http://www.ccisca.com/blog/ View the Cliff Cottam Insurance Services website blog. en-us Mon, 06 Sep 2010 02:03:39 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Short_Sale_Steps.aspx Homeowner owes more than the house is worth. The homeowner does not need to be facing a foreclosure to do a short sale. Some lenders require the seller to be facing a financial hardship, however. 1. Real estate agent gets the listing and seller sets a price at market value or generally 5 to 12 percent below market value. Realtor puts home on the market. 2. Buyer makes an offer. Listing agent submits it to lender. 3. Lender considers the offer. Lender may take several weeks or months to respon... Sun, 05 Sep 2010 12:01:02 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=7ef2c0d9-b7d5-442a-8e1a-36da7f261bac http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Short_sales_can_be_great_deals_nightmarish_ordeals.aspx Bill Joyce starts every short-sale journey with "The Speech." In a what's-ahead warning to homebuyers, the Roseville real estate broker promises something resembling burning deserts, howling winds and crops destroyed by hail. Buyers will be tested and tortured, he tells them. They will endure privations beyond all expectations. And then they might fail. "All the things you normally expect are suspended," Joyce says of changes sweeping across Sacramento's distressed housing market. "There's a n... Sun, 05 Sep 2010 11:42:58 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=1c46649b-adb3-413c-b03e-0f3e8837a5db http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Regal_CXL_is_Buicks_chance_to_re-enter_mainstream.aspx With the 2011 Buick Regal CXL, Buick takes a giant step toward relevance, desirability and-can it be? - excitement. The Regal's tidy dimensions, athletic shape and excellent handling inject some badly needed panache into the brand General Motors chose to save over Pontiac, Saturn, Saab and Hummer. The Regal aims to compete with sporty front-wheel drive midsize sedans such as the Acura TSX, Mazda 6 and Volkswagen Passat. Prices for the 2011 Regal start at $26,245 for the CXL. It comes with a 18... Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:54:51 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=6911d39a-24ef-468e-88a0-6c35ca7d9945 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Northern_California_Shakes_in_33_Magnitude_Earthquake.aspx Northern California experienced mild shaking when a 3.3 magnitude earthquake struck the San Pablo, Calif., area at 9:35 a.m. this morning. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake, which occurred on the Hayward fault, was recorded at a depth of 4 miles. The epicenter was located 8 miles from Berkeley, Calif., and 16 miles from San Francisco City Hall. An aftershock in the same area was measured at 2.4 magnitude. There have been no immediate reports of damage at press time. The la... Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:32:30 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=68b9a100-4833-40b7-8f21-f6190d615886 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Honda_CR-Z_aims_to_have_fuel_efficiency.aspx LOS ANGELES -- Cars typically force drivers to make a choice: sporty but piggish on fuel or efficient and underwhelming. With its 2011 CR-Z, Honda Motor Co. is playing with a new concept. It's called responsible indulgence, and Honda's debuting the idea with a two-seat "sporty hybrid coupe" that's got some spunk but doesn't force drivers to check their environmental consciences at the door. Starting at $19,200, the CR-Z offers conservationist virtues and Kardashian curves on a Kmart budget. The... Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:50:53 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c1ccbf76-f607-4d1e-8d49-f93b8bca4fb8 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Small_Businesses_Expect_a_double_dip.aspx Most small business owners in California are afraid the economy will go into a double-dip recession. A survey released today by Citibank says 85 percent of the state's small business owners are concerned about a double dip. The findings are in line with growing pessimism among some economists. The survey added that 74 percent believe they've prepared themselves for another downturn. Some 67 percent say they've changed the way they're doing business, with many reducing their debt, increasing ca... Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:44:39 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=74d70537-45cb-4b70-992a-f24375235c6a http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Californias_travel_on_Labor_Day_Weekend.aspx Despite economic uncertainty, Californians apparently are ready to hit the road over the upcoming holiday weekend. A survey released Monday by AAA Northern California predicts an 11 percent increase in the number of Californians expected to travel over the Labor Day weekend, compared with last year. AAA projected that more than 4 million Californians will travel 50 miles or more from their homes. "Despite the continued mixed feelings regarding the economic recovery, a strong comeback in travel... Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:45:09 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=e26c5144-71f0-4b75-bd81-1a7c393909da http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Updated_car_stickers_to_include_environmental_info.aspx WASHINGTON (AP) -- Will your new car get an A in fuel efficiency? A government proposal may add letter grades to showroom window stickers on new cars and trucks to reflect a vehicle's overall fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions. The Transportation Department and Environmental Protection Agency said Monday they were considering two options to upgrade the energy and environmental information that will adorn labels on new vehicles in car dealership showrooms, beginning with the 2012 model yea... Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:35:00 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c9a830f0-636f-42f5-90ae-d7438d2438a7 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Quick_Home_Finds_online_shopping.aspx Shop for homes online by clicking on the Quick Home Finds page at http://www.sacbee.com/homes/.  If you find the home of your dreams, let us shop to find you the best insurance at the best rates.  Click here to get your free insurance quote!   http://www.ccisca.com/automobile/car_insurance_quote.aspx Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:59:27 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=f2a39acb-b60f-44a1-a6d7-cb1005bdce36 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Checkpoints_air_to_deter_drunken_driving.aspx As darkness fell on a recent Friday evening, Sacramento police officers and volunteers gathered in a shopping center parking lot on the southwest corner of Mack Road and Valley Hi Drive. Two mobile incident command vehicles served as the hub for a sobriety and driver's license checkpoint on Aug. 20, one of 22 scheduled throughout the city of Sacramento between September 2009 and October of this year. Across the Sacramento region, similar scenes repeat themselves about 70 times a year. Drivers o... Sat, 28 Aug 2010 15:38:57 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=d67c5462-db33-4a16-8c96-77539b4422d1 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Motor_Vehicle_Crash_Injuries_Costing_99_Billion_a_Year.aspx In a one-year period, the cost of medical care and productivity losses associated with injuries from motor vehicle crashes exceeded $99 billion – with the cost of direct medical care accounting for $17 billion. A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the total annual cost amounts to nearly $500 for each licensed driver in the U.S. The study in the journal Traffic Injury Prevention found that the one-year costs of fatal and non-fatal crash-related injuries totale... Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:13:23 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=71232bdb-4bd7-4e45-847e-15c941121f91 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Some_Corolla_Matrix_models_are_latest_Toyotas_to_face_recalls.aspx NEW YORK (AP) -- Toyota recalled 1.33 million Corolla sedans and Matrix hatchbacks in the U.S. and Canada Thursday because their engines may stall, the latest in a string of quality problems at the Japanese automaker. The recall covers vehicles from the 2005-2008 model years sold in the U.S. and Canada. Three accidents and one minor injury have been reported, though Toyota said a link to the engine issue has not been confirmed. Toyota's latest recall is one of its largest since it began recallin... Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:36:24 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=16aa55d7-a202-4934-8449-f1aeb8c25d67 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/California_stop_violation_fees_may_change_with_AB_909.aspx Make no mistake, the infamous rolling "California stop" on right turns is still illegal, and arguably more dangerous than ever. But a bill on the governor's desk represents a mea culpa to drivers statewide, including in several Sacramento-area cities, who've been cited in recent years for turning right on red without coming to a complete stop: They've been charged twice what seems to be fair. The current $450 fine in many cities for a rolling stop at right turn is on the level with fines levi... Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:22:20 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=375273d0-1542-4e24-9c64-70de26287b2f http://www.ccisca.com/blog/How_to_Choose_A_Right_Auto_Insurance_Company.aspx Almost everyone needs to know about auto insurance companies. Even if you don’t drive right now, you may one day find that you need to. Even if you live in the city and have no need for a car, you may find that one day you move from the city and suddenly, a car is a necessity. Though there are some that go through life without driving, you know that almost every does so. This is why there is such stiff competition out there for insurance. You may notice that auto insurance companies have... Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:03:43 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=81179be7-8f28-4d9b-96bc-a44110c96bbe http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Should_you_buy_insurance_online_or_from_an_Insurance_Broker.aspx The internet today, has changed the way insurance is sold. Whereas in the past, before the internet became a household feature, life insurance, Auto insurance, travel insurance, home insurance, business insurance or for that matter any type of insurance was sold by real people, Insurance agents. Insurance agents who you would either meet in their office or in the comfort of your own home and buy insurance coverage as per your requirements. Insurance agents would take the time to explain the... Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:22:08 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c572ea68-4d69-47d7-9d51-4b0e70699771 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Government_estimates_millions_drive_drunk_in_US.aspx WASHINGTON -- An estimated 17 million people have driven while drunk at least once on U.S. streets and highways in the course of a year, according to a government study released Wednesday. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration survey conducted in late 2008 found that 20 percent of those 16 and older reported driving within two hours of drinking alcohol. Based on the survey results, NHTSA estimates that 8 percent of all drivers, or 17.2 million people, have driven at least once over t... Thu, 26 Aug 2010 10:55:31 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=59565e97-295b-483b-8ef2-e124ad98e694 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Sacramento_Realtors_to_fund_energy-efficient_aid_for_buyers.aspx In a first of its kind in California, the Sacramento Association of Realtors will give qualified homebuyers $2,000 in cash to help make energy-efficient improvements. Realtors say they aim to combat a reluctance to buy energy-guzzling older homes. With nearly 60 percent of Sacramento-area housing built before 1979, many buyers fret over replacing aging rooftop air conditioning systems or having to pay higher energy bills in drafty older dwellings, agents say. "It's a chance for Realtors to posi... Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:58:58 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=13105a24-2943-4d85-9b22-3480f37e532d http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Homeowners_Coverage_Knowledge_Gap_Wide_among_Consumers.aspx Many Americans admit to having a knowledge gap when it comes to what their home insurance actually covers, according to a new survey. Nearly one third (31 percent) of Americans don't know how much their most valuable assets -- their homes -- are insured for, and an additional 46 percent don't know how much coverage they have for their homes' contents, such as furniture and clothing, say the results of a survey by Zogby International for MetLife Auto & Home. Additionally, many homeowners are... Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:54:28 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=41719138-dfae-42f5-8c9b-167347083c97 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Be_aware_of_these_Insurance_Scams.aspx Scam Alerts Don't became a victim of insurance fraud — either directly or indirectly. Know the scams, read about real-life cases, and find out how you can fight back.  Agent and insurer scams Airbag scams Auto repair fraud Bogus health plans Disaster alert Discount medical cards Dental fraud Long-Term Care Insurance Fraud & Deception Medical Identity Theft Health insurance schemes Staged automobile accidents Windshield... Mon, 23 Aug 2010 11:06:12 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=740add94-c511-4363-adcc-9c43a9a0dc50 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Fees_on_crashes.aspx Bad drivers with Sacramento County and city addresses might want to skirt the city of Roseville. For the last 13 months, Roseville has imposed fees to recoup costs of providing emergency services for non-resident drivers who cause crashes. Now, the city of Sacramento is considering doing the same thing. On Sept. 14, the City Council is expected to consider the fees for nonresident drivers who cause crashes. The fees would range from $435 for the Fire Department's basic response, to $2,275 for ... Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:44:24 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=b67717b1-f41c-4e47-8a03-c8c4b0489ccf http://www.ccisca.com/blog/California_to_issue_order_on_faulty_gas_pumps.aspx Latches that keep gas flowing when consumers take their hand off the nozzle may soon be removed at many stations around the state. The state fire marshal today is expected to issue a safety mandate – affecting one-third of California gas stations – that will make pumping gas a little less convenient. But it will make the process safer, said Daniel Berlant of the state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/23/2975823/back-seat-driver-ca... Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:40:48 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=90d60c5e-1a6e-41ba-a553-ca91ac7c24b2 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Car_rattlling_mounds_as_Caltrans_repair_Hwy_50.aspx Annoying, car-rattling mounds are popping up daily on the freeway through Rancho Cordova, prompting unsettled drivers to wonder if the road has the mumps. "Why are these needed?" driver Steve Sprague asked. "To slow us down? To work my vehicle's suspension to an early grave?" Caltrans officials say the orderly rows of brownish bumps are their handiwork. It's a new technique to stabilize freeway slabs at the joints, giving them a longer life. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/23/2975922... Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:36:47 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=7aaf2020-0571-48b4-bf08-0cc4b49ac38a http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Changes_to_credit_cards_set_to_begin.aspx If you're packin' plastic, take note: The last major round of changes to how we use our credit cards goes into effect today. Aimed at protecting consumers, the rules enacted by Congress last year put restrictions on how credit card companies can assess late fees, hike interest rates and handle billing, among the major provisions. The changes "put consumers squarely in the driver's seat by restricting fees and requiring clearer rules and improved disclosures," said Kenneth J. Clayton, American B... Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:29:11 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=33c0d551-36b7-4e64-96f2-283ee1978e6c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Nearly_50_leave_Obama_mortgage-aid_program.aspx WASHINGTON (AP) -- Nearly half of the 1.3 million homeowners who enrolled in the Obama administration's flagship mortgage-relief program have fallen out. The program is intended to help those at risk of foreclosure by lowering their monthly mortgage payments. Friday's report from the Treasury Department suggests the $75 billion government effort is failing to slow the tide of foreclosures in the United States, economists say. More than 2.3 million homes have been repossessed by lenders since the... Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:24:42 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=8247e239-780e-4935-9e0a-26620df89c0c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Mortgage_Guide.aspx You can find current rates, calculators, or mortgage advice by linking to the Mortgage Guide at http://sacramento.infotrak.com/  "We would be happy to find you home or rental insurance "24/7".  Contact us @ www.ccisca.com  or call us at (800) 807-6871. Sat, 21 Aug 2010 14:12:02 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=a10e0434-ddb1-413c-ac7f-0469eece6ef4 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Saving_Concept_Cars_is_his_mission.aspx Almost accidentally, Joe Bortz became the custodian of a fleet of forgotten automotive masterpieces. Along the way, he became an expert on General Motors' history and a staunch believer in its future. The retired Chicago biochemist and restaurateur is a self-described automotive archeologist, rescuing classic concept cars from junkyards and forgotten warehouses. "The world's finest designers did their best work in Detroit in the 1950s and '60s," Bortz said. "A century from now, these cars will... Sat, 21 Aug 2010 13:52:15 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=aac225e9-a6e3-4f78-b595-095148121e76 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Renters_can_do_plenty_to_make_their_homes_more_eco-friendly.aspx LOS ANGELES - So you're a renter and you want to green your space, but your landlord won't splurge on solar panels.  Don't fret. There are plenty of low-cost ways for apartment dwellers to be eco-friendly. You can be a green tenant by unplugging appliances or using chemical-free products. It's as easy as fixing leaky faucets or installing window treatments to conserve heat in the winter and to keep your place cool in the summer without cranking up the air conditioning. "There's a myt... Sat, 21 Aug 2010 13:45:22 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=2a21f2c3-da7d-426a-a2ab-32fb280186b6 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Search_for_a_car_online_at_Carscom.aspx Find the best new car for your lifestyle. See the expert picks for small families, commuters, eco-friendly drivers and many more. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/cars/#ixzz0xA7dxtTh Contact us to find you the best insurance rates available!  We have many top-rated companies to choose from. Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:09:35 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=e4c12857-c8b2-44ee-a5f1-c6dfebefe2f2 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Poll_Washingtonians_OK_Fines_for_Texting_While_Driving.aspx Although the number of Washingtonians who text message while driving has increased, a recent poll indicates that the majority (83 percent of drivers surveyed) either support the fines for enforcing the new no-texting law, or think they should be even higher. According to a poll by PEMCO Insurance, opinion among Washington drivers is divided when it comes to the cost of committing a texting offense while driving. Forty-four percent of those surveyed said the $124 fine for texting is fair, while ... Fri, 20 Aug 2010 10:53:37 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=71ecf224-c4c7-47fd-b1d0-9034385b0614 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Its_an_Emotional_Sale.aspx How can you be bored when you are selling a product that protects people's lives, health and businesses? Our products protect people's ability to make a living, provide for their families and pay for their children's education. How many vocations are that important? Every time my company pays a significant claim, I know that in the eyes of my client and his or her family, I've made a difference. When I look at how selling insurance affects so many lives, I am truly humbled. It's an emotional sa... Wed, 18 Aug 2010 23:31:21 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=7fb23964-b5ac-41aa-b862-886f752d5e04 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Women_are_Safer_Drivers.aspx Consider these hypothetical situations and identify the driver: mom or dad? 1. You need to get somewhere fast, and have few inhibitions about scattering pedestrians like pigeons, honking and playing chicken with anyone who dares challenge your ownership of the road... Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/18/nyregion/18drivers.