Security Insurance

The Top 5 Scariest Things About Life Insurance

2011-10-31T07:15:00.000-07:00

31 Oct 2011 10:30 Africa/Lagos

The Top 5 Scariest Things About Life Insurance

From renewal problems involving term life to the potential for losing your shirt with a bad variable universal life insurance investment, Life Quotes, Inc. emphasizes the importance of understanding your life insurance policy.

PR Newswire

DARIEN, Ill., Oct. 31, 2011

DARIEN, Ill., Oct. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Life Quotes, Inc. has compiled a list of the top 5 scariest things about life insurance, calling attention to the importance of going over your life insurance policy with a trusted insurance agent no less than once a year to make sure that the policy you own is keeping up with the changes in your life. If you should die, the only way to truly protect your loved ones from financial peril is with life insurance. But before you sign the dotted line, or pay another renewal bill, make sure you have a thorough understanding of how your policy works.

The following is a short list of some of the most frightening and often overlooked features of a life insurance policy:

TERM LIFE (TL)
Term life insurance doesn't age gracefully

Term life may be the least expensive life insurance policy you can purchase, but it is only in-force for a designated term, typically 10, 15, 20 or 25 years. And if you have to renew a term life policy under the guaranteed renewal clause—look out! The cost of built-in, no-exam renewal feature can often be five or ten times the cost of the premium you have been paying. And then, most renew on an annual basis in which the premiums rapidly escalate even further into the stratosphere each year thereafter. To avoid this problem, consider buying a longer initial rate guarantee at the outset. Many companies now offer 30-year term, level term to age 65 and even level term for life, in which you'd never be subject to a price increase.

WHOLE LIFE (WL)
Creeping death of your cash value

"If you are only looking at immediate, short-term goals, you don't want to invest in a whole life insurance policy because the surrender charges in the early years would dramatically reduce the cash value and you may find that you paid far more for the policy in premiums than what it's worth," said Michelle Matlock, editor of Life Quotes, Inc.

Consider buying whole life only if you want coverage for the very long haul and have no intentions of canceling in the early years.

VARIABLE (VL), UNIVERSAL (UL), and VARIABLE UNIVERSAL LIFE (VUL)
These policies assume investment risks that can murder your overall value

If you are being pitched on a variable or universal life insurance policy that is being sold as "self-sustaining," watch out because long-term, non-guaranteed projections with life insurance can be very misleading. Not only might it take 10 or more years to build up enough cash value to cover future premiums, but also inherent in those projections is an assumed interest rate that can be wildly off over a long period of time. When interest rates are projected to be high, the cash value grows at an alluring, faster rate, but when interest rates are low, cash values grow very slowly. To avoid trouble, always ask the selling agent to show you and explain the "guaranteed" values columns in the illustration, as they will show a true, worst-case scenario.

A variable universal life insurance policy is far more risky. The policy is dependent on how well the investments tied to the cash value perform in the stock market. If the stock market goes south along with your investments, this will greatly impact your cash value and the security of your death benefit. There are several upfront charges on a VUL that make it very pricey coming out of the gate. In addition to this, these policies can have astronomically high surrender charges if you decide to partially or fully surrender the policy in the first 10 years.

For a full list of "Top 5 Scariest Things About Life Insurance" go to http://www.lifequotes.com/articles/lifeinsurance/the-top-5-scariest-things-about-life-insurance/

About Life Quotes, Inc.

Originally founded in 1984, Life Quotes, Inc. owns and operates a comprehensive consumer information service and companion insurance brokerage service that caters to the needs of self-directed insurance shoppers. Visitors to the Company's website, www.lifequotes.com, are able to obtain instant car, life, health, home and business insurance quotes, and have the freedom to buy online or by phone from any company shown. Life Quotes, Inc. generates revenues from receipt of industry-standard commissions, including back-end bonus commissions and volume-based contingent bonus commissions that are paid by participating insurance companies. We also generate revenues from the sale of website traffic and insurance leads to various third parties.

SOURCE Life Quotes, Inc.

CONTACT: Michelle Matlock, Editor, +1-630-515-0170, ext. 335, editor@lifequotes.com

Web Site: http://www.lifequotes.com

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2011-01-01T08:18:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Trendz Info

Happy New Year 2011!

We give all the glory to God for protecting and saving our beautiful and wonderful life to see the dawn of another year and we trust HIM to continue to see us through in the coming years and decades!

We thank God 24/7!

31 Dec 2010 10:00 Africa/Lagos

The Top Baby Names of 2010 Revealed

LONDON, December 31, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- Katie and Amy have fallen out of the list of the top 20 female christian names, it emerged yesterday (30th January 2010).

The monikers of troubled stars Katie Price and Amy Winehouse have been replaced by prettier and less infamous names, Maisie and Isabella.

The highest climber in the list of the most popular girls' names in the UK today is Bella, due in no small part to the lead character in Twilight, played by actress Kristen Stewart. Lacey, as in EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, is also on the up, soaring from number 57 up to 37. Florence is also becoming increasingly popular, moving up 33 places, as is Maisy.

Olivia is still top after 3 years and Sophie is still second. Lily is now third, up from 8th place, with Emily and Ruby completing the top five.

In the boys list Jack has finally been bumped off top spot by Oliver after 16 years in first place. Jack is now second while Harry, Charlie and Alfie, all non-movers, make up the top five.

Another bad year for F1 ace Lewis Hamilton has seen the popularity of his first name drop from 13th to 19th place, whilst his singer girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger fares even worse, with the name Nicole dropping seven places down the girls list to 84th place.

Ollie emerged as the biggest climber - up 56 places to number 53 - while Zachary, perhaps inspired by High School Musical's Zac Efron or even the son of jungle queen Stacey Soloman, has also become more common.

Bobby - the name of the late Jade Goody's son - is another big climber, up 25 places to number 70. And Kai - Coleen and Wayne Rooney's son has stepped up 10 places to number 56, despite his father's indiscretions.

The list was compiled by parenting club Bounty from names given to 423,000 children born in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland during 2010.

Yesterday, Faye Mingo, spokeswoman for bounty.com (http://www.bounty.com/) said: ''Our records show that parents are continuing to be influenced by popular culture and celebrity trends.

"The remarkable rise in popularity of names such as Ollie and Florence are most probably due to the X Factor star Olly Murs and the singer from Florence and the Machine experiencing their time in the limelight.

"However, parents are looking to a wide range of sources for influence and also seem to be rediscovering more traditional, 'old-fashioned' names like Ava and Stanley which have been more associated with grandparents in the past.

"Biblical names are also proving popular with Noah rising 20 places to 15th place and Jacob up 7, just missing the top ten."

Olivia is enjoying its third year in top spot after deposing Grace in 2008.

Jessica climbed one place to sixth, while Chloe dropped from fifth to seventh. Ava made it into the top ten for the first time while Grace slipped to ninth from sixth.

Amelia completed the top ten. Lucy was a non-mover at 13 while the next four places were all taken up by new names, including Isabella which climbed eight places to 14th.

Megan, Isla and Freya have all become more popular as has Lilly, most probably inspired by the singer Lily Allen.

On the boys list Jack finally surrendered top spot to Oliver but very little of the rest of the top ten changed. William climbed one spot to eighth as did Daniel to ninth while James slipped two to tenth.

Other names we will be hearing more regularly includes Logan, which climbed seven places to 17th and Oscar, which moved up four to 22nd.

Callum and Liam seem to have had their day - they were the biggest fallers in the top 30, seven and nine places respectively.

And new entries into the bounty.com top 100 lists were Esme, Courtney, Jude, Elliot and Stanley.

Faye Mingo added: "A recent study we ran found that one in five parents regret the names they have chosen for their children, so it's more important than ever for parents to choose a name them and their child will love for the rest of their life.

"It's hard to predict what we'll see next year but it's most probable that celebrities and popular culture will again play a part - and with a royal wedding on the horizon we may well see an increase in Williams and Kates born in celebration!"

See the Top 100 boys and girls names of 2010 and check the latest regional popularity (http://www.bounty.com/baby-names/regional-names) ratings at Bounty's baby names (http://www.bounty.com/baby-names) section which features a host of unique and handy functions to help parents decide on baby names. As well as being able to search names using letters of the alphabet (http://www.bounty.com/baby-names/names-beginning-with), number of syllables, origin, and meaning, parents can also search trend graphs which show if names are declining/growing in popularity as well as popular sibling/middle names for their chosen name, amongst a host of other useful tools.

TOP 100 BOYS NAMES 2010

1. Oliver
2. Jack
3. Harry
4. Charlie
5. Alfie
6. Thomas
7. Joshua
8. William
9. Daniel
10. James
11. Jacob
12. George
13. Ethan
14. Lucas
15. Noah
16. Max
17. Logan
18. Joseph
19. Lewis
20. Dylan
21. Samuel
22. Oscar
23. Ryan
24. Archie
25. Riley
26. Jayden
27. Tyler
28. Jake
29. Callum
30. Liam
31. Alexander
32. Connor
33. Luke
34. Adam
35. Benjamin
36. Matthew
37. Leo
38. Finley
39. Jamie
40. Alex
41. Freddie
42. Mason
43. Harrison
44. Henry
45. Ben
46. Harvey
47. Nathan
48. Isaac
49. Cameron
50. Aaron
51. Theo
52. Edward
53. Ollie
54. Finlay
55. Owen
56. Kai
57. Harley
58. Aiden
59. Michael
60. Toby
61. Sam
62. Leon
63. Kyle
64. David
65. Rhys
66. Evan
67. Bailey
68. Reece
69. Zachary
70. Bobby
71. Ashton
72. Kian
73. Sebastian
74. Luca
75. Kayden
76. Louis
77. Zac
78. Taylor
79. Brandon
80. John
81. Hayden
82. Billy
83. Caleb
84. Jude
85. Blake
86. Joe
87. Louie
88. Jay
89. Christopher
90. Joel
91. Bradley
92. Ellis
93. Corey
94. Elliot
95. Zak
96. Robert
97. Stanley
98. Aidan
99. Jenson
100. Patrick

TOP 100 GIRLS NAMES 2010

1. Olivia
2. Sophie
3. Lily
4. Emily
5. Ruby
6. Jessica
7. Chloe
8. Ava
9. Grace
10. Amelia
11. Mia
12. Evie
13. Lucy
14. Isabella
15. Maisie
16. Poppy
17. Daisy
18. Ellie
19. Ella
20. Megan
21. Isla
22. Freya
23. Charlotte
24. Lilly
25. Summer
26. Isabelle
27. Holly
28. Sophia
29. Millie
30. Erin
31. Katie
32. Amy
33. Scarlett
34. Hannah
35. Lexi
36. Imogen
37. Lacey
38. Molly
39. Eva
40. Brooke
41. Lola
42. Phoebe
43. Layla
44. Emma
45. Leah
46. Abigail
47. Sienna
48. Gracie
49. Amber
50. Jasmine
51. Alice
52. Matilda
53. Elizabeth
54. Anna
55. Madison
56. Rosie
57. Paige
58. Lauren
59. Isabel
60. Bethany
61. Caitlin
62. Georgia
63. Faith
64. Lexie
65. Florence
66. Rebecca
67. Niamh
68. Zoe
69. Maya
70. Skye
71. Maddison
72. Tilly
73. Keira
74. Scarlet
75. Tia
76. Amelie
77. Libby
78. Sofia
79. Sarah
80. Aimee
81. Isobel
82. Esme
83. Zara
84. Nicole
85. Julia
86. Martha
87. Maisy
88. Heidi
89. Abbie
90. Mya
91. Darcy
92. Rose
93. Eleanor
94. Kayla
95. Miley
96. Hollie
97. Eve
98. Bella
99. Evelyn
100. Courtney

TOP 100 BOYS NAMES 2009

1. Jack
2. Oliver
3. Charlie
4. Harry
5. Alfie
6. Thomas
7. Joshua
8. William
9. James
10. Daniel
11. George
12. Ethan
13. Lewis
14. Max
15. Lucas
16. Dylan
17. Archie
18. Joseph
19. Jacob
20. Samuel
21. Liam
22. Callum
23. Oscar
24. Jayden
25. Logan
26. Ryan
27. Jake
28. Tyler
29. Riley
30. Luke
31. Harvey
32. Ben
33. Adam
34. Alexander
35. Benjamin
36. Leo
37. Matthew
38. Noah
39. Connor
40. Alex
41. Jamie
42. Harrison
43. Mason
44. Cameron
45. Owen
46. Henry
47. Nathan
48. Finley
49. Aaron
50. Freddie
51. Issac
52. Sam
53. Finlay
54. Theo
55. Harley
56. Aiden
57. Toby
58. Edward
59. Rhys
60. Michael
61. Evan
62. Kyle
63. Leon
64. Reece
65. David
66. Kai
67. Ashton
68. Bailey
69. Kian
70. Louis
71. Taylor
72. Hayden
73. Brandon
74. Joe
75. Jay
76. Luca
77. Kayden
78. Ewan
79. Joel
80. Sebastian
81. Zac
82. Ellis
83. Josh
84. Aidan
85. John
86. Billy
87. Zak
88. Bradley
89. Kieran
90. Blake
91. Christopher
92. Morgan
93. Caleb
94. Louie
95. Andrew
96. Bobby
97. Gabriel
98. Robert
99. Elliot
100.Jude

TOP 100 GIRLS NAMES 2009

1. Olivia
2. Ruby
3. Sophie
4. Chloe
5. Emily
6. Grace
7. Jessica
8. Lily
9. Amelia
10. Evie
11. Mia
12. Lucy
13. Ava
14. Ella
15. Charlotte
16. Amy
17. Daisy
18. Katie
19. Megan
20. Summer
21. Ellie
22. Isabella
23. Holly
24. Millie
25. Poppy
26. Freya
27. Erin
28. Isla
29. Isabelle
30. Hannah
31. Emma
32. Brooke
33. Molly
34. Phoebe
35. Eva
36. Leah
37. Lilly
38. Abigail
39. Sophia
40. Imogen
41. Maisie
42. Scarlett
43. Lexi
44. Jasmine
45. Lola
46. Layla
47. Isabel
48. Lauren
49. Amber
50. Madison
51. Matilda
52. Elizabeth
53. Bethany
54. Sienna
55. Rosie
56. Anna
57. Gracie
58. Paige
59. Alice
60. Caitlin
61. Georgia
62. Maddison
63. Rebecca
64. Lacey
65. Isobel
66. Faith
67. Libby
68. Tia
69. Keira
70. Lexie
71. Niamh
72. Skye
73. Nicole
74. Aimee
75. Sarah
76. Zoe
77. Eleanor
78. Amelie
79. Julia
80. Eve
81. Maya
82. Tilly
83. Zara
84. Martha
85. Sofia
86. Scarlet
87. Darcy
88. Abbie
89. Victoria
90. Heidi
91. Alexandra
92. Taylor
93. Miley
94. Kayla
95. Mya
96. Lydia
97. Florence
98. Evelyn
99. Rose
100. Courtney

Notes to Editors:

- The top 100 boys and girls names lists were compiled using data
collated from the registered births of Bounty Parenting Club members in
2010

- Bounty (http://www.bounty.com) is the UK's favourite parenting club,
providing information, support and products for young families
throughout the four key-life stages: pre-birth, birth, toddlers and
pre-school

- With 2.5 million members and over 50,000 new members joining
every month, Bounty reaches 9 out of 10 new and expectant parents in
the UK through its Bounty bag sampling

- http://www.bounty.com has 750,000 opted-in members and a further
28,000 new members joining each month
- http://www.bounty.com/baby-names features a host of unique and
handy new functions and tools to help you decide on baby names.
Whether your heart is set on a name and you want to find out more about
its origin or meaning, have absolutely no idea how to go about choosing
a name or simply want to find a name rated by others as 'cool' or
'exotic', Bounty.com is the go-to site for all your naming needs. In
just one click you can search:

- Regional mapping (search the popularity of names throughout the UK
based on where you live)

- Middle names (search for names that are most commonly used as middle
names with your chosen first name)

- Sibling names (search for common sibling names alongside your chosen
first name)

- Rate names according to how 'cool', 'great', 'traditional', 'exotic',
'unique' they are

- Find out nick-names, explore famous people names, and characters
featured in books, TV or film

- Find out who else likes the names you do and ask friends and family to
confidentially rate your favourite names

- Name trend graph showing if names are in declining/growing in
popularity

- Search using letters of the alphabet, number of syllables, origin, and
meaning

- Collate your own 'shopping basket' of preferred names

Source: Bounty UK Ltd

For further information please contact Rachel Burrows on +44-(0)1707-294000, or email rburrows@bounty.com

Top 20 Sites for Insurance Quotes

2010-07-23T05:04:00.001-07:00

1
InsureMe
2
Insurance.com
3
Insure.com
4
StateFarm
5
Amica Insurance
6
InsureCom
7
Quicken Insurance
8
4freequotes.com
9
National Insurance Mart
10
Insure One
11
Answer Financial
12
BestQuote.com
13
4Insurance
14
Quote Me Insurance
15
Insure Me For Less
16
Nationwide Mutual Insurance
17
Netquote.com
18
Local Insurance
19
Bollinger Insurance
20
MostChoice

Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities for Drivers in America

2010-05-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

12 May 2010 15:30 Africa/Lagos

Insurance.com Lists Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities for Drivers

From fender benders to totaled cars, here are the 10 cities most likely to boost your auto insurance premium

CLEVELAND, May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Boston residents are world-renowned for their demolition derby driving style, but what city do Boston drivers consider "wicked scary"? Probably Baltimore.

That's right. Baltimore.

The city known for such number ones as the first public library system and first U.S. stage coach route, can now add No. 1 Most Dangerous City for Drivers, according to a new study from insurance.com. It tallies the most claims for everything from fender benders to vandalism and theft.

Baltimore tops the list with 36.5 percent of drivers claiming a prior accident when receiving a car insurance comparison quote from insurance.com. The port city might not surprise many, but there were plenty of stunners in the Top 10, including Erie, Pa., and Des Moines, Iowa.

The safest city to set the car on cruise? Yuma, Ariz. at 17.2 percent. And bigger cities like Los Angeles (26.3 percent) and Chicago (26.1 percent) came in at No. 116 and 122 respectively.

