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Our recent webinar on fleet safety manual development brought together industry expertise and legal insight to address one of transportation companies' most critical challenges. Featuring Attorney Alex Karcher alongside our teammate, Safety Consultant Anne-Marie Naples, this session explored how to align safety policies with 49 CFR regulations while keeping them accessible and actionable for drivers. The discussion emphasized that effective safety management extends beyond documentation, highlighting the essential role of ongoing education, structured corrective actions, and practical implementation strategies that avoid common legal pitfalls. For those who missed the session or want to revisit the core concepts, here are the key takeaways that can immediately strengthen your fleet safety program: Aligning safety policies with 49 CFR regulations to maintain legal and operational standards Drafting safety policies that are easy to understand and practical for drivers to follow Implementing a structured approach to corrective actions, balancing accountability with fairness Avoid excessive details that make the manual difficult to navigate or overwhelming for drivers Be mindful of how safety policies are presented online to prevent legal vulnerabilities A manual alone isn't enough - ongoing education and hands-on training are essential Click here to view the presentation.

The IRS issued Notice 2024-83, increasing the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) fee for plan years ending between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025. New PCORI Fee Rates 2025 Plan Years:  $3.47 per covered life 2024 Plan Years:  $3.22 per covered life What is the PCORI Fee? The PCORI fee, established by the Affordable Care Act, funds comparative effectiveness research in healthcare. Originally set to expire in 2019, it was extended through plan years ending before October 1, 2029. Who Must Pay Health insurance issuers Self-insured plan sponsors Payment Requirements Form:  File using IRS Form 720 Deadline:  July 31, 2025 (for 2024 plan years) Calculation:  Fee rate × average number of covered lives Covered Lives Include Employees enrolled in health plans Enrolled spouses and dependents COBRA participants Note:  Special rules apply to HRAs and FSAs. Key Compliance Facts Applicable Plans:  Insurance policies and self-insured group health plans Effective Period:  Plan years ending October 1, 2012 - September 30, 2029 2024 Payment Deadline:  July 31, 2025 IRS Resources PCORI Fee Overview Page PCORI Fee Questions and Answers PCORI Fee Due Dates and Applicable Rates Application Chart for Common Health Coverage Types Action Items Calculate your average covered lives for accurate fee assessment Update 2025 budgets with the new $3.47 rate Mark July 31, 2025 deadline for 2024 plan year payments Review IRS resources for specific compliance guidance The 2025 PCORI fee increase affects all health plans and self-insured employers. Ensure compliance by tracking covered lives accurately and meeting payment deadlines.

Written by Chris Loewenberg, Vice President - NSTD   As someone working for an insurance brokerage that specializes in the trucking industry, I've had a front-row seat to how technology adoption has transformed from mere compliance to strategic advantage. Here's what our team has learned about why embracing fleet technology is crucial in today's challenging market.   Beyond "Big Brother" We hear it from fleet owners all the time: "It feels like everyone wants more data about our operations." The perception that ELDs, telematics, and dashcams are just intrusive surveillance tools is something that has been long-believed in the trucking industry.   This frustration is valid. Many fleets don’t adopt these technologies by choice - they did it to meet regulatory requirements. Now, the pressure comes from multiple directions as brokers, shippers, and insurance carriers increasingly expect these systems as standard practice. While originally implemented for compliance, these technologies have evolved far beyond their monitoring origins. What began as electronic logbooks has transformed into sophisticated business intelligence tools that provide actionable insights across your entire operation.   This evolution matters because in today's challenging freight market – with tight margins, high operating costs, and intense competition, the fleets gaining advantage aren't just complying with regulations; they're leveraging this technology to make data-driven decisions that directly impact their bottom line. The shift from viewing these tools as "regulatory burden" to "competitive necessity" is happening right now across the industry.   From Compliance Tool to Competitive Edge Over the years, it’s become a clear pattern: while this technology sometimes feels intrusive, it's becoming one of the most valuable assets for successful operations - especially in today's tight market conditions.   