What is e&o insurance for notary? This comprehensive guide unveils the intricacies of errors and omissions (E&O) insurance tailored for notaries, providing insights into its vital role in safeguarding their professional endeavors.
E&O insurance, often referred to as professional liability insurance, acts as a protective shield against potential financial repercussions stemming from errors or omissions in the course of notarizing documents. It provides a safety net for notaries, ensuring their professional practice remains resilient against unforeseen legal challenges. Understanding the specifics of this insurance is crucial for notaries to maintain the integrity of their work and the trust placed in them by clients.
Definition of Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance
Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, is a crucial safeguard for professionals who provide services requiring expertise and judgment. It protects against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in the performance of professional duties. This type of insurance is designed to cover financial losses resulting from claims that arise from a professional’s actions or inactions.In the context of notaries, professional liability insurance, specifically E&O insurance, is vital because it protects them from financial consequences if a client or third party suffers a loss due to a notary’s error or omission during the performance of their duties.
This can encompass a wide range of potential issues, from misinterpreting legal documents to failing to properly notarize a signature.
Scope of Coverage for Notary E&O Insurance
E&O insurance for notaries typically covers claims arising from errors or omissions in the performance of notarial duties. This includes, but is not limited to, failing to properly verify the identity of signers, mistakes in the notarization process, and incorrect interpretations of legal documents. The coverage extends to claims alleging negligence or misconduct in the execution of notarial responsibilities.
Furthermore, it may also cover defense costs associated with defending claims.
Comparison of E&O Coverage for Notaries
A comparison of E&O insurance coverage for notaries with other professional liability policies highlights the specific protections tailored to their unique responsibilities. This table demonstrates the distinctions and nuances in coverage:
| Coverage Feature | Notary E&O Insurance | Other Professional Liability Policies (e.g., Lawyers, Accountants) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Services | Specifically tailored to notarial acts like witnessing signatures, authenticating documents, and verifying identities. | Covers a broader range of professional services, often industry-specific. |
| Document Verification | Includes coverage for errors in verifying signer identities and authenticating documents. | May cover document verification errors, but the scope may be less specific to notarization procedures. |
| Legal Interpretation | Coverage for errors in interpreting legal documents, if within the scope of the notary’s duties. | May include legal interpretation, but coverage depends on the specific policy and the nature of the legal service. |
| Negligence | Covers claims alleging negligence in performing notarial duties. | Covers claims of negligence in the execution of professional services. |
| Defense Costs | Usually includes costs associated with defending claims. | Usually includes defense costs in case of claims. |
This table provides a general comparison, and specific coverage details will vary depending on the policy provider and the chosen policy. It is crucial to carefully review the policy documents to understand the extent of coverage.
Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance for notaries protects against financial losses from mistakes in their work. This coverage is crucial, as a notary’s responsibilities are significant. Understanding whether umbrella insurance covers worker’s compensation claims is also important; for example, if a notary’s actions lead to a worker’s compensation claim, this could potentially be covered by specific policies or, as you might find in does umbrella insurance cover workers comp , not be covered at all.
Ultimately, proper E&O insurance for notaries safeguards against these potentially complex situations.
Coverage for Notary Public Errors
Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance provides crucial protection for notaries public against claims arising from mistakes or omissions in their professional duties. This coverage safeguards notaries from financial liability stemming from errors in notarization procedures, document handling, or other professional responsibilities. Understanding the specific areas of coverage is essential for notaries to effectively mitigate potential risks.Notaries play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of documents.
Their actions, including proper identification verification, witnessing signatures, and accurate notarization, impact the validity and enforceability of contracts, wills, and other legal instruments. E&O insurance is designed to protect notaries against claims resulting from errors in these critical procedures.
Common Errors Covered by E&O Insurance
Notary errors frequently stem from oversight, misinterpretation of laws, or lack of clarity in the notarization process. This can lead to legal challenges, particularly when the errors affect the integrity of legal documents. E&O insurance can provide coverage for a range of such errors.
