NEWS BULLETIN
From Commissioner Karen Weldin Stewart, CIR-ML

With the hurricane season upon us, the Delaware Department of Insurance urges the public to remain abreast of current weather forecasts for Delaware. In some instances, different parts of the state may be affected by varying forecasts. Currently, Delaware is under a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning due to the approach of Hurricane Earl.

The latest information includes the following:

• The storm has been downgraded from a Category 4 to a Category 3. Winds have decreased to 125mph.
• Anticipating that the storm will reach Delaware Friday late morning/early afternoon.
• Coast can expect 40 mph winds with a total of 1-2 inches of rain.
• Inland can expect 25 mph winds with a total of ¼ to ½ inch of rain.
• Minor Tidal Flooding.

Regular weather updates through the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) are available at: www.weather.gov/alerts/de.html

As such, residents are urged to take precautionary steps in preparation of predicted adverse weather.

There are some steps homeowners can also take to protect themselves from the storm. It is a wise idea to remove loose objects from your yard and take an inventory on your belongings by making a list or taking pictures and gathering important paperwork.

Make sure you know exactly what your insurance policy does and does not cover and remember no homeowner's insurance policy covers flooding.

That's important exclusions to be aware of with the flood insurance program, which is through the national government. You can call in or through your agent you can purchase that type of insurance.

Following the storm take the following measures: if you have damage, contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible, photograph and make a list of any of the damage and do not make permanent repairs until you speak to your insurance agents.

Additionally, for more information, click here to visit our Storm Tips:

STATEMENT
Karen Weldin Stewart, CIR-ML
Delaware Insurance Commissioner
July 23, 2010
(See Insurance Probe Editorial)

Since I launched market conduct investigations into the pre-authorization processes and procedures of Delaware’s health insurance carriers to make certain that the health and well being of our citizens were not being compromised, I have received numerous requests for information on the status and the content of these investigations from both the media and a lawmaker. In response, I have continually reminded those making the requests I am duty bound to protect the integrity of these investigations by the law in the Delaware Insurance Code (Title 18, Chapter 3, Section 321, Paragraph c) as well as Regulations and Bulletins.

Yet there are those, undoubtedly well-intentioned, who would put my duty in a hammerlock, by having me breach the law, compromise the integrity of our investigations, put the confidentiality of patients medical records at risk, while unwittingly creating the perception that these investigations are being exploited for political advantage.

As the News Journal rhetorically asked in a recent editorial, “What sense does it make to report on an investigation that is not fully complete?” (See Insurance Probe Editorial)

The public’s right to know is the foundation of our Democracy, joined by the individual’s right to privacy, a business’ right to proprietary protection and the need for on-going investigations to be confidential. Therefore, until my Department completes its investigations when a full and comprehensive report will be made public, this subject is closed to any further inquiry.

See Readers' Comments

Insurance Guides