trees (yes I know they are all valuable) or fear a tree becoming a hazard, I would suggest you find a certified arborist.
One good first test of an arborist is:
Tell them you need your trees topped.
If they say “Sure, no problem.” move on till you find one that knows what is good for the long term health of a tree.
There are plenty of crews in your town that can carve up your trees for you; but it may take diligence to find a crew trained in the proper pruning of mature trees. Everyone appreciates the hardworking and practical service of the local jobber cleaning up a storms mess, but if you have issues with major branches of a large tree, do generations to come a favor and search out an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist.
A good certified arborist with integrity will only perform ISA accepted practices. Branches are not removed without good reason. They do not “top” tree’s, remove excessive amounts of live wood, or use climbing spikes on a tree (unless it is being removed). A good arborist knows how to make removal of a desirable tree the last option, and will make pruning decisions that will enhance the health of the tree and reduce possible hazards.
Pruning Cuts on a Mature Tree
Regardless who is doing the pruning or why, final pruning cuts should be made just outside a growth of bark cells called the branch collar. The branch collar is a collar of growth made of parent branch (trunk) tissue where the branch meets the trunk (or parent branch) and care should be taken to not cut or remove it. This is true for dead, damaged or living branches. Do not remove the actively growing cells of the branch collar. These cells are the trees way of closing the wound. The branch collar grows a bit out and angled away from the parent, so if you make a flush cut against the trunk, the branch collar has been removed and the wound will not close. Conversely if you cut far away from the trunk the branch collar is not near the cut where they can grow over the wound. Improper pruning cuts can hurt your trees.
Take notice of trees with dieback of the bark on branches and down the trunks. Often you can tell it was from a flush cut or an end cut. Other times it may be a storm damaged branch that wasn’t removed and it died back to the trunk and on down.
If removing a large limb, first its weight should be reduced to prevent tearing the bark when the branch falls. Make a shallow cut from the bottom of the branch a foot or so out from the branches point of attachment. Then finish cut from the top, above or a little further out on the branch. This leaves a lighter and more manageable stub. The stub is then removed while taking care to not remove the branch collar. This technique reduces the possibility of tearing the bark.
A garden center manager, writer, musician and webmaster; Lee Goins is often called on as an expert in landscaping and gardening. Residents of Shelby County Ohio have been bringing him pieces of trees, moldy leaves, and jars of bugs for 8 years in spite of the well publicized knowledge he prefers chocolate. His gardening help has been featured on TV, Radio, Newspapers and websites like http://www.shelbylandscaping.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Goins

Who Needs Flood Insurance, You?

If you live in a flood prone area, you probably already know a few things about flood insurance. You know that most homeowners insurance policies do not cover floods caused by storms. You may have neighbors or friends who have lost everything they own because of a sudden flood caused by a hurricane or sudden storm. And even though we tend to associate flood damage with coastal areas, they can occur in every state. A lot of flood damage is caused by melting snow in areas that are thousands of miles from the coast!
Flood insurance comes from a special policy that is backed by the federal government with cooperation from local communities and private insurance companies. Dozens of private insurance companies write and service flood insurance policies for the government, and the policies are financed through insurance premiums. So you will generally contact a local property insurance agent, which could be the same person who would handle normal homeowners or auto insurance companies.
Many people don't realize they need flood insurance. However, statistics show that over a quarter of homes will suffer flood damage during the course of a 30 year mortgage. Only 9% of homes, during the same mortgage period, will suffer fire damage. Of course, almost all homes are protected against fire damage through normal homeowners policies, but they are not protected for flood damage! Furthermore, average claims for those who do have flood damage, and are protected by flood insurance are from $15,000 to $20,000! You can see that the claims are not trivial. Also consider that you will need temporary housing or relocation assistance if you cannot stay in your home while it is being repaired, or if it must be rebuilt somewhere else.
Where To Get Flood Insurance Program Help
You can visit the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) website for more information on the National Flood Insurance Program. You can download a flood insurance manual, and also learn how to assess your own property's risk of flood damage.
Some of the information on the FEMA website is aimed at homeowners, but other information is highly technical. You may want to get help in a form that has already been broken down for your situation, and your local area. When you want to obtain flood insurance, an experienced local property insurance agent will probably be able to help you out.
For more information on National Flood Insurance in the US, or to find a Flood Insurance Agent visit us at:
http://www.nationalfloodinsurance.net -- US Flood Insurance Information
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilyn_Katz

Motor Vehicle Accident Insurance Claim Guide

This is a FREE Insurance Claim Guide

Your “Motor Vehicle” can be a truck, car, motorcycle - - you name it! If it’s powered by a motor and has one, two, three, four (or even more) wheels this “Guide” is for you.