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=women%20are%20better%20drivers&st=cse Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:37:04 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c179a495-b4b8-4411-ab77-fa335be7877c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Drink_then_drive_Whisky_fuel_could_power_cars.aspx Scientists say they have developed biofuel for cars from waste produced in distilling Scotch whisky. Researchers at Edinburgh Napier University have produced a type of fuel called butanol using "pot ale" - the liquid residue from copper stills - and "draff," or leftover grain. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/18/2966429/drink-then-drive-whisky-fuel-could.html#ixzz0wyQZ5YJh Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:59:03 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=9135576c-196b-43d5-a63b-36b4969ad046 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Local_gasoline_prices_are_up_another_2_cents.aspx Prices at local gasoline pumps continue their slow, steady rise. The average retail price of gas in Sacramento rose 2.1 cents to $3.13 a gallon over the past week, according to data released Monday by SactoGasPrices.com, a GasBuddy.com website. That was 13.4 cents higher than one year ago and 5.6 cents higher than last month. Prices have fluctuated since the July Fourth weekend, but have been on an upward climb recently. However, relief may be on the way. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/... Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:44:57 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=5c75a331-26e3-4b20-8b26-57b5aabdf8b6 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Callifornia_Considers_Encouraging_Insurers_to_Go_Green.aspx The California Senate Appropriations Committee is considering a bill that would establish a new program to encourage insurer investments in qualified environmentally friendly investments. Specifically, AB 1011 would authorize insurers to claim a tax credit against the gross premiums tax equal to 20 percent of qualified investments that emphasize clean energy projects, energy efficiency improvements, environmental technology projects and other investments that conserve natural resources or reduce... Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:39:42 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c369c89c-cbcb-41e0-8953-69c48a8b8704 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Crash_tax_to_go_before_council.aspx Sacramento is likely to join the growing list of California cities that place a "crash tax" on out-of-town drivers who get into wrecks inside city limits. The City Council is scheduled to vote at its meeting Tuesday night on whether to enact fire cost-recovery fees on nonresident motorists who are at fault for crashes. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/16/2960935/sacramento-council-set-to-vote.html#ixzz0wmwnmPXL Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:50:40 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=269aafed-304e-428c-a03b-563d31764c8c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Prius_losing_its_diamond_lane_luster.aspx Toyota Prius drivers, prepare to move over. Your days of riding solo in carpool lanes are numbered. The yellow stickers that gave high-mileage hybrid cars diamond lane access the past five years will no longer be valid next year. They will be replaced by stickers for a new, even more exclusive generation of eco-friendly cars. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/16/2960933/back-seat-driver-prius-will-lose.html#ixzz0wmvWMmci Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:46:03 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=dc459725-d6c1-4875-baac-ca10de247e9e http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Free_workshop_offered_to_help_start_businesses.aspx Experts from the Sacramento-based Golden 1 Credit Union will conduct a free workshop on starting a new business at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Arden-Dimick Library, 891 Watt Ave., Sacramento. The presentation will include advice on planning, startup procedures and general business management.  Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/14/2958333/free-workshop-offered-to-help.html#ixzz0wbMABKJv Sat, 14 Aug 2010 12:17:41 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=1cd3a506-9548-4fc1-bf51-50953a61ea78 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Auto_Dealer_Opening_three_stores_in_Sacramento.aspx Opening a new auto dealership in about two weeks' time: difficult. Opening three car stores in that period: stress city.Nevertheless, veteran local auto dealer Brian Castonguay said Friday that he plans to open three new dealerships along Fulton Avenue next week. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/14/2957846/kuni-dealership.html#ixzz0wazX8vFO Sat, 14 Aug 2010 10:47:20 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=95cca724-efbe-405f-8ff1-9f0f98923985 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Crosswalks_are_not_just_stripes_on_street.aspx Early last week, an undercover police officer set up a sting for neglectful motorists at two locations in midtown Sacramento. Within a few hours, police had ticketed 47 motorists for failing to yield as the officer attempted to cross the street on crosswalks at 17th and J streets and Alhambra Boulevard and R Street. