How insurers use driver monitoring devices
Claims Journal has a interesting explanation on how the new technology of driver monitoring devices (the little computers that plug into your car and record your every move) assist in adjusting car crash cases.
"As an example, when an accident happens, the information is transmitted back to LexisNexis. The information is then used as a first notice of loss (FNOL). A message alerts the carrier of the insured’s accident. The carrier can then reach out to the insured and send help to the scene. In fact, to avoid bandit tow trucks, the insurer can dispatch a tow truck to the scene and mitigate the possibility of high tow and storage charges. The insurer can also expedite repairs by having the car moved quickly from the scene. The carrier can even dispatch a rental car to the scene."
"[One example] involved a parking lot crash. As is often the case, these types of crashes are usually word against word, with no police involved and no police report. Driver 1 backed out of a parking spot, pulled up and stopped in the aisle when driver 2 backed into it causing damage. At the scene, driver 2 admitted fault and gave her auto insurance information to driver 1. When driver 1 called driver 2’s insurer, she got a different story. Driver 2 said driver 1 was at fault. Driver 1 filed a claim with her own auto insurer and after review of telematics data that showed driver 1 was at a complete stop, driver 1’s deductible was waived and she was offered a rental car. This is because driver 1’s insurer knew the chances of a full subrogation recovery were good given the available telematics data."
Charley Gee is a Portland personal injury attorney. He exclusively represents injured people against insurance companies and corporations.