The information below is a bare-bones “Guide” for those who have had such a motor vehicle accident. It details the basics of how one should with their property damage and/or personal injury claim.

AFTER IMPACT CHECKLIST

We heartily suggest you make a copy of this "Impact Checklist" to be kept handy within the confines of your motor vehicle. A “Guide” to refer to so you’ll be certain, should an accident take place, that you’ve covered everything.

Other than the fact that one must obtain from the other operator, both their drivers license and motor vehicle registration information, you should also proceed to do the following:

IMMEDIATELY MAKE SPECIAL NOTE OF: Names and addresses of eye witnesses. And later the investigating police officers name and badge number. WEATHER CONDITIONS: Snow, rain, fog, mist, sleet, etc. ROAD SURFACE: Dry, wet, slippery, icy, etc.IMPACT AREA: City, suburban, business, wooded, etc. VISIBILITY: Sunny, cloudy, dusk, night, moonlight, etc. (Was the sun in the other driver’s face)? TRAFFIC CONTROLS: Were there overhead lights? Posted speed limit signs? Stop or warning signs? Hospital or school zone signs? CREATE A DIAGRAM: Driving area: Flat, crowned, straight, curved, macadam, asphalt, concrete, cobblestone, dirt, etc. Indicate the width of street. Show the location of impact, gouge and/or skid marks. CONDITION OF MOTOR VEHICLE THAT STRUCK YOU: Age and general overall condition. Is their state inspection sticker displayed and up to date? Were chains or snow tires needed? AS SOON AS POSSIBLE RETURN TO THE SCENE AND SNAP PHOTOGRAPHS: It’s most important to take pictures of: Skid or gouge mark’s on the road surface plus the damage to both vehicles. PHOTOS OF YOUR BODILY INJURIES: It's crucial to the ultimate value of your claim to snap a multitude of colored photos (up close and from different angles) of your bodily injuries - - especially all black and blue marks or bruises.

INSIGHTS INTO HANDLING YOUR CLAIM (There Are Six Areas You Must Be Familiar With) 1. Out-Of-Pocket Expenses 2. Lost Time From Work - Lost Wages 3. Property Damage Losses 4. What Your Medical Doctor And/Or Chiropractor Reports Should State 5. Medical Payments Coverage 6. What To Do If An Adjuster Refuses To Cooperate

You Should Go Into Detail Regarding These (Below Listed) Six Areas:

(1) OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES:These are expenses that can be measured in definite sums of money. They are the foundation of the calculations used to award damages (including that often great and extra amount paid to you for your “Pain and Suffering”) regarding any financial loss flowing directly from the injury you may have sustained.

MEDICAL EXPENSES: Obtain all bills and services rendered. (Prior to their being sent out, you have ever right to ask for and read the crucial Final Reports regarding your physical condition from your Doctor, Chiropractor, “Medical Specialist” and/or Dentist).Medical Expenses Typically Include: Ambulance ~ Emergency Room ~ Hospital or Clinic ~ Laboratory Fees and Services ~ Diagnostic Tests: (X-rays and/or CT Scan) ~ Registered or Practical Nurse Fees ~ Medicine and/or Prescription Medications ~ Prosthetic Appliances or Surgical Apparatus (Canes & crutch, etc.) ~ Physical Therapy ~ Ace Bandages, Gauze & Tape ~ Heating Pads ~ Creams, Ointments, Balms & Salves. As you read them make sure these Medical Reports include the length of time of your “Total Disability” and/or your “Partial Disability”. These are of enormous value because they justify the often HUGE, extra payment made for your “Pain and Suffering” . (Plus this information will also prove your claim for Lost Wages).

NON-MEDICAL DAMAGE EXPENSES. These include: Lost Wages and Earnings ~ Lost Vacation Time and/or Sick Leave ~ Travel Expenses: (Transportation costs incurred getting to and from The Doctor and/or Hospital, etc.) ~ Household Help During Disability ~ Child Care During Recuperation.