- Incorrect Notarizations: Errors in the form or execution of the notarization process, such as using the wrong jurat, missing required elements in the certificate of acknowledgment, or not properly verifying the signer’s identity, can lead to legal challenges and claims. E&O insurance can cover these errors if they result in financial loss or damage.
- Forged Documents: In cases where a notary unknowingly notarizes a forged document, E&O insurance can potentially offer coverage for losses incurred as a consequence of the forgery. The specific circumstances of the forgery and the notary’s due diligence will be considered.
- Misrepresentation: If a notary misrepresents their qualifications or responsibilities, leading to a legal dispute, E&O insurance may provide coverage for damages incurred from such misrepresentation. A critical aspect is whether the notary acted in good faith or was negligent in their actions.
- Failure to Follow Procedures: Deviation from established notarization procedures, such as neglecting to properly identify the signer or failure to maintain accurate records, can expose the notary to liability. E&O insurance can protect against such claims if the deviation directly causes financial loss or damage.
Examples of E&O Insurance Protection
E&O insurance safeguards notaries from financial repercussions of various errors. These protections are crucial in navigating potential legal battles.
- Negligence Claim: A notary is sued for negligence after failing to properly identify a signer. E&O insurance can help cover legal fees and potential damages if the claim is deemed valid and the notary acted negligently.
- Fraudulent Document: A notary notarizes a document unknowingly containing fraudulent information. E&O insurance can help compensate for any losses resulting from the fraud if the notary acted reasonably and followed standard procedures.
- Incorrect Witnessing: A notary fails to correctly witness a signature, leading to the document being challenged in court. E&O insurance can cover legal costs and damages if the notary’s actions were considered negligent.
Role of the Notary in Document Integrity
The notary public plays a vital role in upholding the integrity of legal documents. Their actions directly impact the authenticity and enforceability of agreements and legal instruments.
- Verification of Identity: The notary’s primary responsibility often includes verifying the signer’s identity. This involves scrutinizing documentation and ensuring the person signing the document is who they claim to be. Proper verification is crucial to prevent fraud and forgeries.
- Witnessing Signatures: Notaries witness and attest to the signature on a document, providing confirmation of the signer’s intent. Accuracy in this process is paramount to maintaining document validity.
- Adherence to Regulations: Notaries must strictly adhere to all relevant state and local regulations governing notarization practices. Failure to do so can result in liability and legal challenges.
Potential E&O Coverage for Notary Errors
The table below Artikels potential E&O coverage for common notary errors, but remember that specific coverage details vary by policy.
| Notary Error | Potential E&O Coverage |
|---|---|
| Incorrect Notarization | Likely covered if the error causes financial loss or damage |
| Forgery | Potentially covered, depending on the circumstances and the notary’s due diligence |
| Misrepresentation | Potentially covered if the misrepresentation leads to financial loss or damage |
| Failure to Follow Procedures | Likely covered if the failure causes financial loss or damage |
Exclusions and Limitations of E&O Insurance: What Is E&o Insurance For Notary
Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, while crucial for protecting notaries, doesn’t cover everything. Understanding the policy’s exclusions and limitations is vital to avoid costly surprises in the event of a claim. A thorough review of the policy’s language is essential before accepting any notary work.
Typical Exclusions from E&O Insurance Policies
E&O policies often contain specific clauses that exclude certain types of claims. These exclusions help define the scope of coverage and prevent frivolous or inappropriate claims from being processed. Notaries should carefully review these exclusions to understand what is and isn’t protected.
- Intentional Misconduct: Policies typically exclude claims arising from intentional acts of wrongdoing or fraud. This includes, but isn’t limited to, deliberate misrepresentation, forgery, or theft. For example, if a notary knowingly notarizes a fraudulent document, the insurance company is likely to deny coverage.