"An accident - even one as small as a fender bender - could affect the cost of your auto insurance premium, so we encourage everyone to drive safely. That means avoiding driver distractions and obeying traffic laws," says Rob Klapper, insurance.com CEO. "On the flip side, if you've had an accident in the past that has recently fallen off your driving record, it could mean big savings. In either case, it's always best to shop and compare rates to make sure you're getting the best coverage at the best price."

Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities for Drivers *:

1. Baltimore, Md.
2. Johnstown, Pa.
3. Portland, Maine
4. Des Moines, Iowa
5. Erie, Pa.
6. Bangor, Maine
7. Birmingham, Ala.
8. Austin, Texas
9. Manchester, N.H.
10. Lincoln, Neb.

For the most accurate data, insurance.com's study chose to review designated market areas that requested 500 quotes or more over a six-month period. The study did not include Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts or New York, since the site presently does not offer comparison quotes for those states.

So that means you're not off the hook, Boston.

The full list can be found here.

About Insurance.com

Insurance.com, the premier destination to shop for and buy insurance, is also the leading online independent auto insurance agency in the United States. Innovative technology allows consumers to link directly to the rating systems of more than a dozen top insurance companies that then compete for the consumer's business. Insurance.com empowers consumers to instantly compare rates, make smart decisions, and buy the policy that fits them best. Since 2000, millions of drivers have saved both time and money by shopping for and buying through insurance.com or speaking by phone with its expert, licensed agents. Insurance.com is headquartered in Solon, Ohio.

*The information in this article is based on proprietary insurance.com data. Insurance.com does not guarantee that the information is representative of all national, city and state statistics and has not validated it with any third party insurance providers.

Media Contacts:
Thomas Tennant
Insurance.com
440.715.0075, ext 1114
ttennant@insurance.com

Source: insurance.com

CONTACT: Thomas Tennant, Insurance.com, +1-440-715-0075, ext 1114,
ttennant@insurance.com

Web Site: insurance.com

Before Buying a Home - Insurance Questions Everyone Should Ask

2010-05-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Before Buying a Home - Insurance Questions Everyone Should Ask

NEW YORK, May 6 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes time to buy that dream home, the cost to insure it is often overlooked. The Insurance Information Institute says there are two questions everyone should ask before they buy: How much will the home cost to insure? And, will separate coverage be needed for certain disasters, such as flood or earthquake?

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/iii/43425/

Insurance is an expense you will have for as long as you own the home. Before purchasing a home, there are important factors to consider that will affect the cost of insurance. The I.I.I. has created a checklist to help:

-- How far is the home from the fire department? Houses that are near a
fire station with professional firefighters usually cost less to insure.

-- What is the condition of the plumbing and electrical systems? Poorly
maintained, unsafe and/or outdated systems can cost more to insure.

-- Is the home vulnerable to wind damage? Find out if private insurance is
available, or a state-run insurance program. Is there a windstorm
deductible, and how high is it? A home on or near the beach may be more
costly to insure than one inland.

-- Is the house at risk from flooding? Flood insurance is not covered
under a standard homeowners insurance policy. However, it is available
from the National Flood Insurance Program which is serviced by private
carriers and from a few specialty insurers (see www.FloodSmart.gov).

-- What about earthquake risk? Earthquake insurance requires an
endorsement or a separate policy.

-- Is the house well built and well maintained? Homes built by reputable
builders using disaster resistant materials and designed to meet current
building codes are likely to better withstand natural disasters.

A knowledgeable home inspector and your insurance agent can be helpful in answering these questions. The home's loss history report can also provide useful information about its claims history of water damage, fire and other losses.

About the Insurance Information Institute

Recommended:

Mortgage insurance

Is Your Dog Covered Under Your Homeowners Insurance?

2010-03-17T09:06:00.001-07:00

16 Mar 2010 10:20 Africa/Lagos

Is Your Dog Covered Under Your Homeowners Insurance?

ONTARIO, Calif., March 16 /PRNewswire/ -- "Asking if your dog is covered under your homeowners insurance policy may be a strange question to ask, but according to the Journal of American Medical Association, the number of dog bites in America now tops 4.5 million per year," says Frank N. Darras, America's top insurance lawyer. "An overwhelming one-third of all homeowner's liability claims are now related to dog bites, equaling about $1 billion in damages, according to the Insurance Information Institute."

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02)

So, how do you protect your finances from a liability suit if Fido should ever bite the mailman? One type of policy that has become popular is Umbrella insurance. Umbrella Insurance is designed to give you added liability protection above and beyond the limits on your homeowners, auto, and watercraft personal insurance policies. With an umbrella policy, depending on the insurance company, one can add an additional $1-5 million in liability protection. This protection is designed to "kick-in" when the liability on your other current policies has been exhausted. See www.DarrasLaw.com.

How do you decide if umbrella coverage is right for you? You first need to evaluate what assets you want covered and what the likelihood of getting sued may be. It may be more cost-effective to raise your liability limits on your homeowners insurance, rather than buying an umbrella policy. Also, by raising your deductible, you may ultimately pay less premium than you had originally been paying. No matter, with the commonality of million-dollar settlements and verdicts, an umbrella policy may be the best way to go, says Darras.

For example, if you own a swimming pool, hot tub, trampoline, swing set, or pets, it would be a good idea to consider getting an umbrella policy, especially if you have guests over and your dog tends to snap at people. If you don't regularly have people over and your pooch couldn't hurt a fly, it may not be that important.

With personal liability umbrella policy coverage, you can include personal injury, property damage or bodily injury-which may be caused by you, your pets, or your dependents. Along with personal injury protection, you may be covered in the unfortunate event of:

-- False arrest
-- False imprisonment
-- Defamation
-- Invasion of privacy
-- Malicious prosecution
-- Eviction
-- Wrongful entry

Some umbrella policies go as far as giving you coverage if you're charged while actively participating on the board of a charitable, religious or civic organization. It's important to realize that even if the lawsuit is frivolous or silly, you will still need to pay the expenses of the litigation defending yourself.
For more information, visit www.DarrasLaw.com or call 800-458-4577.
Frank N. Darras available for interviews, contact robin@mcdavidpr.com or call 650-279-9512.
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click
appropriate link.
Frank N. Darras

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com/

Source: Frank N. Darras

CONTACT: +1-650-279-9512, robin@mcdavidpr.com, for Frank N. Darras
Web Site: http://www.darrasnews.com/
http://www.darraslaw.com/

Pelosi, Senior Democrats' Remarks at News Conference on Repealing Health Insurance Industry Anti-Trust Exemption

2010-02-24T03:31:00.000-08:00

24 Feb 2010 00:20 Africa/Lagos

Pelosi, Senior Democrats' Remarks at News Conference on Repealing Health Insurance Industry Anti-Trust Exemption

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Chairwoman Louise Slaughter, Congressman Peter DeFazio, and Wendell Potter, senior fellow on health care at the Center for Media and Democracy and a former insurance industry executive, held a news conference this afternoon in the Capitol to discuss the Health Insurance Industry Fair Competition Act that will end the unfair anti-trust protection for the health insurance industry. The legislation will be on the House floor tomorrow. Below are opening statements from the press conference:

Speaker Pelosi. Good afternoon. I am absolutely delighted to be here this afternoon with Leader Hoyer, with the distinguished Chair of the Rules Committee, Louise Slaughter, with Representative Peter DeFazio of Oregon, and our very special guest, Wendell Potter who is a senior fellow on health care, Center for Media and Democracy, and former head of communications at Cigna and Humana.

Tomorrow will be a very special day in the Congress of the United States because tomorrow we will make real change. We will change from the American people having to operate on the field of the insurance companies for over 60 years to the insurance companies having to operate on the field of the American people. We would not be here today without Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, without Peter DeFazio's work, Chairman Conyers who can't be with us right now, and also the leadership of our new Members of Congress, Congressman Perriello of Virginia, Congresswoman Markey of Colorado to name two who have been pushing this issue.

This bill is about restoring competition, fairness, and choice to the health insurance industry. After 65 years, it is now time for the unfair advantage insurance companies have held over America's families and small businesses to end. As we continue the fight for comprehensive reform, this marks another critical step. As you know, we will be taking up comprehensive health insurance reform shortly but we wanted to make sure that in paving the way for that legislation we paved the way for fairness, for competition, for better care, better quality, better affordability for the American people.

I think you have probably seen recently the enormous profits of the insurance industry, and we think the time has come to end insurance companies with enormous profits, CEOs of insurance companies with enormous salaries telling America's families that they have to pay more for their insurance. Over the past decade, insurance rates have doubled, more than doubled, 100, what is it? 151 percent and that is again, as you saw in California, just the beginning.

So as we have said about our legislation, it is about affordability for the middle class; it is about accessibility of many more people to health care and affordability is central to that; and it is about accountability of the insurance companies. If we have the AAA rating for our insurance policies as we go forward, our insurance public policies as we go forward, then we will improve quality of care, lower cost, and make health care more available to many more people.

It is now my pleasure to yield to a leader on this issue in the Congress, a champion for affordability for the middle class, for whom this issue is central, our distinguished Majority Leader Steny Hoyer.

