Date: December 18, 2009
For more information contact: Jim Guidry, (608) 264-6239 or jim.guidry@wisconsin.gov
Insurance Commissioner advises caution this holiday season
Madison, WI—The holiday season is in full swing. Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner Sean Dilweg has some advice for consumers on having a safe and happy holiday.
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) is a great place to find information to avoid or help you with holiday-related insurance problems.
"Winter in Wisconsin brings with it a host of additional risks for consumers," said Dilweg. "Whether it's holiday vacation travel or icy sidewalks, you can take steps now to ensure that you're protected against unforeseen problems. Talk with your insurance agent or insurance company and review your coverage in preparation for the coming months."
Forgetting to shovel your sidewalk for example, may leave you exposed to liability. If a visitor slips and falls you could be held liable for any injuries that occur. If your insurance coverage is inadequate, you could face legal action and financial exposure.
Fire is another risk associated with the winter season. Unattended candles or dirty chimneys can cause a fire and leave a house damaged. A National Fire Prevention Association study saying residential fires started by candles are twice as common in December as in any other month. Fire losses can include irreplaceable items such as antiques, photos and personal mementoes, which are difficult and more expensive to insure. Many people discover that they are covered for only the actual cash value of their possessions. Actual cash value is the cost to replace something minus the amount of depreciation resulting from age and wear.
The holidays and winter also bring with them severe weather and difficult driving conditions. Teen drivers, with very little experience driving in winter weather conditions also represent a risk for parent's insurance coverage. Commissioner Dilweg encourages consumers to ensure their auto insurance coverage is adequate to meet any potential hazards that may surface.
"Working with an insurance agent to review your policy may help you discover where you have gaps in coverage," said Dilweg. "Fixing those gaps will help bring piece of mind during this winter season."
OCI has a number of consumer publications on its Web site at oci.wi.gov. Publications including the Consumers Guide to Auto Insurance and the Consumers Guide to Homeowner's Insurance are among the many publications consumers can use to help ensure they are well protected this holiday season.
Created by the Legislature in 1871, Wisconsin's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) was vested with broad powers to ensure that the insurance industry responsibly and adequately met the insurance needs of Wisconsin citizens. Today, OCI's mission is to lead the way in informing and protecting the public and responding to its insurance needs.