Maine Government News
Maine Bureau of Insurance Obtains More Than $3 Million in Recoveries for Consumers in 2012; State Agency Handled Almost 9,000 Inquiries and Over 850 Complaint Cases
January 25, 2013
Professional & Financial Regulation - Insurance
Superintendent Eric Cioppa announced on Friday that the Bureau of Insurance obtained more than $3 million for Maine insurance consumers in 2012. Nearly $2.2 million was recovered for consumers by the Bureau’s Consumer Health Care Division, and almost $950,000 was recovered for consumers by the Property and Casualty Division.
“The Bureau of Insurance takes its responsibility to assist Maine consumers, whether individuals or businesses, very seriously,” Superintendent Cioppa commented. “This can involve answering questions and providing information, or conducting investigations when a violation of Maine insurance law has been alleged.”
Cioppa noted that most insurers operating in Maine pay claims properly and quickly, but emphasized that when individuals or business owners contact the Bureau because of a dispute with an insurance company or agent, the agency can often provide assistance.
Cioppa said the Bureau fielded almost 9,000 inquiries and more than 900 complaints during 2012: the Property and Casualty Division handled 4,760 inquiries and 319 written complaints; and the Consumer Health Care Division received 3,958 inquiries and 543 written complaints.
Consumers with questions about insurance matters can obtain information and assistance from the Bureau by visiting the agency’s website (www.maine.gov/insurance), calling toll-free 1-800-300-5000, or e-mailing Insurance.PFR@maine.gov.
