Volume 9, Issue 3 March 2018


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Our monthly newsletter addresses consumer insurance topics as well as timely information on issues affecting senior citizens in Louisiana.

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To find out if Consumer Advocacy will be in your area or to request a speaker for your organization or group, call (225) 219-0619 or send an email to: consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov

Upcoming Events

LDI On the Road: Medicare 2018 Updates and Changes

Date: April 4, 2018
Time: 8:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Location: Belle Chase Auditorium
8398 Highway 23, Belle Chase, LA

 

 

View Louisiana's Open Meetings Law on the legislative website by clicking here.

Insurance 101: Choosing an Agent

An insurance agent can help you understand your insurance options and choose the right coverage for you and your family. The Louisiana Department of Insurance has an online tool that can help you narrow down your list of potential insurance agents. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you meet with an agent to purchase coverage.

Ask Questions. If you are unsure about the quote or coverage you need, now is the time to get answers.

Review. Evaluate your options with your agent to make sure you’re choosing the best policy to meet your needs.

Request. Ask for copies of all of the paperwork you sign and keep a copy of the payment receipt or check for the initial premium payment you gave the agent for the policy.

If you want to make sure an agent or company is licensed in Louisiana give us a call at 1-800-259-5300.

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Insurance Tips: After a Car Accident

A quick review of your auto insurance policy can save you time and money following an auto accident. Here are some other tips to remember:

  • Always keep a copy of your current insurance card in your vehicle with registration and other important documents. Keeping track of necessary documents will help you stay on course following an auto accident.
  • You should only provide your name and insurance information following an accident.
  • It’s best to start the claims process as soon an possible. When you contact your insurance company have a copy of the accident report.

While an insurance company may recommend a specific body shop, it is your right as a policyholder to choose the repair shop of your choice. A claims adjuster or auto repair shop will examine the damage to your vehicle. Your insurance company will use the adjuster’s findings as the basis of their settlement. For more information, check out our Consumer Guide to Auto Repair.

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Insurance Considerations for Seniors

As a senior citizen, you’re probably familiar with the basic facts about insurance. However, your needs at this stage of your life have likely changed significantly since you first purchased an insurance policy. There are many important insurance decisions to consider during this phase of your life, making this a good time to re-evaluate your needs.

  • Auto Insurance. As a mature driver (typically age 55 – 70), you may be eligible for discounts. After age 70, the incidence of serious accidents escalates significantly, so the discounts might cease. Discounts may also be available for seniors who limit the amount of driving they do – for example, to less than 7,500 miles per year. When you retire or change jobs and work or stay closer to home – and, therefore, need to drive less – you should inform your insurance company. You may be able to get lower rates.
  • Homeowners. At this stage of your life, you may be in a downsizing mode. So, you can look for ways to bring your costs down by bringing your insurance in line with your scaled back lifestyle. You may also want to consider adding more homeowners liability coverage – and/or an umbrella policy. At this stage of your life, you may have more assets to protect in the event you are sued. If you decide on an umbrella policy, note that these policies often cover both home and auto liability, and are separate from your homeowners and auto policies.
  • Life Insurance. Now is a good time to re-evaluate your life insurance to determine whether you still need as much coverage as you did when your family was younger and you had a large mortgage on your home. Your circumstances have likely changed. If you are covered by a group life insurance policy through your job and are planning to retire soon, inquire as to whether you can convert it to an individual policy.

For assistance with Medicare, remember we have a team of trained counselors across the state who can help you with your questions. For more information, please visit www.ldi.la.gov/shiip.

 

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Office of Consumer Advocacy
(225) 219-0619 or (800) 259-5300

P.O Box 94214
www.ldi.la.gov

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9214
consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov