Insurance Denial of Reimbursement
I recently totaled my car, and while I was at fault in the accident, it’s worth noting that the other driver was also speeding. However, Progressive informed me that they would only cover liability and would not reimburse me for my vehicle since I was using it for work purposes. I conduct patient visits, which they categorize as a commute. They claim that I didn’t specify that I used my car for “work,” and their policy doesn’t include that as an option labeled for business use.
I’m looking for advice on how I can contest this decision in Ohio.
EDIT: Additional Information
My policy only includes a single option for the primary use of my car, which does not reflect my situation accurately. While I do conduct occasional in-person visits—usually around two per day—not every day of the week, I also perform online visits. The primary use of my car is for personal use and commuting to my office, with work visits accounting for less than 30% of its total use.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds incredibly frustrating. Here are a few steps you can take to address the issue with your insurance:
Review Your Policy: Carefully read through your insurance policy to understand the coverage details and any stipulations regarding business use. Pay attention to definitions of personal versus business use and any exclusions that may apply.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your communications with Progressive. Write down dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with, as well as summaries of your discussions.
Clarify Your Usage: Since your primary use is personal and incidental work visits are not the majority, you may want to clarify this context with Progressive. Explain how often you use your car for work and provide documentation if necessary (like a schedule or logs of work visits).
Seek Legal Advice: Considering the complexities of insurance claims and the potential financial implications, consulting with a legal advisor who specializes in insurance might be beneficial. They can provide guidance on whether you have grounds to challenge the insurer’s decision.
File a Complaint: If you aren’t making progress with Progressive, you can file a complaint with the Ohio Department of Insurance. They can help mediate disputes between consumers and insurance companies.
Consider Small Claims Court: If you believe you have a strong case, you may also consider pursuing the matter in small claims court, especially if the amount in question is within the allowable limits.
Consult with an Attorney: If you feel that you have exhausted other avenues, reaching out to an attorney specializing in insurance disputes could provide you with next steps and possible resolutions.
Remember, insurance companies can be complex to navigate, but with the right approach and support, you may be able to find a resolution. Good luck!