THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WRITE to you concerning a matter which relates to the manner in which holders of insurance policies are dealt with by some of these large, well-known insurance companies.
The law stipulates that any mode of vehicular transportation using the public thoroughfares must be insured. By the same token, the law should play an integral role in ensuring that companies which benefit financially, act in a timely manner when settling the claims of clients who suffer damage, both physically and otherwise, by the acts of the clients they insure.
The practice of delaying payment is common to some companies. A certain company, to which I now make reference, operating from its 'glass-clad' edifice in the New Kingston environs, boasts not only of their recent expansions, but also of how they 'put you in good hands'. I can attest to their expansion, but certainly not to the latter part of that statement. I will explain by relating to you the agony I am experiencing.
I comprehensively insured my vehicle with a well-known company and in April 2002, I was hit off the road somewhere in St. Mary by a client of this 'glass-house' group. I was lucky not to be killed, but my vehicle was a total write-off. The report of the police indicated that the other driver was completely in the wrong, as he had encroached on my side of the road while negotiating a bend. He was subsequently charged with reckless driving, but did not appear in court on the day summoned.
My claim for personal damages and other expenses sent through my company has been sent since then and I am told that they are discounting 75 per cent of my personal claim and on top of that, refusing to replace one of my two pairs of glasses destroyed in the accident. The reason given is that they do not see why I need two pairs of glasses.
I am, etc.,
WINSTON G. SMITH, JP
20 Chevy Chase
Kingston 19
