SEAT BELT - USAGE & SAFETY

Everyone driving on Nigerian roads, knows they should use their seat belt as required by FRSC. The law was openly enforcement in 2015. However, there is a certain percentage of people who still don’t regularly buckle up or pay little attention when using it.

Let’s be honest, do you actually know the right way to wear your seat belt? Where does the lap belt cross your body? How much slack is in the shoulder harness? What about securing kids who have outgrown a car seat or booster seat? Or restraining pets that are along for the ride?

A lot of people simply fasten their seat belts and go while others just who have it already tied down only pull it over their head, without giving these questions another thought. But, having the right fit can make a big difference when it comes to protection. Research has also shown that proper seat belt usage reduces serious crash-related injuries and deaths by about 60%.

So check out these tips, and the next time you hop in the car, take a closer look at how you’re buckling up.

Seat Belt Tips for Adults
Here are the safety tips to observe when using the seat belt;

• Your shoulder harness should be worn across the shoulder and chest with minimal slack.
• Never wear it behind your back or under your arm; improper seat belt use could actually contribute to serious internal injuries in a crash.
• The lap belt should be fitted closely and low across your hips.
• And remember, while air bags offer additional protection, they are not a substitute for seat belts. For example, in a somersault crash, an air bag won’t keep you in your seat.

 For Pregnant Women these should be noted;

• secure the lap belt firmly under your bump and across your hips.
• The shoulder harness should go across your chest (keep it away from your neck) and to the side of your belly, not across it.

Car Safety for Kids
In general, kids should remain in a booster seat until they are big enough to fit properly into a seat belt, according to Parents Central.

However, children should be seated such that their posture meet the following conditions:

• Able to keep their backs against the vehicle seat
• Able to keep their knees naturally bent over the edge of the vehicle seat
• Able to keep their feet flat on the floor
• Keep in mind that the belt must fit snugly across the upper thighs (not the stomach)
• The shoulder harness should lie snug across the shoulder and the chest (not the neck or face).
• Check the fit for every child on every ride.

We all realize the benefits of wearing seat belts, so keep buckling up. And, make a real effort to wear them properly, too, so you get the strongest possible protection for you and your loved ones.

Follow us on our twitter handle - @con_hallmark 

                & facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for our tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com 

Sources:

imminet.com/wp-content/.../03/3079P-Seat-Belt-Usage-Instructions-Rev2_lores.pdf

www.safercar.gov/parents/TeenDriving/pdf-teen/seatbeltuse.pdf

www.fmcsa.dot.gov › Safety › Data & Statistics

https://www.police.qld.gov.au/EventsandAlerts/campaigns/.../seat_belts_fs.pdf

NEW NIGERIAN INSURERS ASSOCIATION CHAIRMAN, EDDIE EFEKOHA SETS FOUR POINT AGENDA TO RE-POSITION INSURANCE BUSINESS

The new Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) Eddie Efekoha, has identified four key programmes his administration would focus to take insurance operations to lofty heights. He disclosed this today at the 45th Annual General Meeting of the association in Lagos, where the mantle of leadership was bequeathed on him.

According to him, his administration would promote stakeholders’ engagement with policy makers at the Judiciary, the Legislature and other relevant agencies of the government, as well as regulatory institutions and industry players; enforce market discipline amongst key industry players which will involve engagement with colleagues and partners in the industry to encourage market development and continuity in the industry; review the NIA constitution to make it more dynamic in response to the changing business environment and pursue other current projects embarked upon by the association most important of which is the NIA Building Project.

He noted that the theme of his administration is: “Sustainable Market Development Through Stakeholders Engagement”, stressing that his cabinet will deal with the identified programmes to the best of their abilities.

He commended the National Insurance Commission under the leadership of Mohammed Kari, the Commissioner for Insurance, for instituting the Insurers’ Committee, a platform for dialogue between the regulator and regulated entities for the growth of the industry.

“Every leader is born for his own time! It is my opinion that our industry at this time will benefit a lot from the openness to dialogue of the Commission as a means to addressing some of the ills of the market today for long term sustainability, growth and ease of regulation. This is in line with the theme of my chairmanship and therefore I will not hesitate to encourage our members to participate actively as they have done since the inauguration of the Committee,” he said.

The Managing Director of Consolidated Hallmark Insurance, Efekoha maintained that the NIA has and will continue to remain true to its legacy as an institution that exists to champion the cause of the insurance industry and that his administration will ensure that the founders’ sense of purpose is upheld at all times.

STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT

Car accidents can be a very scary experience, which could either be a little bump from behind or a terrifying crash. The frightening noise, the shattered glass, and the panic that accompanies the terrifying experience can make each moment feel horrific. It actually requires a diligent level of calmness and some preemptive planning to be able to spring back into action in both physical and financial means after the such unfortunate event. Most motor insurance company in Nigeria do promise to help with your accident, but you may also need to take these few steps to help hasten the process of ensuring you get back on the road as soon as possible.