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/14/2957984/crosswalks-are-not-just-stripes.html#ixzz0wayQcRU7 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 10:42:24 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=2d2ca2f2-e041-44fc-8210-6e95e495afec http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Small_business_owners_meet_bankers_at_workshop.aspx Some were looking for information on how to expand their businesses; others just wanted to know how to help theirs survive. They came for answers, advice, even to vent. But more than anything, small-business owners like Michael Kyalwazi wanted to know how to grab the attention of lenders and their business-fueling capital. "Bankers don't understand us as much we understand them," said Kyalwazi, owner of three Sacramento-area Cafe LeMonde coffee shops. "They don't understand our trials and trib... Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:01:03 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=2eb7eeca-3c12-40c6-881a-150668d56c55 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Low_Home_Interest_Rates_in_Sacramento_area.aspx No one alive in today's real estate industry has ever seen mortgage interest rates so low. But for thousands of Sacramento-area homeowners, that's all but irrelevant. From rural Winters to suburban El Dorado Hills, those who need most to refinance into today's cheaper rates simply can't. They're out of work. They owe more than their houses are worth. Or they have damaged credit scores from falling behind on their house payments.     Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/1... Thu, 12 Aug 2010 12:56:38 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=580eae3f-4975-4f3f-a98d-b98f8ef5e711 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Governor_warns_of_hike_in_workers_comp_rates.aspx Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is warning of steep increases in workers' compensation insurance premiums, reversing one of his landmark legislative achievements. Read more: http://localsearch.sacbee.com/sp?keywords=Governor+warns&aff=1100#ixzz0wJdK0HwE Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:32:14 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=661c3f83-fdef-49e9-963c-5d9216345239 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Drivers_chat_-_till_they_spot_police.aspx Sacramento-area police hit the streets Tuesday on a coordinated cell phone crackdown, and confirmed what they already knew: Cell conversations end fast when a black-and-white vehicle looms in the rearview mirror. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/11/2950733/drivers-hang-up-fast-during-sacramento.html#ixzz0wJbrkGya Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:25:18 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=a4e4b245-ff5d-4fea-8453-35c040b553df http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Stop_rental_of_faulty_cars.aspx A Sacramento-based consumer advocacy group has petitioned the Federal Trade Commission to stop Enterprise Holdings Inc. and its rental car companies from renting out recalled, unrepaired vehicles to consumers. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/11/2950555/stop-rental-of-faulty-cars-group.html#ixzz0wJZdOdW1 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:16:51 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=1abe263d-61d1-4647-ad4a-e34f4354ef5b http://www.ccisca.com/blog/CHP_launches_crackdown_on_cell_phone_use_while_driving.aspx Today is the first of two days the California Highway Patrol and police agencies in the Sacramento area are dedicating this month to "zero tolerance" of cell phone use or texting while driving. Anyone caught talking or texting on a cell phone that is not a hands-free device today or on Aug. 18 will be given a citation, the CHP said. Cell phone violations carry a minimum fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for the second.  Read more: http://blogs.sacbee.com/crime/archives/2010/08/chp-... Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:45:12 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=97e03593-b437-4c52-a8cc-c8cc44865c2b http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Keeping_Vacant_Lots_Insured.aspx If you own vacant property, make sure it is protected.  Contact us via our website www.ccisca.com As the U.S. housing market struggles to rebound, many homeowners are stuck with hard-to-sell properties longer than expected. Some frustrated home sellers who must relocate for a new job opportunity, want to downsize or simply want to buy a new place have left homes empty. Vacant or unoccupied homes can leave the homeowner exposed to loss and liability that may not be covered by their insuranc... Tue, 10 Aug 2010 11:25:40 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=e4016031-ab86-45c0-8d86-7189f9de5485 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Obama_overtures_to_business_fall_flat.aspx WASHINGTON -- Labeled antibusiness by Republicans and some corporate chiefs, President Barack Obama mounted a campaign to show he wasn't. But his charm offensive has hit a rocky patch. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/09/2947091/obama-overtures-to-business-fall.html#ixzz0w8XzEKiv Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:01:31 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=286f08b0-5dd8-4e36-849f-506e8026048d http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Regulations_to_prevent_illegal_insurance_recissions.aspx California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner has imposed regulations designed to combat illegal rescissions. The rules take effect on August 18. Currently, health insurers may only rescind policies under very specific, limited circumstances defined by law and regulations. In the past, some insurers have exploited vagueness in these laws to improperly rescind health insurance policies, according to the Department of Insurance. The new regulations clarify the law to protect consumers from thes... Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:53:31 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=68d628cf-e69f-4620-970c-a8e1c1041035 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Sacramento_Car-Sharing_Plan.aspx Sacramento officials say two car-sharing companies, Hertz and Zipcar, have responded to their formal request for help in bringing communal car rentals to town. Zipcar already operates a five-vehicle car-sharing program at the UC Davis campus. The cars are parked at specific locations around campus and rented by the hour or day by people who have signed on as car-share members. Sacramento city leaders say they think the concept can work on a bigger scale here, especially in the central city wher... Sat, 07 Aug 2010 10:33:31 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=76fbec7a-cb2e-4599-a48a-291d649298b7 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Minor_Earthquakes_Rumble_Through_Elk_Groves_Laguna_West_Community.aspx LAGUNA WEST - A pair of small earthquakes rattled along a previously unknown fault in the Laguna neighborhood of Elk Grove over the past day. A 2.5-magnitude earthquake struck Tuesday evening and a 2.1-magnitude earthquake hit Wednesday morning along a fault line the US Geological Survey said was previously unknown.  Read more: http://www.fox40.com/news/headlines/ktxl-news-elkgroveearthquake,0,3610829.story Thu, 05 Aug 2010 11:48:41 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=1edaec6b-336f-4d21-accf-d42112724354 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Toyotas_Prius_tops_Japan_car_sales_for_15th_month.aspx TOKYO -- Toyota's Prius topped Japan sales rankings in July for the 15th straight month, getting a perk from incentives for green cars and helping Japanese sales of Toyota hybrid models reach a million vehicles. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/08/04/2938011/toyotas-prius-tops-japan-car-sales.html#ixzz0vkQHBU00 Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:59:47 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=24ed591d-5759-4503-9bbd-784bbe904e56 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Customers_Significantly_Less_Satisfied_With_Auto_Insurance_Companies.aspx Nationwide, customers are significantly less satisfied with Auto Insurance Companies.  As independent agents/brokers, we  shop many different markets to find you the best company at the best rates.  Call us at (916) 488-4426 or via our website at www.ccisca.com for a free quote. Read more:  http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2010/08/03/112149.htm Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:31:14 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=2927ec20-884c-4839-947e-13db714c2cd4 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Car_Maintenance_Advice_From_Click_and_Clack.aspx Learn about basic inspection and car maintenance tasks.  You will get tips on how to change air filters, brakes, coolant, oil changes and more.  Click to: http://www.cars.com/go/advice/cartalk/index.jsp Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:49:20 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=77d82c79-bd15-419b-8346-d946cc068e75 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Job_Opening_for_Independent_Insurance_Agent.aspx We are seeking a hard working, highly motivated, growth-minded independent insurance agent/broker to sell and market auto, home and business insurance.  Will work without supervision, so must have good time-management skills and the initiative to locate new clients.  Qualified candidate may set their own work schedule.  If this is you, Email or Fax a brief statement of qualifications and your resume to dcottam@ccisca.com or fax to (916) 488-4796.   Minimum Require... Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:35:04 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=9d101d1e-0a3a-42e6-bbec-b2f3ec5f23ca http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Find_Homes_online.aspx Research finding a home online through our website.  When you are ready to purchase home or rental insurance - - just let us know.  We will do the shopping to find you the best price with one of the several insurance companies that we represent.  Keep in mind that you can receive a discount if we insure both your auto and home.  Visit: http://www.sacbee.com/adperfect/category/Real+Estate?dircitynavigator=Carmichael Sat, 10 Jul 2010 10:50:58 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=4eb562b8-c1c8-42fb-b046-05de60dcf826 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Understanding_Business_Insurance_Coverage.aspx At Cliff Cottam Insurance Services we know just how critical it is to protect your business against lawsuits or accidents.  Just one occurrence can be devastating to you and significantly impact your business.  Let us work together to provide you with the best protection available.  Our goal is to protect your business and keep it strong during these difficult times.  WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW              &nb... Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:35:54 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=8ff6caa0-513e-4340-b8e6-f35382c0131f http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Insurance_Institute_for_Highway_Safety.aspx Status Report is a newsletter covering research and topics in the highway safety field.  