ORLANDO, Fla. (Mar. 14, 2024) – AAA's latest survey reveals that a significant portion of U.S. drivers harbor apprehension towards fully self-driving vehicles, with 66% expressing fear and 25% feeling uncertain. This sentiment has remained consistent, indicating a persistent unease within the public despite advancements in autonomous technologies.The survey also highlights a contrasting trend, as interest in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) remains robust among consumers. AAA found that a majority of U.S. drivers are keen on features like Reverse Automatic...

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 14, 2024)—The national average for a gallon of gas has been rising leisurely since last week, moving a mere two cents higher to $3.41. However, with the cost of oil crossing the $80 per barrel mark and gas demand popping with warmer temps and better weather, change may be coming to the pump. Another critical factor is the arrival of more expensive summer blend gas, which tends to increase pump prices by 10 to 15 cents."This is the time of year we normally see pump prices start to rise," said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. "And while prices have...

State Farm President Jon Farney has been selected as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer by the State Farm Mutual Board of Directors. Farney will formally begin his role on June 1. The announcement was shared by Chairman and retiring CEO Michael Tipsord, who expressed his confidence in Farney's abilities. Tipsord stated, “Jon and I have worked together for many years. I’ve seen how much he cares about State Farm, how much he cares about the people at State Farm, how he solves problems, and how focused he is on taking care of our customers.”Farney, who joined State...

Nationwide has appointed George Williams to lead its Small Market Commercial Lines business. Williams, who previously served as the company's chief operating officer for commercial lines, excess & surplus, and specialty, brings over two decades of industry experience to the role.Russ Johnston, Nationwide's president of Commercial Lines, Excess & Surplus, Specialty, expressed confidence in Williams, stating, "Leading a small commercial platform requires a combination of underwriting, technology, operational excellence and customer focus. George has a proven background in...

NEW YORK, March 14, 2024—California’s regulatory restrictions on insurance pricing and underwriting, along with the need for more mitigation efforts, are significantly impacting the insurance industry in the state, as highlighted in the Insurance Information Institute’s (Triple-I) latest Issues Brief.The report, titled Trends and Insights: California’s Risk Crisis, discusses how Proposition 103 and its regulatory implementations are hindering insurers from adapting to the evolving risk landscape in California. Sean Kevelighan, CEO of the Triple-I, emphasized the need for...

In light of Pet Prevention Poison Month, Nationwide is urging pet owners to be vigilant about their furry companions' safety. The initiative comes after a family experienced a worrisome incident involving a plant that led to a costly visit to the veterinarian.Nationwide advises pet parents to take preventive measures to avoid such situations. They recommend visiting Nationwide's PetHealthZone for tips on pet safety and what to do if a pet ingests something harmful. Additionally, Nationwide offers its members access to veterinary professionals around the clock through the...

Businesses are increasingly intrigued by the possibilities offered by Generative AI technology. The potential applications of this innovative technology across various aspects of the value chain have sparked significant interest. However, the decision to integrate Generative AI into business operations requires careful consideration and evaluation.Nationwide’s Chief Innovation and Digital Officer, Chetan Kandhari, sheds light on the crucial factors that companies contemplating the adoption of Generative AI must take into account. Kandhari emphasizes the importance of...

Nationwide pet insurance members now have access to a new video consultation feature on Nationwide’s VetHelpline®, providing them with face-to-face conversations with veterinary professionals around the clock. This new addition aims to offer a more comprehensive solution to pet owners, as stated by Mariel Devesa, Nationwide Pet’s Head of Growth, Expansion, and Development, who highlighted, "Our new VetHelpline® merges technology with peace of mind for our consumers in one of the most comprehensive solutions in the market today."The VetHelpline® service is exclusive to...

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company and a prominent player in the financial services and insurance sector, has been actively engaged in critical discussions centered around finance services and economics. In recent engagements, Nationwide's thought leaders have shared valuable insights on various platforms.Jim Fowler, Nationwide’s Chief Technology Officer, recently participated in a panel discussion on Nasdaq TV where he discussed the impact of generative AI on customer service. Fowler highlighted how Nationwide has strategically invested in AI over the past decade to...

Nationwide and Annexus marked a significant milestone in their collaboration by ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on March 7. The event celebrated a decade-long partnership that has brought innovative solutions to the financial services marketplace, benefiting American retirement savers.Mike Morrone, vice president of Nationwide Annuity business development, highlighted the impact of the partnership, stating, "Our partnership with Annexus has enabled us to take our product innovation to the next level." This collaboration allowed Nationwide to enter...