Majority Leader Hoyer. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I thank the Chair of the Rules Committee Slaughter for her leadership on this issue, Mr. DeFazio for his strong advocacy of this legislation and Mr. Potter, we thank you for being here and for your expertise.

Republicans and Democrats throughout the last year and talking about health care have talked about the importance of competition. And they may have a different perspective about how they get there but the free market and competition. We hear our Republican friends talking about that and very frankly, we wanted to set up a greater competition as well to make sure that consumers were getting the best price which would be determined in a free market, acting in a way that free markets were unconstrained and brought prices down. When I say unconstrained, not constrained by any collusive or cooperative behavior. That's what anti-trust is all about. We believe in a free market. We believe in competition. But we know that if we do not preclude people from colluding that prices will be improperly higher than they ought to be. So we want to open competition. That's what this bill is about.

This bill is about making sure that everyone who wants to offer health insurance in America will do so in a free, open market. That will be subject as every other business is, to anti-trust provisions which say you cannot, in effect, make a deal with somebody that you take that part of the market, I'll take this part of the market, and we'll both charge this price. Because then there is not a free and open market to determine the lowest, best price for the best product.

So I am very pleased to be here. I want to congratulate Tom Perriello and Betsey Markey of Colorado, who have been so involved with Ms. Slaughter, Mr. DeFazio, and others, and John Conyers, the Chairman of our committee. And coming to a point where we will place this bill on the floor tomorrow. I am confident it will pass. And I surely hope it passes with a very significant, bipartisan vote. Because there is certainly bipartisan agreement that the free market and competition are clearly in the best interest in all consumers. That's what this bill is about.

Thank you very much.

Speaker Pelosi. A person who has been involved in this issue, removing the exemption to anti-trust laws from the health insurance industry, Chairwoman Louise Slaughter, has been working on this issue since her days in the state legislature in New York and probably even before then. So she came to this Congress determined to make this change and tomorrow her determination will pay off. Madam Chair.

Chairwoman Slaughter. Thank you, Madam Speaker. It is because of you and the Majority Leader that we have reached this point, and it is a very important point for us to have reached. It is totally appropriate that the Congress of the United States lift this exemption because they created it. In 1945, both the Senate and the House passed legislation following a Supreme Court ruling that anti-trust should indeed govern the insurance industry. Each house passed legislation that gave a three-year transition period at which point they would be covered by anti-trust. By the time the bill got to conference and came out of the conference, the exemption had been made permanent, which did not in any way follow what each house had voted but it was ratified then by each house. It was a bad day as far as I am concerned because I know of no industry in the United States which should be exempt from anti-trust, which and their sole purpose is to protect consumers and heaven knows when it comes to insurance we need it.

I am here today to introduce somebody that I have grown so fond of, Wendell Potter. He and I are from the same part of the country, so I was not surprised that Wendell would stand up to insurance industries. All of us can tell anecdotal stories and tell about what people would say to us, but only Wendell Potter who was on the inside--he was the executive at an insurance company--could really give us the true story of what was going on there and he did. He has been so generous with his time, with his expertise, with his friendship and he got started in this because he knew that chicanery was going on in the insurance industry, that phony studies were being made, that people were being denied on the flimsiest of excuses. We are so lucky that we have Wendell Potter and the Wendell Potters of this world, who will stand up when they see a wrong and help to right it. It is a great pleasure for me to introduce to you one of the great Americans of this time, Wendell Potter.

Mr. Potter. Thank you very much, Chairwoman and Madam Speaker. As someone who spent 20 years in the insurance industry, I can attest that this is very important legislation and I can say that it is both substantive and symbolic legislation. The insurance industry has enjoyed an exemption, as everyone has said, for 65 years. And that has contributed to a health care system that has become one of the most dysfunctional and one of the most expensive in the world. And this is time that the health insurance industry begins to abide by the same rules and regulations that every other industry in this country has to abide by.

And it is symbolic in that, I believe this in my view is the beginning of comprehensive reform that will benefit average Americans, working individuals and families more than the big insurance companies and their partners and their allies. And over the 20 years that I was in the industry, I saw competition vanish. We have seen so many mergers and acquisitions over the years that industry now is dominated by a cartel of about seven very large health insurance companies, all of them for profit. So the landscape has changed remarkably in the time that I was in the industry, and I think I have seen also blatant disregard for regulation, particularly at the state level, insurance companies recognize that in many states the insurance departments are not resourced adequately so there is a blatant disregard for regulation.

So I see this as a very important piece of legislation and one that is the beginning of much-needed

reform. Thank you.

Speaker Pelosi. Thank you very much, Mr. Potter. Thank you very much. We are honored by your presence, very informed by your information and you too have made a tremendous difference and when we have that victory tomorrow it will be in large measure because of your courage. Wendell Potter, thank you.

The relentless, that word is identified with Peter DeFazio on this and other issues in the Congress, but he has been indeed relentless in pushing for removing this exemption which health insurance companies have from anti-trust laws of our land. Imagine that they have an exemption, an industry so closely related to cost and well being of the American people with this exemption. This drama has been beaten by Peter DeFazio for a very long time. Tomorrow, we will have a victory and he will be one of our drum majors.

Congressman DeFazio. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Thanks for your support and thanks for making this day possible. Louise, thank you for your tremendous support as we move through this. I would like to give some credit to someone who preceded us here, Senator William Proxmire. He first brought this issue to my attention when I was a freshman Member of Congress and that's as you can tell from my age, sometime ago, almost more than two decades ago. And I have been pursuing this for quite some time like Louise in the interest of fairness and protecting consumers.

Now we have heard a lot in this debate that we should listen. Congress should listen, we have heard that. Well, I went home and listened in August, 14 town hall meetings in the more conservative parts of my district, attended by about 8,000 people in the end. We had to rent fairgrounds and other things. And there was one point of consensus. One. Between those who represented the interests of the group called the Tea Party and those who represented the interests of those called single payer advocates. And that was that this unfair exemption from anti-trust law should not exist for the insurance industry. The whole auditorium would stand up at that point. There was consensus on this issue. So we are listening. We are listening to the American people.

The American people want this reform, and we are going to deliver it tomorrow. This should be bipartisan. I cannot understand how any Republican who is advocating national plans and advocating for free market solutions could be against allowing the free market to work by stopping collusion among these multi-state, multi-national companies that are derogatory to the interests of consumers.

One last point. You know, these, some say, "Well it is the job of the states." This is beyond the capability than even the most sophisticated and well-resourced Justice Departments among the states. When Andrew Cuomo was pursuing the industry with some success, there were other issues he wished to pursue, but they were beyond the scope and jurisdiction of his capabilities. When these multi-state, multi-national companies choose to collude through setting up rating shelves or other things outside this jurisdiction and individual state and import the results of those, you know independent studies or rate settings there is little even the most sophisticated and aggressive state Attorney General can do there beyond their reach. But the federal government should be able to protect consumers in those instances and this would be a beginning of that protection by repealing this exemption.

Speaker Pelosi. Thank you very much. The choice will be very clear tomorrow. Are you on the side of the insurance company and maintaining the stranglehold that they have on America's consumers, impeding progress to be made in their good health and for a healthier America? Or are you on the side of the people? Are you on the side of the consumer? I hope that we have a very strong, bipartisan vote on the side of the consumer tomorrow and we are working toward that end.

Again, I just want to say that this is part of one year ago when we began with the Recovery Package, which now CBO has told us just now has created over 2 million jobs that we had in that legislation -- health IT, billions of dollars for health IT, health information technology, billions of dollars for investment in the National Institutes of Health for bio-medical research to make America healthier -- to name two -- but other initiatives as well. And around the same time, we passed the SCHIP, the State Children's Health Insurance Program -- insuring 11 million children.

So we've got a running start on making America healthier at the beginning of last year and in the course of the appropriations process. We will finish our work -- one stage of it when we pass the comprehensive bill. Continuing the work we began last year and along the path toward comprehensive care, tomorrow is a very important day for us. So we're looking forward to it with great enthusiasm for fairness for the American people.

Source: Office of the Speaker of the House

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill of the Office of the
Speaker of the House, +1-202-226-7616

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Insurance.com Lists Top 10 Most Dangerous Drivers by Profession

2010-02-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

17 Feb 2010 14:00 Africa/Lagos

Insurance.com Lists Top 10 Most Dangerous Drivers by Profession

Considering one of these careers? Better consider some great car insurance, too

CLEVELAND, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- If you're both an expert at the law and an expert at getting stopped by the law, you might be a dangerous driver. So says a recent insurance.com study listing the Top 10 Most Dangerous Drivers by Profession.

Attorneys topped the list at No 1. with 44 percent claiming a prior accident when receiving a car insurance comparison quote from insurance.com. (We bet 44 percent of them talked their way out of a ticket, too.) Findings were based on accident claims as a percentage of quotes.

The least dangerous drivers? Athletes (17 percent) and homemakers (24 percent).