(2) LOST TIME FROM WORK - - LOST WAGES - - YOUR "LOSS EARNING CAPACITY": The weeks, hours and/or days you were unable to work (thus the money you may have lost) is added up and documented on company letterhead. You’re often entitled to compensation for “Lost Time and Earnings” even if you have no actual loss of money ! Such as, for example, if your salary is paid by some other insurance coverage you may have or by taking sick leave or some other similar arrangement. It doesn’t matter if you're employed full time, part time, self-employed, own your own business, retired, unemployed, or a housewife not employed outside the home, you should keep a written record of all household help and/or child care needed during your disability period.

All of these constitute an element of your “SPECIAL DAMAGES” mainly "Lost Wages". Insurance companies usually don't view your time away from work (because of an injury) as “Lost Time And Earnings” but as “Lost Earning Capacity”. In most states one is entitled to compensation for lost time and earnings even if they have no loss of money. For example, when your salary is paid for by another insurance coverage you have or by taking sick leave and/or some other similar type of arrangement. There are specific situations to be considered and called to the forefront when it comes to being employed either full-time or part-time. More detailed information (regarding these above stated area’s of your loss) are found in CHAPTER FOUR “Damages” within the book AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM.

(3) PROPERTY DAMAGE LOSSES: “AGREED COST TO REPAIR”: This figure has been negotiated between your damage repair person and the insurance adjuster. Be sure you know (and possess a written copy of) exactly what that figure is.COLLISION: There's usually a deductible. Read your policy. (If you’re not at fault you should eventually be able to get this money back).PROPERTY DAMAGE LIABILITY: Protects you for damages you do to the property of another (i.e. his or her trees, lawn, shrubs, mailbox, etc.) EXCLUSIONS: These are stated in your policy. A good rule of thumb is, “If it’s not excluded, it’s covered”. Read your policy closely to discover your exclusions and how they apply. TOTAL LOSS: A “Total Loss” is when the motor vehicle damage exceeds the value of the vehicle, as stated within all of the up-to-date and “Official” Property Damage books and/or documents. OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE LOSSES: Clothing, jewelry, watches, eye or sunglasses, etc. You can also collect for your (or any other individuals) personal property which happened to be in the car and was damaged. (Be sure to have written proof of the cost of each item damaged plus the date it was purchased). Never forget: You’re entitled to be reimbursed for any charges you may have incurred for towing, storage and/or substitute motor vehicle rental, or for that matter - - any other alternate transportation.

The above is a very brief review. For more in-depth information read CHAPTER FIVE: PROPERTY DAMAGE found in AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM.

(4) WHAT YOUR MEDICAL DOCTOR AND/OR CHIROPRACTOR REPORT SHOULD STATE: Each “Injury Evaluation Factor” should be clearly stated within each of your final Medical Reports. For example: That your disability is solely the result of the accident. If there were any pre-existing conditions aggravated by your injuries? What treatments were administered and for what duration? What medications were prescribed, in what amounts and for how long? What symptoms or medical problems were such medications meant to relieve? Were there any adverse reactions demonstrated? Ask to read them before they're sent to the adjuster so you're sure it explains the nature, plus the extent and frequency of the pain that an injury, such as yours, will likely cause.

PROGNOSIS: This is the clearly stated information (regarding your personal injury progress) and should include: The part played by a pre-existing condition, if any? Their prediction of any possible future temporary disability/impairments? Does the individual attending you anticipate any further or future treatments? LENGTH OF YOUR “TOTAL” DISABILITY: Why? Because it's so important (when it comes time to settle) this is clearly stated in weeks and days. LENGTH OF YOUR “PARTIAL” DISABILITY: Again (and for the same reason as above) this too should be clearly stated in weeks and days. (Specific details, regarding both “Partial” and “Total” Disability , and the incredible value it provides for you in your claim, are found in CHAPTER SIX: YOUR BODILY INJURY).

(5) MEDICAL PAYMENTS COVERAGE: If you have this coverage in your motor vehicle policy, it will pay (up to the limits stated) for all medical bills arising out of the accident - - regardless of who’s at fault! (You must read your policy carefully because the “Who”, “Why” and/or “How” of this often differs).

A WORD ABOUT HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS: In certain instances, it may be possible to have your medical bills paid and yet avoid any repayment by tapping into your health insurance coverage, or some other plan you may have. (Yes, this means, under certain circumstances, you may be able to collect twice for the same medical bills)!

