Winter Storm Warnings: Staying Safe on the Road

I don't know about you, but I have had enough of Winter Storm Warnings. I am so ready for spring! Unfortunately, there are officially about two more months of winter left. If the current weather conditions continue, it won't be the last we have heard of the infamous Winter Storm Warnings.

For some important Road Safety Tips visit Kentucky Highway Safety.

Not only will you find important safety tips by visiting this website, you will also find information regarding "Safe Patrol", the Kentucky Safety Assistance for Freeway Emergencies. This free service can provide emergency assistance to any motorist on a Kentucky Interstate or Parkway. This service includes providing gasoline, oil, adding air to tires or changing flat tires, providing a “jump” for dead batteries, and if necessary pushing vehicles off the roadway. 

Remember, this service is only available for Kentucky Interstate or Parkways. If your emergency occurs anywhere else, you should contact your motor club or insurance agent/company. Safeco Insurance Company now offers an Emergency Assistance Package that takes the place of your motor club for a fraction of the price. For more information, contact your Buckley Insurance Agent.

In addition to possible disablement, many accidents occur due to weather related circumstances. If you are involved in an accident that is without injuries, if possible, Kentucky Law requires you to move your vehicle to the shoulder of the interstate or parkway. You should then call the police and exchange insurance information with the other party or parties involved. It is important to keep a current proof of insurance card inside your vehicle at all times. Exchanging insurance information is very important, especially, if you are not at fault. It may take up to eight days to receive a copy of the police report. In the meantime, you may be without a vehicle or have "out of pocket" expenses before receiving the information needed to file a claim against the "at fault" party. 

Buckley and Company, Inc. is available Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm for claim reporting. Our toll free telephone number is 800-575-8002. You will also reach our automated service after business hours for a list of carrier numbers to report your claim direct to your insurance company. All you will need to know if the name of your insurance company which can be found on your Auto Insurance Proof card or Auto Insurance policy. 

For your safety and the safety of others, please heed the Winter Storm Warnings and official advisories which ask motorists to stay off the roadways unless it is an emergency. If you must travel, please take extra clothes, blankets, food, and water in case your vehicle is disabled. Stay Safe, and along with me, hope for an early spring!

Did you know an EARTHQUAKE will occur today?

According to the USGS "there is 100% chance of an earthquake today."  It may surprise you to learn that somewhere on our planet an earthquake happens everyday.


Although it is known that somewhere on the planet an earthquake will occur daily; the predictability of when, where, and to what degree of magnitude are not possible at this time. However, there is hope for future predictability through advancements in technology and understanding of earthquakes. Imagine the lives and property that may be saved if people were given advance warning of an earthquake!

 In the meantime, experts agree that people should prepare  for the worst case scenario. Many states, including Kentucky, are getting the word out to their communities about the importance of preparedness. In Kentucky, February is Earthquake Awareness month by proclamation of Governor Steve Beshear.  

December 16th will mark the 200th anniversary of the New Madrid 1811 earthquake. This major earthquake occurred about 2:15 a.m., the first shock was felt in Arkansas and later events, continuing into February of 1812, impacted other states including Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee and more. It is said that the aftershocks were felt as far north as Boston, Massachusetts which caused church bells to ring. 

Because of sparse population in the area at the time, the earthquake caused little damage. However, if  the same magnitude of earthquake happened today, with many densely populated areas, the damage to life and property would be significant, including the loss of thousands of homes. The University of Memphis in Tennessee estimates that, for a 50 year period, the probability of a repeat of the New Madrid 1811-1812 earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.5 Mw - 8.0 Mw is only 7 to 10%, however, a magnitude of 6.0 or larger has an increased probability of 25 to 40%.  Damages could exceed those caused by Hurricane Katrina.

