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In today's competitive landscape, private fleets offer companies direct control over their transportation operations. This blog explores what private fleets are, their benefits and challenges, and how C&B's approach helps businesses navigate this strategic decision. What Are Private Fleets? Private fleets are company-owned transportation networks that provide direct control over shipping and logistics operations. Unlike third-party providers, these fleets represent an investment in company-owned transportation assets serving primarily the business's distribution needs. Benefits of Private Fleets Guaranteed capacity and control:  Private fleets give businesses complete oversight of their logistics, ensuring reliable delivery schedules and reducing reliance on third-party carriers. Complete supply chain transparency:  With private fleets, companies can track shipments from origin to destination, improving operational clarity and process efficiency. Enhanced customer loyalty:  Managing your own transportation network enables superior delivery service, resulting in higher satisfaction rates and stronger customer relationships. Mobile marketing advantage:  Private fleets function as moving advertisements, providing continuous brand exposure throughout delivery routes. Risks and Challenges Nuclear Verdicts  The transportation industry continues to face the growing threat of "nuclear verdicts"—jury awards exceeding $10 million. Companies operating private fleets assume direct exposure to these catastrophic judgments, which have increased in both frequency and severity over the past decade. This trend necessitates higher liability limits, umbrella coverage structures, and sophisticated claims management strategies to mitigate the potentially business-threatening impact of a single adverse jury decision. Leadership Knowledge Gap  Private fleets offer compelling advantages but come with substantial challenges, primarily because companies operating these fleets excel in their core business domains (such as manufacturing, agriculture, or retail) rather than transportation operations. This expertise disconnect can lead to suboptimal management of crucial transportation requirements, particularly in safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and insurance matters. Insurance Coverage Gaps  Private fleets frequently rely on standard commercial auto policies that don't adequately cover their specific transportation risks. The property and casualty insurers typically used by these businesses may not specialize in transportation exposures. This situation often results in incomplete risk management programs due to limited transportation-specific expertise and unfortunately, uncovered claims. C&B Approach Cottingham & Butler delivers a consultative approach that goes beyond traditional insurance placement: Comprehensive Service Offerings  tailored specifically for the unique and volatile risks that exist in the transportation sector Cross-Functional Collaboration  between our Transportation and Risk Management teams, working seamlessly to develop holistic and intentional solutions. Deep-Dive Analysis  conducted by our specialists to thoroughly review existing programs, identify inefficiencies, and uncover potential savings Relationship-Driven Approach  that leverages industry expertise and insurance carrier partners to provide customized solutions that address your unique business challenges “For private fleets, the risks that threaten the transportation and logistics industry today are too complex, severe, and costly to be an afterthought. They demand a high level of expertise and intentionality which can only come from an agency who is “in the trenches” with transportation risks every single day. With over 300 transportation insurance specialists, $1B in transportation insurance premiums placed annually, and 2,500 fleets across the country, our team is unparalleled when it comes to resources and insight.“ - Lexi Myers, Vice President - Transportation Private fleets represent a significant strategic decision offering greater control but introducing substantial challenges. With Cottingham & Butler's expertise, businesses can confidently develop transportation strategies aligned with their unique needs, transforming transportation from a cost center into a strategic enabler of growth and customer satisfaction.

Herbicides and pesticides effectively control unwanted pests and plants but pose significant health risks. Following proper safety protocols protects you, your coworkers, and your customers. Read the Label First Always read the product label before using any chemical. The label contains critical information about: Exposure warnings and required protective gear Proper application instructions and equipment needs First-aid procedures for accidental exposure Storage and disposal requirements Taking time to understand these details prevents dangerous mistakes and ensures effective application. Wear Proper Protection Your best defense against chemical exposure is wearing the right protective clothing. Essential gear includes long-sleeved shirts and pants, non-absorbent gloves (avoid leather or fabric), rubber boots (not canvas or leather), and appropriate head protection, eye coverings, masks, and respirators as needed for the specific chemical. Before beginning work, check clothing for defects that could allow chemical exposure. Never eat, drink, smoke, or use restrooms during application. Remain aware of others' locations during spraying and avoid application during winds stronger than 10 mph to prevent chemical drift. Clean Up Thoroughly After application, proper cleanup is essential for preventing continued exposure. Rinse tools and equipment three times, pouring rinse water into the pesticide container. Wash exposed body areas immediately and shower after completing cleanup procedures. Treat all clothing used during chemical application as contaminated: Remove all gear before leaving work Place clothing in plastic bags and wash separately Clean boots, gloves, and goggles before leaving the site Store all equipment in designated clean areas Store and Dispose Responsibly Keep all chemicals in their original manufacturer's containers and store in designated areas only. Follow label instructions carefully for proper disposal. If you're uncertain about disposal procedures, ask for guidance rather than guessing. Improper handling creates environmental hazards and poses serious fire and health risks. Your Safety is Our Priority At Cottingham & Butler, we prioritize employee and customer safety. Following these practices creates a culture of responsibility that protects everyone. Smart handling of chemicals demonstrates your commitment to workplace safety and shows you value the wellbeing of your team and customers. Need to Strengthen Your Safety Program? Contact our risk management team today for a workplace safety assessment and learn how our customized safety programs can protect your team and business. [For general informational purposes only; not intended as medical or legal advice.]

