auto Complaint #IC-MOCPWH7B-SH95WS

Complaint Details

Insurer: Auto-Owners Insurance
Insurance Type: auto
Coverage Type: auto
Reason: Unfair settlement
State: New Hampshire
Date Filed: 2022-12-15
Disposition: Resolved

Complaint Summary

A consumer in New Hampshire filed a complaint against Auto-Owners Insurance alleging an unfair settlement offer on their auto insurance claim. The policyholder believes the settlement amount does not adequately cover the documented losses. Filed on 2022-12-15, this complaint seeks a fair and complete assessment of the claimed damages. Status: Resolved.

Risk Assessment

Risk Level: Low

This complaint involves a unfair settlement, which is typically a procedural or administrative issue. These matters are often resolved through direct communication with the insurer's customer service or complaints department. If initial efforts don't resolve the issue, escalating to a state DOI complaint is recommended.

What You Should Do

If you believe your settlement offer is too low, don't accept it immediately. Get independent repair estimates or medical valuations. Submit a counter-offer in writing with supporting documentation. Your state's unfair claims settlement practices act prohibits lowball offers. Consider hiring a public adjuster for property claims.

Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage

Auto insurance covers liability for bodily injury and property damage, collision and comprehensive coverage for your vehicle, uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, medical payments, and personal injury protection (PIP) depending on your state. Policies typically include deductibles that affect your out-of-pocket costs when filing a claim.

State Regulatory Information

New Hampshire Insurance Department handles consumer complaints. File at nh.gov/insurance or call 1-800-852-3416.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if Auto-Owners Insurance denies my auto insurance claim?

If your claim is denied, request a detailed written explanation citing the specific policy provision. Review your policy carefully, gather supporting documentation, and file a formal appeal within the deadline stated in your denial letter. You can also file a complaint with the New Hampshire Department of Insurance for an independent review.

How do I file a complaint against Auto-Owners Insurance with my state insurance department?

Contact the New Hampshire Department of Insurance through their website or consumer hotline. You will need your policy number, claim number, a description of the issue, and copies of relevant correspondence. Most states allow online complaint filing and will investigate within 30-60 days.

What is a auto insurance complaint ratio and what does it mean?

The complaint ratio (also called the NAIC Complaint Index) measures how many complaints an insurer receives relative to its market share. A ratio above 1.0 means the company receives more complaints than expected for its size. A ratio below 1.0 indicates fewer complaints than the industry average.

How long does Auto-Owners Insurance have to respond to my auto insurance claim?

Most states require insurers to acknowledge claims within 15 days and make a coverage decision within 30-45 days. Prompt payment laws vary by state — New Hampshire has specific statutory timeframes. If these deadlines are missed, you may have grounds for a bad faith complaint.

Can I sue Auto-Owners Insurance for unfair settlement on my auto policy?

You may have legal options including filing a bad faith lawsuit if the insurer unreasonably denied, delayed, or underpaid your claim. Before litigation, exhaust the insurer's internal appeals process and file a complaint with your state DOI. Many attorneys offer free consultations for insurance disputes. Deadlines (statutes of limitation) vary by state.