Error or Auto Insurance Fraud? [ON/Canada]
I’m looking for some insight regarding a strange claim that has shown up on my auto insurance history. I live in Ontario, Canada.
While switching auto insurers this week, my broker pulled my policy history for my new application and found a no-fault claim registered in my name from September 2021. This is puzzling because I wasn’t driving during the pandemic, so it’s impossible for me to have been involved in an accident at that time. To make matters more confusing, this claim isn’t listed under my own insurance policy; my current provider has no record of it whatsoever.
After discussing this with my broker, he discovered that the claim is actually associated with my PARENTS’ insurance for my mom’s car. In September 2021, someone hit her car in a grocery store parking lot and left without leaving a note. She filed a body repair claim through her insurance, but somehow, I ended up being listed as the “First Party Driver” on the claim—despite it being no fault.
Here’s the kicker: I haven’t been on my parents’ insurance since 2012, so I shouldn’t have been designated as the “primary driver” for their car. My parents have been in touch with their insurance company, as all the claim paperwork has been handled under my mom’s name (and she has the documentation to back this up). The insurance records clearly show her as the primary driver of the car.
So, what’s going on here? Why is this claim appearing on my record, and how is it even possible? Also, does anyone have advice on how I can get this removed from my history and properly assigned to my mom? I’m prepared to file a regulatory complaint against their insurance company if necessary. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
It sounds like a complex and frustrating situation! Here are some steps and suggestions to help you navigate this issue:
Contact Your Insurance Broker: Since your broker initially discovered this claim, keep them in the loop. They may have more insight or access to resources that can help resolve the issue.
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications, including dates, times, who you spoke with, and what was said. Also, gather any supporting documents from your parents’ insurance regarding their claim, showing that your mom is the primary driver.
Contact Your Parents’ Insurance Company: Your parents should formally contact their insurer to dispute the claim and clarify the situation. They may need to provide proof that your mom is the primary driver and the registered owner. It’s important that their insurer acknowledges the mistake promptly.
Directly Address the Error: Request that the insurance company rectify the record with the appropriate reporting agencies (like the Insurance Bureau of Canada). They should be able to submit a correction stating that you were not involved in the incident.
Check Your Driving Record: You can request a copy of your driving record from the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario. Review it to see if the claim is indeed listed and whether there are any other discrepancies.
Regulatory Complaint: If the insurance company does not resolve the issue satisfactorily, consider filing a complaint with the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA). They deal with consumer complaints regarding insurance issues.
Consult a Legal Professional: If the situation still isn’t resolved, particularly if it affects your insurance rates or ability to get coverage, consulting a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims might be beneficial.
Stay Proactive: Follow up regularly with both insurance companies, and keep your broker informed. Persistence can often lead to quicker resolutions.
Hopefully, with persistence and clear communication, this error can be rectified, and your insurance history will accurately reflect your situation.