What’s new: In brief (January 09, 2005)

The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) has produced two new consumer bulletins. The first, “Shop and Save on Auto Insurance”, outlines the different distribution methods for auto insurance, as well tips on premium savings, such as raising deductibles. The second, a six-page pamphlet, gives “Tips for Identifying Auto Insurance Scams” and includes such things as how to spot fraudulent paralegals and tow truck drivers.

Almost 86% of the 1.5 million claims in Florida as a result of this year’s four major hurricanes have been closed, says the Hurricane Insurance Information Center (HIIC) and the Florida Insurance Council (FIC). Almost 90% of Hurricane Charley claims are closed, followed by Frances (84.7%), Ivan (84.2%) and Jeanne (83.2%). This compares with the six months it took to settle 90% of the 700,000 claims filed after Hurricane Andrew hit the state in 1992.

Associates of John Raney are invited to celebrate his retirement from Aon at Toronto’s National Club (303 Bay St), Thursday, February 3 at 5:00pm. Those interested can RSVP and make arrangements for the $30 fee with Angela Martino at Cunningham Lindsey Canada Ltd., (416) 596-8020, ext.403. Also, visit “My Events Calendar” at www.canadianunderwriter.ca for further information.