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 7, 2024)—Pump prices have maintained a steady march higher, rising eight cents since last week to $3.39. More expensive oil is a likely culprit, as crude accounts for nearly 60% of pump prices. The cost for a barrel of oil is edging closer to $80, about $10 more per barrel than a few months ago."Spring is nearly here, with longer days, better weather, and more opportunities to hit the road," said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. "And we are seeing this reflected in rising gasoline demand. But remember, we see this trend every year."For the...

A new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has shed light on the dangers of drowsy driving, revealing that the impact of this behavior is greatly underestimated. The research points to sleep loss as a significant factor in drowsy driving crashes, with the upcoming Daylight Saving Time potentially exacerbating the issue.According to the AAA Foundation's study, drowsy driving is responsible for far more traffic fatalities than official government statistics indicate. The study, based on crash investigations and national fatal crash data, estimates that drowsy...

WASHINGTON, DC (February 29, 2024) – Drivers saw gas prices creep up the final week of February. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.31 on this leap day, 4 cents higher than it was one week ago. The upward trend is likely to continue as travelers start heading out of town for Spring Break."We’re entering Spring Break season, and historically, March and April bring higher gas prices as demand rises," said Aixa Diaz, AAA spokesperson. "With milder temperatures come more road trips, and this time of year tends to be a precursor to the summer driving season."For...

The University Federal Credit Union (UFCU) has announced its fourth consecutive recognition as the "Best Place for Working Parents" by Early Matters Greater Austin (EMGA). The evaluation by EMGA was based on UFCU's adherence to 10 family-oriented policies and initiatives, which include healthcare coverage, paid leave, flexible work arrangements, and childcare support.

The Georgia Senate has confirmed the passage of SB 426, a bill aimed at limiting direct action lawsuits. The announcement comes as the Georgia House is yet to schedule a vote on the same legislation. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones has championed the bill as a significant step in tort reform that will offer much-needed relief to businesses within the state.

Eric Stevenson, President of Nationwide Retirement Solutions, addressed the Senate HELP Committee on Feb. 28, emphasizing the challenges faced by American retirement savers. Stevenson advocated for the adoption of Protected Retirement solutions, stating that they will mark a new era for American retirement saving.Stevenson pointed out the urgency of the situation, stating, "In a year when more Americans will turn 65 than at any point in history," many retirees are facing uncertainties in their financial future. He highlighted a Nationwide Retirement Institute survey which...

The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) has raised concerns about the impact of excessive litigation on rising auto insurance costs. According to a recent issues brief released by Triple-I, the rise in dangerous roads and driving conditions, coupled with economic costs, is being compounded by overzealous billboard attorneys. Sean Kevelighan, CEO of Triple-I, emphasized the need to address legal system abuse, stating, "The price of insurance is the effect, not the cause of risk, and there must be more work done to curb legal system abuse."Plaintiff attorneys are...

Durango Casino & Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, Planet Hollywood Cancun in Cancun, Quintana Roo, Hotel and Spa Mansion Solis in Morelia, Michoacan, and Manta in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur have been recognized by AAA as Four Diamond properties. According to AAA, these properties offer upscale amenities, remarkable service, and outstanding dining options.Diamond Inspectors from AAA conduct unannounced, independent, in-person property inspections to ensure quality and consistency in the hospitality industry. AAA's commitment to quality is reflected in the 4 Cs of AAA...

Adroit General Agency and Nationwide have announced a new partnership aimed at providing workers’ compensation insurance and services to mid-sized employers operating in high-risk industries. This collaboration comes as Nationwide seeks to expand its presence in the workers’ compensation market by partnering with managing general agencies (MGAs) that specialize in niche segments.Adroit, established in 2021, focuses on offering workers’ compensation solutions to businesses in sectors such as construction, energy, recycling, alternative energy, agriculture, and...

AAA Travel's Senior Vice President, Paula Twidale, stated, "Orlando is the top choice for Spring Break travelers, while Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports." She emphasized that many travelers are seeking warm weather, pools, beaches, and outdoor adventures during this time of year, making Florida an ideal destination. Additionally, Twidale noted the significant increase in cruise bookings for March and April, with a 28% overall increase and a 60% increase for cruises departing from South Florida.According to AAA Travel data,...