Bob Rothrock, ChFC,CASLwww.bobrothrock.com

An average of a quarter-million families have their homes ruined and their lives disrupted each winter, all because of water pipes that freeze and burst.

Some insurers increase premiums for cars that have higher rates of damage or occupant injury. And cars that do better in safety tests? They're more likely to get you lower rates.

Everyone could likely use life insurance at some point, but did you know that one in two Americans will need prolonged medical and personal assistance at some point in their lives as well? That's a fifty percent chance! With those odds, plus the very high costs of long-term care, the best time to think about helping protect your loved ones and your future is now.

Your landlord's insurance generally only covers the building where you live - not your personal belongings and your liability.