- Sharing information with arbitrators on recent decision quality trends and drivers
- Answering questions arbitrators may have on hearing cases
- Claims Knowledge
- All decisions must be based solely on the arguments and evidence presented by the parties to avoid the perception of bias.
- An arbitrator may use their claims knowledge and experience when rendering a decision, but they cannot use any other outside resources to research an issue.
- Michigan Auto Losses
- Michigan is a no-fault state for automobile losses. Arbitration is allowed for buildings, fences, and parked vehicles.
- Losses are paid under PPI coverage (Property Protection Insurance). The statute of limitations is one year for these losses.
- Mini-tort applies to losses not covered under PPI. The statute of limitations for these losses is three years and allows recovery for an insured’s deductible, out-of-pocket rental. Michigan statute states mini-tort actions must be commenced in small claims court whenever legally possible. Carriers cannot file for only the deductible or out-of-pocket expenses.
- Deferments
- Deferments are a one-year postponement from the date of filing an arbitration. Any party may request a one-year deferment if issues must be resolved prior to the arbitration case being heard.
- Deferments can be requested when policy limits are at risk and all exposures are not known, a cross-filer has pending salvage, or there is a pending law-suit that will directly affect policy limits.
- If you have any questions when hearing a deferment, contact AF’s Arbitrator Support hotline at 866-977-3434.
- Modifying Awards
- When hearing a case, typically, there is no need to modify the awarded damages. A modification is any time you override the TRS-calculated award.
- Awards should not be modified to apply credit for prior payments.
- Do not modify the award when the Responding company has supported a reduction in damages.
