Three for Thursday 08.31.2023

Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.

A friend of TrustDALE recently reached out to us about her shipment of heirloom china that appears to have been stolen off the delivery truck before it reached its destination. She paid Fed Ex $100 to insure the shipment, so not to worry, right? Wrong! Lisa has been wrestling with the independent company that packaged the dishes as well as Fed Ex (who transported the package) to honor their respective insurance policies. She says neither are doing so. We at TrustDALE are hearing more and more stories from consumers who purchase expensive insurance coverage for cruises, flights, cars, only to encounter a hassle when trying to redeem coverage. The lesson? Research reviews carefully before purchasing insurance. Too many times, these providers are really investment firms pretending to be insurers and their focus is to find ways to deny your claim so they can keep your money in the market. In the meantime, you can bet we're doing all we can to help our friend Linda.

Watch this Investigation

Today's investigation - Wal-Mart Rogue Recycling Charge. Watch because this could happen to you!

Ask Dale

Today's Ask Dale question comes from Dave, who wants to know if pet insurance is worth the money. Watch the video for the answer!

Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!

Today's seven-point lesson is on knowing when to give up (even though you're in the right).

Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Giving full payment upfront doesn't entitle the offending party to keep your money in the event of a breach, but that's quite likely why they set those terms.

Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? Law enforcement often sees your gullibility as a failure of judgement on your part and will not treat the offense as a crime.

Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he cannot be found after he gets your money. If you're lucky enough to find the person who worked hard to not be found, it is still unlikely you'll get law enforcement to force a repayment or fulfillment.

Define - Your deal by comparing Product, Offer and Price. This is a preventative step that helps you avoid having to "give in" later.

Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. The second and just as equally effective step in preventing the need to give in later.

Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. The third and again, just as equally effective step in preventing the need to give in.

Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. If the company is legitimate, you likely have standing in a court of law, but don't throw good money after bad pursuing a judgement that could cost you more than your original investment.