Insurance Issue: Driver Not Listed on Policy
Hello everyone, I need some advice. I was in an accident last Tuesday where a truck in front of me hit a deer on the highway. I was unable to stop in time and ended up hitting the deer myself. My car’s front bumper is damaged, but thankfully, there was no contact with any other vehicles.
When I spoke with my insurance company about the incident, I was shocked to find out that I was never added to the insurance policy. I clearly remember the policyholder calling to add me as soon as I got my license in December.
To make matters worse, the BMV sent me a request for a Certificate of Compliance (COC). I’m concerned because I’ve been informed that I wasn’t actually insured, even though the vehicle was covered. Is there any way I can contest this situation, or am I out of luck? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the complications with your insurance. It sounds like a really stressful situation. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue:
Gather Documentation: Collect any evidence you have that shows you were supposed to be added to the insurance policy. This could include text messages, call logs, or emails with the policyholder or the insurance agent discussing the addition.
Contact the Insurance Company: Reach out to the insurance company directly and explain the situation. Provide them with any evidence you have and ask them to review your case. Sometimes, they may be able to locate records that show you were added or may be able to clarify any misunderstandings.
Request the Policyholder’s Help: Ask the person who holds the insurance policy to contact the insurance company as well. They may have more information, or the ability to sway the decision if they can confirm your prior conversation regarding adding you.
Consider Filing a Complaint: If the insurance company is unresponsive or unhelpful, you can file a complaint with your state’s insurance department. They can sometimes mediate these issues or provide guidance.
Check your State’s Laws: Research the insurance laws in your state regarding coverage in accidents and the requirements for obtaining a Certificate of Compliance. This might give you more leverage when dealing with insurance or the BMV.
Consult an Attorney: If you find that the insurance company is still denying your claim and you feel that you have a strong case, it might be worthwhile to consult with an attorney who specializes in insurance claims. They can help understand your rights and options.
Stay on Top of the BMV: Keep the BMV informed about your situation. Explain that you’re working to resolve the insurance issue. They might provide you with an extension or guidance on what to do next.
While this situation is tricky, there may be avenues to pursue that could help rectify the misunderstanding. Keep documentation of all your communications and stay persistent. Best of luck!