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," 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 by the

survey results, last year's Get Smart About Insurance Week raised

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," Oxendine

added.

Other recommendations from

his 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."