Welcome to this months edition of The Alandale Advisor. 

 As a whole, the California Workers Compensation system continues to rebound from the grave.  In what many are calling a final staged public display, outgoing Insurance Commission John Garamendi recommends a 9.5 percent decrease in the workers' compensation advisory pure premium rates for policies incepting on or after Jan. 1, 2007.  Many companies have not agreed with this much of a reduction, however, many do see rates continuing to fall.  It has been an interesting 3 years since Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 899, which was the precursor to fixing our broken system.  Depending on who you talk to rates are down as much as 60 percent statewide since 2003. 

 Employee theft is on the rise.  According to a survey by Chubb nearly 36 percent of all privately held companies have experienced employee theft.  On the average losses total $350,000 per loss and many go uninsured.  Insurance buyers, their brokers and company representatives do not purchase this coverage often enough.  Please read a brief article on this subject and call your Alandale representative to confirm you have coverage or would like to add to your policy today.  It is relatively inexpensive and is more common than a fire. 

In a two part article, our third topic attempts to uncover some of the myths concerning Work Comp Cost Containment.  Give the first five myths a quick read and set your mind at ease.  I think you will find it eye opening.  We will complete the article in our December edition.

 Finally, with the holiday season upon us we want to remind those companies with trucks and vehicles on the road that safe driving is an important responsibility.  We have provided "Safe Driving Practices for Employees" from OSHA's website.  This easily downloaded card (In English and Spanish) can easily be used as a quick reminder with your drivers on the importance of safety.  As always, remember to document your training and your safety meetings.

 Happy Holidays from Alandale Insurance Agency.