Elected officials and news reporters will be at PEMCO tomorrow, Sept. 2, for a lunchtime media event announcing our support of Solar Pie, a local not-for-profit that teamed with our Real Estate department to install solar panels on PEMCO’s Home Office roof. The event takes place in PEMCO’s parking lot directly across Harrison Street from our loading dock.
During the event, we’ll “unveil” new information on our rooftop time and temperature sign. In addition to showing time and temperature, during daylight hours the sign will also show kilowatts being generated, while at night you’ll see reductions in carbon emissions made possible by the solar panels. Web surfers will be able to track the data at http://solarpie.org/pemco/, and a new webpage on pemco.com will summarize the Solar Pie project.
PEMCO is playing a support role in this project. Our purpose is to help Solar Pie’s principals, Carolyn and Scott Sherwood, educate the public that solar energy works, even in cloudy Seattle. The PEMCO Seattle Solar Pie Project is made possible by our Real Estate department; Seattle-based contractor McKinstry, project managers; and Seattle City Light and the Seattle Department of Planning and Development, regulatory oversight. For more information, check out the recent Seattle Times article: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009614669_solarpie07m.html
This post was made possible on the behalf of Jon Osterberg, PEMCO marketing communications manager, 206-628-4019.
Selasa, 01 September 2009
Survey Shows Support in Banning Texting While Driving
Data suggests legislation alone will not solve the problem
Columbus, Ohio — Nationwide Insurance today released the results of its new On Your Side® survey, which found that 8 in 10 Americans surveyed this month say they would support legislation restricting cell phone use while driving. The survey, conducted Aug. 5-9, 2009, by Harris Interactive, reports that 80 percent of Americans favor a ban on texting while driving, while two thirds favor a ban on cell phone calls, and more than half say they would support a ban on cell phone use altogether. Earlier this summer, Nationwide announced its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving to help curb crashes and reduce auto insurance claims.
The survey results are being announced as hundreds of highway traffic safety advocates and officials are convening at the Governors Highway Safety Association’s annual conference in Savannah, Ga., to discuss driving while distracted (DWD) and other highway safety issues. This meeting is taking place in advance of a presidential summit on DWD that is scheduled for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 in Washington, DC.
“In recent months, the debate about the dangers of DWD has intensified as more and more states consider taking legislative action,” said Bill Windsor, Nationwide’s Safety Officer. “The survey results confirm that there is strong public support for banning texting while driving. It also provides insight into support for additional restrictions policymakers may want to consider.”
Public support for DWD legislation
The results of the new survey show there are varying degrees of support for different types of restrictions. Overall, the survey found that 8 in 10 drivers support some type of cell phone usage restriction.
The majority of respondents say they are supportive of laws restricting any type of cell phone use while driving.
80 percent of respondents support a ban on text messaging while driving.
80 percent of respondents support a ban on e-mailing while driving.
Two thirds (67 percent) of respondents say they are supportive of laws restricting phone calls while driving.
Of those who support some type of cell phone usage restriction, nearly 3 in 4 believe the law should apply to all drivers, not just specific groups.
Regional differences
In geographic regions where one would expect to find higher cell phone usage and more multitasking lifestyles, support for a ban was high. The majority of respondents in the west and northeast regions say they would support a ban on any type of cell phone use while driving.
Generational differences
While it’s not surprising that older generations are supportive of bans, even members of Generations X (ages 33-44) and Y (ages 21-32), who are more likely to use cell phones, are supportive of laws – particularly those banning text messaging and e-mailing. Three fourths of Generation X and Y respondents favor these restrictions.
The overwhelming support for legislation may be driven by increased public recognition of the dangers associated with DWD. In 2008, Nationwide’s DWD survey revealed that 45 percent of respondents had been hit or nearly hit by another driver using a cell phone.
Need for education
According to the survey released today, respondents say they are witnessing a growth in distracted driving behavior on the roads, underscoring the importance of public education to raise awareness about this dangerous practice.
More than half of respondents say they see more drivers using cell phones while driving than they did 12 months ago.
Nearly three-quarters of respondents say that when they drive, they always or often see other drivers using cell phones.
The importance of technology
“The new information in this survey also indicates that many drivers are either in denial about their DWD habits or resistant to changing their behavior,” said Windsor. “This suggests that legislation may not be enough to eliminate distracted driving and highlights the need for a technological solution that can prevent cell phone usage in moving vehicles while still allowing people to stay connected.”