- Breach of Contract or Duty Outside Scope of Notary Work: Claims resulting from failures to uphold contractual agreements or obligations not directly related to the notary’s official duties are usually excluded. For example, if a notary is sued for failing to deliver a package outside the scope of notarization duties, the E&O policy likely won’t provide coverage.
- Negligence in Personal Matters: E&O policies generally don’t cover claims arising from personal negligence unrelated to notary duties. For example, if a notary is sued for personal injuries caused by their actions outside of performing notary work, the E&O policy likely won’t apply.
- Errors or Omissions Not Directly Related to Notary Duties: Claims stemming from mistakes or omissions not directly linked to the notary’s professional responsibilities are often excluded. For example, if a notary makes an error in their personal finances, it won’t be covered under their E&O policy.
Situations Where Coverage May Be Limited or Denied
Understanding the circumstances under which coverage may be limited or denied is crucial for notaries. Policies often have specific conditions that must be met for a claim to be considered valid.
- Failure to Adhere to State Laws and Regulations: If a notary’s actions violate state laws or regulations governing notarial practice, coverage might be significantly limited or denied. Notaries must stay informed about and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
- Lack of Proper Documentation: A claim may be denied if the notary fails to maintain proper documentation of their actions, including notarized documents, records of their activities, and client communications. Comprehensive record-keeping is essential.
- Inadequate Due Diligence: If a notary fails to conduct sufficient due diligence in verifying the identity of parties or the validity of documents, coverage might be limited or denied. Proper identification procedures are critical.
Examples of Intentional Misconduct Not Covered
Notaries should be aware of actions that clearly fall outside the scope of coverage. Intentional misconduct, by definition, isn’t protected by E&O insurance.
- Forgery: Deliberately forging a signature or document to misrepresent facts would be an example of intentional misconduct, excluded from coverage.
- Fraudulent Activities: Engaging in activities with the intent to deceive or mislead others, such as fraudulently notarizing documents, is excluded from coverage.
- Embezzlement or Theft: Stealing money or property from clients or others in the course of notary work is an example of intentional misconduct, not covered.
Importance of Reading and Understanding Policy Language
Policies often have specific terminology and conditions that notaries must understand. A thorough review of the policy language is essential to avoid misunderstandings.
Understanding the nuances of the policy is paramount for notaries to manage their risk effectively.
Summary of Common Exclusions and Limitations
This table summarizes common exclusions and limitations of E&O insurance policies for notaries.
| Exclusion Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Intentional Misconduct | Deliberate wrongdoing, fraud, forgery |
| Breach of Contract/Duty | Failures outside the scope of notary duties |
| Negligence Outside Scope | Personal negligence unrelated to notary work |
| Failure to Comply with Laws | Violation of state laws/regulations |
| Lack of Proper Documentation | Inadequate record-keeping |
| Inadequate Due Diligence | Insufficient verification of documents/parties |
Types of E&O Insurance for Notaries
Notary public errors and omissions (E&O) insurance comes in various forms, each catering to different needs and risk profiles. Understanding the nuances of these policies is crucial for selecting the right coverage. This section details the different types of E&O insurance, highlighting their key distinctions and implications for notaries.
Policy Types and Their Differences
Notary E&O policies often vary in coverage breadth, premiums, and specific exclusions. A basic policy might focus on fundamental errors, while an enhanced policy might include broader protections for complex transactions or specific situations. Premiums and deductibles are also crucial considerations.
- Basic Coverage Policies: These policies typically offer standard protection against common notary errors, such as failing to properly notarize a document or mishandling funds. Coverage amounts for these policies are usually lower, and deductibles may be higher compared to broader policies. This type is generally more cost-effective for notaries with minimal risk exposure.
- Enhanced Coverage Policies: These policies offer more comprehensive protection for a wider range of potential errors and omissions. They might cover situations involving fraudulent documents or complex legal procedures. Higher coverage amounts and potentially lower deductibles are often associated with these policies. However, they usually come with a higher premium. These are ideal for notaries involved in high-value transactions or those handling potentially more complicated situations.
