Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, et al. $2,225,000 Settlement

A class action settlement has been reached in the case of Yvonne Belanger, et al. v. Allstate Fire and Cas. Ins. Co., et al., offering financial compensation to qualified individuals. This settlement addresses allegations against Allstate for purportedly misrepresenting underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage and applying offsets due to third-party insurance limits in New Mexico.

Who Benefits?: Individuals who received a Notice of Settlement from the Settlement Administrator.

How much can I get?: Settlement Class Members may receive readjusted wrongful death claims or a partial refund of premiums paid for UM/UIM coverage, subject to certain conditions and caps.

Detailed analysis of the $2,225,000 settlement

The class action lawsuit against Allstate has culminated in a significant settlement, offering redress to those affected by the insurance coverage practices in question. The settlement aims to rectify the alleged misrepresentation of UIM coverage and the application of offsets due to third-party insurance limits. This agreement, pending final court approval, will provide financial benefits to eligible class members who submit valid claims.

The settlement is a substantial outcome for the plaintiffs, who have accused Allstate of violating New Mexico law. It underscores the importance of fair insurance practices and the role of class action litigation in enforcing consumer rights. The settlement not only provides monetary compensation but also ensures that similar grievances are addressed promptly and fairly.

Important Dates

The settlement process is governed by specific deadlines that claimants must adhere to.

• Fairness Hearing: February 15, 2024
• Deadline to File a Claim: February 5, 2024  

Who is eligible for the Allstate Settlement?

The Settlement Class includes individuals who were mailed or emailed a Notice of Settlement by the Settlement Administrator. These individuals are potentially eligible for various benefits under the settlement terms.

• Those who suffered a fatality reported to Allstate between January 1, 2014, and July 11, 2022
• Policyholders between January 1, 2004, and the first policy renewal after July 11, 2022

Class members who have separately filed suit against Allstate, settled a claim, or had their claim readjusted at their request prior to the Notice Date are excluded from the Settlement Class.

Understanding the Settlement Benefits

Class members can claim benefits under two primary options. Option 1 pertains to bodily injury and/or property damage claims, where claimants can have their UIM claims readjusted or make a new claim. Option 2 allows for a return of premiums, offering a partial refund of premiums paid for UM/UIM coverage.

• Option 1: Readjusted claims or new claims for bodily injury and/or property damage
• Option 2: Partial refund of premiums paid for UM/UIM coverage

The Coverage at the Heart of the Settlement

The settlement addresses UIM coverage provided by Allstate. This coverage is integral to the claims made by the plaintiffs, alleging misrepresentation and improper application of offsets that affected their insurance benefits.

Is Proof Required to Claim the Reward?

Yes, proof is required to claim a reward under Option 1. Claimants must provide evidence such as medical records, bills, and police reports to support their claims. For Option 2, no additional evidence is required.

What Led to the Settlement?

The class action lawsuit against Allstate has led to a settlement that addresses important issues regarding insurance coverage representation and practices. The settlement not only compensates affected individuals but also emphasizes the importance of transparency and fairness in the insurance industry.

Next steps for claimants include submitting valid claims before the deadline and, if necessary, providing the required proof to support their claims.