Simple solutions are worth striving for, as too often we run into overly complicated ones that don’t live up to the promises they make. But when things get overly simplified, it can create more problems. The Standard Benchmark One of the most common benchmarks to measure health plan financial performance is Average Cost Per Employee – based on two things: Total Plan Costs : How much in premium (if fully-insured), or claims and fixed costs (if self-funded) was paid out in the year? Enrolled Employees: How many employees on average were enrolled on the plan in the year? The simplicity of the metric sounds nice - Want to compare your spend vs. another larger industry competitor? It just makes sense to get a nice, easy average per employee and you can see how you’re running. But though the metric can be directional, it can also COMPLETELY HIDE  underlying trends that serve as key differentiators (or areas of opportunity) between your health plan and a competitor's. The Complicated Questions 1. What if I have more employees enrolling on the plan? If more employees are enrolling in your plan out of all those eligible compared to your competitor, how is that getting accounted for? If 80% of your employees are enrolling on the plan, but your competitor only has 40% - the total costs for the plan could be drastically  different. 2. What if I have more families? If your employees are, on average, bringing more kids and spouses onto the plan than your competitors, is it fair that your “enrolled employee” is similarly weighted as theirs? According to Milliman , a family of four is around 4.5x   more expensive than an average individual on the plan. 3. What if my health plan is better for employees? The metric only accounts for plan costs – nothing from the employee. If my plan is richer and my employees pay less in out-of-pocket costs, does that mean I’m always going to be “above” benchmark? And how are employees’ contributions towards the plan per pay period being evaluated? 4. What if their employee population isn’t like mine? If your company is slightly older than your competitors, you’d expect that you’d be spending more on healthcare than they are – solely because of your demographics . If you’re younger, you’ll probably be spending less – but where is that accounted for? 5. What if healthcare is more expensive where I’m at? Prices for healthcare services vary significantly by state – with some states like Iowa being less than 200% of Medicare prices, while others like Wisconsin being over 300% ( RAND ). If your competitor is in a cheaper state for healthcare, how is that accounted for? 6. Where do I even start if I’m looking to reduce spend? If you’re costs are above benchmark, most businesses wonder “Is there a way to lower them?” But if just looking at one number, identifying the most reasonable place to start becomes nearly impossible. Is it my medical costs? Pharmacy costs? Number of people on the plan? Or something else entirely? So what’s the alternative? The 3C’s – Benchmarking, Built Better About 15 years ago, our team recognized that not answering these questions led groups to become more confused, or even worse, grow complacent, because they thought they were “in line with benchmark”. To combat this, we developed the 3C’s Benchmarking Process – providing groups with a logical and understandable framework to identify how they’re performing and where there is opportunity. 3 categories, 7 metrics , and a dashboard that compares you to the benchmark, delivering the insight needed to answer the following questions. Coverage : Who’s on your plan? Breaking down employees participating and dependents enrolled. Consumption : Is healthcare being utilized efficiently? Outlining medical and pharmacy cost benchmarks. Accounts for ALL the potential questions that come up around plan design, demographic adjustments, and geographic price adjustments. Cost-Share : How are you splitting the bill? Reviewing how your plan design, employee contributions, and overall cost-sharing structure compares to benchmark. Bottom Line Benchmarking many times is the first step in the process towards understanding if you have a problem (or strength) with your health plan. Average Cost Per Employee  might be easy, but it can completely miss the mark in providing findings that truly tell you how you're performing. If you want to make smarter, data-driven decisions about your health plan, let’s connect and run through your 3Cs today.

While fraud and double brokering continue to threaten logistics operations, our most recent webinar, "Lower Your Risk of Strategic Cargo Theft & Improve Your Bottom Line as a Verified Carrier" demonstrated that effective protection strategies exist. This session, led by Andrey Drotenko, President of Strategic Relations at Verified Carrier, revealed practical approaches to safeguard your shipments through partnerships with thoroughly vetted carriers. We've compiled the most important takeaways and insights from the session below for easy reference. Key Takeaways: Build a Trusted Network of Carriers:  Partner with thoroughly vetted carriers using comprehensive screening systems that validate identity, equipment ownership, and credentials                         Train Your Team to Spot Potential Fraud:  Equip your team to recognize fraud indicators and suspicious patterns before they become costly problems Create Workflows that Enhance Processes and Procedures:  Implement strategic checkpoints within existing processes for consistent validation without operational bottlenecks Leverage Technology to Improve Effectiveness: Once you have the right people and plans in place, introduce tools to multiply your team's effectiveness Click here for the presentation.

All organizations, regardless of their size or industry, are at risk of being targeted by cybercriminals. These malicious actors can conduct cyberattacks, leading to significant financial, operational and reputational damage that can be difficult or impossible to recover from. Fortunately, solid cyber hygiene practices can reduce the likelihood of data breaches and other cyber incidents from occurring, and many of these practices are relatively low-cost and easy to implement.   This article explains five common cybersecurity mistakes organizations make and provides actionable solutions for each.   Weak or Reused Passwords   The Mistake : Users often resort to simple passwords they can easily remember. They also may use the same password for multiple devices and accounts.   Why It Matters : Cybercriminals can more readily exploit weak, easy-to-guess passwords to gain unauthorized access to devices, networks and accounts. Using weak passwords increases data vulnerability, and reusing passwords across different systems can compromise multiple accounts from a single breach.   How to Avoid It : To address these issues, employers should require that staff use unique and strong passwords for each account, device and network. They should also mandate that these login credentials be changed regularly. Passwords should not be common or predictable (e.g., “password”) or sequential numbers or letters (e.g., “12345” or “abcde”). Using a combination of upper and lowercase letters and special characters can strengthen passwords. Employees can also consider using a verified password manager to store and generate passwords securely.   Ignoring Software Updates   The Mistake : Software and system updates are delayed or neglected.   Why It Matters : These vital updates often contain patches that address known vulnerabilities. When they are not installed, attackers can exploit outdated software or known security gaps to gain access to or control of devices, networks or systems.   How to Avoid It : Cybersecurity policies should require that automatic updates are enabled on all devices and applications. There should be processes that regularly check for and install updates, especially for security software that protects against viruses, intrusions and other threats. Employers should also stay informed about critical updates released by software vendors so they can be implemented without delay.   Lack of Employee Training   The Mistake : Employers may fail to educate employees about cybersecurity best practices.   Why It Matters : Human error is a leading cause of security breaches, and employees who are unaware of common schemes cybercriminals use (e.g., social engineering tactics in which the target is tricked into revealing their password or other sensitive information) may more easily fall victim to them. Untrained employees may also be unaware of safe data handling best practices and can inadvertently compromise security.   How to Avoid It : Employers can implement cybersecurity training sessions for all employees upon hire and at regular intervals. To increase engagement and enhance learning, training should include interactive modules and real-life scenarios. These sessions should also provide an opportunity for employees to raise questions or concerns and encourage a culture of cybersecurity awareness within the organization.   Overlooking Multifactor Authentication (MFA)   The Mistake : Users may rely solely on one password for account and device security.   Why It Matters : Cybercriminals can steal or guess passwords, especially if they are weak. MFA adds an extra verification step and significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.   How to Avoid It : Employers should require MFA on all business accounts and devices that offer it, especially those containing sensitive information. This process requires users to verify their identity through a separate form of authentication (e.g., a time-based one-time password sent through text message or email). Employees should use authentication apps or hardware tokens for secure verification and regularly review and update MFA settings to ensure optimal protection.   Using Unsecured Public Wi-Fi   The Mistake : Sensitive information is often accessed over publicly available Wi-Fi networks without password protection.   Why It Matters : Publicly available Wi-Fi can be a hot spot and entry point for cybercriminals to access networks and intercept data. Unsecured networks increase the risk of man-in-the-middle attacks, in which a malicious actor intercepts communications between two parties, reads the information, potentially alters it and transmits the communication without either party recognizing this is occurring.   How to Avoid It : Employees should avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi and only use trusted networks. They should also turn off automatic Wi-Fi connection and file-sharing settings to prevent unintended connections or data leaks. Additionally, employees should ensure they use virtual private networks, or VPNs, that encrypt data transmissions if they are connecting to public Wi-Fi and confirm their firewall is enabled to add protection against malware and other cyberthreats.   Conclusion Cyberattacks are a serious threat to all organizations, and cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities created by poor cyber hygiene practices. By recognizing these mistakes, realizing their significance, taking action to avoid them and implementing cybersecurity best practices, organizations can improve their cybersecurity posture and reduce the risk of costly cyberattacks occurring.