- Specialty Policies: Certain policies cater to specific notary needs. For example, a policy focusing on real estate transactions might provide enhanced coverage for issues related to property documents. A policy tailored for handling financial documents could include additional protection for errors in financial transactions. These specialized policies can be beneficial for notaries who frequently work in particular niches, offering specific protections and expertise in the particular area of practice.
Coverage Amounts and Deductibles
The amount of coverage and the deductible are key factors in choosing an E&O policy. Coverage amounts typically vary depending on the type of policy and the specific needs of the notary. Deductibles represent the amount the notary is responsible for paying before the insurance company covers any claims. The higher the coverage amount and lower the deductible, the greater the overall protection but the higher the premium.
| Policy Type | Coverage Amount | Deductible | Premium | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $100,000 – $250,000 | $1,000 – $5,000 | Low | Standard protection against common errors. |
| Enhanced | $250,000 – $1,000,000+ | $500 – $10,000 | Medium to High | Broader protection for various errors, including complex transactions. |
| Specialty (Real Estate) | $500,000 – $2,000,000+ | $1,000 – $20,000 | High | Enhanced coverage for real estate-related transactions. |
Importance of E&O Insurance for Notary Publics
Error and omission (E&O) insurance is a crucial component of a notary public’s professional practice. It protects notaries from financial liability arising from errors, omissions, or negligence in their duties. Without this safeguard, notaries face significant risks if a client or other party feels they have been harmed by a notary’s actions.Protecting against financial repercussions is paramount for notaries.
Errors in notarization, such as failing to properly witness a signature or failing to ensure the identity of a signatory, can lead to costly legal battles. E&O insurance acts as a financial shield, helping notaries meet potential claims and avoid personal financial ruin.
Significance for Professional Practice
E&O insurance provides a vital layer of protection for a notary’s professional practice. It shields notaries from potential claims arising from errors in their work. This peace of mind allows notaries to focus on their duties without the constant worry of personal financial exposure. The insurance policy covers a broad spectrum of potential issues, including but not limited to, errors in notarizing documents, improper identification verification, and failing to adhere to legal requirements.
Safeguarding Against Financial Repercussions
E&O insurance significantly safeguards notaries against the financial burdens of legal issues. It provides coverage for settlements, judgments, and legal fees incurred in defending against claims. This coverage ensures that notaries are not personally liable for the costs associated with defending themselves against lawsuits. A claim for notarial negligence can result in substantial financial liabilities, including attorney fees, court costs, and potential damages.
E&O insurance mitigates this risk by providing a financial safety net.
Protection Against Potential Lawsuits
Notaries are susceptible to lawsuits stemming from various errors or omissions in their work. Such lawsuits can arise from misidentification of signatories, incorrect notarization procedures, or failures to follow legal requirements. E&O insurance provides protection against these potential lawsuits. The insurance policy will cover legal fees, settlements, and judgments related to such claims. This protection ensures notaries can effectively defend themselves against legal challenges.
Case Studies Illustrating the Need, What is e&o insurance for notary
Numerous case studies highlight the importance of E&O insurance for notaries. One case involved a notary who failed to properly verify the identity of a signatory, leading to a fraudulent document being notarized. The subsequent lawsuit against the notary resulted in substantial financial damages, which were covered by their E&O policy. Another case involved a notary who inadvertently notarized a document with a typo, causing a contractual dispute.
Their E&O policy helped them manage the legal fees and settlement associated with the claim.
Advantages and Disadvantages of E&O Insurance
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Financial protection against legal issues | Premiums can vary based on factors like experience and volume of work. |
| Peace of mind in conducting professional work | Not all policies cover all potential issues. |
| Protection against costly lawsuits | Finding a policy that aligns with specific needs can be challenging. |
| Reduced personal financial risk | Some policies may have exclusions or limitations. |
E&O insurance offers notaries significant advantages, but it’s crucial to understand the associated drawbacks. Premiums are influenced by factors like the notary’s experience and the volume of their work. Thorough research is necessary to find a policy that adequately covers the notary’s specific needs and liabilities. Understanding policy exclusions and limitations is vital for making an informed decision.
