$930,000

Total amount of fines and restitution paid by Boston-based Liberty Mutual Insurance Cos. after a market conduct exam by the Connecticut Insurance Department. The report found five Liberty Mutual subsidiaries had overcharged more than 3,600 auto insurance customers, settled claims incorrectly and violated state laws regarding the appointment and licensing of agents.

755

The number of people arrested for insurance fraud last year, following investigations by the New York State Insurance Department Frauds Bureau. The total represents a slight increase over 2007 and the highest arrest total since 2004. In all, 402 criminal convictions were obtained in various cases statewide and more than $1.2 million was saved by insurance companies in connection with the investigation of fraudulent claims. There were 23,054 reports of suspected fraud referred to the bureau, a 4.2 percent increase over 2007.

$400

Minimum fine for first-time offenders caught snowmobiling while drunk in Maine. The Pine Tree state is proposing a crackdown on those who drink and drive snowmobiles, ATVs and boats — essentially requiring offenders to turn in their automobile drivers’ licenses. Supporters say the bill would make the waterways and trails safer. But the Maine Snowmobile Association says the present law is sufficient.

5%

Approved homeowners insurance discount for Pennsylvanians who have certain types of environmentally friendly technology installed in their houses — such as solar panels or geothermal heat pumps. The discount, approved for Donegal Insurance Group, is the first “green” discount approved by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.

Topics Fraud