The State of Missouri has barred a Chicago auto insurance company from doing business with motorists in that state, after the company was accused of unfairly denying claims, offering unreasonably low settlement offers and failing to respond to or properly investigate claims filed by policy holders in a timely manner.
The Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes urge motorists to check the complaint history of their insurance company before choosing or renewing your policy.
The Illinois Department of Insurance offers shopping tips and Illinois complaint historiesfor motorists choosing an insurance company.
Illinois records indicate the insurance carrier had 260 complaints in 2007 — the highest number of any auto insurance company in Illinois.
Missouri’s Department of Insurance reported they have more than 13 times the typical number of consumer complaints for a company it’s size — 63 complaints have been filed so far this year.
“The department has serious concerns about Universal Casualty’s ability to comply with Missouri consumer protection laws and treat its customers fairly,” said John Huff, director of the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration (DIFP). “We need to be convinced that the company has sufficient staffing and resources for handling insurance claims. Until then, we cannot allow the company to sell new policies in Missouri.”
The order forbids the company from writing any new policies in the state but allows it to service current policies. The state reported the company wrote $5.9 million in premiums last year.
The Chicago car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes urge motorists who have been in a car accident to contact a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights when dealing with insurance companies. We offer free appointments to discuss your case. Call toll free (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.