"Professions that demand multi-tasking - being on the phone, moving fast on a tight schedule - are prone to more distractions and, from there, more accidents," says Sam Belden, insurance.com VP, all joking aside. "On the other hand, though the job of a homemaker demands multi-tasking, young children are often along for any car ride. And when children are involved, people tend to take their time and use greater caution." Homemakers and athletes also tend to be off the road during rush hour.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Drivers by Profession*:

1. Attorney/Judge
2. Financial professionals
3. Government worker (GS6)
4. Bartender or Waiter
5. Business Professionals
6. Dog Groomer
7. Marketing/Advertising professionals
8. Barber/Stylist
9. Coach
10. Nurse

Happen to be one of those folks? Then you'll want to keep in mind that an accident could raise your insurance rate. The chance of a rate increase is more likely based on factors such as accident severity, if you're at fault, the value of your insurance claim, type of violation, and if the accident appears on your motor vehicle or comprehensive loss underwriting exchange report.

About Insurance.com

Insurance.com, the premier destination to shop for and buy insurance, is also the leading online independent auto insurance agency in the United States. Innovative technology allows consumers to link directly to the rating systems of more than a dozen top insurance companies that then compete for the consumer's business. Insurance.com empowers consumers to instantly compare rates, make smart decisions, and buy the policy that fits them best. Since 2000, millions of drivers have saved both time and money by shopping for and buying through insurance.com or speaking by phone with its expert, licensed agents. Insurance.com is headquartered in Solon, Ohio.

*While the information in this article is based on proprietary insurance.com data, insurance.com does not guarantee the accuracy of such information and has not validated it with any third party insurance providers. Data based on single driver, single vehicle.

Media Contact:
Thomas Tennant
Insurance.com
440.715.0075, ext 1114

Source: Insurance.com

CONTACT: Thomas Tennant, Insurance.com, +1-440-715-0075, ext 1114

Web Site: Insurance.com

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Five Insurance Mistakes to Avoid!

2010-01-05T04:36:00.000-08:00

Five Insurance Mistakes to Avoid!

The Insurance Information Institute says you can save money on insurance if you avoid five big insurance mistakes:

New York (December 2009) /PRNewswire/ — The Insurance Information Institute says you can save

money on insurance if you avoid five big insurance mistakes:

Mistake #1: Insuring a home for its real estate value rather than the cost of rebuilding.

When real estate prices go down, homeowners may think they can reduce the amount of coverage on their home. But insurance covers the cost of rebuilding, not the sales price.

A better way to save: Raise your deductible. An increase from $500 to $1,000, could save up to 25%.

Mistake #2: Selecting an insurance company by price alone.

It's important to choose a company with competitive prices, but also one that is financially sound with good customer service.

A better way to save: Check the financial health of a company with independent rating agencies and ask friends and family for recommendations.

Mistake #3: Dropping flood insurance.

Many homeowners are unaware they are at risk for flooding, but 25% of all flood losses are in low risk areas.

A better way to save: Before purchasing a home, check with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to see if it is in a flood zone; if so, consider a less risky area. FEMA recommends all homeowners consider flood insurance, available from the NFIP.

Mistake #4: Only purchasing the legally required amount of liability for your car.

In today's litigious society, buying only the minimum amount of liability means you'll likely pay more out-of-pocket.

A better way to save: Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars worth less than $1,000.

Mistake #5: Neglecting to purchase renters insurance.

A renters policy covers your possessions and additional living expenses if you have to move out due to a disaster. Equally important, it also provides liability protection.

A better way to save: Look into multi-policy discounts. Buying several policies with the same insurer, such as renters, auto and life will generally provide savings.
About the Insurance Information Institute
The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) is an educational, research and communications organization funded by the insurance industry to explain what insurance is and how it works.

Each year, the I.I.I. works on more than 3,700 news stories, handles more than 6,000 requests for information and answers nearly 50,000 questions from consumers.

For the media:
For spokesperson for in-studio interview, b-roll of
5 mistakes or more information:
Jeanne Salvatore, 212-346-5550
Jeannes@iii.org

Auto Insurance Requirements Expected to Increase in 2010

2009-12-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

23 Dec 2009 12:00 Africa/Lagos

Auto Insurance Requirements Expected to Increase in 2010

MADISON, Wis., Dec. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The states of Wisconsin and Louisiana will be raising minimum liability limit requirements which may cause a raise in current premiums. As of January 1, 2010, these states will require that all new policies written meet these new requirements and consumers may want to compare their current carrier's rates with those of others to ensure that their policy remains competitive.

As of the 1st of the year, liability coverage will become a requirement in Wisconsin and the limits will increase to $50,000 for the injury or death of one person, $100,000 for the injury or death of more than one person and $15,000 for property damage. In addition to the new limit increase, beginning June 1, 2010, drivers and owners will be required to provide proof of such coverage when requested by law enforcement; caught operating a vehicle without insurance may result in a fine up $500, failure to have proof on hand may be subject to a $10 fine and providing fraudulent proof of coverage can end in a fine of up to $5,000.

Source: http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/vehicles/ins-req.htm

Residents of Louisiana currently pay some of the highest premiums in the nation and the new increased limits are expected to push these rates even higher. Although some have expected the rate increase to be in the 20 percent range, insurance commissioner Jim Donelon stated, "I would not be surprised to see it go to 15 percent." The limits for bodily injury liability to one person will increase to $15,000, $35,000 for more than one person and $25,000 for property damage liability.

For those who will be up for policy renewal after the New Year, it may be wise to shop around before renewing their policy. Websites such as OnlineAutoInsurance.com allows visitors to complete an auto insurance comparison online to help ensure that their current rate is still the most affordable. In order to avoid policy lapse while shopping around, rates should be compared well in advance of policy expiration dates.

Consumers can visit http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/compare/ for a free quote comparison and assistance in keeping the new coverage requirements affordable.

Source: Online Auto Insurance, LLC

CONTACT: PR Division of Online Auto Insurance, LLC, +1-909- 912-1855

Web Site: http://www.onlineautoinsurance.com/

VITAL LINKS:
Vehicle Without Insurance

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2009-12-21T07:42:00.000-08:00

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2009-12-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Security Insurance is an online portal for free access to news and information on all aspects of Insurance Policies. It was created by Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima in 2006 for the benefit of all.

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Hagerty Announces The 2010 Hot List: A Decade in Review

2009-12-21T06:33:00.000-08:00

Hagerty selects the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 as a "collector car of tomorrow" on the 2010 Hagerty Hot List: A Decade in Review. (PRNewsFoto/Hagerty) TRAVERSE CITY, MI UNITED STATES

21 Dec 2009 12:01 Africa/Lagos

Hagerty Announces The 2010 Hot List: A Decade in Review

New List Presents Top Ten Future Collectibles of the Past Decade

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Dec. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- With the decade coming to a close, Hagerty, the leading insurer of collector cars, has expanded its annual Hot List of the "Collector Cars of Tomorrow." The 2010 Hot List: A Decade in Review presents Hagerty's top picks from 2000 to 2009 of the most influential cars of the past decade with the highest probability of becoming collector cars in the future.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091221/LA28751)

"Over the past decade and even the past year, the automotive industry has seen immense change. But one thing that has not wavered is America's passion for interesting and unique cars," said McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty Insurance Agency. "Since our first Hot List in 2007, we've chosen cars that have peaked the interest of Americans and that we anticipate will be collectible in the future. This year we sifted through the good, the bad and the ugly of the past 10 years to present one new car from each year that you can bet your money on will be collectible 15 to 20 years from now."

For this year's Hot List: A Decade in Review, Hagerty reviewed mass produced cars from 2000 to 2009 with an MSRP of $100,000 or lower that valuation experts at the company predict will have collector appeal within the next 15 to 20 years. One car was selected from each year based on factors including how influential it was in the automotive industry, its "cool or unique factor" and its potential value in the collector car market.

Hagerty presents the Hagerty Hot List: A Decade in Review:

1. 2000 BMW M Roadster - The four-cylinder Z3 was a bit of a snooze, but
the M Roadster with 240 hp and a 0-60 time of around five seconds is a
Gen-X Shelby Cobra. Quad chrome pipes out the back, fat tires, special
side grilles and M badges identify this very special Z3. We believe in
the years to come this car will be highly desired by collectors for its
gracious curves and powerful engine.
2. 2001 Corvette ZO6 - While the 2001 ZO6's 385 horsepower is less than
the current base model Corvette, it did mark the return of the vaunted
ZO6 for the first time since 1963. The enthusiast publications were
shocked by GM's willingness to sell essentially a race-ready Corvette
straight from the factory.
3. 2002 Pontiac Firebird WS-6 "Ram-Air" - The Firebird burned bright in
its last year-- this was the most powerful Firebird ever produced (and
with the death of Pontiac, almost certainly the last). GM claimed it
was rated at 325 horsepower, but many Firebird enthusiasts claim they
were underrated by up to 40 horsepower. Not bad considering the most
powerful Mustang offered in 2002 had nearly 65 horsepower less.
4. 2003 Mini Cooper S "JCW" - In 2003 the Detroit Auto Show awarded this
Mini "North American Car of the Year". This car made our list not only
because it was the first year the "John Cooper Works" Tuning Kit was
available, but more importantly because anyone who drives one of these
cars walks away with a silly grin. It just begs to be driven hard and
often.
5. 2004 Cadillac CTS-V - This is the Cadillac for the Corvette enthusiast
who has to haul around kids and their gear. After decades of Cadillac
catering exclusively to the to those buying their last or second to
last cars, the new CTS-V with its 400 horsepower Z06 Corvette engine
will surely earn the respect of car collectors down the road as the
most memorable Caddy from this past decade.
6. 2005 Acura NSX - The NSX was the first production car to feature an
all-aluminum chassis, suspension and body, and was produced from
1990-2005 with very little changes throughout its 15 year run. The
breakthrough design influenced other supercars including the McLaren
F-1. It isn't uncommon to see an NSX on the auction bill at collector
car auctions often selling for nearly what they cost new.
7. 2006 Dodge Ram SRT-10 (viper powered pick-up) - Unlike any other Ram
pick-up, this one was produced solely for the purpose of speed. With
500 horsepower and even more torque straight from the factory, these
trucks would run less than a 14 second quarter-mile and easy
modifications put them into the 12 second category.
8. 2007 Ford Shelby Mustang GT 500 - Following the introduction of the
fifth-generation Ford Mustang, the Shelby nameplate was revived in 2007
for the first time since 1970. This new high performance version of the
Mustang as a way to pay tribute to the legendary Carroll Shelby. With
its retro looks, 500 horsepower, and Shelby's autograph on the dash,
this car introduced the younger generation to the glorious racing days
of the 1960s.
9. 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 - Mopar enthusiasts waited a long time for
this much anticipated tribute to one of the icons of the muscle car
era. When compared to all the retro inspired muscle cars of this
decade, our vote is for the Challenger as it most closely resembles its
first generation ancestor.
10. 2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe - With the death of Pontiac announced
toward the end of this decade, their last true sports car was the
Solstice GXP. The convertible version sold respectably for several
years, but this Coupe version was only produced for half a year. This
rare model will certainly be desirable in the years to come.