The American business litigation landscape has reached a critical tipping point in 2024, with corporate lawsuit awards exploding to unprecedented levels. If you're a business owner, executive, or risk management professional, understanding the nuclear verdict crisis isn't just important - it's essential for your company's survival. At Cottingham & Butler, we specialize in helping businesses navigate this challenging liability insurance environment through comprehensive coverage solutions, strategic risk assessments, and proactive claims management. Our experienced team works directly with businesses across all industries to analyze exposure gaps, customize coverage limits, negotiate favorable terms with top-rated carriers, and provide ongoing advocacy when claims arise. We understand that one-size-fits-all insurance approaches are no longer sufficient in today's litigation climate. What Are Nuclear Verdicts? Understanding the $31.3 Billion Crisis Nuclear verdicts - lawsuit awards exceeding $10 million - have transformed from rare occurrences to regular business headlines. In 2024, corporations faced 135 nuclear verdict lawsuits, representing a 52% increase from 2023. More critically, the total value of these massive awards surged 116% to an unprecedented $31.3 billion. ¹ "Thermonuclear verdicts" - awards exceeding $100 million - jumped to a record 49 cases in 2024, with five verdicts surpassing the $1 billion threshold. The median corporate lawsuit award climbed to $51 million, more than doubling the $21 million median from 2020.¹ Industries at Risk: No Business Is Safe The litigation crisis has spread across 55 different industries in 2024, reaching businesses in 34 states and 77 courts nationwide. Twenty-four industries experienced lawsuit awards totaling at least $100 million. ¹ Highest-Risk Industries: Beverage Industry Entertainment Sector Agricultural Chemicals Construction and Engineering Technology Hardware Oil and Gas Why Nuclear Verdicts Are Exploding Marathon Strategies identified key factors driving this crisis: Corporate Trust Crisis Rising anti-corporate sentiment makes juries more willing to impose massive awards regardless of company size or industry. Changing Demographics Millennial and Gen Z jurors bring different perspectives on corporate responsibility and wealth distribution. Advanced Legal Tactics Plaintiff attorneys now use sophisticated strategies like "Reptile Theory" (emotional survival appeals) and "anchoring" (implanting large dollar amounts in jurors' minds). Desensitization Effect Public exposure to massive government spending and corporate valuations has normalized multi-million-dollar awards. Weakened Legal Protections Erosion of tort reform has created more opportunities for nuclear verdicts. ¹ Emerging Threats: Future Risk Areas High-Risk Litigation Trends: "Forever Chemicals" (PFAS) environmental claims Obesity-related product liability AI algorithmic bias and decision-making liability Cryptocurrency regulatory violations Cybersecurity breach litigation Artificial intelligence is expected to accelerate litigation by helping attorneys identify lawsuit opportunities and market class actions more effectively. ¹ Protecting Your Business: Strategic Solutions The nuclear verdict explosion demands comprehensive protection beyond standard coverage limits. Key strategies include: Coverage Adequacy With median verdicts at $51 million, many businesses' liability limits are dangerously inadequate. Industry-Specific Assessment Understanding your sector's unique exposure patterns and emerging risks. Geographic Analysis Nuclear verdicts now appear in 34 states, making location-based risk assessment critical. Emerging Risk Preparation Staying ahead of AI liability, environmental claims, and cybersecurity exposures. Take Action: Partner with Cottingham & Butler The nuclear verdict explosion affects all industries and geographies. With $31.3 billion in awards in 2024 alone, the question isn't whether your business will be affected, but when. Our Nuclear Verdict Protection Services: Comprehensive liability coverage analysis and gap identification Industry-specific risk assessment and benchmarking Emerging threat evaluation and preparation strategies Cost-effective protection through carrier relationships Claims advocacy and settlement strategy coordination Don't wait for a nuclear verdict to test your defenses. Contact Cottingham & Butler today for a comprehensive liability coverage review and ensure your business is prepared for the new litigation reality. Sources: Marathon Strategies. "Nuclear Verdicts Skyrocket: Corporate Lawsuit Awards Surge 116% to $31.3 Billion in 2024." Risk & Insurance, May 28, 2025.