(6) WHAT TO DO IF THE ADJUSTER REFUSES TO COOPERATE? These Are Your Usual And Routine Choices: a. Threaten that you're going to obtain the services of a lawyer to represent you. b. Go over the adjuster’s head. c. Resolve your loss in Small Claims Court. d. Contact the proper people (working through the State Department of Insurance) implementing the time honored principle of “Good Faith” vs. “Bad Faith”.

All the information necessary for you to deal with and handle the above issues are spelled out within the contents of AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM (How To Evaluate And Settle Your Loss) found on the internet at http://www.autoaccidentclaims.com or http://www.caraccidentclaims.com. This book also contains BASE (The Baldyga Auto Accident Settlement Formula). THE BASE FORMULA will tell you exactly how many dollars the "Pain and Suffering" you endured are worth.

DISCLAIMER: The only purpose of this article is to help people understand the motor vehicle accident claim process. Dan Baldyga, does not offer a guarantee of any kind whatsoever, NOR to substitute for a lawyer, an insurance adjuster, or claims consultant, or the like. Where such professional help is desired it is the INDIVIDUALS RESPONSIBLY to obtain such services.

Copyright (c) 2004 By Daniel G. Baldyga. All Rights Reserved.

About The Author

For over 30 years Dan Baldyga was a Claims Adjuster, Supervisor, Manager and Trial Assistant. He is now retired and spends his time attempting to assist those involved in motor vehicle accident claim so they will not be taken advantage of. dbpaw@comcast.net

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Is Art a Gift, Or Brain Damage?

Call it the "parietal paradox": Patients with a variant of frontotemporal dementia-in which selective involvement of the left anterior temporal lobe has been detected-suddenly exhibit an ability to create startling works of art when no previous talent or even interest had been documented. In other cases, experienced artists go on to produce paintings that are as striking as anything found in their entire body of work. ~ Fred Balzac

Recently on one of the TV news magazines I saw a feature that linked brain damage (stroke) to personality changes that included an unleashing of compulsive creativity. This phenomena sparked my reading and that reading supported the premise of that TV show. It made me wonder. It made me wonder about myself.

I am not a well-known artist. Some people call what I do a hobby. For me, the art (the poetry, the doll making, journaling, blogging, jewelry making, the Paper Mache, the novels, and all that creative stuff I do) is not a hobby. I feel insulted when what I do is called a hobby. While I may lack talent, and I am unsuccessful by most of the measuring sticks on earth, I think of myself as an artist. What I'm wondering about right now is WHY. Why do I create? Why does anyone create? Why is my art so constantly on my mind? I've had no stroke. I'm unaware of any brain damage. It is certainly possible that I have some birth-defective brain that has changed my left anterior temporal lobe, but if so, I don't know anything about that.

I remember once, in a group session with Lili Parish, my shrink/friend, someone in the group implied that my abilities to paint pictures and write poetry were "gifts." The suggestion made was that some people have the gift, and other people didn't. I argued about this train of thought.

What I believe is that if you had drawn as many pictures as I have drawn, you would be at least as good an artist as I am, and you would probably be better. I am not sure how many little cartoons, and serious paintings I have completed, but I would estimate it is in the thousands. I have been drawing since before I started school. Instead of paying attention in class I was drawing on my notebook paper. I draw and write every day, and have missed days with my art only after surgery or when overwhelmed by my daily life [like the days I spent moving to Oklahoma City from Lakeland Florida.] In a similar way, as a kid, I demonstrated zero athletic skill. I couldn't throw a football. I knew guys that could throw like a pro, but that was a "gift" I did not seem to have. Of course those guys good at throwing footballs had been tossing a ball around for years.

The more you do what you do the better you will do what you do. This was my explanation for what abilities I had, as well as the abilities other people have that I don't. I am terrible at playing the Sitar. Does Ravi Shankar have a gift that I have been denied, or was he a gifted Sitar player because he spent his life playing the Sitar while I have never actually seen one in person?

