text: Our insurance programs for worker's compensation, general liability, vehicle liability and employee- 
  related health care beneÑts are eÅectively self-insured. Claims in excess of self-insurance levels are fully 
  insured subject to policy limits. Accruals are based on claims Ñled and actuarial estimates of claims 
  development and claims incurred but not reported. Due to the variable condition of the insurance market, we 
  have experienced, and may continue to experience in the future, increased self-insurance retention levels and 
  increased premiums. As we assume more risk for self-insurance through higher retention levels, we may 
  experience more variability in our self-insurance reserves and expense. 
  
  In the normal course of business, we may be required to post performance bonds, insurance policies, 
  letters of credit and/or cash or marketable securities deposits in connection with municipal residential 
  collection contracts, the operation, closure or post-closure of landÑlls, certain remediation contracts, certain 
  environmental permits, and certain business licenses and permits. Bonds issued by surety companies operate as 
  a Ñnancial guarantee of our performance. To date, we have satisÑed Ñnancial responsibility requirements by 
  making cash or marketable securities deposits or by obtaining bank letters of credit, insurance policies or 
  surety bonds. 