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A contentious insurance claim has ended unfavourably for a motor policyholder after her husband mistakenly poured diesel exhaust fluid into her car's fuel tank.
Although the policyholder initially received assurances from a Suncorp representative that the use of AdBlue fluid wouldn't be considered improper fuelling - supposedly an excluded scenario under her policy - the claim was later denied.
This decision has sparked debate around policy definitions and customer service communication.
The policyholder argued that according to the product disclosure statement (PDS), only "incorrect fuel usage" was excluded, and as AdBlue is technically not a fuel, her claim should be valid. Additional grievances arose after alleging the insurer’s tow service inflicted further damage to her car, necessitating a new steering rack and wheel realignment.
Suncorp acknowledged the issue with its initial claim rejection, where the decision was based solely on the original PDS. However, the insurer pointed to a supplementary product disclosure statement (SPDS), which explicitly excludes coverage for damage resulting from using fluids not recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer. This key differentiation was reportedly communicated to the policyholder during her policy renewal.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) sided with Suncorp, determining that the insurer did not mislead the customer about her claim status. While Suncorp admitted to referencing outdated PDS wording initially, AFCA deemed their reliance on the updated SPDS appropriate and found no obligation for the insurer to cover the incident. Additionally, AFCA found limited evidence to support the policyholder's accusations regarding damage caused by the towing service, reinforcing Suncorp's account of a winched, non-dragged vehicle recovery.
Despite these rulings, AFCA ordered Suncorp to compensate the policyholder $3000 for delay-induced inconveniences during the claim process, which left her without her vehicle for an extended period, citing the resulting undue stress and hassle.
This case highlights the importance of clear communication and understanding of policy amendments, emphasizing the role supplemental documents play during insurance assessments. Consumers are reminded to review documentation thoroughly during renewals to grasp the full scope of their insurance protections and exclusions.
In a significant development for the Australian insurance market, Markel, a US-based specialty insurer, has launched professional indemnity (PI) insurance products tailored specifically for Australian businesses. This strategic move comes in response to a notable reduction in PI insurance capacity over recent years, leaving many professionals seeking reliable coverage options. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its latest National Claims and Policies Database (NCPD) statistics, shedding light on the escalating costs associated with public liability and professional indemnity (PI) insurance in Australia. The data indicates a substantial rise in premiums and claims expenses, posing financial challenges for businesses across various sectors. - read more
Insurance broker Gallagher has issued a cautionary note to builders in New South Wales (NSW) regarding significant legal changes that are reshaping professional indemnity (PI) insurance requirements. These developments stem from the state's Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020 (DBP Act) and a pivotal High Court ruling in the Pafburn strata defects case. - read more
Strata property owners in North and Central Queensland are being encouraged to take advantage of new federal and state initiatives designed to reduce insurance premiums through approved cyclone mitigation activities. Following regulatory updates to the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool effective April 1, strata buildings in eligible regions can now receive insurance premium reductions when undertaking structural reinforcements such as storm-resistant windows, upgraded roofing, and compliant external doors. - read more
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of New South Wales has imposed fines totaling $16.8 million on Allianz Australia Insurance and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, for disseminating misleading information about their travel insurance products between 2016 and 2018. This decision underscores the critical importance of transparency and accuracy in the insurance sector. - read more
Being prepared when it comes to life insurance claims can make a world of difference. Proper preparation helps you prevent delays and denials, ensuring that your loved ones receive the financial support promised by your policy without unnecessary hold-ups. By paying attention to the details, you can streamline the claims process, giving you and your family peace of mind during what is already a stressful time. - read more
Welcome to a pivotal guide dedicated to empowering you with the essentials of income protection insurance in Australia. As we navigate through times of uncertainty, safeguarding your financial wellbeing becomes not just a priority, but a necessity. Income protection insurance stands as one of the key pillars of financial security, ensuring a steady flow of income during periods when you're unable to work due to illness or injury. - read more
The horizon of the insurance industry has undergone a transformative shift with the advent of digital technology. With a few clicks, consumers can navigate the once-complex world of insurance policies from the comfort of their home. The digital landscape for insurance services offers unprecedented access to information, comparisons, and instant communication, fostering a more empowered insurance client. - read more
As the landscape of finance and personal security evolves in Australia, the importance of being insured has never been more prominent. In a world of changing family dynamics, economic pressures, and higher living costs, life insurance stands as a bastion of support ensuring the well-being of loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances. - read more
Life insurance is a crucial consideration for middle-aged to older Australians. It provides financial security for your loved ones in the unfortunate event of your death. Understanding the various options available is vital to making an informed decision. - read more
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Knowledgebase
Claim Adjuster: An insurance professional who investigates and evaluates insurance claims to determine the amount the insurance company should pay.