Here are the steps you need to consider before, during and after an accident;

Be prepared

The time to start planning for an emergency is not while it is happening you need to be prepared way before an accident occurs and one of such preparation is having an insurance cover. Be prepared by getting your documents ready. Place your insurance papers and any pertinent medical information in your glove box. If you have medical issues, make them known. If you think that by having your info in your wallet is enough, consider that a wallet or purse can tumble around in an accident while a glove box will remain stable.

First step

If you can move after a crash, move to the accident lane. An injury can prevent you from moving; stay in the car as immobile as possible until help arrives. Being immobile on the expressway may add to your anxiety, but a minor injury can be elevated to serious in nature with a few small movements. Move to the designated accident lane, or at least not in the middle of the road. Get out of the flow of moving traffic.

Stay calm

Being angry is a natural reaction to someone hitting your car. Keep your emotions in check; what you say can be held against you. A polite apology will be interpreted as an admission of guilt. If you rage against the other driver, however justified, your mental state can be questioned. Promptly move to the next step and remember that staying quiet is your best option after asking if the other driver and/or passengers are okay.

Exchange information

Yes, it can be awkward to ask for information after an emotional experience. Stay calm and ask for the following list:

1.    Name

2.    Address

3.    Phone number

4.    Email

5.    Make of car

6.    Model of car

7.    License plate number

8.    Insurance carrier

9.    Insurance policy number

Take picture

After an accident is no time for selfies, but it is a good opportunity to whip out your smartphone and document the damage. Technology can be a blessing when you need proof. The other driver may not appreciate it, but take as many pictures as possible of both cars. A video may be best if the other driver is not cooperating. Contact the police for a police report of the accident.

Report the incident

Make sure to call your insurance provider immediately the accident occurs notifying them of all what happened that lead to the accident and asking them what you need to do for easy and speedy claims payment. It is best to have your insurance provider contact as one of your speed dial number on your mobile device. 

With these steps, you are well prepared and aware of what to do whenever an accident occurs. The often reaction of fist fights or struggling among drivers when an accident occurs would no longer play out. 

If you do not have insurance and would like to be insured, please call 09056037852 and we would be happy to give you the best option that suits your budget.

For more information, follow us on our social media platforms; 

    twitter handle - @con_hallmark 

    & facebook page - conhallmark

 OR

Visit our website for tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com

HAZARDS OF HAVING FAKE INSURANCE

There is always a feeling of joy when a product is bought. A product bought for the comfort it gives or the solutions it provides. More importantly, when this is done with hard-earned money. This feeling of joy escalates to a whole new level when this product fulfils the purpose for being bought. It is always beyond words. Can you imagine what happens when the product fails just because it is fake. A deep-seated rage engulfs the buyer. The rage at the thought of money wasted and service not received.

The internet is awash with news of car accidents, third property damage by motorist and hit & run drivers. These stuffs happen when it is least expected. Recently, the National Assembly posited that there are about 12million fake motor insurance policies in Nigeria. Are you part of the 12 million? This number seems scary. Do you know that it is a crime by law to drive a vehicle without insurance? Do you know that it is compulsory for all vehicles on Nigerian roads to be insured? Permit me to highlight what this means.

With 12 million fake motor insurance policies in Nigeria, it means there are 12 million criminals driving on our roads. According to law, ignorance is not an excuse. That you are not aware your insurance is fake is no excuse. It also means there are 12 million prospective hazards on our road. If one of these is involved in an accident, resulting in death or damage to other people’s assets, nothing can be recovered from this fake insurance. He would have succeeded in killing an innocent pedestrian with no insurance to pay for the death. The ‘reckless’ driver would have been arrested and prosecuted. However, this could have been different, if he had genuine insurance.

Anyone who drives with a fake insurance, risks being jailed and prosecuted. He risks paying for damages cause to other people’s car, assets & properties. And when he cannot pay, he risks having his vehicle impounded or charge to court. Third party insurance is designed specifically to cater for third party liabilities due to the use of the vehicle. Therefore, when a vehicle is not insured, it is a criminal offence and it also exposes pedestrians to vary degrees of risk. These are few of the consequences.

However, you can confirm if your insurance is genuine by clicking www.askniid.org or send *Policy Number*Reg. No. to 33125. Instantly the status of your car insurance is revealed. Don’t put yourself in an awkward situation. Protect yourself and other pedestrians. Be Smart, don’t allow road officials harass you. You can buy your third party insurance in 5mins here www.motorthirdpartyonline.com

Click http://ow.ly/4nrZiT to see the benefits of third party motor insurance.