The most successful fleets are using ELDs and telematics to: Identify and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption Implement preventative maintenance before costly breakdowns Provide targeted coaching to drivers who need it most Build legal protection when accidents occur   These aren't just theoretical benefits - they translate directly to your bottom line: Fuel optimization typically returns 3-7% savings on your second-largest operating expense Preventative maintenance can reduce roadside breakdowns by 15-25%, minimizing costly repairs and service interruptions Targeted driver coaching has helped fleets reduce harsh braking events by 30-50% and speeding incidents by 25-40%, directly impacting CSA scores Legal protection isn't just about avoiding claims, it’s about preventing devastating nuclear verdicts that now average $22.7 million per case.   In today's market where freight rates remain volatile, but costs continue climbing, these operational efficiencies often mean the difference between profitability and loss.   Dashcams, in particular, have proven invaluable. We've helped clients use video evidence to successfully defend against exaggerated claims that could have resulted in devastating verdicts. In several cases, this technology has saved our clients millions in potential liability . The operational advantages alone justify technology adoption, but there's another compelling reason why now is a critical time to fully embrace these tools - the evolving insurance landscape.   The Insurance Reality: Getting Ahead of the Curve Why does this matter today more than ever? Because while commercial auto rates have increased by an average of 10-15% annually for the past five years, we're seeing a growing disparity in premiums between technology-equipped fleets and those without these systems. This gap is widening each renewal cycle.   The current market conditions create a unique opportunity - insurers are offering technology discounts without yet having sophisticated models to fully price risk differences. This creates a window where early adopters can: Secure immediate premium discounts Build positive data history before individualized rating becomes standard Position themselves as preferred risks while competitors struggle to catch up   Based on industry expertise, we can share an insider perspective: the insurance industry isn't as sophisticated in utilizing telematics data as you might think. Most carriers are still primarily collecting data rather than fully leveraging it. They offer discounts for installing telematics and dashcams because they recognize the future value of this information, not because they've mastered how to rate your fleet differently based on it. Very few of our insurance partners have developed the actuarial models, underwriting resources, or even the strategic focus to take a truly individualized approach.   This is precisely why Cottingham & Butler has been advising clients to implement these technologies properly now. By using them proactively to build a safer, more efficient operation, you're positioning yourself advantageously for the inevitable future when insurance pricing will more accurately reflect individual fleet performance rather than broad industry averages. The industry's current transition creates a significant opportunity for forward-thinking fleets. Looking Forward The gap between fleets that merely comply with technology requirements and those that leverage these tools for competitive advantage is widening every day. While your competitors are still figuring out basic implementation, here's what the industry leaders are doing right now: Take a hard look at what you're doing with your technology investment. Most fleets we work with are shocked to discover they're only using about a third of their system's capabilities. Don't just check that devices are installed – dig into whether you're tracking the right metrics for your operation. Are you connecting your maintenance software with your telematics data? This isn't just tech talk, it's the difference between having fancy equipment and having proof of risk management that makes underwriters take notice. Set up regular reviews of your technology data – and we don't mean glancing at reports once a month. The fleets staying ahead in this market have dedicated time where operations, safety, and management teams look at what the data is telling them and make concrete changes. Too many companies collect mountains of information and then do nothing with it. If you're paying for these systems, make them earn their keep by turning patterns into practical improvements your drivers and managers can implement tomorrow. Proactively document and showcase your technology investments during renewal discussions, as many brokers lack the specialized knowledge to identify and secure all available premium credits. A thorough technology assessment should be standard practice in your renewal strategy, ensuring carriers fully recognize your risk management efforts.   Taking these proactive steps now will position your fleet for both immediate and long-term advantages. The technology transformation in trucking isn't perfect. There are legitimate concerns about privacy, data ownership, and the learning curve required to maximize these systems. But these tools are giving companies powerful new ways to protect themselves while creating separation from competitors.   By embracing rather than just tolerating these technologies, you're not only preparing for today's challenges but building a foundation for success when the insurance world eventually catches up. And as your broker, Cottingham & Butler will be here to help you navigate every step of that journey. Not a C&B client yet?  Schedule a meeting to see how our technology discount program could benefit your fleet and what savings you might be missing.

