The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
A motorist discovered the hard way that taking out an insurance policy hours after an accident won't cover the damages inflicted.
The lesson? Timing is crucial when it comes to insurance coverage.
On the afternoon of July 23rd of last year, a driver found himself in an unfortunate car accident, leaving his vehicle damaged and uninsured. Later that same day, he decided to purchase an insurance policy from Suncorp at 5:52 PM. However, his subsequent claim filed on August 16 was denied.
While the driver didn’t challenge the sequence of events, he argued that his certificate of insurance indicated a coverage period starting from July 23, 2023, to the same date in 2024, suggesting the coverage backdated to the beginning of the day he bought the policy.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) addressed this dispute, clearly stating that the driver’s assumption was “unreasonable.” According to the AFCA, the policy explicitly covered only the period after the insurance policy was initiated by the policyholder.
"Though the policy lacks a specified start time," the authority’s adjudicator remarked, "it is illogical to consider that coverage starts at 12:01 AM on the day of purchase. Coverage cannot extend retrospectively to incidents occurring before the policyholder has arranged the insurance."
The decision underscored the insurer’s intent: the policy was to become effective post-purchase and not retroactively. Suncorp also highlighted that there had been a misrepresentation when the vehicle’s condition was declared during the application process, pointing out existing damages to the door and front passenger seat that were unaccounted for.
This case illustrates an essential principle for all insurance seekers: Coverage begins once the policy is active. In a previous review related to this issue, the adjudicator referenced a similar stance adopted by another insurance firm.
Ensure all current damages are accurately reported before applying for a policy.
Understand that purchasing a policy after an incident does not cover prior damages.
This ruling reinforces the importance of having active insurance coverage at all times. Any gaps in coverage can lead to significant financial implications, as demonstrated by this driver’s unfortunate experience. Make sure to verify all terms and conditions for clarity on policy start times to avoid such dilemmas.
Published:Tuesday, 21st May 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reveals a significant increase in mental health-related claims within Australia's income protection insurance sector. In 2024, mental health conditions accounted for 20% of income protection claims, resulting in payouts totaling $887 million. This marks a substantial rise compared to previous years, indicating a growing trend that insurers and policyholders must address. - read more
Australian Super, the nation's largest superannuation fund, is facing criticism over significant delays in processing insurance claims. Reports indicate that some members have experienced prolonged waiting periods, with delays extending up to four years in certain cases. These delays have raised concerns about the efficiency and fairness of the fund's claims handling processes. - read more
Recent data from Plan For Life indicates an 8.3% decline in new income protection insurance sales in Australia for the year ending September 2024. This downturn contrasts with previous periods of growth, where sales had increased by nearly 7% in the year ending December 2023 and 6.5% in the year to March 2024. The shift suggests changing consumer behavior and market dynamics within the insurance sector. - read more
In a strategic move to make life insurance more relevant to younger Australians, TAL has expanded its Health Sense Plus program to encompass income protection policies. This initiative allows advisers to offer clients enhanced value through a straightforward preventative health engagement. - read more
Australian Food Super has announced a transition to age-based pricing for its insurance offerings, a move that will see premium costs vary according to members' age brackets. Effective November 1, 2025, this change aims to align insurance costs more closely with the risk profiles associated with different age groups. - read more
Financial security is pivotal for anyone striving to meet their life goals, be it owning a home, educating children, or ensuring a comfortable retirement. In Australia, where uncertainties can disrupt our best laid-out financial plans, having a safety net in place is essential. Income insurance offers just that—protection against the unforeseen events that could impact your income earning abilities. - read more
When illness strikes, the impact on your finances can be as significant as on your health. Maintaining continuous income flow during such times is crucial for financial stability. - read more
Income insurance is a critical component of financial planning, offering a safety net when life's uncertainties impact your income stream. It ensures that you can continue meeting your financial obligations even if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially in an unpredictable job market. - read more
Income protection insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to replace a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. This financial safety net can help cover essential living expenses, such as mortgage repayments, utility bills, and daily costs, ensuring you maintain your standard of living during tough times. - read more
Income protection insurance is a type of coverage designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. - read more
Start Here !
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!
