Am
I still covered by my parents' policies?
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It depends on the policy and its terms. For example, most heath insurance
policies cover insured's children up to age 18 - or to age 22 if the child
continues a a full-time student. If
you are over 18 and not a full-time student. you wil1 need your own health
insurance policy. Check with your insurance agent about specific insurance
policies and any age restrictions involved. |
What kind of risks do college students face?
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College students face many new risks as them head off to school; risks like
theft of personal property and accidents due to driving long distances and
attending and giving parties. And the nation's nearly 2 million first-year
students and their parents may have the hardest time of all evaluating their
needs and risks since then may not know what to expect. |
How
extensive are these risks?
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College and University
campuses are not immune to property crime. The FBI's Crime ill the United
States 1995 reports that there were over 100,000 property claims on the
nations college campuses reported to police - including burglary, theft.
motor vehicle theft and arson. That same year an average of $1,251 of
property per offense was taken by thieves.
Further, at least one in ten college students revealed they had caused an
auto accident in the last two years: one in four had a speeding ticket or
other moving violation.. All of these offenses help send students' auto
insurance premiums through the roof. |
How
many studnts are at risk?
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A recent survey indicates that there are as many as
8.9 million households with full-time college students under age 23 in the
United States. For all of these students - especially the more then half
who live away from home –
having basic insurance including health, auto, and renters, is one thing
that can make the difference between a pleasant college experience and one
that can spell financial disaster for students and parents.
While depending on circumstances, many students can remain covered by their
parents' homeowners, auto and health insurance throughout college, other
students may- have special needs and circumstances requiring that they
purchase their own insurance before they graduate. |
How
can an uninsured loss affect a student or parent?
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An uninsured loss such as
the theft of a laptop, sudden illness or a liability claim stemming from a
party mishap, can deal a devastating blow to a college student's limited
bank account or the financial livelihood of a parent already struggling with
high tuition bills. And contrary to popula belief, insurance can be very
affordable. The risk of financial loss due to proprty and liability losses
can be eliminated or significantly reduced with propr insurance.
College students and
parents should seek information together on protecting themselves and their
property with renters, auto and health insurance from an experienced,
professional independent insurance agent who will help them evaluate their
risks and purchase the appropriate coverage. |