Summer heat isn't just uncomfortable - it can be dangerous for your employees and impact your business. Understanding heat-related illnesses and implementing preventive measures can protect your workforce and reduce liability risks. Heat-Related Illnesses: What to Watch For Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs when the body can't cool itself adequately due to insufficient fluid intake during hot weather. Watch for: Dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache Blurry vision Body temperature around 101°F Sweaty skin and excessive thirst Difficulty speaking Immediate action: Move to a cool place and drink water to prevent progression to heat stroke. Heat Stroke: Medical Emergency Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include: Sweating stops Unawareness of thirst and heat Rapidly rising body temperature above 101°F Confusion or delirium Possible loss of consciousness While waiting for medical help, place ice on the person's neck, armpits, and groin. If conscious, have them drink small amounts of water every 15 minutes. Effective Heat Prevention Strategies Stay Hydrated Drink water consistently throughout the day - at least eight 8-ounce glasses, and more during hot weather. Don't wait until thirst sets in. Choose Water Over Caffeine Skip caffeine and soda, which can contribute to dehydration. Dress Appropriately Wear lightweight, natural fabrics and well-ventilated hats outdoors. Fuel Smarter, Not Heavier Choose lighter, refreshing foods over heavy meals, especially before physical work or activity. Protect Your Workforce and Reduce Risk At Cottingham & Butler, we understand that heat-related illnesses impact both employee wellbeing and your bottom line through: Lost productivity Workers' compensation claims Increased healthcare expenses Our risk management specialists can help you develop heat safety protocols tailored to your industry. From employee training programs to preventative safety measures, we provide expertise to protect your people and business. Ready to strengthen your workplace safety initiatives? Contact your C&B representative to learn how our risk management solutions can help your business thrive year-round. This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.

The Situation A manufacturing facility suffered water damage from an underground burst in the fire suppression system. Initially, the insurance carrier classified this as Category 2 water damage according to Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards, offering a settlement of $498,652.75. This classification would have limited remediation to only basic water extraction, surface cleaning, drying and dehumidification, and basic sanitization.   Key Wins   Why They Needed Change The initial Category 2 classification significantly undervalued the necessary remediation work. This created a substantial gap between what was required to properly restore the facility and what the insurance carrier was willing to cover. Without intervention, the client would have either had to accept insufficient remediation or pay over $124,000 out of pocket for proper restoration.   Cottingham & Butler's Approach Cottingham & Butler took a proactive approach by challenging the initial water damage classification. Through expert knowledge of IICRC standards and insurance practices, the advocate successfully argued that the damage should be classified as Category 3, which requires more comprehensive remediation. This technical expertise and advocacy directly resulted in a 25% increase in the settlement amount, ensuring the client received appropriate coverage for the full scope of restoration needed.