This rationale goes a long way towards explaining talent, at least in my mind. In Renaissance Italy they didn't have a lot of historically great ballplayers, but their culture didn't care that much about a kids throwing ability. In Renaissance Italy they support art. So if a kid was drawing on the wall, and if some passing adult noticed the drawing, and said it looked good [for a kid that age], that kid would be encourage to do more of that activity. The more the kid is encouraged, praised, and urged on, the more they will do what is getting this positive feedback, and eventually they will have an artistic gift. In the 1940's if a little kid threw a rock and it went further than a passing adult thought was normal for a kid that age, they immediately would think, "Baseball!"

Another behaviorist shrink/friend of mine, named James Cail, use to say, "People do what they get paid to do." What he meant by that is that people can be paid with money, or just positive feedback, but if they are getting something out of the activity they will keep doing that activity. Vincent Van Gogh. only sold one painting in his life time, but that does not mean he was not getting paid. There were people in his life that admired, and supported and encouraged his artistic activities.

But maybe, just getting positive feedback, and spending your life doing a particular artistic activity is not all of the answer. The people on that TV show who had strokes started doing art compulsively and they had no life of practicing that art. They just suddenly had to be artists. Their ability can be questioned. Some of the work seemed especially primitive, but then no more primitive than modern art by a hundred other accepted and admired artists.

Could it be that creativity is always linked to some quirk of the brain, or were these stroke victim artists just a aberration, and that artistic talent is normally, and mostly often the result of the ole "practice makes perfect" sort of stuff?

Here is what I think. I want to believe that artistic ability is not a gift. Because that is what I want to believe, I look for quotes and data that supports that view.

Why do I want to believe that artistic ability is not a gift? Because I don't feel gifted. If it is a gift, then it is possible that I didn't get the gift, or that the size of my gift is small. If art is a gift then I am limited by that truth. If artistic ability is developed then there are no limits on what I could accomplish artistically. Not only can I go as far as I choose to go with my art, but this would be equally true for you. Anyone, and everyone could be and do whatever they wanted if they just put their mind to it, work art for it, and sustain their interest, motivation, and practice.

So while there may be little fissures in the brain that can contribute to a creativity compulsion, I still lean to the POV that artistic ability is developed by creating art.

Tex Norman http://thegentlejourney.blogspot.com/ http://www.lulu.com/texnorman Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tex_Norman

How To Detect And Avoid Buying Flood-Damaged Cars

Cars

that went through flood damage are often disguised as vehicles being offered for an exceptionally great price. However, these cars and trucks

are often just water and flood damage vehicles that have been poorly cleaned or restored.

A car that survived flood damage is likely to smell like mold or mildew. It is very difficult to dry out the fabric interior of a vehicle in the event of a flood, and the giveaway will probably be in the odors inside the car. Try not to be fooled by car fresheners or fabric sprays. If it looks like the seller is trying to mask a scent, there is probably a reason.

In the dome light, headlights, or taillights there is likely to be signs of trapped water. Check under the seats and in all compartments for other indications of water. Areas where it appears that dirt has accumulated could be signs of a flood, and the dirt that a flood brings can be filled with waste and bacteria. Even if you feel like this could be cleaned, flood damage on cars pose other risks.

If the vehicle has a lot of rust inconsistent with its age, then that could also be a red flag. Also check for rust in the undercarriage of a vehicle, as well as under the hood. Vehicles affected by floods and standing water will rust very quickly, and rust is difficult to mask or get rid of. It also further brings down the value of a car.

If there are several new updates to the vehicle, such as new carpeting or exterior body work, then that is also a warning sign. While this may appear to be a nice update to the outside of the vehicle, it could be a sign of damages to the interior, electrical, and technical parts of the car. In addition, fabrics in a vehicle that seem especially faded or discolored can also be a sign of flood damage. Take the car for a test drive and check all electrical systems, lights, clocks, and sound equipment. Take a look at the wires as well, because when wires are wet and become dry, they are often stiff.

Try and get opinions from trusted sources. Getting a vehicle history report from CarFax is always a good idea to check cars from flood damage incidents, but you may also want to consider taking the car to a mechanic that you know. They will be able to look at the car and perform certain tests on it to see if it is in decent working condition.

The effects of floods and excess water can be irreversible for several items, including vehicles. Even if you are not able to see the damage during a basic car inspection, in due time various parts or systems of the vehicle may begin failing. Even if you do not live in an area where floods are common, some sellers count on buyers to not look for flood damages on a vehicle. The money you will spend in repairs and replacements makes the deal on a flood-damaged vehicle not worth your time.