Hagerty Insurance Agency, Inc. is the leading insurance agency for collector vehicles in the world and host to the largest network of collector car owners. Hagerty offers insurance for collector cars, motorcycles and motorcycle safety equipment, tractors, automotive tools and spare parts, and even "automobilia" (any historic or collectible item linked with motor vehicles). Hagerty also offers overseas shipping/touring insurance coverage, commercial coverage and club liability coverage. For more information, call (800) 922-4050 or visit www.hagerty.com.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091221/LA28751
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN1
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Hagerty

CONTACT: Esther Richardson of Luxe Communications, +1-323-951-0529,
esther@luxecommunications.com, for Hagerty; or Jonathan Klinger of Hagerty,
+1-231-922-8822, jklinger@hagerty.com

Web Site: http://www.hagerty.com/

Citizens Insurance Announces 2008 Community Scholarship Program

2008-10-08T08:01:00.001-07:00

8 Oct 2008 15:14 Africa/Lagos

Citizens Insurance Announces 2008 Community Scholarship Program

College scholarships to be awarded based on Academic achievement and commitment to community service

HOWELL, Mich., Oct. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Citizens Insurance Company of America today announced the launch of its 2008 community scholarship program. Students at public high schools in Brighton, Fowlerville, Hartland, Howell and Pinckney, as well as children of Citizens employees, are eligible to apply.

The scholarship program recognizes and rewards students who have excelled in academic achievement, leadership and community service. Over the past three years, Citizens Insurance has awarded $172,000 in college scholarships to 138 students.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051031/NEM023LOGO )

"At Citizens, we believe that a college education should be accessible and available to all who want to pursue it. We are excited to be able to help ease the financial burden of higher education for those students who have demonstrated excellence in school and in the community," said Paul Mueller, Citizens Insurance regional president.

Students interested in applying for a scholarship may download and print an application at the company's Web site: http://www.citizensinsurance.com/scholarships. Applications must be postmarked by Saturday, November 29. Scholarship winners for 2008 will be announced in January 2009. Awards are made through The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation, Inc., the charitable giving arm of Citizens' parent, The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc., based in Worcester, Mass.

The scholarship program is managed by Scholarship Management Services, a division of Scholarship America, the nation's leading scholarship program administrator.

About The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation

The mission of The Hanover Insurance Group Foundation, Inc. is to improve the quality of life in communities where The Hanover Insurance Group companies have a major presence, placing a special emphasis on helping to build world class public education systems and inspiring and empowering youth to achieve their full potential.

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:THG) , based in Worcester, Mass. is a leading provider of auto, home and business insurance in Massachusetts.

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. is the holding company for a group of insurers that includes The Hanover Insurance Company, also based in Worcester; Citizens Insurance Company of America, headquartered in Howell, Mich., and their affiliates. The Hanover offers a wide range of property and casualty products and services to individuals, families and businesses through an extensive network of independent agents, and has been meeting its obligations to its agent partners and their customers for more than 150 years. Taken as a group, The Hanover ranks among the top 40 property and casualty insurers in the United States. For more information, please visit http://www.hanover.com/.

CONTACTS:
Media Relations
Amy Lynn Banek
abanek@hanover.com
(508) 855-4486

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051031/NEM023LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Citizens Insurance Company of America

CONTACT: Amy Lynn Banek, Media Relations of The Hanover Insurance Group,
Inc., +1-508-855-4486, abanek@hanover.com

Web site: http://www.citizensinsurance.com/scholarships
http://www.hanover.com/

How To Be a Great Insurance Lawyer

2008-04-14T06:51:00.000-07:00

14 Apr 2008 10:06 Africa/Lagos

How To Be a Great Insurance Lawyer

ONTARIO, Calif., April 14 /PRNewswire/ --

It is hard enough just getting into law school and keeping pace with core requirements, says Frank N. Darras, the nation's leading disability and long-term care insurance lawyer. Darras worked selling medical equipment while attending law school and fell in love with the idea of helping the disabled fight for their insurance rights. See http://darrasnews.mediaroom.com/.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02 )

Have you thought about taking an insurance law course in law school?

"Elective insurance law courses cover everything from property, life, disability and health to auto, mortgage and long-term care. Whether you ultimately want to defend corporate insurance companies or represent the insured, it's a course that will reap real benefits. Insurance is everywhere and it is often hard to understand and difficult to square what you thought you bought with what you actually received," says Darras.

In his case, Darras says he wanted to be the voice of the disabled, so no matter whether they were rich or poor, they would know his name meant real protection when they needed it most. An insurance law elective, would have been a wonderful way for him to hit the ground running after graduation but it wasn't available.

"Twenty years later, Frank N. Darras is famous for setting the standard to which insurance lawyers are held. He has been a hero for the sick, the elderly and he really is a modern day David fighting Goliath," says James A. Hayes, Jr., Assistant Dean of Academic Programs and Associate Professor at Western State University College of Law. See http://www.wsulaw.edu/.

"Last month, at WSU, we held the first annual Frank N. Darras Disability Law Moot Court Competition, at the school's Fullerton campus. As far as we can tell, it is the only moot court competition in the country that focuses exclusively on disability law," says Hayes. "For tomorrow's lawyers to compete in this unique competition opens opportunities for their futures, but also for everyday Americans who buy insurance to protect them from the unthinkable."

"This competition affords law students the opportunity to understand insurance law and determine if this is the field they want to explore and master as a career. We sure could use some great insurance lawyers to stand up for everyday people," says Darras.

See http://darrasnews.mediaroom.com/ or call 800-458-4577.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Frank N. Darras http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=39767

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Frank N. Darras

CONTACT: Robin Nolan, +1-650-279-9512, robin@mcdavidpr.com, for Frank N.
Darras

Web site: Darras News

NOTE TO EDITORS: Darras available for interviews.

Airline Insurance Market Expected to be Tougher in 2008

2008-02-26T11:48:00.002-08:00

26 Feb 2008 20:34 Africa/Lagos

Airline Insurance Market Expected to be Tougher in 2008

Aon's Airline Insurance Market Review 2007 shows less soft market

CHICAGO, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The high level of hull and liability claims, at $1.7 billion, coupled with the lowest amount of lead hull and liability premium since 2000 ($1.5 billion), means that the airline insurance market was broadly unprofitable in 2007. The negotiating process is likely to be tougher in 2008 as a result, according to Aon's Airline Insurance Market Review of 2007.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041215/CGW049LOGO)

This is the key finding of the review that brings together data for the last year and extrapolates its likely effect on the market in 2008 and beyond.

The review's findings include:
-- total recorded lead hull and liability premium for 2007 was
$1.5 billion, a reduction of 30 percent since 2005;
-- total incurred claims, including hull, liability and an estimate for
attritional losses, amounted to $1.7 billion;
-- North American fleet values, at $192 billion, fell below those of
Europe and Asia, both at $193 billion, for the first time in 2007.
North American passenger numbers, however, were still higher than the
other two major aviation regions;
-- the proportion of passengers travelling with flag carriers has fallen
from 66 percent in 2005 to 48 percent in 2007.

Having started the year with average premium reductions of around 20 percent, the airline insurance market became gradually less soft as the year progressed with underwriters recognising the probability that the value of hull claims would outweigh the total lead hull and liability premium.

"After four years of soft markets, it looks like 2007 may well have seen the cost of airline insurance reach something of an equilibrium," says Doug Peterson, Aon Aviation & Aerospace group practice leader. "Despite the relatively high number of hull losses in 2007, there were fewer fatalities compared to the average over the last decade. Capacity continues to be high, but it seems unlikely that providers will continue to offer the high level of reductions witnessed over the last couple of years. As a result, 2008 looks set to be a fascinating year in the airline insurance markets."