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.

If you're feeling like your organization is juggling more challenges than ever before, you're not alone. A recent State of the Market Survey of over 1,000 employers confirms what many leaders are experiencing : 2025 is a year of significant complexity. The good news? While these challenges are real, they're also predictable and manageable with the right strategies. Here are the critical issues shaping the employer landscape this year - and how forward-thinking organizations are turning obstacles into advantages. Economic Uncertainty: Inflation & Rising Healthcare Costs Nearly 60% of employers cite economic uncertainty as their primary challenge, driven by policy shifts from the new administration, ongoing inflation concerns, tariffs affecting supply chains, and sector-specific layoffs. With 64% of employers struggling with inflation and 42% facing rising healthcare costs, organizations are grappling with anticipated 7-8% healthcare cost increases in 2025. Resources and Tools: 5 Proven Strategies Every Employer Needs to Know  - How to cut Healthcare costs by up 30%.  We've compiled five of the most impactful considerations your company can make to save on health coverage costs while providing exceptional benefits plans for your employees. Case Study: Cost Containment Through Alignment and Transparency  - As a certified Great Place to Work®, J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. is committed to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare for their 1,800 associates and their families by employing smart healthcare consumerism strategies that create win-win solutions and reduce the increasing healthcare burden on employees while ensuring they receive the medical care they need. 10 Ways to Reduce Healthcare Costs  - In this session, we share 10 proven strategies that can help you reduce healthcare expenses without driving away your top talent. Compliance Challenges Are Growing Over 26% of employers struggle with evolving federal and state regulations, including employment law changes, increased agency enforcement, and shifting DEI policies. Resources and Tools: How to Navigate State Compliance Regulations  – Brett McKitrick highlights the growing challenges of HR compliance as states increasingly pass complex legislation. Executive Order Aims to Reduce Prescription Drug Costs  - On May 12, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order  (EO) that aims to bring the prices Americans pay for prescription drugs in line with those paid by similar nations. How does this impact you? Monthly Compliance Webinar on Compliance Hot Topics  – Use this link to register for upcoming hot topic compliance webinars to stay in the know.  Attraction and Retention Challenges Persist Nearly 60% of employers continue to face talent attraction and retention issues, implementing strategies focused on engagement, compensation, development, and skills-based hiring. Resources and Tools: Critical Role of Compensation in the Recruitment Process  - In today's competitive market, a well-designed compensation strategy is no longer optional, it's essential for attracting top talent and reducing costly turnover. What Employees Want  - From rising compensation expectations to evolving benefit needs, creating an effective total rewards strategy has never been more challenging - or more crucial for your success. Innovative Survey Tool that Transforms Traditional Employee Feedback  - Employers often assume they understand what employees want, but do they truly grasp how satisfied employees are with their benefits packages?   Strategic Workforce Planning Is Essential With 76% of employers actively hiring and most maintaining optimistic hiring plans, organizations are aligning workforce strategies with long-term business goals. Resources and Tools: Employee Benefit Benchmark Reports  - Use our industry specific benchmark reports to give you detailed insights into what other companies in your industry are offering, helping you design a benefits program that attracts top talent without overspending. Empowering Employers in attracting talent  - Maximize employee value and satisfaction with a strategic Total Rewards approach. Benefits & Strategic Communication  - We recognize the pivotal role that communication plays in shaping the employee experience. Our approach is centered around designing and implementing effective benefit communication strategies and materials that not only inform but also empower employees to make educated decisions about their benefits. Moving Forward Together The 2025 market presents complex challenges, but organizations that stay informed, focus on strategic planning, and remain agile will thrive. Cottingham & Butler's comprehensive approach addresses each of these critical areas, providing you with the expertise, resources, and innovative solutions needed to navigate uncertainty and position your organization for long-term success. Ready to tackle these challenges head-on?  Contact your Cottingham & Butler team today to discuss how we can help you turn market challenges into competitive advantages.

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.