The landscape of cargo theft has evolved dramatically, and the threat to your valuable shipments has never been more real. Cargo thieves have become increasingly sophisticated, aggressive, and strategic in their approach. What was once opportunistic crime has transformed into organized, targeted operations that can devastate unprepared businesses. The Growing Threat Landscape Cargo theft incidents increased 15% in 2023, with losses totaling over $223 million according to CargoNet's annual report. The average theft now costs $214,104 per incident, but total company impacts average $4.3 million when including supply chain disruptions, insurance claims, and reputation damage. Electronics, food and beverages, and automotive supplies account for 64% of stolen cargo (CargoNet, 2023). California, Texas, and Florida represent nearly 60% of all cases, though emerging Midwest hotspots show this threat is expanding nationwide. 5 Proven Strategies to Safeguard Your Cargo 1. Implement Route Diversification Avoid predictable patterns thieves can exploit. Companies that vary routes report 43% fewer theft incidents than those using consistent patterns (National Cargo Security Council). Change your routes, departure times, and stops regularly. 2. Leverage Advanced Tracking Technology Loads with active GPS tracking have 78% higher recovery rates when theft occurs (FBI Uniform Crime Reporting). Real-time monitoring reduces average response time to under 12 minutes through geofencing alerts and tampering detection. 3. Strengthen Driver Communication Protocols Incidents drop 31% when drivers check in every 200 miles or 3 hours (CargoNet). Establish regular communication and secure channels for reporting suspicious activity without compromising safety. 4. Secure Staging and Storage Areas Over 68% of cargo thefts occur at unsecured truck stops and staging facilities (FBI data). Facilities with comprehensive security measures see 85% fewer theft attempts. Invest in high-visibility locations with lighting, cameras, and controlled access. 5. Conduct Thorough Risk Assessments Holiday seasons see 23% more cargo theft, while high-risk corridors experience theft rates 300% above average (CargoNet Annual Report). Regular assessments help allocate security resources where needed most. The Value of Partnership Protecting your cargo requires more than just implementing security measures - it demands ongoing vigilance, industry knowledge, and adaptive strategies. The cargo theft landscape continues evolving, and staying ahead requires expertise that goes beyond day-to-day operations. Our transportation risk management specialists understand the unique challenges facing today's shippers. We work closely with industry leaders like Travelers to bring you the latest intelligence on emerging threats and proven countermeasures. Here are some tips from Travelers on how to stay ahead of cargo theft trends: Use high security locks while cargo is staged Ensure your “Red Zone” is implemented Use covert tracking devices Communicate consistently with dispatch Vet all carriers and business partners before giving custody of loads Take Action Today Cargo theft prevention isn't just about avoiding losses - it's about maintaining the reliability and integrity that your customers depend on. Every day you delay implementing comprehensive security measures is another day your valuable shipments remain vulnerable. Don't wait for a theft incident to reveal gaps in your security. Our experienced team is ready to evaluate your current protocols, identify potential vulnerabilities, and develop a customized cargo security strategy that fits your specific needs and budget. Ready to strengthen your cargo security?  Contact our transportation specialists today to schedule a comprehensive risk assessment and learn how these preventative measures can protect your business from the growing threat of cargo theft. At Cottingham & Butler, we believe in proactive risk management. Our transportation team stays current with industry developments and emerging threats to ensure our clients remain protected in an ever-changing landscape. Sources: CargoNet Annual Reports (2023), FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program, National Cargo Security Council industry data, and transportation risk management analysis.

When this Midwest oil company with 269  employees came to us, they were facing the same challenges that plague many organizations: low enrollment rates, confused employees, and an overly complex benefits administration process. The challenge was amplified by their decentralized workforce spread across 22 states, making traditional communication and engagement nearly impossible. Here's how we transformed their open enrollment from a yearly headache into a strategic success story with 92% completion rates. The "Before": A Client in Crisis Our client was juggling three separate insurance carriers, creating multiple bills, contacts, and administrative processes. Their HR team spent more time on paperwork than employee education, and the fragmented experience left employees overwhelmed and uncertain. Poor Employee Engagement Traditional communication methods with no performance tracking No centralized digital resource for benefits information Employees struggled to understand options and make informed decisions Low participation rates across voluntary benefit programs Missed Value Opportunities Underutilized voluntary benefits leaving money on the table No strategic approach to cost savings Technology gaps creating