Follow us on our twitter handle - @con_hallmark              
                      & facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for more tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com

10 SAFETY TIPS FOR THE HOME

Extreme weather conditions can cause serious damage to your home and in turn create unexpected costs and hassle. Weather conditions such as heavy rains/thunder storm can damage home properties if adequate preparation and sanitation are not done. 

To prevent these unexpected expenses, a little preparation if done properly, goes a long way to taking care of your home during heavy rains.  

We will now share 10 important safety tips/preparation that will help keep our properties and home safe, dry and flood-free this time of year. 

1. Clean your ground drainage gutters. Rainfall in Nigeria can range from soft steadily falling drizzle to torrential downpours. You need to make sure all run-offs are being diverted away from your house and not going to cause flooding.

2. Fix your roof leaks. After the first hard rains, you’ll know if you have any roof leaks. Get them fixed as soon as possible so they don’t expand and become an even bigger problem.

3. Trim those trees hanging over your roof. Wind and the extra weight of water from rain can cause limbs to break, which could damage your roof or parked car. 

4. Make sure not to have any standing water in your garden or around your property (buckets, unused flower pot plates, etc.) to avoid breeding places for mosquitoes, which can cause malaria. 

5. Remember your pets. Have a safe and dry place for your pets to go during rain storms.

6. Avoid placing trash and recyclables in bags or containers directly on drains and inlets.

7. Fumigate around your house. Fumigating around the perimeter of your home (natural or otherwise) will help keep the insects, bugs and mosquitoes out of your living space. 

8. Turn off all electrical appliance. Always switch off all electrical appliance when leaving home to prevent surge damage from lightning.  

9. Buy rain gear. New door mats help keep your floors clean. Having an umbrella stand by the front door keeps track of your umbrellas so you always have one when you need one. 

10. Close up every room windows. Whenever there is no one at home, ensure all windows in the home are properly sealed to stop rain from entering.  

If you have more safety tips, please share it with us. 

You can also protect your home and properties from the unforeseen/unexpected damage of the rain with our Home Insurance Cover. Click here goo.gl/4QIxdq  for more information 

Follow us on our twitter handle - @con_hallmark 

& facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for our tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com

Sources:

http://kdvr.cohttp://www.diy.com/help-ideas/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-rain/CC_npcart_2100009.art

https://www.privateproperty.com.ng/news/get-home-ready-rainy-season-nigeria/

http://valuedrywaterproofing.com/7-tips-for-preparing-your-home-for-heavy-rains/

https://www.elcaminohospital.org/stay-healthy/blog/safety-tips-rainy-season

CURBING THE ERRORS OF DISTRACTED DRIVING

It might be impossible to eliminate all forms of distractions while you are driving simply because the driving process itself is a multitasking activity. You must be able to keep your vehicle centered in your lane, while going at a certain set speed, at the same time keeping a safe distance with the vehicles ahead and to the side, all while watching for hazards ahead, to the sides and behind you. There is very little room for any distraction when driving couple with the multiple tasks a driver must already do.

While you cannot eliminate all distractions, you can practice these few tips to help minimize distraction while driving and avoid causing an accident.

Safety tips to avoid distraction while driving;

1. Do not use your cell phone while driving.

While you are driving, your cell phone should only be used for emergency purposes only. However if the call is very important, it is best to park by the roadside safely to make/receive the call.

2. Be well rested and alert before driving.

Make sure you are well rested before driving because fatigue and physical exhaustion causes less mental alertness and a more easily distracted driver.

3. Avoid eating while driving.

Food spills are a major cause of distraction while driving. Finishing your breakfast on the way to work may seem like a time-saver, but it means at least one of your hands is occupied and you are less attentive to the drivers around you. 

4. If you are drowsy, pull off the road.

Driver fatigue is a contributing factor in a high percentage of accidents. If you start to feel drowsy, find yourself drifting out of your lane, or struggling to keep your eyes open, find a safe place to pull over and as soon as possible.

5. Park to eat.

If you are really so hungry that you need to eat immediately after getting a meal in a drive thru, park your car to eat, and then drive to your destination.

6. Drink with a lid on your cup, only going slow and straight or stopped.

If your drink did spill while driving, the mess will be much less with a lid.
Also don't pick up the drink in the middle of a curve or turn. You need your hands and full attention on the road when turning.

7. Make sure children and pets are secured in their seats.

It is extremely important to take care of your child’s car seat and seat belt before the car begins moving. Pets should also be securely fastened for their safety, and so that they can’t distract you while you’re behind the wheel. 

8. Mind the kids. 

Pull over to a safe place to address situations involving children in the car.

9. Don’t hold a cup between your knees while driving.

The second you make a hard stop or tense your legs up, that cup is going to spill and with a paper cup the lid will probably be squeezed off. This can easily happen, especially while driving at a higher speed when attempting to put your drink down, causing a spill.

