Is it true that auto insurance rates have been falling across the U.S. In the last couple of years?

Yes. After many years of rate increases, the cost of car insurance fell slightly, by 0.3%, in 1998, and another reduction is expected for 1999. The total reduction was estimated to be 2 or 3% after dividends on policies issued by mutual companies are considered -- like market leader State Farm. California, with 10% of the drivers, had a 5.7% reduction in cost last year. This decline came after reductions in each of the three previous years. High premium states like New York, Florida and Massachusetts are also seeing declines. Even New Jersey -- the state with the highest insurance costs -- is expected to get a 15% cut in 1999 because of a state mandate.

Factors that have contributed to the fall include:

1. The aging of the population

2. Safer cars (automatic seat belts and air bags)

3. Falling crime rates

4. Tougher drunk driving laws

5. Increased competition

Tougher competition is coming partly from companies that sell direct via telephone, direct-mail, and the Internet. They are contributing to the trend and gaining market share by offering lower costs. Companies that sell through agents still have 90% of the market but the direct sellers are growing faster.

Do I need something other than my normal health insurance plan for worldwide traveling outside the US

To answer this question, you need to check with your own health insurance company. Many health insurers do not cover international health coverage.

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What is coverage for medical evacuation or repatriation insurance

Medical evacuation benefits provide for transportation to a medical facility that can provide appropriate care in the event of serious injury or sickness that cannot be adequately dealt with at the location where the illness or accident took place.

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What kind of covered or not covered in normal travel insurance pans

There are many variations of travel insurance plans. Some typical insurance coverages include the following:

1. Coverage for vacation and trip cancellation

2. Coverage for travel interruptions, delays and cancellations

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Why I need a trip or travel insurance plan

As we know that The outlay of money for travelling can be quite substantial. You may find yourself facing the loss of more money than you want to lose should unforeseen circumstances arise that make it necessary to cancel or interrupt your trip.

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What is a trip insurance and What is travel insurance

Trip insurance is used to help alleviate some of the financial loss that may be incurred because your trip is interrupted, delayed, or cancelled by unforeseen events.

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