inefficiencies for both HR and employees Our Strategic Intervention Streamlined Operations  Consolidated carriers from three to two while expanding coverage options and reducing administrative complexity. "By leveraging the group's own claims data and working closely with carriers to restructure benefit designs, we turned potential roadblocks into opportunities - securing rate stability on short-term disability while finding significant savings on long-term disability that offset costs for the client," Jacob, Associate Marketing Consultant, said. Digital-First Communication Strategy  Designed and launched an integrated microsite supported by strategic multi-channel engagement campaigns. "We established the microsite as the primary education resource and directed all other communication channels to it," Erica, Sr. Communications Consultant, said. “This allowed all employees to receive the same consistent message regardless of which channels they engaged with." End-to-End Benefits Technology: Integrated multiple systems and automated workflows to reduce HR administrative burden while providing employees with intuitive self-service tools.  "The critical challenge involved ensuring the benefits administration system was correctly configured and ready for Open Enrollment. Since several benefits were being offered through their ADP platform for the first time, all plans needed to be properly established, and the Open Enrollment process designed to facilitate employee self-service enrollment." Sydney, Benefits Tech Analyst, said.   The "After": Transformative Results This collaborative spirit amongst all teams created momentum that carried through the entire project, enabling us to deliver exceptional results. With the help of strategic communications initiatives, we were able to meet the employees where they were at. Record-Breaking Participation 92% open enrollment completion rate - far exceeding industry benchmarks $8,250 in annual technology credits paid to the employer to help offset costs 56% of employees enrolled in at least 1 voluntary line Generated $100,000 in savings through consolidation of non-medical benefits Enhanced Employee Value & Digital Success 35% employee participation in voluntary life insurance with 20% premium savings Seamless enrollment experience through integrated ADP Benefits module 3.17x average engagement rate across all communication channels Key Gamechanger The custom benefits microsite we developed became the enrollment powerhouse, leading to 80% click-to-enroll conversion rate from this site alone. Success Factors Strategic Consolidation : Reducing carriers while expanding coverage created both cost savings and simplified employee experience. Employee-Centric Design : Every communication channel and touchpoint were designed around actual employee needs and preferences. Data-Driven Optimization : Real-time engagement tracking allowed us to adjust messaging and channels for maximum impact. Integrated Technology : Seamless platform integration eliminated friction points that typically derail enrollment completion. Sydney emphasizes the importance of collaboration: "To ensure this was a successful project, the tech and non-medical marketing team worked closely to align our strategies and timelines." True Team Collaboration : The success wasn't just about individual expertise - it was about seamless teamwork. As Jacob noted: "Everyone got to be a superhero here! Carriers were willing to play ball; the group was on top of making decisions and bought in with us and gave us their trust. Tech and communications really helped get everything over the finish line." What This Means for Your Organization This client's journey from benefits disarray to strategic success demonstrates what's possible with the right approach. The combination of smart consolidation, digital-first communication, and employee-focused design created a framework that works. Whether you're struggling with low enrollment rates, complex administration, or employee confusion around benefits, this case study proves that transformation is not only possible, but also achievable with strategic planning and expert execution. Our Team Collaboration: Saved the client and employees money Increased employee education and engagement with the benefits enrollment process Technology helped streamline processes and create efficiency

Last week, the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives voted on advancing President Donald Trump’s budget reconciliation bill, modestly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act  (OBBB Act). During the Senate vote, Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote to pass the bill. The bill passed the final House vote before Trump’s self-imposed July 4 deadline and the President signed it into law thereafter.    The legislation enacts many of the President’s key priorities, spanning from immigration reform to tax cuts.  Early versions of the bill included changes in the taxability of employer-sponsored health insurance.  Additionally, some later drafts contained a number of provisions that might have altered the manner in which other employee benefits were provided, particularly with regard to Health Reimbursement Arrangements and Health Savings Accounts. Most of these changes did not make it to the final version that won passage. What follows are highlights of how the Act affected (or, didn’t affect) the health and welfare benefits you and your employees enjoy. Issue Current Law OBBB Act Changes Telehealth and HSA Eligibility Prior to 2025, the CARES Act permitted high-deductible health plans to reimburse telehealth services on a pre-deductible basis, thereby preserving an individual’s eligibility to contribute/receive contributions to their HSA.  This safe harbor expired at the end of 2024. Permanently extends the CARES Act safe harbor.  This means that individuals receiving free or low cost access to telehealth benefits will be able to contribute to and receive employer contributions to their Health Savings Account. Direct Primary Care Arrangements and HSAs Some direct primary care arrangements may be classified as health plans, rendering individuals enrolled in these arrangements ineligible to contribute to an HSA. No direct primary care arrangement will be considered a health plan, thus participation will not affect an individual’s ability to contribute to an HSA. Permits use of HSA monies to reimburse direct primary care arrangement costs ($150/month for individual and $300/month for families). HSA Contribution Limits For 2025, Health Savings Account’s annual contribution limit is $4,300 for individuals and $8,500 for families. Individuals may not contribute to their HSA if their spouse participates in an FSA. No Change.   The House-passed version included contribution limit increases and a relaxation of the FSA limitation.  These provisions did not make it to the final. Tax-free Employer-sponsored Health Insurance Employers may provide health insurance, premium support and a variety of other health and welfare benefits to employees and their families in tax-free fashion. No Change.   The current tax exclusion for employer-sponsored health insurance will be maintained. ICHRAs and CHOICE HRAs Subject to some rules, employers may choose to sponsor an ICHRA instead of providing traditional health insurance for their employees.  Employers may reimburse employees, tax-free, for the costs of individual health insurance. No Change.   Earlier versions included changes in how ICHRAs were to be structured, renaming them “CHOICE HRAs.”  The House version included a financial incentive for small employers to offer CHOICE HRAs.  None of these changes made the final bill. As the rules associated with some of these new provisions take shape, we will continue to keep you informed about the potential effects these changes may have on your health benefits offerings.  If you have any questions, please contact your Cottingham & Butler team member today.

In our recent Motor Carrier Safety 101 webinar on vehicle safety standards and brake maintenance, we explored the latest CVSA International Roadcheck findings. The results show the top three out-of-service violations remain: defective service brakes, tires, and other brake violations. But there's one more violation that's catching drivers off guard. Check out the key takeaways below: Missing Inspection Documentation Operating a CMV without proof of periodic inspection is becoming a major issue. Know where your inspection stickers are located and how to get a hard copy of your inspection report if an officer asks for it. Check violation trends at A&I online – Motor Carrier Analysis and Information Resources Online Lights Matter Your lights help other drivers see you. Make sure all required lamps work properly before every trip. It's a simple check that can save you from a violation. Find complete lighting requirements in 49 CFR Part 393 Subpart B Brake Adjustments Still Problematic Even with automatic slack adjusters, brakes out of adjustment remains a top violation. These are mechanical parts that can fail, so always check them during your pre-trip inspection. Tire Safety Goes High-Tech Measure tire pressure when tires are cold using a tire gauge. More scale houses are now using thermal imaging cameras to spot tire and brake problems you might miss. Click here to view the presentation.

“To me, my true task at hand is to be there for my teammates and my insureds in whatever that may look like that day. The days fly by, there is truly never enough time in the day. But, I wouldn’t have it any other way!” Meet Alicia. She’s a Director of Client Service in our Risk Management division. As a life-long Dubuquer, Alicia Oberfoell came to Cottingham & Butler from a supplemental insurance company and has been working in the insurance industry for 12 years. When she applied to C&B in 2019, she couldn't have predicted how quickly she'd grow from Client Coordinator to Service Manager overseeing seven team members. Her journey offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to advance their career at Cottingham & Butler.  Lesson 1: Be Willing to Take the Leap  "I applied to C&B on a whim and just went for it," Alicia shares about her start with the company. This initial courage to pursue an opportunity without overthinking it set her on a path for success. “When I started, I was one of two client coordinators in the practice and now, with the support of my leaders, I helped grow that position by overseeing a total of seven Client Coordinators in Risk – something I take great pride in!” Alicia said. Key Takeaway: Don't let perfect planning become the enemy of progress in your career. Sometimes the best opportunities come from being willing to step forward without having everything figured out. Alicia's story shows that calculated risk-taking can lead to unexpected growth at C&B. Consider which opportunities you might be hesitating on that deserve a "just go for it" approach.  