Here are a few ideas to help you prepare for an earthquake - have an emergency kit on hand, and hold earthquake drills that include safety spots at home, work, and school. In April 2011, please see our event posting, The Great Central US SHAKE OUT will take place. Participants will practice "drop, cover, hold on" earthquake drills as well as educate and prepare themselves for a future earthquake. Knowing what to do in an earthquake could save your life and the lives of your family members. To participate click on this SHAKE OUT registration link.

Another important way to prepare for an earthquake is to buy earthquake insurance. In Kentucky, earthquake insurance can be added to most Homeowers policies. It covers damage caused by an earthquake to your home and personal property and usually has a separate deductible of 5 to 10%. For a no cost, no obligation quote, please give your Buckley and Company, Inc. insurance agent a call today!

Since earthquakes are unpredictable the best you can do to safeguard your life, the lives of your family, and your property is to BE PREPARED, just in case.

Planning a Wedding? Join us at the Lexington Bridal Show!

If your asking yourself, “Why would Buckley & Company, Inc.  set-up a booth at a bridal show?”  We have the answer;  Travelers Insurance Company offers wedding insurance in their Wedding Protector Plan.   

According to Cost of Wedding website, "On average, couples that live in or travel to Lexington-Fayette, KY spend between $16,149 and $26,915 total for average cost," including such costs as the wedding attire, entertainment, flowers, decorations, venue, jewelry, invitations, and transporation. 

To protect your wedding investment, Travelers has responded with the Travelers Wedding Protector Plan. It provides coverage for lost deposits, lost rings, severe weather, transportation shutdown, ruined photos, call to duty, damaged gifts, sudden illness, venue required insurance, liquor liability, and additional expenses. Premiums start as low as $160.00.

Having nightmares about what could go wrong? For peace of mind and a free, no obligation quote, please stop by our booth at LexingtonBridalShows.com on Sunday, January 16, 2011 from 11am to 5pm., located at Embassy Suites Hotel,  on Newtown Pike at exit 115 off I-75/I-64. Admission is free.

When you arrive, don't forget to register to win a prize!  Each vendor will be giving away a door prize. Buckley & Company, Inc. has provided a gift certificate to Malone's!


In addition to wedding insurance, Buckley & Company, Inc. can offer you coverage for your business, home, auto, boat and yacht, flood, personal articles, and personal umbrella liability.

Mature Drivers: Defensive-Driver Courses Could Save Your MONEY and Your LIFE!

As the economy continues a slow recovery and social security checks haven’t seen an increase in two years, many mature drivers are asking about ways to save money on their auto insurance.

One way for mature drivers to save money on their auto insurance is by taking a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet or National Safety Council approved defensive-driving course. Drivers 50 to 65 could earn from 5 to 15% off their premiums for up to three to five years after course completion. In addition the discount benefits, drivers will also benefit from learning important defensive driving techniques that could prevent an accident and possibly save a life.

According to the National Safety Council Injury Facts - 2007 edition, more than 45,000 people lose their lives in motor vehicle crashes each year and more than 2.4 million people suffer debilitating injuries.

Defensive-driving courses may cover many topics including: Using caution when approaching intersections, eliminating distractions, when to avoid driving, and simple ways to inspect an auto for safety.

A few simple safety guidelines to remember are:

·         Always check for pedestrians, and other hazards prior to entering an intersection.

·         Always limit conversation and noise within the vehicle.

·         Never drive when tired, depressed or upset.

·         Never drink and drive.

·         Always check new medications for precautions before driving.

·         Always check your windshield and mirrors for clean visibility.

For a list of driving schools in Kentucky, please visit The Driving School Assoication of the Americas, Inc.  website or for an online course please visit Driving University.com website. 

For ALL licensed drivers insured with MetLife Auto and Home, you may want to consider taking MetLife Auto and Home policyholders exclusive Driver and Safety Course provided by the National Safety Council. They offer the course on DVD for a low cost of $19.95 + shipping and handling.  It is also available online, please visit: Driver Safety Course

To check to see if YOUR auto insurance carrier provides a discount, please give your Buckley & Company Personal Lines insurance agent a call.