CAIA Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims 3

Question 1

After paying a UM/UIM claim, what right does the insurer typically acquire against the at-fault uninsured driver?

Accepted Answer

Subrogation rights to pursue reimbursement from the at-fault uninsured driver

Answer

After paying a UM claim, the insurer is subrogated to the insured's rights and may pursue the uninsured at-fault driver to recover the benefits paid.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the 'phantom vehicle' doctrine in UM claims?

Accepted Answer

A UM claim where the alleged at-fault vehicle never made physical contact with the insured's vehicle

Answer

A 'phantom vehicle' claim occurs when the insured alleges an unidentified vehicle caused the accident without physical contact, which most states require corroboration to prevent fraudulent claims.

Question 3

If an insured has stacked UM/UIM coverage on three vehicles each with $50,000 limits, what is the maximum available UM/UIM coverage in a stacking state?

Accepted Answer

$150,000

Answer

With stacking permitted, the insured can combine limits from all three vehicles: $50,000 × 3 = $150,000 in total available UM/UIM coverage for a single claim.

Question 4

In most states, UM/UIM coverage does NOT apply to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Bodily injury intentionally self-inflicted by the insured

Answer

UM/UIM policies universally exclude intentionally self-inflicted injuries, as coverage is designed for accidental losses caused by uninsured or underinsured negligent drivers.

Question 5

What is the statute of limitations concern unique to UM/UIM claims compared to standard third-party liability claims?

Accepted Answer

The contract statute of limitations (for the insured vs. their own carrier) may differ from the tort statute of limitations (for the insured vs. the at-fault driver)

Answer

UM/UIM claims against the insured's own carrier are governed by the contract statute of limitations, which may differ from the tort statute of limitations that would govern a suit against the at-fault driver, creating dual deadlines adjusters must track.

(CAIA) Certified Automotive Insurance Adjuster Practice Test

(CAIA) Certified Automotive Insurance Adjuster Practice Test

CAIA Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims 3