Louisiana P&C Adjuster Practice Exam

What is an example of a prohibited unfair practice in insurance claims?

1. Requiring an insured to submit formal proof of loss forms before moving forward on the claim

2. Offering discounts for timely claim submissions

3. Providing regular updates on the status of a claim

4. Streamlining the claims process for insured parties

The correct answer is: Requiring an insured to submit formal proof of loss forms before moving forward on the claim

Requiring an insured to submit formal proof of loss forms before moving forward on the claim is an example of a prohibited unfair practice in insurance claims. This requirement can be considered unreasonable if it delays the processing of the claim without justification, as it places an additional burden on the insured that may not be necessary under the terms of the policy. Insurers are expected to handle claims in a timely and equitable manner, and imposing cumbersome processes can be seen as denying the insured their rightful compensation or delay in service. In contrast, offering discounts for timely claim submissions, providing regular updates on the status of a claim, and streamlining the claims process are all practices that typically enhance customer satisfaction and improve the efficiency of the claims handling process. These actions are examples of responsible claims management that seek to benefit policyholders, contrasting with the unfair practice of imposing excessive requirements on claimants.