Auto Insurance Claims: Motorcycle theft., state insurance commissioners, progressive insurance

Question
QUESTION: Hello, I reported a theft claim on june 22, 08 to progressive insurance, and just spoke to the claims rep. yesterday. I asked for a follow up on the claim, and she told me she needed more time and asked for my phone record. I asked her how long does a claim take to be resolved,seeing it's past 2 months and going on to 3, she told me that she isn't sure and each claim is different, I tried asking her how long can a theft claim stay open, and she responded back with the same answer, that each claim differs and varies in time/months.
I tried searching for California's claim time limit, but no luck.
Can you please shed some light on this issue? What should I do?
Thank you.

ANSWER: Hi E.S.,

Most states have a time limit of 60 days for theft claims. The insurance company can extent that time period by sending you a "Reservation of Rights" letter. This is a letter stating that they need more time due to a specific investigative reason.

You should contact your state insurance commissioners office. They will be able to tell you the requirement in your state. You may want to file a formal complaint against the insurance company. That may get them to stop dragging their feet.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I've filed a formal complaint, and recently they have switched my adjuster to a claims investigator on 9/19/08, and they say they need more time to investigate, I received this notice by email from the new claims rep. Also I received a letter from a Commission Officer on 9/20/08, telling me they also will investigate. What would be the next step? In the adjuster's email, she says she will contact me within the week after she has a chance to review the case, should I contact the Commission Officer? Or wait around like Progressive has been telling me to for 3 months and counting. I appreciate your time. Thank you.

Answer
Hi E.S.,

If the insurance company has sent you a "Reservation of Rights" letter they can continue the investigation until complete. You should let the insurance commission person know what they have said. You should keep on top of the new claim rep. When the week has passed you should call her.

Unfortunately you just have to let the process unfold. If the insurance company feels that you had something to do with the theft, they will continue to investigate. As long as they have notified you that they are continuing the investigation, there is no time limit.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh