Arizona Settles $7M-Plus in Claims

The Arizona Department of Insurance (ADOI) is reporting that it responded to 5,020 complaints in 2007 and assisted thousands of Arizona consumers in settling insurance company disputes and helping them recover $7.5 million in claim settlements and refunds. The figures are markedly up from 2006 when ADOI received 4,393 complaints and inquiries and assisted in recovering $3,607,496.84 for Arizona consumers, the department said.

The majority of ADOI complaints involve a delay or denial in paying automobile, health or homeowners’ insurance claims. While ADOI cannot adjudicate claims, it can provide information and assistance on claim issues that frequently lead to a resolution in favor of the consumer.

“Often times, we are able to help clarify or expedite a snag in the claims process,” said Mary Butterfield, assistant director of ADOI’s Consumer Affairs Division. “Consumers are free to call or write to us about any type of insurance related matter, not just claims and refunds.”