Press Release

*Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Encourages Consumers to Read and Understand Their Insurance Policies During Reading Month*

*Media Contact:?**Laura Hall*, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]?
*Consumer Hotline:* 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints [ [link removed] ]

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:*?March 15, 2023

(LANSING, MICH) March is Reading Month and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is reminding Michiganders to read through their home and auto insurance policies to make sure they have appropriate coverage.

?March is when seasons begin to transition in Michigan and while it is a beautiful time to enjoy Pure Michigan, it is also a time when severe weather can strike,? said *DIFS Director Anita Fox*. ?This is an ideal time to review your insurance policies so that you know you have the coverage you need to protect yourself, your family, and your property before a loss occurs. If you have questions about your policies that you cannot resolve with your insurance company or agent, contact DIFS Monday through Friday at 877-999-6442.?

Nearly every part of a consumer?s life is affected by one or more forms of insurance. Understanding your insurance policies is crucial to ensuring your home and auto are protected and that you are getting the most out of your coverage. Michiganders should be sure to review their insurance policies, including:

*Homeowners Insurance:* The?spring flood and severe weather season [ [link removed] ]?is nearly here, and many homeowners do not know that flood damage is not covered by most standard homeowners insurance policies. There are certain insurance coverages, including?federal flood insurance [ [link removed] ], that homeowners would need to purchase to have coverage for flooding or water and sewer back-up resulting from storms or other natural disasters. Consumers should contact their insurance agent or company to discuss their coverage needs.

*Auto Insurance:* Review your existing coverage choices to ensure you are adequately covered. For example, choosing to only purchase minimum coverages and forgoing collision or comprehensive may lower premiums on the front end but may also leave you paying out of pocket to repair or replace a damaged vehicle. Additionally, consumers should also ensure that family members who opt out of or are excluded from Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical coverage continue to have the required Qualified Health Coverage (QHC) [ [link removed] ]. Otherwise, they may be left without medical coverage in the event of an auto accident. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/AutoInsurance [ [link removed] ].

It is also important to have a plan, such as a dedicated emergency fund, for paying your insurance policy?s deductible to help you avoid severe financial strain should unforeseen circumstances damage your home, vehicle, or possessions.

Consumers should reach out to their insurance company or agent for help with their existing insurance policies. Consumers can also contact DIFS for assistance, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 877-999-6442 or?Michigan.gov/DIFS [ [link removed] ].

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS [ [link removed] ]?or follow the Department on Facebook [ [link removed] ], Twitter [ [link removed] ], or LinkedIn [ [link removed] ].

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