Factors Affecting E&O Insurance Premiums
Understanding the factors influencing E&O insurance premiums for notaries is crucial for managing costs and ensuring adequate coverage. These factors can significantly impact the financial burden of obtaining and maintaining this vital protection. This section will explore the key elements that shape the price of your E&O policy.
Experience Level
Notary experience directly correlates with the likelihood of errors and omissions. Insurers assess the risk based on the number of years of experience and the complexity of the notarization processes handled. New notaries often face higher premiums due to the perceived higher risk associated with inexperience. Established professionals with a proven track record of accurate and efficient notarizations may see lower premiums, as they are seen as a lower risk to the insurance company.
Location
Geographical location plays a role in E&O insurance premiums. Areas with higher concentrations of high-value transactions or higher rates of legal disputes might have higher premiums due to the increased potential for errors and omissions impacting the insurance company’s payouts. The specific legal framework and regulations governing notaries in different jurisdictions also factor into risk assessment. For example, a notary in a state known for complex real estate transactions may face higher premiums than a notary in a less active area.
Volume of Work
The volume of notarization work handled by a notary public is a significant factor in determining premiums. Insurers often correlate the number of notarizations, the value of the documents, and the frequency of the work with the potential for errors and omissions. Notaries performing a high volume of transactions might have higher premiums due to the increased opportunities for mistakes.
Notaries with a steady and manageable volume of work, however, may see lower premiums.
Claims History
A clean claims history is paramount to securing favorable E&O insurance premiums. A history of claims or disputes related to errors or omissions significantly increases the risk profile of the notary, potentially leading to higher premiums or even denial of coverage. Notaries with a history of timely and effective dispute resolution, or no claims at all, tend to qualify for lower premiums.
Maintaining a meticulous record of all transactions, along with thorough documentation, is critical in preventing potential claims. A reputation for professionalism and adherence to legal standards significantly contributes to a positive claims history.
Impact of Factors on Premiums
| Factor | Impact on Premium | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Higher premiums for new notaries, lower premiums for experienced notaries. | A notary with 5 years of experience will likely pay less than a notary with less than 1 year of experience. |
| Location | Higher premiums in areas with higher transaction values or legal disputes. | A notary in a high-value real estate market might pay more than a notary in a rural area. |
| Volume of Work | Higher premiums for notaries with high volume, lower premiums for notaries with a manageable volume. | A notary handling hundreds of notarizations per month might pay more than a notary handling a dozen. |
| Claims History | Higher premiums for notaries with a history of claims, lower premiums for those with a clean history. | A notary with a previous claim for a forged document would likely face higher premiums than a notary with no claims. |
How to Obtain E&O Insurance
Securing Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is a crucial step for any notary public. It protects against financial losses arising from mistakes or omissions in performing notary duties. Understanding the process of obtaining this vital coverage is key to safeguarding your professional practice.Obtaining E&O insurance involves a structured process, requiring careful consideration of various factors and a thorough understanding of policy terms.
This involves comparing quotes from different insurers, understanding coverage specifics, and reviewing policy documents meticulously. A well-informed decision will lead to the appropriate coverage tailored to your notary practice.
Comparing Quotes from Various Insurers
Comparing quotes is essential to ensure you’re getting the best possible coverage at a competitive price. Different insurance providers offer varying premiums, coverage limits, and policy specifics. This process necessitates a thorough comparison of the details offered by each insurer.
- Thoroughly review policy wording to identify nuances in coverage and exclusions.
- Compare the limits of liability offered by each policy.
- Analyze the deductible amounts for each insurer.
- Evaluate the endorsements and add-ons available to customize the policy.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Securing E&O Coverage
A structured approach to obtaining E&O coverage ensures a smooth process and the appropriate coverage.
