If a motor claim is accepted by an insurer but the settlement amount is disputed, to whom must the matter be passed?

When a motor claim is accepted by an insurer but there is a dispute over the settlement amount, the appropriate course of action is typically to pass the matter to an arbitrator. Arbitration is a process where an independent third party, the arbitrator, reviews the evidence presented by both sides and makes a binding decision on the dispute. This is especially relevant in insurance contexts where both parties have agreed to arbitration as a method of resolving disputes, often outlined in the terms of the insurance policy.

Engaging an arbitrator allows for a more streamlined process than court proceedings and is generally designed to be less formal and quicker. The decision made by the arbitrator is usually considered final, which helps to provide closure to the dispute over the settlement amount.

While claims adjusters play a critical role in assessing the claim and the initial amount proposed by the insurer, they do not typically resolve disputes over settled amounts. Mediators, on the other hand, facilitate discussions between disputing parties and try to help them reach a consensus, but their decisions are not binding. Regulatory bodies may oversee compliance with laws and regulations but are generally not involved in resolving specific disputes between insurers and policyholders regarding claims payments.