It is published periodically by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Older drivers aren’t causing more crashes than they used to, and they aren’t dying more often when they do crash Ignition interlocks prove more attractive to DWI offenders than house arrest Raising alcohol prices and taxes reduces excessive drinking, alcohol-related crashes, and other harm, task force f... Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:43:48 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=e8eca2a4-09be-41d7-9dee-818590dfdc2c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Motorcycle_Safety_Bill_Proposed.aspx Spurred by a fatal motorcycle crash, two young Sacramentans with painful memories are on the verge of changing California law. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/07/01/2861914/teens-turn-grief-into-action-toward.html#ixzz0sRd298hM Request a motorcycle quote from Cliff Cottam Insurance Services today!  We have very competitive rates and are open late for your convenience.  Just complete our simple quote form at  www.ccisca.com or give us a call at (916) 48... Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:30:49 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=15f76d8f-5518-45aa-adbf-befd514bf84d http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Last_week_to_enter_to_win_an_Apple_Ipad.aspx This is the last week to enter to win an Apple Ipad by simply referring a friend via our website at www.ccisca.com.  And, you don't need to be a customer to enter or to win.  So, if you know anyone looking for a good agency with competitive rates and great representation, please take a few minutes to complete the "Refer a Friend" form.  The contest ends June 30, 2010 and the odds of winning are very good.    Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:06:08 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=95e93729-8698-4dba-a1f6-ba8b8e474ffb http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Tide_turns_on_red-light_camera_use.aspx Running a red light is the automotive equivalent of playing Russian roulette  Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/06/25/2847924/dan-walters-tide-turning-on-use.html#ixzz0rsmVrYTj Fri, 25 Jun 2010 11:23:50 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=75932caa-7609-4853-b96f-f0c5b9bebdfa http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Shop_for_used_cars_and_trucks.aspx Read EasyFindAutos every Thursday.  Find your favorites and for more info go to : www.sacbee.com/easyfindautos.  Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:11:58 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=77cf07ba-e995-4d67-98ae-b3e57bf5a926 http://www.ccisca.com/blog/How_to_File_a_Claim_with_Mercury_Insurance.aspx Life is unpredictable and accidents can happen at any time, which is why Mercury is here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So, rest easy. Whenever you need us, we’re just a phone call away—ready and waiting to get you back to normal as quickly as possible. If you need to make a claim, just give us call, day or night, at (800) 503-3724, and we’ll get your claim started right away.  Read more:  http://www.mercuryinsurance.com/auto-insurance-claims/ Wed, 16 Jun 2010 15:21:43 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=34fb6690-9d4d-4618-957e-eec2676e6ffb http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Mechanical_Breakdown_Protection.aspx Extend the life of your vehicle for up to six years or 100,000 miles How many times have you heard stories about cars breaking down right after the warranty expires? Our guess is, too many, which is why you need Mercury’s Mechanical Breakdown Protection (MBP).  Ask one of our representatives at Cliff Cottam Insurance about the three plans available.  They are almost always less than what the car dealers offer.   Read more:  http://www.mercuryinsurance.com/insu... Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:19:12 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=ec50b011-36b2-4267-9d7d-b462a2b1fdbf http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Back_Seat_Driver.aspx Is it time for California to toughen its fine for drivers who talk on hand-held cell phones?  First, some provocative news came out of Washington, D.C. last week about cell phone laws:  A study reported by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety calls into question........ Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/02/01/2503618/back-seat-driver-california-lawmaker.html#ixzz0ppjm294R Thu, 03 Jun 2010 17:56:11 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=c13d5f3f-8595-436b-8dcf-bf4f93283b6c http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Race_for_Insurance_Commissioner.aspx Two rivals are slugging it out for their party's nomination in the June 8 primary with the winner then going toe-to-toe with an opponent who skated through his party's primary virtually unopposed. The race for governor? Yes - and also the contest for state insurance commissioner. Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/05/29/2785457/ballot-watch-the-race-for-insurance.html#ixzz0pkMe1h14 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 19:49:22 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=dd19e877-55ae-40b0-b582-1231520cbd5a http://www.ccisca.com/blog/Spring_Sweepstakes.aspx This is the last month to enter our Spring Sweepstakes to win an iPad!  If you would like more information, we invite you to read more on our website. Spring 2010 Newsletter Wed, 02 Jun 2010 15:15:09 -0500 http://www.ccisca.com/blog.aspx?entry=f9705e65-56e7-4f90-98c7-aa7b20e4d585