NU Online News Service, April 6, 2:51 p.m. EDT
A regulators' survey has found a majority of Americans are unable to correctly answer four of 10 basic questions about insurance coverages.
The survey, called the "Insurance IQ Study" and conducted from March 2-12 by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), found that respondents did not demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of health and auto insurance.
On the auto side, more than six in 10 respondents did not understand that property stolen from the car is covered by a homeowners/renters policy, not an auto policy.
Fifty-four percent did not realize that credit history is a rating factor in many states.
On the health side, the NAIC said 86 percent of respondents did not understand all of the terms being used during the health care reform discussions.
"Consumers today are being forced to make difficult decisions about their insurance coverage–decisions that could have a very profound impact on their financial future," said Therese Vaughan, NAIC chief executive officer.
She noted, "At the same time, they are being overwhelmed with new and sometimes conflicting information about changes to our nation's health care policies. By doing their homework and brushing up on the facts, they can improve their Insurance IQ, which will ultimately enable them to make the best decisions for themselves and their families."
The NAIC recommended that consumers take an Insurance IQ quiz, found at www.InsureUonline.org, to test themselves and gauge their knowledge.
Furthermore, the NAIC said consumers should shop around for coverage and gather information from reliable sources such as state insurance departments and the NAIC's "Insure U" consumer education Web site.
Consumers should also call their insurance department if they are unsure about an insurer or agent and review policies to understand the scope of their coverages.
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