Download the report at http://aon.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=55.

Media contact:
Alexandra Lewis
020 7882 0541
Alexandra.lewis@aon.co.uk

Rahsaan Johnson
312.381.2684
Rahsaan_Johnson@aon.com

About Aon

Aon Corporation (NYSE:AOC) is the leading global provider of risk management services, insurance and reinsurance brokerage, human capital and management consulting, and specialty insurance underwriting. Through its 43,000 professionals worldwide, Aon readily delivers distinctive client value via innovative and effective risk management and workforce productivity solutions. Our industry-leading global resources, technical expertise and industry knowledge are delivered locally through more than 500 offices in more than 120 countries. Aon was ranked by A.M. Best as the number one global insurance brokerage in 2007 based on brokerage revenues, and voted best insurance intermediary, best reinsurance intermediary, and best employee benefits consulting firm in 2007 by the readers of Business Insurance. For more information on Aon, log onto http://www.aon.com/.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041215/CGW049LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network:
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Aon Corporation

CONTACT: Alexandra Lewis, 020 7882 0541, Alexandra.lewis@aon.co.uk, or
Rahsaan Johnson, +1-312-381-2684, Rahsaan_Johnson@aon.com, both of Aon
Corporation

Web site: http://www.aon.com/
http://aon.mediaroom.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: The review looks in detail at data from across the aviation market, breaking it down by region, average fleet value (AFV), sector and month, as well as providing a round up of market and industry activity, a comprehensive loss review and examination of the geographic changes in industry profile. It examines how the industry's evolution during 2006 will impact the market during 2007 and beyond.

Airline Insurance Market Expected to be Tougher in 2008

2008-02-26T11:48:00.001-08:00

Airline Insurance Market Expected to be Tougher in 2008

2008-02-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

Ernst & Young Issues 2008 US Outlook for the Life Insurance Industry

2007-12-10T06:09:00.000-08:00

10 Dec 2007 14:30 Africa/Lagos

Ernst & Young Issues 2008 US Outlook for the Life Insurance Industry

NEW YORK, Dec. 10 /PRNewswire/ --

In 2008, regulatory issues will confront the insurance industry and put increasing pressure on companies to become more efficient, enhance technology-related processes and alter their business models, according to Ernst & Young's Global Insurance Center. Moreover, in spite of continued financial growth, life insurance companies need to maximize existing opportunities to meet the growing demand for cost-effective products for baby boomers and the underserved middle-market.

"While net operating gains in the insurance sector are expected to increase in 2008, insurers can by no means become complacent next year," said Doug French, Managing Principal of Ernst & Young's Insurance and Actuarial Advisory Services. "The fundamentals of the insurance industry seem to be inevitably shifting, and executives must work constantly to stay ahead of these trends that will affect their product lines, their investment strategies and their corporate infrastructure."

Ernst & Young has identified the seven important issues that may shape the life insurance sector in 2008:

1. Retirement Income: The best prospect for organic growth in the
insurance industry is found in the 35 million middle-wealth baby
boomers facing the realities of retirement. As they shift their
defined contribution plans, they may seek predictable, low-cost,
income-producing financial products. That said, insurance companies
could be more aggressive in competing with other financial services
institutions that target this segment.

2. Financial Events: Over the past five years, insurers have increased
their investments in alternative asset classes, which has led to
greater credit risk exposure. Now is the time to take action and
focus on building risk infrastructure and creating more transparency
commensurate with the nature of these important investments.
Organizations that embrace the people, systems and processes to
accurately comprehend and manage the risks of these asset classes may
gain an edge.

3. Technology: Insurers could take a comprehensive view of data
governance and management as they attempt to create a more efficient,
interconnected technology environment. In 2008, many insurers may
still be forced to expend resources integrating data from disparate
systems, but they could quickly move ahead of the trend toward
centralizing IT infrastructure (data centers, servers and converged
networks).

4. Offshoring: As insurance companies challenge their growing expenses,
they may become increasingly reliant on alternative sourcing
strategies, especially as outsourcing service providers expand their
offerings. However, insurance companies need to implement risk
management programs for outsourcing/offshoring, because risks from
service interruption, customer data, information security and privacy
exposures could far outweigh any benefits from cost reduction.

5. Solvency II: The implementation of Solvency II (SII) may pose a
considerable challenge with far reaching implications for insurers.
Besides the extensive improvements to systems, processes and data SII
calls for, the convergence of accounting, risk and actuarial
information may also challenge traditional actuarial practitioners to
develop more sophisticated financial and risk management
methodologies and more efficient deployment of capital.

6. International Financial Reporting Standards: Regardless of the
implementation date being delayed, there is no time to waste for
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) preparation.
Companies need to develop a plan that includes steps to assess the
impact of the proposals on their financial statements, educate key
employees and constituents, and evaluate the readiness of their
organization for implementation.

7. Tax Issues and Implications: Debate on tax rules that would require
dividends to again be taxed as ordinary income, raise the capital
gains rate to 20 percent, and change current estate tax regulation is
not expected to heat up until after the 2008 election. Essentially, a
new President and Congress may be forced to deal with many tax
decisions, most of which may require tax increases. Unfortunately,
the impact of future tax legislation on insurers and any implications
this will have on product offerings may remain unclear for some time.

"The life insurance industry seems to be on firm financial ground, which is good news: insurers are doing many things right. But, in some ways, the obstacles for continued growth have never been higher," said French. "To remain competitive, executives must continue to foster innovation in their products, develop new ways to manage and oversee both risk and capital management, and prepare now for a torrent of new regulations that may very well revolutionize this industry in the next decade."

The complete Life Insurance Industry 2008 Outlook report can be found at www.ey.com/insurance.

About the Ernst & Young Global Insurance Center

The Global Insurance Center is the hub of the Ernst & Young network of professionals dedicated to serving the global insurance market. It connects our people around the globe, sharing information and experience on current and emerging industry issues. Our goal is to help global insurance clients address their complex issues by drawing on a broad range of services including: assurance, tax, actuarial and risk management, transaction advisory services, and technology advisory to support these services.

About Ernst & Young

Ernst & Young is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, our 130,000 people are united by our shared values and an unwavering commitment to quality.

For more information, please visit www.ey.com

Ernst & Young refers to the global organization of member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients.

This press release has been issued by EYGM Limited, a member of the global Ernst & Young organization that also does not provide any services to clients.

Source: Ernst & Young

CONTACT: Jennifer Kuhl of Peppercom, +1-212-931-6111,
jkuhl@peppercom.com, for Ernst & Young; or Katie Johnston of Ernst & Young,
+1-212-773-7194, katie.johnston@ey.com

Web site: http://www.ey.com/
http://www.ey.com/insurance

Insurance You Can Understand

2007-11-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

5 Nov 2007 22:10 Africa/Lagos

Insurance You Can Understand

Access America Launches New Policy with Customer-Friendly Language

RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Access America, a leading travel insurance provider, today announced the launch of its "customer-friendly" Certificate of Insurance or Policy. This is the document that explains the insurance coverage purchased by the customer. The document has been completely rewritten in language that is easy for a novice to understand.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071105/6397)

This is just the latest innovation for Access America which has recently redesigned its website, brochures and claim forms. "We took a hard look at how we present information to our customers and decided we could do better," said Mark Cipolletti, vice president of marketing communications for Access America. "Unfortunately, many people have a negative view of insurance because they've had difficulty understanding their coverage or interacting with their provider. We're trying to change that perception and build a deeper trust with our customers."

The design of the document has also been improved to make its content more digestible. The new layout makes better use of white space, charts help with navigation and unfamiliar "industry" terms are avoided.

The new certificate, or policy, has been approved by over 30 State Departments of Insurance and officially debuted on November 1. The document will be filed in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, by Access America's new underwriter, Jefferson Insurance Company. Jefferson was purchased by Access America's parent company, World Access, earlier this year.

About Access America

Access America provides travel insurance and assistance to millions of travelers each year and is a division and service mark of World Access Service Corp. A global leader in travel insurance and emergency assistance, Access America uses cutting-edge technology to deliver customized solutions to enhance value for resorts, airlines, travel agents, credit card companies and more. Access America is a division and service mark of World Access Service Corp., which is a member of the Mondial Assistance Group and part of the Allianz family of companies. Visit www.accessamerica.com.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071105/6397
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Access America

CONTACT: Caroline Platt, +1-804-788-1414, cplatt@hodgespart.com, for
Access America

Web Site: http://www.accessamerica.com/

USEFUL LINK:
http://www.allinsuranceprofessionals.com/

Health Insurance Agents Warn Against Imposing a 'Health Care Reform' Tax in California

2007-11-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

Health Insurance Agents Warn Against Imposing a 'Health Care Reform' Tax in California

AGENT ASSOCIATIONS REMIND LAWMAKERS CALIFORNIA PREMIUMS ARE 17 PERCENT BELOW NATIONAL AVERAGE

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

At the Assembly Health Committee's hearing on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's health care reform plan, the California Association of Health Underwriters (CAHU) and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors-California (NAIFA-California) urged lawmakers to avoid the mistakes made in New York and New Jersey, mistakes that have resulted in premiums more than 350 percent higher than in California, reminding them that individual health insurance premiums are 17 percent below the national average.