Lesson 2: Become the Example Alicia's service-first mindset earned her the 'Inspiring Leader' award at the Service Excellence Awards last year after multiple leaders recognized her impact. “It was a surprise and an honor,” Alicia said. “It was touching to know that what I'm doing is making a difference for not only my core team, but the department as a whole." Key Takeaway: Leadership at C&B isn't about title or authority - it's about impact and service. Alicia's approach shows that being available and responsive to both team members and clients creates ripple effects that others notice. Even if you're not in a formal leadership role, adopting this mindset of service can distinguish you as someone who lifts others up. Lesson 3: Small Changes Can Lead to Big Impact  Alicia discovered her leadership style through hands-on experience. "I was first promoted to leadership in Spring of 2021 and can honestly say that being in leadership is a passion of mine and helps me thrive,” Alicia said. “I love to change processes, better the service we can provide to clients, and develop improvements down the road on a gradual basis."  While bold transformations certainly have their place, Alicia's approach reminds us not to underestimate the power of thoughtful, incremental improvements. These smaller changes often fly under the radar but can create remarkable cumulative impact over time.  Key Takeaway: Think about your daily work - what small adjustment could you make this week that might save time, reduce frustration, or improve client experience? Maybe it's streamlining a communication process, tweaking a template, or eliminating a redundant step. Consider balancing your big-picture thinking with attention to these daily opportunities for improvement. Many times, the most significant innovations at C&B have grown from someone simply asking, "How can we make this better?"  Lesson 4: Help Champion Innovation  While Alicia helps drive Risk Management's AI initiatives, she consistently highlights the collaborative nature of the work. She explains that the team is implementing AI to read loss runs and automate renewal outputs.  "This will be a huge win for our clients, marketers, and our internal team, who will get some time back to focus on other things," Alicia said. She's also thinking about how this will affect clients, saying "Having some of our reports available at the snap of a finger will also give us an advantage to gain new clients.” Key Takeaway: The most successful innovations at C&B often emerge from collaborative thinking and problem-solving. When advocating for change in your area, involve teammates with different perspectives, focus on long-term advantages, and always keep in mind how this will affect the business. Lesson 5: Invest in Lifelong Learning   Alicia embodies one of C&B's foundational principles by continuing her education journey at every career stage. "I am actively in the middle of getting my AAI, which will be my very first insurance designation, and I should have that completed soon," she shares. Rather than viewing her leadership role as an endpoint, she sees it as a platform for deeper expertise.  At Cottingham & Butler, continuous learning isn't just encouraged - it's part of our DNA. John Butler's vision of lifelong development remains at the heart of our culture today, and Alicia's pursuit of her AAI designation while managing a growing team demonstrates how technical knowledge and leadership skills complement each other in our industry.  Key Takeaway: What's your next learning opportunity? Whether it's a formal designation, mentorship relationship, cross-departmental experience, or simply mastering a new skill, the path to growth is always open at C&B. Like Alicia, you can leverage the company's support for professional development to enhance both your individual contributions and your ability to serve clients and colleagues more effectively.    Beyond the Office Alicia and the Risk Management team like to have some fun along the way, as well. In 2023, Zurich invited the service team to join them in their suite at the United Center for a Blackhawks game with a client. “It was the first time I was able to meet with the Zurich team in person, as well as some of my clients,” Alicia said. “Mike Saladino (Vice President of Risk Management in our Chicago office) was a top-notch host in ensuring we had the best time – it was a night I will not forget!” In life outside the office, Alicia resides in Dubuque with her husband, Bobby, and the three boys she gained who are 22, 17, and 14. Additionally, her family has a calico cat and a young pomsky. Alicia and her family enjoy going up north in Wisconsin to stay on the lakes as well as boating and snowmobiling. Fast Facts About Alicia “I am the oldest of three, to which my siblings are much younger than me. They were my first pride and joy, so I like to brag about them like they were my kids! My brother retired from Army Airborne, still working in recruitment, and is attending Yale to become a federal lawyer. My sister graduated from UD with a Psychology degree and is working at Caravel Autism Health on the NW Arterial with young kiddos needing therapy.” “My sister has interned with C&B for a summer, but I can’t get her into the passion of insurance; however, my Mom does work at C&B alongside me.” “I grew up with my Dad in an ‘80s hair metal cover band, so I really enjoy going to live music at the Q in the summer with my family.”  Inspired by Alicia's journey? Join our team! Explore open positions and apply on our careers page to start your own success story with us.

