Hastings Direct (UK) Demands Payment for Cancelled Policy but Refuses to Insure Another Vehicle
Hello, I recently had a car accident and received my insurance settlement. Now, Hastings Direct has given me 30 days to insure another vehicle or they will cancel my policy, but I also have the option to cancel it myself.
I’ve been paying monthly, and there’s a remaining balance of £1,900 for the year. When I called to ask about my options, they stated that I must pay the remaining £1,900 whether I choose to cancel the policy or if they do it after the 30 days.
To avoid this charge, I was advised that I could insure another vehicle through them and carry over my policy. I’ve inquired about four different vehicles (all relatively modest, like a 2016 Ford Fiesta with 60,000 miles, valued around £5,000) but each time they have refused to provide coverage for these cars.
It feels like they are essentially forcing me to pay the £1,900 for the rest of the year without giving me a fair option to insure another vehicle. Do I have any legal recourse here? Shouldn’t they be unable to demand payment for the full year if they won’t allow me to insure another car?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. From what you’ve described, it seems like you’re in a tough spot with Hastings Direct.
In general, insurance policies do have specific terms and conditions, and companies can sometimes impose certain requirements following an accident. However, if they are denying you coverage for other vehicles without a valid reason, that could potentially be a breach of contract or unfair treatment.
Here are a few steps you might consider taking:
Review Your Policy: Look closely at the terms and conditions in your insurance policy regarding cancellation and vehicle coverage. There should be specific guidelines on what happens after an accident and how they handle replacement vehicles.
Request a Written Explanation: If they’re denying you coverage for certain cars, ask for a written explanation of their reasoning. This will help you understand their position better and provide documentation if you need to escalate the issue.
Contact the Financial Ombudsman: If you feel that Hastings Direct is not treating you fairly, you can reach out to the Financial Ombudsman Service. They can provide guidance on your situation and may intervene on your behalf.
Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with a solicitor who specializes in insurance law might give you a clearer understanding of your rights and options.
Consider Other Insurers: While it may not directly resolve the issue with Hastings Direct, exploring other insurance providers might help you find a policy that suits your needs without the burden of a high cancellation fee.
It’s important to document all interactions you have with the insurance company in case you need to escalate the issue later. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution soon!