As a consumer, you have a lot of rights when it comes to buying insurance. Most people will have two premiums: car and health insurance. Each policy is different based on your provider and your needs. But, some laws protect you no matter what you're buying.
Your Auto Insurance Rights
Let's talk a little about what auto insurance rights you have while living in Tennessee.
1. Companies must give you a reason if they deny your application.
Most states like Tennessee require insurers to tell you why they rejected an application. If you think this judgment is unfair, you have the option to appeal their decision. If you can't get insurance coverage because you are "high risk" there are programs like the Tennessee Automobile Insurance Plan, or TAIP might be an option for you.
2. You can make changes to your coverage or policy limits at any time.
After you have enrolled in your insurance plan, you might decide you want more or less coverage. It's well within your right to make these changes. Just call customer service and let them know what you would like to change.
3. They can't cancel your policy without notice.
Anyone who's had a few claims filed back-to-back might worry about losing their insurance. But, the good news is they can't cancel without letting you know first. If you are canceled, you need to find another to continue driving in Tennessee.
4. You can switch car insurance providers at any time.
Finding a better rate with another car insurance provider is excellent. You have the right to cancel your current policy and switch even before your current plan expires.
5. A car insurance company can't deny you because another company has.
Most companies will use the same set of standards to evaluate whether or not they want to offer you coverage. But, one area that won't count against you is a rejection from another provider.
6. Credit scores are collected, but they can't refuse because of a low score.
Most providers in the state of Tennessee will complete a "soft pull" of your credit score. It just means that they do a light search to get your score. Once they get the information, they can't deny you just because it's lower than average.
7. If they don't like something on your driving record, they have to tell you.
Again, insurers will look at a lot of different things when they decide to give you coverage. If they see something on your record they don't like then they have to tell you how your DMV records affect the calculations.
8. You are allowed to pay your policy in installments.
Check with your insurance provider to see if they offer discounts for paying in full. It might save you some dollars in the long run, but it doesn't mean they can refuse you coverage because you want to pay every month.
Have you been injured in an auto accident? Contact us today to see if you have a claim.
Your Health Insurance Rights
Years ago, amendments were made to health care laws to provide you with more protection. Let's take a quick look at what that means for you.
1. You can't be denied health insurance for a preexisting condition.
Before the Health Care Act, anyone who had a preexisting condition might not qualify for coverage. Today, regardless of your condition whether it be diabetes, heart disease, or pregnancy an insurance provider must offer you something.
2. You are entitled to one free preventative treatment each year.
Every policy should include one visit to the doctor each year. You can call it a "check-up," but your insurance will call it "preventative." During the visit you might be able to get shots and screenings at no extra cost to you.
3. Choose the doctor you want to visit.
When you buy health coverage, you are allowed to choose the doctor you want to visit. It’s recommended to pick someone in your network or you might have to pay additional costs.
4. HIPAA does a lot to protect you.
HIPAA stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. It's been around since 1996 and limits the power of your insurance provider to deny or delay a claim.
5. You can appeal a coverage decision.
State consumer protection laws give you the option to appeal a claim if you don't think it's fair. All you have to do is contact your insurance provider, and they will have the steps to get this started.
6. All your coverage information should be easy to access and read.
As a consumer, it's your right to have information about your coverage in an easy to access document. They should also provide you with a glossary of terms, so you understand what you are reading.
7. Women have the right to choose their ob-gyn.
Any woman whether they got their insurance through the Marketplace or their employer is allowed to choose their ob-gyn. You’ll want to check that the doctor you choose takes your insurance plan or you might pay extra fees.
8. You can decide where you want to purchase insurance.
Your employer might offer insurance options, but if you don't like the policies, you have the right to take out a plan with the Marketplace. Tax credits are available based on your income level.
Injury Law in Nashville
At Bart Durham, we understand that value of insurance. Your health and wellness count on insurance providers to give you compensation when you require assistance. We're here to help if you feel the compensation awarded to you as a result of a car accident or malpractice isn’t enough.