Our most recent webinar, The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior, explored how Cottingham & Butler's captive programs deliver measurable advantages. Through data analysis and client testimonials, this session highlighted superior renewal outcomes compared to the standard market. If you were unable to attend or want to revisit this webinar, view the webinar recording now! Click here to view the presentation.

Three main authority types in the transportation industry deal with moving freight from point A to point B: motor carriers, brokers, and freight forwarders. While a broker arranges for the freight to be moved, the motor carrier moves the freight and a freight forwarder stores, moves, and also arranges for the shippers. Yes, all of these involve freight and getting that freight to its’ final destination, but the means in which each entity does that and is involved is vastly different.  Here are more detailed definitions of these three types: Motor Carrier: Is compensated for transporting property or passengers.  Broker: Is compensated for arranging transportation of material goods by a motor carrier but does not take on the responsibility of transporting the material goods. Freight Forwarder: A company that holds itself out to the general public providing transportation of material goods for compensation and, in the normal course of business, puts together and combines– or provides for combining– shipments and performs break-bulk and distribution operations of freight; takes responsibility for transporting material goods from place of receipt to the place of shipment; transports via rail, motor, or water carrier, which is under the control of the FMCSA. Differences Between Authority Types As seen by the definitions there are some differences between the three types of entities within the transportation industry. The biggest thing that differentiates the three is what their business description truly is. A motor carrier transports the goods from point A to point B, as stated for compensation, making them a for-hire company. The motor carrier will take responsibility of the property while it is in the custody of the motor carrier, which typically requires the motor carrier to obtain some sort of cargo insurance to cover the property in the event there is a loss. A broker, however, does none of the transporting of the property. They are a for-hire entity and take compensation, but they are compensated by arranging the transportation of the property from point A to point B. Where they differ from a motor carrier is in the fact that they do not take any sort of responsibility for the property in transit from point A to point B. A freight forwarder, on the other hand, does everything from storage to the shipping of the property on behalf of their shippers. Typically freight forwarders will ship property under their own bills of lading which holds them responsible for the property in transit, until it reaches the destination. Appropriately Setting Up Each Entity To appropriately set up each of the three entities, a 7 step process that must be followed. These 7 steps can be found on the FMCSA website . Within the 7 step process each entity must fill out different paperwork, put in for their operating authority (MC Number), and obtain their USDOT number. The type of operating authority applied for will determine the level of insurance required by the federal government. The forms required along with other requirements for each operating authority are as follows: Motor Carrier: Must fill out the OP-1 form (the application) and file the MCS-150 (motor carrier identification report). Once approved, proof of public liability insurance must be filed to obtain the MC number. Broker: Must fill out the OP-1 form and the MCS-150, same as the motor carrier. Proof of public liability insurance or cargo insurance is not required, but a $75,000 bond posted on the FMCSA website is required before obtaining the MC number. Freight Forwarder: Must fill out the OP-1 (FF) application. Once filled out and approved, the freight forwarder must provide proof of public liability insurance and cargo insurance within 90 days of receiving their operating authority. While these three types of authorities all provide transportation of freight, how they go about moving the freight is different. So, when applying for an authority, it is necessary to know what type of business entity you are ultimately looking to operate.  This way the correct paperwork is filled out and submitted to the FMCSA and your insurance agent will be able to provide you with quotes/insurance for your business exposures. Resources: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/getting-started https://www.silverplume.com/SPOnline/SPSage.aspx?cmd=home https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/faq/