Drivers in denial
Nearly half (49 percent) of drivers say a law restricting use of cell phones would not change their behavior because they don’t currently use cell phones while driving.
When you compare this statistic to Nationwide’s 2008 DWD survey, which revealed that more than 80 percent of drivers admit to talking on their cell phone while driving, it may be the case that some drivers are either in denial or too embarrassed to admit their DWD problem.
Resistance to new laws
In the new survey, four out of five respondents (82 percent) who admit to using their cell phones while driving say their behavior would change if cell phone usage were restricted by law.
However, 18 percent of respondents who admit to using their cell phones while driving say they would continue to do so regardless of a change in law, with Generation Y most likely to resist the change (26 percent).
Further evidence that a technological solution is needed comes from Nationwide’s 2008 DWD survey. This study found that 43 percent of drivers believe technological advances that prevent cell phones from working in a moving vehicle would be the most effective solution to DWD.
Nationwide’s commitment to reducing DWD
Nationwide is committed to helping customers protect what matters most and that is why the company recently stated its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving. In addition to saving lives, fewer DWD related crashes could also result in lower insurance costs for consumers.
“DWD impacts all of us in one form or another and Nationwide will continue to raise public awareness about this important issue,” said Windsor. “By working closely with legislators, public safety officials and other key stakeholders we can arrive at real-world solutions to this problem and help make the roads a safer place.”
Survey methodology
This survey was conducted by Harris Interactive via its National QuorumSM telephone omnibus service. This study was conducted by telephone within the United States between Aug. 5-9, 2009 among a nationwide cross section of 1,008 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, and region were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. The results for the overall sample have a sampling error of +/-3 percentage points at a 95 percent certainty.
Columbus, Ohio — Nationwide Insurance today released the results of its new On Your Side® survey, which found that 8 in 10 Americans surveyed this month say they would support legislation restricting cell phone use while driving. The survey, conducted Aug. 5-9, 2009, by Harris Interactive, reports that 80 percent of Americans favor a ban on texting while driving, while two thirds favor a ban on cell phone calls, and more than half say they would support a ban on cell phone use altogether. Earlier this summer, Nationwide announced its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving to help curb crashes and reduce auto insurance claims.
The survey results are being announced as hundreds of highway traffic safety advocates and officials are convening at the Governors Highway Safety Association’s annual conference in Savannah, Ga., to discuss driving while distracted (DWD) and other highway safety issues. This meeting is taking place in advance of a presidential summit on DWD that is scheduled for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 in Washington, DC.
“In recent months, the debate about the dangers of DWD has intensified as more and more states consider taking legislative action,” said Bill Windsor, Nationwide’s Safety Officer. “The survey results confirm that there is strong public support for banning texting while driving. It also provides insight into support for additional restrictions policymakers may want to consider.”
Public support for DWD legislation
The results of the new survey show there are varying degrees of support for different types of restrictions. Overall, the survey found that 8 in 10 drivers support some type of cell phone usage restriction.
Regional differences
In geographic regions where one would expect to find higher cell phone usage and more multitasking lifestyles, support for a ban was high. The majority of respondents in the west and northeast regions say they would support a ban on any type of cell phone use while driving.
Generational differences
While it’s not surprising that older generations are supportive of bans, even members of Generations X (ages 33-44) and Y (ages 21-32), who are more likely to use cell phones, are supportive of laws – particularly those banning text messaging and e-mailing. Three fourths of Generation X and Y respondents favor these restrictions.
The overwhelming support for legislation may be driven by increased public recognition of the dangers associated with DWD. In 2008, Nationwide’s DWD survey revealed that 45 percent of respondents had been hit or nearly hit by another driver using a cell phone.
Need for education
According to the survey released today, respondents say they are witnessing a growth in distracted driving behavior on the roads, underscoring the importance of public education to raise awareness about this dangerous practice.
The importance of technology
“The new information in this survey also indicates that many drivers are either in denial about their DWD habits or resistant to changing their behavior,” said Windsor. “This suggests that legislation may not be enough to eliminate distracted driving and highlights the need for a technological solution that can prevent cell phone usage in moving vehicles while still allowing people to stay connected.”
Drivers in denial
Nearly half (49 percent) of drivers say a law restricting use of cell phones would not change their behavior because they don’t currently use cell phones while driving.
