Alabama Department of Insurance Issues Bulletin to Property & Casualty Insurance Carriers
May 1, 2020
In response to the ongoing Covid-19 emergency, the State of Alabama Department of Insurance issued Bulletin No. 2020-09 on April 29, 2020, to all property and casualty insurers requesting cooperation with policyholders in the following areas:
- Reporting deadlines: Carriers are asked to be lenient with claim and loss reporting deadlines;
- Sworn Statement Proofs of Loss: Only demand sworn statement proofs of loss “when necessary” and allow for electronic signatures and notarization consistent with Alabama’s Uniform Electronic Transaction Act (Ala. Code 8-1A-7);
- ALE – Understand that there may be delays in repairs as a result of the COVID-19 crisis and “policyholders should not be penalized due to delays outside their control“;
- EUOs – Consider using remote technology for EUOs whenever possible. If not possible, consider delaying EUO requests. In-person EUOs should only take place with the agreement of all parties and with strict adherence to social distancing standards; and
- RCV/Depreciation Payments: Commissioner requests carriers give consideration to COVID-19 related delays and extend periods to make claims for withheld depreciation. Carrier has discretion for how long of an extension but it shall not be less than an additional 12 months.
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Christian & Small LLP represents a diverse clientele throughout Alabama, the Southeast, and the nation with clients ranging from individuals and closely-held businesses to Fortune 500 corporations. By matching highly experienced lawyers with specific client needs, Christian & Small develops innovative, effective, and efficient solutions for clients. With offices in Birmingham, metro-Jackson, Mississippi, and the Alabama Gulf Coast, Christian & Small focuses on the areas of litigation and business, is a member of the International Society of Primerus Law Firms, and is the only Alabama-based member firm in the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity. Our corporate social responsibility program is focused on education, and diversity is one of Christian & Small’s core values.
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