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The first rule is to shop around and compare prices. Don't be
afraid to ask your agent or broker questions. And make sure you're
comparing apples to apples, not apples to oranges.
Never deal with salespeople who are "just passing through".
They may not be able to provide you service when you need it.
Ask friends and relatives in the community to recommend a good
agent.
It's important that you know what insurance benefits you may
already have through an employer, spouse or parent before you
consider buying additional coverage. If you don't know what coverage
you have, you may be buying too much insurance. Don't be pressured
into making a decision in one day. Any legitimate insurance deal
will always be available tomorrow. If you don't like an agent's
sales approach, never hesitate to tell him or her to leave your
home immediately.
Before you purchase any insurance policy, make sure you read
and understand what you are signing. If you decide to buy an
accident and health, life or annuity policy, you can return it
directly to the agent or to the company, we suggest by certified
mail, within ten days for a full return of premium paid. However,
this only applies to individual policies and not group policies.
And never, never pay cash for insurance. If writing a check,
make it payable to the insurance company, never to the agent.
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has a Pittsburgh Regional
Office which you can call if you have any insurance questions.
They will be glad to answer any questions or investigate complaints
which you may have. The office is located at Room 304, State
Office Building, 300 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa 15222. The
phone is (412)565-5020. Consumers may also log onto the Insurance
Department's website at www.insurance.state.pa.us.
If you need an attorney and don't have one, the Lawyer Referral and Information Service can help.
Call Us Monday - Friday from 8:30 AM - Noon and 1:15 PM - 3:00 PM
at (814) 459-4411. |