Resistance to new laws
In the new survey, four out of five respondents (82 percent) who admit to using their cell phones while driving say their behavior would change if cell phone usage were restricted by law.
Further evidence that a technological solution is needed comes from Nationwide’s 2008 DWD survey. This study found that 43 percent of drivers believe technological advances that prevent cell phones from working in a moving vehicle would be the most effective solution to DWD.
Nationwide’s commitment to reducing DWD
Nationwide is committed to helping customers protect what matters most and that is why the company recently stated its support of the concept of a national ban on texting while driving. In addition to saving lives, fewer DWD related crashes could also result in lower insurance costs for consumers.
“DWD impacts all of us in one form or another and Nationwide will continue to raise public awareness about this important issue,” said Windsor. “By working closely with legislators, public safety officials and other key stakeholders we can arrive at real-world solutions to this problem and help make the roads a safer place.”
Survey methodology
This survey was conducted by Harris Interactive via its National QuorumSM telephone omnibus service. This study was conducted by telephone within the United States between Aug. 5-9, 2009 among a nationwide cross section of 1,008 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, and region were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. The results for the overall sample have a sampling error of +/-3 percentage points at a 95 percent certainty.
Senin, 31 Agustus 2009
High-Tech Speed Traps Online In Bellevue
BELLEVUE, Wash. -- As nearly 17,000 students started school in Bellevue Monday, new high-tech speed traps went online.
Drivers will see the new cameras and warning signs as they approach Lake Hills and Stevenson elementary schools.
The sign surrounded with flashing lights gives drivers about 150 feet to slow down to the 20 mph school zone speed.
For the first 30 days, drivers who violate the speed zone during school start and release hours will get a warning. After the transition period, drivers caught on camera will be fined with a $124 ticket.
The Bellevue City Council's web site emphasizes that the council will be reviewing the cameras' performance every six months.
The City Council approved the pilot program early last April.
From KIRO Online
Drivers will see the new cameras and warning signs as they approach Lake Hills and Stevenson elementary schools.
The sign surrounded with flashing lights gives drivers about 150 feet to slow down to the 20 mph school zone speed.
For the first 30 days, drivers who violate the speed zone during school start and release hours will get a warning. After the transition period, drivers caught on camera will be fined with a $124 ticket.
The Bellevue City Council's web site emphasizes that the council will be reviewing the cameras' performance every six months.
The City Council approved the pilot program early last April.
From KIRO Online
Kamis, 27 Agustus 2009
PEMCO: Texting While Driving Rate Up
PEMCO Insurance issued a news release, August 25, that reveals more Washingtonians are texting while driving. The PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll, conducted by FBK Research, shows that of those who use electronic devices, more of them – 18% – admit to reading or sending text messages while driving than in February 2008, when only 6% said they did so. Ironically, the same poll found that increasing numbers of drivers are concerned that texting while driving is a dangerous distraction.
Selasa, 25 Agustus 2009
Des Moines Office Wins Prestigious Award
SAV-ON Insurance has been selected for the 2009 Best of Des Moines Award in the Insurance Agents category by the U.S. Commerce Association.Each year, the US Commerce Association (USCA) identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Thank you to our wonderful clients and others that made this award possible. We will continue to strive for the most excellent service and provide to families and individuals in need in our local community.
US Commerce Association Website
Selasa, 18 Agustus 2009
WA Unemployment Rate Decreased in July
Are we seeing a change in our economic status? Washington State saw an unemployment rate decrease this last month at 9.1%, down from 9.2% in June. A small gain...but in the right direction!We gained 4000 new non-agricultural jobs last month. The last time we had a gain in jobs was in November 2008.
Washington is below the national unemployment rate of 9.4% (July) but still, more than 315,850 people are currently unemployed and seeking work in this state alone.
Selasa, 11 Agustus 2009
Mileage is Top Reason for Depreciation
An online survey by CarMax, Inc found that most Americans see mileage as the top reason for depreciation, even over an accident. Other major reasons were frame damage and not keeping up with regular maintenance, which was chosen more by women than men.
The results of the survey:
Vehicle mileage - 33%
Accident or frame damage - 24%
Keeping up with regular maintenance - 22%
Current market data - 12%
Flood damage - 7%
Title issues - 2%
The results of the survey:
Vehicle mileage - 33%
Accident or frame damage - 24%
Keeping up with regular maintenance - 22%
Current market data - 12%
Flood damage - 7%
Title issues - 2%
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