What’s New: In Brief (September 27, 2007)

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has observed an increasing number of right-hand drive vehicles hitting Saskatchewan roadways, and has posted an online notice reminding motorists to put safety first.Although you are not required to pass any special road test or examination to operate a right-hand drive vehicle, drivers still need to be extra cautious, SGI said in its posting.Key safety issues associated with a right-hand drive vehicle include limited visibility when entering a roadway, making a left turn or passing another vehicle.When attempting to pass or manoeuvre around other vehicles, you must move considerably to the left to check for oncoming traffic before being able to proceed safely, says Brian Kline, SGIs manager of vehicle inspection. This is very dangerous and it is recommended that the driver leave considerable distance between themselves and the vehicle that is being overtaken.Vehicles imported into Saskatchewan from another jurisdiction or country are subject to a first-time registered vehicle inspection and must comply with provincial inspection and equipment requirements prior to passing inspection and subsequently being eligible for registration.During the inspection of a right-hand drive vehicle, inspection technicians have been instructed to check for specific equipment compliances, says Kline.

Kathleen Tomachek-Cox, a product manager for insurance technology company Applied Systems, Inc., recently achieved the Outstanding Course Leader Award from the American Institute for CPCU and the Insurance Institute of America.The award recognizes Tomachek-Coxs success in teaching classes in general insurance programs for Applied Systems product managers and other staff members. After taking Tomachek-Coxs INS classes, 94.7% of Applied Systems participants passed the national certification exam. The national average was 76.8%. The Institutes commended the instructor for exemplary results and outstanding service to her students and her profession.Tomachek-Cox, an accredited advisor in insurance, is a 23-year veteran of the insurance industry. She joined Applied Systems in April 1999 after 15 years as an independent agent.