10. Tell your passengers you need to keep your eyes on the road.

Especially children, but any passenger might say "look at that..." while you are driving. Your first instinct is to look at what they are talking about. Learn to say "I can't I'm driving", it can save you from a collision.

11. Keep both hands on the steering wheel in a curve or turn.

Don't reach for anything while turning the steering wheel and driving.
You need both hands on the wheel to safely make your turn with the most control of your vehicle. Distracted driving while in a turn is much more dangerous than while driving on a straight road.

Following these simple tips would guarantee you a safe and incident-free drive.

Watch the clip below and learn why you need to avoid distraction while driving.

 For more interesting and educative post, follow us on our social media channels;

twitter handle - @con_hallmark 

& facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for our tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com

Sources:

http://www.ghsa.org/html/issues/distraction/tips.html

https://www.farmers.com/inner-circle/car-safety/7-tips-to-avoid-driving-distractions/

http://www.currentinsurance.ca/5-tips-to-avoid-distracted-driving/

http://www.drivingtips.org/Distracted-Driving.html

https://www.geico.com/information/safety/auto/teendriving/distracted-driving/

https://www.itcanwait.com/

CONSOLIDATED HALLMARK INSURANCE'S PROFIT SPIKES BY 182%

Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc’s profit surge to end 2015 financial year has validated the Nigerian insurer’s growth strategy amid a low premium environment.

For the year ended December 2015, the company’s PROFIT BEFORE TAX spiked by 182.70 percent to N545.81 million from N193.07 million in December 2014.

                                                                                 

The growth in profit was due to the upward trajectory at the top lines, stoked by the contributions from premium incomes. The stellar performance by the company also means its risk controls and innovative products have paid off.

Consolidated Hallmark underwriting capacity was efficient as underwriting profit moved by 58.7 percent to N1.369 billion in December 2015 compared with N863.24 million as at December 2014.

The Nigerian insurer's profitable products such as Oil and Energy and Motor vehicle insurance may have contributed in bolstering underwriting activities.    

Despite challenges such as poverty, lack of awareness about the advantages of taking a cover and cultural beliefs holding back the growth of insurance firms, Consolidated Hallmark recorded a 30.88 percentage growth in gross premium written (GPW) to N6.03 billion in 2015 from N4.62 billion in December 2014.

Gross premium income (GPI) also followed the same upward trajectory as it moved by 25.58 percent to N5.87 billion in the period under review, while net premium income jumped by 26.06 percent to N3.18 billion in December 2015 from N2.53 billion as at December 2014.

Despite Consolidated Hallmark’s impressive performance in the period under review, industry experts posited that 2016 would be a tough year for insurance companies as a slow economy are expected to dampen premium income.

This is because rising inflation on the back of soaring food price and fuel hike as a result of scarcity means many people will be left with little money in their pockets to buy a policy.

Inflation in Africa’s largest oil producer and most populous nation accelerated to 11.4 percent in February, the highest in a decade.

Growth slumped to 2.8 percent last year, the slowest since 1999, and will decelerate to 2 percent in 2016, according to Morgan Stanley.

The insurance industry contributed less than one percent to an economy of N80 trillion ($510 billion), according to the National Bureau of Statistics in its 2014 rebased estimate.

There are positive prognoses for the sector as NAICOM; the body that regulates insurance business has made insurance cover compulsory for employers with more than 5 staff.

Also, the regulator has implemented policies such as TakaFul and ‘No Premium No Policy, in order to deepen penetration in Africa’s largest oil producer and most populous nation.

The 2015 audited financial statement of Consolidated Hallmark showed the insurer is in a strong financial position, as combined ratio (CR) reduced to 61.35 percent in December 2015 from 73.91 percent in December 2014.

A Combined Ratio lower than the 100 percent threshold means an insurance company has a solid underwriting capacity. Consolidated Hallmark’s total claims expenses reduced by 1 percent to N958 million in December 2015 compared with N967 million at December 2014. Claims ratio dropped to 30.03 percent in December 2015 as against 38.22 percent in December 2014.

Underwriting expenses were up by 10.25 percent to N1 billion in December 2015 compared with N907 million in December 2014. Underwriting expenses ratio increased to 31.60 percent in December 2015 from 35.88 percent in December 2014.

The company’s reinsurance premium expenses grew by 25.02 percent to N2.68 billion in December 2015 from N2.14 billion in December 2014. Operating expenses were up by 12.80 percent to N1.16 billion in December 2015 as against N1.03 billion in December 2014.

Consolidated Hallmark has a total asset of N7.02 billion as at December 2015, while shareholder’s fund stood at N4.26 billion on the same day. The company’s return on equity (ROE) spiked to 16.52 percent in the period under review as against 5.35 percent the previous year.

Follow us on our twitter handle - @con_hallmark              
                      & facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for more tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com