Volume 14, Issue 8
  August 2023

SHIIPLogo

Our monthly newsletter addresses consumer insurance topics as well as timely information on issues affecting senior citizens in Louisiana.

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To find out if Consumer Advocacy will be in your area or to request a speaker for your organization, call 225- 219-0619 or send an email to: consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov.




Before You Hit the Road

The month of August brings a new school year and safe driving reminders for those on the road. School zones are in effect and using a mobile device or cell phone in any manner is prohibited while driving through a school zone during posted hours. Here are more safe driving tips.

Buckle Up. Seat belt use is one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries after a crash.

Maintain Speed Limits. Obey all speed limits and watch out for hazardous road conditions.

Avoid Distracted Driving. Limit distractions and never use devices while driving.

Louisiana has a law that may help put an end to some of the traffic congestion along roadways. The Louisiana Move It law requires drivers, in the event of a crash, to remove their vehicle from the travel lanes. Drivers are required to move so long as:

  • There are no fatalities or serious injuries.
  • The vehicle is not disabled by the crash.
  • The driver is not prevented by injury from moving the vehicle.

The Move It law was created to reduce the risk of other crashes and to restore the flow of traffic.


 

 lake at sunset

Insured for Summer Fun

You may be planning a fun day out on the water before the school year begins but before you head out review your policy.  A boat insurance policy provides liability coverage if someone is injured on your boat. It also covers bodily injury and property damage to your boat. These policies may be suspended during the months your boat is not in use. Read your policy carefully and speak to your agent as some watercraft policies have minimum or fully earned premiums associated with them.

Stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities this summer. Heat-related illnesses, from heat stroke to heat exhaustion and dehydration, can pose serious health issues. Here are tips to beat the heat:

  • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Plan ahead for outdoor activities.
  • Dress for the heat.
  • Stay indoors during extreme heat.
  • Know the signs of heat stroke.
     

Medicare beneficiary

Medicare 101: When to Enroll?

The initial enrollment period for Medicare is the 7-month window around your 65th birthday. You should contact Social Security directly before your 65th birthday to avoid a lapse in health coverage. Keep in mind Medicare covers a wide range of medically necessary screenings, supplies and procedures. There are several options to pay for Medicare depending on whether you are receiving Social Security, and which plan you choose. Our senior health counselors can explain how Medicare works, what is covered and what costs you are responsible for. Counselors can also:

  • Help beneficiaries understand paperwork and statements received after a doctor visit or hospital stay.
  • Assist with claims filing or appeals if payment for a service is denied.
  • Review long-term care insurance and offer tools to help decide if it is the right choice for you.

If you have questions, contact our SHIIP staff at 1-800-259-5300.


Upcoming Events

Homeowners 101: Knowing Your Policy

Who: Louisiana Department of Insurance and the Louisiana Housing Corporation
Date: August 10
Time: 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Location:Virtual
Register

 

Homeowners 101: Knowing Your Policy

Who: Louisiana Department of Insurance and the Lake Oaks Civic Association
Date: August 10
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Chapel of the Holy Comforter
2220 Lakeshore Dr., New Orleans

 

Homeowners 101: Knowing Your Policy

Who: Louisiana Department of Insurance and the Louisiana Housing Corporation
Date: August 24
Time: 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Location:Virtual
Register

 

Men's Health Summit 2023

Date: August 26
Time: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Pennington Biomedical Research Center
6400 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge
Register

 


    

View Louisiana's Open Meetings Law on the legislative website by clicking here.


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Office of Consumer Advocacy
(225) 219-0619 or (800) 259-5300

P.O Box 94214
www.ldi.la.gov

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9214
consumeradvocacy@ldi.la.gov