Are You Using Apps to Increase Your Productivity? | Blog | Vargas & Vargas Insurance

Apps and Productivity.jpgA few decades ago, having a 12″ black and white television in your home meant that you were on the cutting edge of technology. Nowadays, though, it’s hard to imagine life without a computer, a tablet, and at least one smartphone !

It is natural to use these devices for personal reasons, like checking your email, keeping up with friends on Facebook , and even playing games. Did you know that you can also get apps on your phone or tablet to organize your professional life as well?

Both Google and Apple have basic business suites – apps that can help you with your email, calendar, contacts, and more. Once you have mastered the basics, try moving on to more advanced applications, such as:

HootSuite : It’s said again and again – social media is a must have for businesses. With the HootSuite app, you can use your mobile device to publish to Facebook, Twitter , and even LinkedIn ! This tool is a one-stop-shop for businesspeople who are on the go, but still wish to keep up to date with their customer base.

Brewster : These days, it is so easy for a contacts list to get out of hand. Between your email contacts, and the connections you have on all your social media platforms, keeping track of everyone can be near impossible. With Brewster, you can import all of your contacts, and search for someone by name, location, or even keyword! 

Expensify : Keeping up with a business’s expense reports is a hassle. With the Expensify app, you can automate the process, and keep all your business’s receipts in one place: the cloud! They are also a piece of the “ paperless2013.org ” initiative, which encourages businesses to use a collection of apps to eliminate paperwork from the office environment altogether. You can read more about this program on TechCrunch !

Dropbox , SugarSync , or Box : Sharing files between devices used to mean emailing them to yourself. Now, there are a bunch of apps that can help you share all of your important documents between your computer, tablet, and smartphone. This will ensure that you can always access the files you need, anywhere you go.

Evernote : Before technology became so prevalent, businesspeople would carry around some sort of journal – a legal pad, or some similar device, whose sole purpose was to jot down thoughts and important information. In the same fashion, Evernote is a veritable “junk drawer.” Use it to jot down ideas, notes, and anything else you may deem important. Then just file it away so that you can access it later!

If you give any or all of these applications a try, you may find that your professional productivity increases, which is not an easy feat nowadays. In addition, these are just a small sample of the apps available to help your business. Try searching through your provider’s app store to find other programs to make your business more efficient!

Did you know that a business insurance policy can also help your business? Find out how by talking to a Vargas & Vargas Insurance representative now – our phone number is 877-550-0025.

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What Happens to My Auto Insurance After a Hit & Run?

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
If someone hits your car and drives off, it’s called a hit and run . Imagine leaving the grocery store to find your bumper smashed with no note or witnesses. It’s not just the damage that’s frustrating; it’s the uncertainty about what to do next. Why Are Hit & Runs Confusing? Many drivers aren't sure what to do because we aren’t often taught how insurance works for these situations. But the more you know, the more protected you’ll be. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we guide drivers through hit and run claims, breaking down the process in simple terms. Key Questions Answered: What is a hit & run under Massachusetts law? What auto insurance helps in this situation? Will your premium go up? What immediate steps should you take? What Is a "Hit & Run"? A "hit and run" involves another driver damaging your car or injuring you and leaving without giving their info. It could happen in a parking lot, on the street, or even at home. Massachusetts law requires you to report it and file a claim. Coverage That Helps in a Hit & Run Your auto policy can help—if you have the right coverage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Essential for covering injuries to you or passengers. Collision Coverage: Covers car damage but requires you to pay the deductible. Note: Massachusetts is a no-fault state , needing collision and/or UM coverage for protection. Will Your Insurance Rates Rise? It depends. If considered a not-at-fault accident, rates might not increase. However, lack of a police report or a history of claims might affect rates. Reporting it properly is crucial. What Actions Should You Take? Call the police immediately to file a report. Take photos of all damage and surroundings. Seek witnesses or security camera footage. Contact your insurance agent for advice on filing a claim. Keep all records , like police reports and photos. The Bottom Line You can't control reckless drivers, but you can control your preparedness. Here's what you need to know: Have collision and uninsured motorist coverage for protection. A police report is essential. Your agent is your best ally for making claim decisions.  If you’ve returned to your car to find damage without a note, you know the stress. Now you know the steps to take and the protections you need. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we’re here to make this simple and stress-free. Unsure if your policy protects you from a hit & run? Call us at 617-298-0655 . Let’s ensure you’re covered before it happens.

Personal Liability Insurance: What Happens When Someone Gets Hurt on Your Property

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
In this post, we'll guide you through what happens when someone is injured on your property, how personal liability insurance can provide protection, and the steps you should take immediately if an accident occurs. By the end, you'll understand common scenarios that trigger personal liability coverage, what's included (and not included) in a standard policy, how claims are managed, and practical tips to protect yourself both before and after an accident. Understanding Personal Liability Insurance Personal liability insurance is designed to protect you financially if you are found legally responsible for someone’s injury or damage to their property. Typically, this coverage is part of your homeowners or renters insurance policy. If an incident occurs on your property and you’re held responsible, your personal liability insurance can help cover: Medical expenses for the injured person. Legal defense costs if you’re sued. Settlement or judgment amounts awarded to the injured party. Without this coverage, you could face out-of-pocket expenses which could amount to thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the situation. Common Injury Scenarios on Your Property Personal liability coverage may be applicable in situations like: A guest slipping on an icy walkway. A child falling off a swing in your backyard. A delivery driver tripping over a loose step. A neighbor’s fence being damaged by a tree falling from your yard.  Accidents can happen even if precautions are taken, and unfortunately, being "careful" doesn't automatically shield you from legal or medical bills. What’s Not Covered It's crucial to understand that personal liability insurance doesn't cover everything. Most policies exclude: Injuries to you or household members. Intentional acts causing harm. Certain high-risk situations, such as injuries from business activities conducted at home (unless you have separate business liability coverage). Understanding these exclusions can prevent surprises and the frustrations often accompanying a denied claim. What Happens After an Injury on Your Property If someone is injured on your property: Get medical help immediately — the priority should be the person’s safety and well-being. Document the incident — take photos, collect witness statements, and record all details. Notify your insurance company — report the incident promptly, even if unsure whether the injured party will make a claim. Avoid admitting fault — stick to the facts when speaking with the injured person and your insurer. Once a claim is filed, your insurance company will: Investigate the incident. Determine whether your policy covers the claim. Handle negotiations, settlements, or defense in court if necessary. How to Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens While insurance covers the unexpected, prevention is better than reaction. Reduce your risk by: Keeping walkways clear of ice, snow, and clutter. Repairing loose steps, handrails, and flooring. Properly maintaining landscaping and trees. Providing adequate lighting for entrances and pathways. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property safe but shows responsible behavior if a claim is filed. The Role of Your Insurance Broker An experienced insurance broker can help you: Review your policy to ensure adequate liability coverage limits. Clarify exclusions so you understand what's not covered. Guide you through the claims process if an injury occurs. Suggest umbrella insurance for additional liability protection beyond your standard policy limits. Having a broker means you aren't navigating these situations alone — you'll have someone familiar with your policy advocating for you. The Bottom Line Accidents can occur anywhere to anyone at any time. If someone gets hurt on your property, personal liability insurance can safeguard your finances, cover legal costs, and help manage the situation professionally. The key is understanding how your coverage works before you need it. This involves knowing your policy limits, understanding exclusions, and ensuring you have sufficient protection in place. Additional Resources: Insurance Information Institute – Understanding Liability Coverage NAIC – Consumer’s Guide to Home Insurance