New York and New Jersey's mistakes were in mandating carriers to accept all applicants for coverage without effectively requiring residents to obtain coverage. "Without a requirement to both buy and to sell coverage, the cost of health insurance will skyrocket," warned Alan Katz, an independent health insurance agent and Vice President of Public Affairs for CAHU who spoke on behalf of both associations. "New York and New Jersey have demonstrated that if done wrong, the result is a health care reform tax on citizens who play by the rules. This tax is substantial and it's grossly unfair."

The agent groups noted that requiring Californians to obtain coverage means helping those for whom premiums are too expensive and called for premium subsidies, on a sliding scale, for residents in households earning up to 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level ($82,600 for a family of four).

The associations also urged legislators to deliver on the promises it has made to the people of California before making new ones. "Nearly one million Californians are eligible for, but are not enrolled in, Healthy Families and Medi-Cal. The state needs to prove it can fix this travesty before promising to expand these programs or creating new ones. Yet the most recent budget cut roughly $66 million targeted for this purpose. Making promises is easy. Delivering on them is tough, but making those promises real is what Californians deserve," Katz declared.

The associations' testimony identified several areas where reform is needed, including achieving universal coverage and controlling skyrocketing medical costs. Katz noted that "health insurance premiums directly reflect the cost of medical care" and commended the Governor for proposing ways of reigning in these costs by seeking to leverage technology, improve medical outcomes, promote best practices and expand wellness and prevention programs.

The agent associations took issue with other aspects of the Administration's health care reform plan. "We believe regulators need to have the flexibility to assure a mandated Medical Loss Ratio does not have the unintended consequences of increasing premiums, discouraging competition in the individual market and limiting consumer choice. We believe those receiving state subsidies should not be driven into a state-run purchasing pool, but instead should have the same choices as their non-subsidized neighbors. We believe a minimum benefit package needs to be defined in legislation in order to determine the financial and market impact of the reform package," said Katz.

Katz urged Health Committee members to consider the Healthy Solutions health care reform package developed by CAHU, much of which is supported by NAIFA-California as a way to "improve today's system without destroying what works for so many of your constituents. You'll hear a great deal today about what's wrong with our health care system. We agree with some of these observations, but we also want to point out that Californians enjoy lower premiums and more coverage choices than most Americans."

CAHU and NAIFA-California represent, health and life insurance agents and brokers as well as financial advisors. Their combined memberships include over 7,500 insurance professionals who serve as counselors and advocates for millions of Californians.

Healthy Solutions may be downloaded at http://www.cahuhealthysolutions.org/. For more information, or to arrange an interview with CAHU industry experts, please contact Cynthia Downing at 800/322-5934.

Source: California Association of Health Underwriters

CONTACT: Cynthia Downing, Executive Director of CAHU, 1-800-322-5934

Web site: http://www.cahuhealthysolutions.org/

Free Books On Insurance and Other Subjects

2007-10-19T02:42:00.001-07:00

Practices in Health & Disability Insurance - The Lives & Wealth They Cost America

2007-10-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

18 Oct 2007 01:09 Africa/Lagos

Practices in Health & Disability Insurance - The Lives & Wealth They Cost America

SANTA ROSA, Calif., Oct. 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Health and disability insurance companies are systematically cheating the American public.

The results of an investigation of practices by health and disability insurers and their effect on America are detailed in this new JustHealth- funded study.

Insurers provide no healthcare goods or services.

Health insurance costs are rising 2-to-3 times faster than inflation. Medical debt is the number one cause of personal bankruptcy.

We pay much more per capita and get less healthcare than the rest of the industrialized world.

Approximately 16% of Americans are uninsured, 18,000 die prematurely each year because of this. Many more die because their insurers delay, diminish, or deny payment for promised benefits.

Reports about people dying from insurer misconduct seldom receive broad coverage in the media. Lack of media coverage has led to a nation uninformed about how our national health policies are controlled by the insurance industry.

Insurance companies are in business to make as much money as possible. They do so by systematically delaying, diminishing, and denying payment for promised services, and blaming individuals for their own misfortune.

On the boards of directors of the 9 largest insurance companies are 113 people. They hold 150 past and/or present positions with major financial or investment institutions, and are connected to some of the largest corporations in the world. Their combined affiliations represent 2006 revenue of over $2,500,000,000,000.

They spend millions on campaign donations, lobbying and media saturation to convince us that we need them, despite overwhelming evidence that we would all be better off without them.

Spending for administrative costs associated with health insurance exceeds 30% of health care costs in the US...and insurance companies provide no health care. They are just middlemen.

Americans have a choice: continue with a profit-driven insurance system in which insurers systematically delay, diminish, and deny promised benefits -- leaving millions of Americans without necessary care; or we can build a common pool health care system that provides necessary care to everyone -- for less than what we are paying now.

-- Peter Phillips: Professor of Sociology, Sonoma State University and Director of Project Censored. Bridget Thornton: graduate student, Interdisciplinary Studies Program. All statements above are fully documented in their new study "Practices in Health Care and Disability Insurance: Delay, Diminish Deny and Blame" -- http://www.justhealthnow.org/.

Source: JustHealth

CONTACT: JustHealth, +1-888-225-2686, johnmetz@justhealthnow.org; or
Peter Phillips, +1-707-664-2588

Web site: http://www.justhealthnow.org/

Dear Entrepreneur: Tips for Buying Insurance

2007-10-04T02:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Entrepreneur: Tips for Buying Insurance

ONTARIO, Calif., Oct. 2 /PRNewswire/ --

When making choices to protect your business, yourself and your family, the subject of insurance can cause confusion, says Frank N. Darras, the nation's leading disability and long-term care insurance lawyer.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02)

Entrepreneurs have complex choices of health-related insurance plans ranging from: Disability to Long-Term Care; with a plethora of other offerings for special health considerations. Even the savviest shopper can get overwhelmed reviewing policies that promise to pay the bills, should the unthinkable happen.
Darras says, "Comparing features, advantages and benefits of different policies is tough; but putting off making decisions that can affect the rest of your lives, can be dangerous." See http://www.darrasnews.com/.
Determine where your financial risks are the highest, says Darras. Once you prioritize your risks, you should be able to choose insurance policies that can protect you best.

Darras suggests:
DISABILITY INSURANCE
-- Get disability coverage when you're young.
-- Consider "own occupation" policies.
-- Beware clauses limiting coverage to 24 months, after that, requirements
change and you could be denied coverage.
-- Understand the 'limitation on benefits'.
-- Group disability coverage from work does not protect you and it's
taxable.

LIFE INSURANCE
-- Life insurance may not be necessary if no one depends on you for
income, financial support and you have enough money for burial and
funeral expenses.
-- Life insurance helps leave our loved ones financially secure, in the
event of a tragedy.
-- Have a reliable second party listed on your policy so they can be
notified if you miss paying a premium.
-- Make sure you have 'waiver of premium".

LONG-TERM CARE
-- If you are under 59, you are too young to shop for long-term care.
-- If you are older, understand what services long-term care policies
cover and who provides the care.
-- Make sure the policy allows for care: in your home, by a family member
or friend, in the home of a family member, in an adult care service
facility, in an assisted living facility, a hospice facility or in a
nursing home.
-- Understand the terms: custodial, intermediate and skilled care.

Darras says, "Never buy from a company you don't recognize! Paying really cheap premiums to a company that won't be in business in 20 years can be devastating."
See http://www.darrasnews.com/ or call 800-458-4577.
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Frank N. Darras

http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=39767

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070717/NYFNSC02

AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Frank N. Darras

CONTACT: Robin Nolan, +1-650-279-9512, robin@mcdavidpr.com, for Frank N.
Darras
Web site: http://www.darrasnews.com/
NOTE TO EDITORS: Darras available for interviews.

Most Nigerians Don't Have Any Insurance Policy

2006-11-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

Is your family secured without a life insurance policy?

The majority of Nigerians don't even know what is an insurance policy talkless of having one.
Why?
70% of Nigerians are either stark illiterates or semi illiterates who are still not educated or even informed on the benefits of an insurance policy.
Who do you blame?
Our insurance companies are to blame. For not informing these Nigerians.
And it is very simple to do so. Because, you can sensitize and mobilize them for public enligtenment programs on the benefits of insurance at their village squares, town halls, markets and churches and make them to appreciate the importance, relevance and significance of insurance policies for their security and welfare 24/7.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Long Term Care Insurance Policy

2006-11-03T07:41:00.001-08:00

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Fortunately, a record number of seniors are beginning to buy long term care insurance. This is most likely due to increased education and the startling statistics we're seeing. Most of the individuals that come to me for their long term care insurance policy needs and long term care insurance quotes, do so in order to protect their assets and to insure a choice in the quality of care that they deserve. Of these individuals, the majority that end up needing the care can remain independent, don't burden family members with constant 24-hour care, and don't alter their standard of living. For the majority, this is what makes long term care insurance such an obvious choice.

When selecting a long term care insurance policy or getting a long term care insurance quote, it's important to look for a policy that not only you can afford but also meets your needs.
Read on

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2006-11-03T01:23:00.000-08:00

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2006-11-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

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