During this

special week, consumers are urged to contact Commissioner Oxendine's Consumer

Services Division at 1-800-656-2298, or 404-656-2070, to request a free

brochure and get information on what they should expect from insurance

coverage. They may also visit the Commissioner's Web site at www.gainsurance.org

to take part in an interactive quiz that allows consumers to gauge their

level of "insurance smarts."

"Get Smart

About Insurance Week isn't about selling or canceling policies,"

Commissioner Oxendine said. "It's about making sure you and your

family are properly covered. We believe the Georgia Insurance Commissioner's

Office is your best resource for insurance-related questions and concerns.

"As demonstrated

awareness among consumers and helped connect them with their agents and

state insurance departments for information about their coverage,"

Oxendine said.

The 34 percent

who understand their policy very well represents a rise of six percentage

points from last year's survey.

According to

Commissioner Oxendine, there are several steps consumers can take to get

smart about their insurance coverage.

"We recommend

consumers know what kind of coverage they need before they shop around.

Each individual consumer should watch out for his or her own best interests,"

the Commissioner added.

Other recommendations

from Commissioner Oxendine^(1)s office include:

* Check with

the Consumer Services Division of the office for free tips and up-to-date

information prior to purchasing health, life, auto, home or other insurance

coverage.

* Schedule

a routine "check-up" with your insurance providers at least

once a year.

* Inquire about

the cost benefit of opting for higher deductibles; this may save a consumer

money.

* Ask specifically

about discounts for good driving records, good health, good grades, special

education or training.

* Shop around

for identical insurance products and services. Not every insurance company

charges the same rate for the same product.

* Remember

an insurance policy is a legal document. Therefore, read it carefully.

"The Georgia

Insurance Commissioner's Office is a terrific source of unbiased information,"

Commissioner Oxendine said. "You may not have the coverage you need.

You may have more than you need. You may feel that you've been treated

unfairly when shopping for insurance, or you may just want help understanding

how different kinds of insurance work. No matter what your situation is,

we are there to help you get smart about insurance."