Auto Insurance Claims: insurance claim, insurance claim, reprisal

Question
`hello thank you for taking time answer my question i make it short . im costumer with state farm  i had claims for flood in 2008 and 2009  i have fixed the problem for flood no more problem state farm paid me for 2 claim $14000 total . question i was told not to ask for 3rd claim ?  i have wind damage on  my house roof insurance will maybe pay it but im afraid to ask for 3rd claim do you see any problem for me to ask for 3rd claim  to pay for roof ? will they remove me from insurance after 3rd claim?  can we split the bill if there is option like that  thank you ?

Answer
Jim,

I understand you concerns, and like many, you dread making a claim in fear of reprisal for too many claims whereby your policy may be cancelled or rates escalating.

I see it this way...when you buy insurance you are gambling that you are going to need it...the insurer, by selling you a policy, is gambling you won't...and hedging their bet with if you do have a claim, maybe you won't make a claim in fear of being cancelled or rate increase ( it works doesn’t it!?)

If you elect to make a claim...don't settle for any less than will be required to make proper repairs. I don't believe you participating in the settlement or allowing the insurer to forego paying the entire amount will make a difference in whether they decide to continue to insure you or not. Those type of decisions are generally made in underwriting and claims has little to no impact on that type of decision unless it involves fraud, prior damages etc.

I cannot tell you what an insurer will or will not do. It's a business they are very good at and the ultimate decision rests with you. As it is, with two claims already made, they may cancel you anyway?

Hope this provides a little help in your decision making.

Regards!

Barrett