Need Help! Progressive is Giving Me a Hard Time 🙁
I’m in a tough situation with Progressive after a recent auto accident, and I could really use some advice. Here’s the backstory: my car policy, registration, and license are all in Tennessee (keeping things private), but I currently work in New York City. I also have a secondary residence in NYC, but my main address is TN. I switched to Progressive at the beginning of this year.
I had a car accident in NYC, and according to the police report, both the other driver and I share fault. When I reached out to file a claim, my agent wasn’t very helpful and made me feel guilty, which was a new experience for me. When I mentioned that I’m in NYC for work, she said she would submit an address change to underwriting, which struck me as odd.
Now, a week later, I finally got a chance to speak with her again. She told me she’s still waiting for underwriting to determine our next steps and mentioned that there’s a chance I could be dropped from coverage. I’m unsure if she’s hinting at insurance fraud concerns, but I’m really confused — I explained that I don’t always keep my car with me due to the many transportation options in the city.
Does anyone have any advice? Should I consider getting a lawyer, or should I just wait and see how this unfolds? Can they really just drop me like that? I feel lost in all of this, and it’s been stressing me out so much that I’m in tears daily. Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through this situation; it sounds incredibly stressful. Here are some steps you might consider taking:
Clarify Your Insurance Status: Make sure you fully understand your policy and the coverage you have. Review the terms regarding your primary residence versus where you’re using your vehicle. Sometimes insurers may have specific stipulations based on where the vehicle is primarily located and how it is used.
Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications with Progressive, including names, dates, and summaries of your conversations. This documentation could be helpful if you need to escalate the situation or pursue legal action.
Request a Written Explanation: If Progressive is considering dropping you, you should ask for a formal written statement explaining their reasons. Knowing exactly why they might be terminating your policy will give you a clearer understanding of your situation.
Consider a Lawyer: If you feel that your case is complex, or if Progressive starts to take action that you believe may be unjustified, consulting with an attorney who specializes in insurance law could be beneficial. They can help you understand your rights and options.
Look for Alternative Coverage: While you’re working through this with Progressive, it might be wise to start looking at other insurance options just in case so you’re not left without coverage.
Understand Underwriting Practices: Insurance companies do have the right to adjust or terminate policies based on their underwriting standards. However, they generally need to provide sufficient justification. Research how other drivers with similar situations have been treated by Progressive or other insurers.
Stay Calm and Patient: It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. Try to remain calm and take things step by step. Focus on what you can control, like gathering information and keeping your emotions in check.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s okay to seek help from professionals who can advocate for you.