Thread by @teresamurray

Thanks @malonespeaking for having @uspirg on your show to talk about CLUE reports that show past auto insurance and property damage claims, going back 5-7 years. You can get your own CLUE report free. Call LexisNexis at 1-866-312-8076 or go to personalreports.lexisnexis.com (THREAD)

@malonespeaking @uspirg Most consumers don't know about CLUE reports (stands for Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange). Just like with traditional credit reports, you're entitled to one free copy of your CLUE report per year.

@malonespeaking @uspirg Past claims can affect your premiums. It's good to know whether there are any claims on your record. You should make sure that when you called your insurer's roadside assistance service because you had a flat tire or ran out of gas that it doesn't count as a loss claim.

@malonespeaking @uspirg Besides avoiding erroneous "claims" on your report, there are other reasons to consider other options for roadside assistance services. I'm a huge fan of @AAA_Travel - about $50 per year. Also, many banks offer roadside assistance free through their credit cards. Ask!

@malonespeaking @uspirg @AAA_Travel CLUE reports contain:
-Your name
-Date of birth
-Policy number
-Date of loss
-Type of loss
-Amount the company paid
-Description of the covered property
-Property address for homeowner claims or specific vehicle information for auto claims.

@malonespeaking @uspirg @AAA_Travel Finally:
Insurance companies report all claims if they:
-Pay out money
-Formally deny a claim
-Set up a file for a possible claim
You do need to be careful about the last one. Calling your insurance company about something that happened could lead to an entry in your file. (END)