Sunday, February 10, 2008

Do You Need Health Or Travel Insurance?


Obtaining medical treatment and hospital care can be costly for travelers who are injured or who become seriously ill overseas. The Social Security Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide coverage for hospital or medical services outside the United States.

Before you leave the United States, you should be informed about which medical services your health insurance will cover abroad.

Senior citizens may wish to contact the American Association of Retired Persons for information about foreign medical care coverage with Medicare supplement plans.

If your health insurance policy does not provide coverage for hospital or medical costs abroad, you are urged to purchase a temporary health policy that does provide this type of coverage. There are short-term health and emergency assistance policies designed for travelers.

You can find the names of companies that provide such policies from your travel agent, your health insurance company, or from advertisements in travel publications. In addition to health insurance, many policies include trip cancellation, baggage loss, and travel accident insurance in the same package. Some traveler's check companies have protection policies available with the purchase of traveler's checks.

Medical Evacuation

Although some health insurance companies may pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, very few will pay for medical evacuation back to the United States. Medical evacuation can easily cost $10,000 or more, depending on your location and medical condition.

One of the main advantages of health and emergency assistance policies is that they often include coverage for medical evacuation to the United States. Even if your regular health insurance covers you for emergencies abroad, you should consider purchasing supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Whichever health insurance coverage you choose for travel overseas, remember to carry with you both your health insurance policy identity card and claim forms.

Do You Need Travel Insurance?

You may not need travel insurance, if you are already adequately covered by other insurance policies.

Depending on the travel insurance plan, travel insurance usually promises to cover you for cancellation or interruption of your trip, some form of emergency medical care while you are traveling, lost or stolen luggage, and various other troublesome occurrences.

Before you decide on a travel insurance plan, it is wise to investigate the plan carefully and read the fine print. You should closely check any agreements with your travel agent, tour operator, airline, or other companies involved with your travel plans. The agreements may include written guarantees.

If you have a fully refundable airline ticket, you may decide that you would not need trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

On the other hand, it may be worthwhile noting that certain insurance plans can protect you by covering the financial costs in case of the following situations:

A sudden, serious injury or illness to you, a family member, or a traveling companion.
Financial default of the airline, cruise line or tour operator.

Natural disasters or strikes that impede travel services.

A terrorist incident in a foreign city within 10 days of your scheduled arrival in that particular city.

The fact that you, a traveling member of your family, or a traveling companion were quarantined served with a court order or required to serve on a jury.

A circumstance in which you were directly involved in an accident enroute to departure for your trip.

It is a good idea to check your other insurance policies. For instance, your homeowners or tenants insurance may cover the loss or theft of your luggage.

Certain credit cards may also provide additional travel insurance, if you have used them to purchase the ticket for your trip.

Your health insurance may provide certain coverage, regardless of where you travel. But it is very important to note that some policies only partially cover medical expenses abroad. Moreover, as previously explained in the section on Health Insurance, Medicare/Medicaid will not cover hospital and medical services outside the United States.

Your travel agent should be able to advise you about the right plan for you. Before purchasing travel insurance, review the plan carefully, and be wary of buying coverage that you may already have. By: Lar

Sunday, February 3, 2008

456get Cheap Car Insurance For Women In The Uk, Be Safe And Secure


It can be considered a gift of god for women that they are far more cautious and careful than men and this factor makes them really alert drivers. Their cautious attitude is always helpful but they too feel the need to be secure when they drive. This can be done through cheap car insurance for women in the UK.

When women drive, all their concentration and effort is towards driving safely and not causing any harm to self or anyone else. This causes fewer accidents by women and thus fewer claims. Due to this, the female car owners are given a special acknowledgement by the insurers and cheap car insurance policies are available for women in the UK.

Since it may become difficult and tedious for a woman to handle her car when she is faced with a situation like a car break down etc, 24-hour services are made available to them to help in case of a burst tire, a shattered windscreen, accidental help etc. These 24-hour services help the women a lot in times of need and they do not feel helpless anymore.

The policies available for women drivers are similar like other policies like third party, third party fire and theft and comprehensive cover. Depending upon the cover, one can get cover in times when the other person’s car is damaged and he claims. This happens in third party insurance. In third party fire and theft cover, insurance is provided against theft of the car or fire in the engine. Comprehensive cover provides insurance in theft, fire, accidental coverage etc.

By getting cheap car insurance for women in the UK, the presence of women on the roads can be secured and all damages can be covered easily at low premiums.( By: Fred Sworder)

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Cheap Car Insurance May perhaps Wound You When Accident Occurs


Automobile insurance or car coverage is a necessity of modern life that most of us may perhaps like to save our rupees on. There are beyond no doubt several ways to lower your auto insurance premium, however if you're not careful about it then you could put yourself at economic and financial peril. This is especially correct if you live in areas which are at maximum risk of storm damage or any other natural calamity. Here is some piece of advice before confirming or undergoing selection of correct insurance protection for your car.

