Category: Accident Insurance

Montana Insurance Department Challenges Liberty Mutual on Repair Cost Denial

H. Cutner
Repair Cost Denial

Overview of the Dispute In a significant move reported by RepairerDrivenNews.com, the Montana Insurance Department has called out Liberty Mutual for its handling of a consumer complaint regarding repair cost denial. Deputy Insurance Commissioner Frank G. Cote challenged Liberty Mutual’s settlement process, specifically their refusal to cover certain repair costs without sufficient evidence. Details of the Case The dispute originated when Liberty Mutual denied payment for blending services performed by a repair facility, asserting that the 50% blend time was “successful” and “well-established.” This response was deemed unsatisfactory by the…

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State Farm Faces Setback as Class Action Lawsuit Progresses in Federal Court

John B.
State Farm Lawsuit Advances

State Farm Lawsuit Advances After Motion to Dismiss Denied In a significant legal development, U.S. District Judge Virginia Kendall has denied State Farm’s motion to dismiss a class action lawsuit, allowing the case to proceed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The lawsuit accuses the insurance giant of systematically undervaluing and underpaying policyholders for totaled vehicles, raising concerns among policyholders and industry analysts alike. Challenges to State Farm’s Valuation Methods and Practices The lawsuit, originally filed in March 2022, challenges State Farm’s vehicle valuation methods,…

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Skyrocketing Car Insurance Rates Drive Drivers to Pay Repairs in Cash

H. Cutner
Paying in Cash for Car Repairs

As car insurance premiums continue to soar, drivers are finding alternative ways to manage their expenses. With rates expected to rise by at least 20% in 2024, many are opting to bypass the claims process altogether and pay for repairs out of pocket. Understanding the Shift: Why Drivers Are Avoiding Claims A recent survey by LendingTree reveals that about 40% of drivers are choosing to skip the traditional claims process, opting instead to handle minor repairs in cash. This trend is largely driven by the fear of increased premiums and…

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Car Insurance Costs Explode in 2024 with an Overall Jaw-Dropping 26% Hike

H. Cutner
rising car insurance costs

Car Insurance Premiums Surge in 2024 Car insurance premiums skyrocketed by an average of 26% in 2024, pushing the national average cost for full coverage to a staggering $2,543 per year. This marks a significant rise from $2,014 in 2023 and $1,771 in 2022. Several factors contribute to this surge: The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that while overall annual inflation was 3.2%, car insurance rates spiked 20.6%. States differ in rate increases, with New Jersey and Missouri seeing hikes of 45.69% and 44.16%, respectively. Florida and California remain among…

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Top Insurance Companies: Unpacking Auto Insurance Claims Criticisms

John B.
claims adjuster examining car

Top Performers in Auto Claims Handling Amica leads in auto insurance claims handling, securing the top spot in J.D. Power’s 2023 Auto Claims Satisfaction Study with 909 out of 1,000 points. Customers praise Amica for quick and efficient claims processing and excellent customer service. Erie Insurance ranks second with a score of 902. Customers highlight the insurer’s professionalism and fast claims process. Erie offers a unique benefit: Coverage for pets injured in accidents Up to $500 per pet $1,000 per accident State Farm stands out for its user-friendly online claims…

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