Understand the risk of storm damage where you live or you are visiting. Sometimes a single hailstorm can wreak thousands of dollars in damage on cars in barely a small part of area. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires and other severe storm weather conditions causes more and more damage to motorcars each year. In reality, the Coverage Data Institute state that the number of automobile damage coverage claims because of these disasters roughly doubled between 2001 and 2005.

Initially you have to figure out your auto insurance policy and coverage's. Raising your deductible or eliminating comprehensive insurance could save you money on premiums. On the other hand if you live inside an area vulnerable to violent storms, it can be more cost-efficient to undergo enhanced assurance or reduced deductibles. Talk to your agent if you're not sure.

When you are shopping for automobile coverage then you need to work with creditable organizations, companies and coverage agents. Your automobile coverage is only as good as the organization that offers it. When you shop for motorcar coverage, confirm you're dealing with a financially steady firm with a very good standing and track record. Acquire at least three quotes and ask queries around both saving on insurance fees and making certain you have adequate protection.

In some cases you can consider introducing rental car coverage. It could add to a small degree to your premium, but if you're out of your automobile for several weeks while it's being repaired from storm damage, you may possibly spend hundreds renting an automobile.

If your automobile is damaged, prior authorizing any maintenance figure out the work being ended, whatsoever's handled by your policy, and if the repairs are treated by warranties. Acquire over one estimate on the work if feasible.

Monday, January 21, 2008

Insurance For Mexico:Keep Your Piece Of Mind on Vacation!

Mexico offers some of the most excellent places to explore while visiting, whether you enjoy sandy beaches, shopping, sightseeing or the sunsets in the desert.

When you live in a state that borders Mexico, you may drive there often and it is in your best interest to purchase a Mexican auto insurance policy. There may be some limited use of American auto insurance while along the border in Mexico, however it is vital to understand that Auto Liability insurance in the United States or Canada is not valid in Mexico.

There are various places to look for Mexican auto insurance; including the border itself, but for the best coverage and rates with the most appropriate solutions, comparing rates online is your best bet.

When it comes to comparatively shopping for insurance, the internet is one of the best tools. When you purchase insurance online, you can save time and money, while buying your policy from a vendor along the border is hit or miss.

Some people are under the impression that their domestic auto insurance covers them while traveling into Mexico. On the contraryin fact, without proof of Mexican auto insurance or a large amount of cash to pay for damages, many travelers have wound up in Mexican jail.

It can be extremely costly to clear up an innocent mistake and gain your freedom. To avoid this problem, be sure to have your Mexican insurance certificate in your vehicle at all times and keep a smaller copy (ID card) in your wallet. Should an accident occur, the authorities are not likely to be sympathetic about your situation if you do not have handy proof of coverage, and if you vehicle is stolen, how would you know who to call without the ID card in your wallet?

This is a true story. The name has been changed. Michael Hernandez understands the importance of keeping the proper insurance in Mexico; he bought a number of day trip policies. Eventually, he decided to save money by purchasing an annual policy through mexicaninsurancestore.com.

Many Americans forget or do not comprehend the dire consequences that can arise from car accidents in Mexico, even though it is just as likely a possibility to become involved in a car accident on either side of the border. Mexico is a friendly foreign country, but without the proper documentation, even a fender bender may involve more than you realize.

To purchase the right type of Mexico car insurance and coverage, you must clearly understand the type of policy you need. Rather than the rush or even the wait, making a purchase along the border, you can do the research required here online. It is fast and easy while saving you time and money.

If you're going to Mexico for any period of time, take a few minutes and purchase the right Mexican auto insurance policy. If you should ever get into any type of altercation or accident, you'll be very grateful that you did. The aforementioned Michael Hernandez did get into a "fender bender" once he crossed the Mexican border, and he thus encountered the Mexican police.

As he pulled out all of his daily policies, he found that all of them had expired. Unfortunately, he forgot to carry his annual policy certificate with him, and he was thrown in jail. Fortunately, he was able to reach his wife, who sent a copy of his annual auto insurance policy for the police's information. Therefore, even though he spent six hours in a Mexican jail waiting to make his phone call, at least he did have that insurance policy; if he had not had Mexican auto insurance, it could have been much worse.

When you are researching Mexican coverage, you'll need to make sure that you're getting the right type of coverage. This is why you'll need to purchase the policy before you get to the border, so that you know the type of policy you're getting and what it covers. Unfortunately, you can find yourself in rather dire circumstances if you get the wrong kind.

If you are driving into Mexico, take the time out to purchase a valid and recognized policy before you go. Believe me, you won't regret the little time you spend and you'll have extra peace of mind while on vacation.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Tips For Buying Quality Used Car


The majority of quality used cars have a wealth of distinctive features, depending on the make and model. From aftermarket accessories to stock amenities, nothing compares to what luxury vehicles can deliver.

As far as finding quality used cars is concerned, you won't find a better selection or the kinds of savings that can be had online. You don’t need to travel to countless dealerships, waste precious gas and more precious time at all, you can find a trove of luxury vehicles online. You can choose from a host of the most popular and respected manufacturers - all waiting at your fingertips. Scroll through a plethora of luxury vehicles built by such manufacturers as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Saab, Honda, and more. After finding the car that matches your needs, off course you have to check it out. Here are some tips to bear in mind while buying your used car:

* Stand at the front, or the back of the car, and look along the body line. You will be able to see if it has had any body damage as the light reflecting off the side of the car will show the dents or replaced panels.
* Check around the window rubbers for over spray, a sure fire way to see if a car as been touched up
* Check the gaps between the panels to make sure they are even on both sides of the car. Bonnet to wing etc. This is a good indication as to whether the car has been in an accident and had panels replaced.
* Check the tires for uneven wear, if the tires are worn more on one side than the other its an indication that the car may have been in an accident and the chassis is twisted. It could also be the tracking or wheel balancing. Either way its not a good sign.
* Have a look at the interior of the car, does the wear inside the car look in keeping with the mileage. If the car looks like its done 100,000 and the clock says 25,000. Then you know its been round the clock, or even worse clocked. Check the steering wheel, and accelerator pedal rubber for excessive wear, the clutch and brake pedal rubbers can be replaced, but the accelerator pedal is a lot harder to change, and will give a truer indication of mileage.
* Drive the car in all gears to check the gearbox., and check for any knocks or strange noises. Check the steering for vibration, or pulling to one side, its an indication again that the car may have been in an accident.
* It's also a good idea to get the car HPI checked. This will tell you if the car has been stolen, been in an and accident, or is on finance. Checking safety and reliability reports are a must. Detailed mechanical inspection records are available for your perusal as well.

Never buy a car without doing these checks first, By following these rules when buying a used car you wont go far wrong.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Get Your Dream Car From A Car Auction


Car Auctions have been around for years and dealers get a lot of stock from auctions. Car auctions can be a great source for excellent deals for those who are serious about finding bargains. For the average person buying a car from an auction is not so simple. Public auto auctions provide good opportunities for finding a great deal on a used car. It is recommended to go to a car auction to get a great deal on a car and to save money. However, you need to be prepared before going into an auction or you could end up getting a bad deal instead.

Every public auto auction has a preliminary inspection period, often a day or two before the auction--in some cases, only hours before. You need to attend this inspection period. It is your best chance to view the vehicles. You can examine a car closely and possibly be able to get behind the wheel and start it. You definitely need to take down the Vehicle Identification Number of the auto you plan on bidding on.

If you are a conservative person without much experience in motor vehicles, it is better that you do not just go out and buy a car from an auction, you have to gain some knowledge of cars if you are going to buy one. If you aren’t that knowledgeable, it is better to have a mechanical eye, good observation and are willing to familiarize yourself with the process, then it can be a good way to pick up a bargain.

Before you go to a car auction make sure you have enough money in your bank account. All cars purchased at a car auction must be paid in full. You also need to bring your drivers license and any other form of ID to the car auction. This is needed to buy the vehicle and to do the title work and registration.

At a car auction, many vehicles have a reserve price. This means that the vehicle has a minimum price t be sold at. If it is too high, do not bid on it. Be sure when you do bid that you do not get into a bidding war. Never bid more than you can afford. If the bidding war begins, just walk away.

After reading this article you will able to get the car you ever dreamt with at a really great price by visiting car auctions. You will be able to drive home in the car you are looking for at a fraction of the price you might otherwise have paid.

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Second to DIe Life Insurance


Usually, the death benefit from a second-to-die life insurance policy is intended to go to the children , a charity or pay taxes owed after both spouses pass away.

In the U.S. there is a marital deduction permitting you to leave an unlimited amount of assets to your surviving spouse with no taxes payable at your death. Those assets then become part of the estate of the spouse and if it includes a second to die life insurance policy it could help pay any taxes. In Canada, there is more lenient tax treatment.

There are also tax ramifications for small businesses, which is why business partners also purchase second-to-die policies.

THE REASON TO BUY SECOND TO DIE LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES

With a second-to-die life insurance policy your beneficiaries can pay debts with the proceeds of your policy, so they won't be forced to sell your house or liquidate assets to pay the bill.

A second-to-die life insurance policy can help to construct a financial plan reducing the tax burden of wealthy individuals by creating trusts and using second-to-die life insurance as part of the estate-planning process.

ADVANTAGES TO SECOND TO DIE LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES

1. Less expensive. Second-to-die life insurance is usually less expensive than life insurance but depends on the blend of the ages. The premium is based upon the joint life expectancy.

2. Estate Preservation. A second-to-die policy appeals to individuals who feel strongly about preserving their estates with the life insurance paying the taxes.

3. Easier to buy. It's easier to qualify for a second-to-die policy than for individual life insurance. Since both insures must die before the benefit is payable, the insurance company is less concerned that one of them might not be in good health.

* Builds your estate. In some cases, second-to-die life insurance is marketed as a way to build an estate, not just insulate it from taxes. Much like individual life insurance, the death benefit of a second-to-die policy can ensure that certain people receive money, even if you spend every nickel.

4. Second-to-die life insurance might make sense for people who don't have a lot of money but want to leave an estate for their children.