- Assess your notary needs: Determine the level of coverage required based on the scope of your practice and the potential risks involved. A high-volume practice will likely need a higher limit of liability compared to a smaller practice.
- Gather necessary information: Compile relevant information about your notary practice, including your experience, location, and any prior claims or legal issues. This information will be essential for insurers to assess your risk profile.
- Request quotes from multiple insurers: Contact multiple insurance providers specializing in professional liability for notaries. Request detailed quotes outlining coverage, premiums, and policy specifics. Don’t settle for a single quote; compare offerings from several companies.
- Compare quotes meticulously: Carefully examine the details of each quote. Note any differences in coverage limits, premiums, and exclusions. Consider your practice’s specific needs when evaluating the quotes.
- Review policy documents thoroughly: Before finalizing a policy, read the entire policy document carefully. Understand the coverage details, exclusions, and limitations. Seek clarification on any unclear provisions.
- Choose the policy that best suits your needs: Select the policy offering the best coverage at a reasonable premium, taking into account your individual circumstances and the potential risks involved in your practice.
- Complete the application process: Provide the required information accurately and completely to finalize the application process.
- Obtain confirmation of coverage: Once the application is approved, ensure you receive written confirmation of your E&O insurance coverage, including the policy number and effective dates.
Importance of Reviewing Policy Documents Thoroughly
A thorough review of policy documents is paramount to ensure the policy aligns with your specific needs and protects your notary practice effectively.
- Understanding the scope of coverage is crucial to avoid unforeseen issues.
- Identifying potential exclusions and limitations helps mitigate financial risks.
- Clarifying policy terms prevents misunderstandings and ensures you receive the promised coverage.
Questions to Ask Potential Insurers Regarding E&O Coverage
Asking clarifying questions to potential insurers will help in making an informed decision.
| Question Category | Example Questions |
|---|---|
| Coverage Limits | What are the maximum liability limits offered? What are the sub-limits for different types of claims? |
| Exclusions | What specific situations are excluded from coverage? What are the conditions for coverage in case of a lawsuit? |
| Premiums | What are the factors affecting the premium? How can I get a lower premium? |
| Claims Process | What is the claims process in case of a claim? Who do I contact? |
| Policy Terms | What are the policy terms and conditions? Are there any waiting periods? |
Maintaining a Strong Defense with E&O Insurance
E&O insurance for notaries acts as a crucial safety net, providing a framework for defense against claims. A robust defense strategy, built on thorough documentation and clear communication, significantly strengthens the notary’s position. Understanding the role of the insurance company in legal proceedings is also paramount. This section Artikels practical steps for maintaining a strong defense should a claim arise.
Strengthening Your Defense Through Documentation
Proper record-keeping is vital in a notary’s practice. Comprehensive documentation not only helps prevent errors but also strengthens a defense in the event of a claim. This includes meticulously documenting every step of the notarization process, including the date, time, parties involved, the document being notarized, and any relevant details. A detailed logbook or digital record system is essential.
Responding to Inquiries from Insurance Providers
Clear and prompt communication with the insurance provider is critical during a claim. Notaries should respond to inquiries from the insurance provider accurately and completely, providing all requested documents and information. Maintaining open communication channels ensures that the insurance provider has the necessary data to effectively handle the claim. Honesty and transparency are essential in this process.
The Role of the Insurance Company in Legal Proceedings
The insurance company plays a critical role in handling legal proceedings arising from a claim. They typically investigate the claim, assess liability, and represent the notary in court if necessary. Their primary goal is to protect the notary’s interests within the boundaries of the policy’s coverage. Notaries should rely on their insurance provider for guidance and support throughout the process.
Steps to Take When Facing a Claim
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Immediate Notification | Notify your insurance provider immediately upon receiving a claim or notice of potential liability. |
| 2. Gather Documentation | Collect all relevant documents related to the notarization, including the executed document, the notary journal entries, and any supporting materials. |
| 3. Communicate with Insurance Provider | Cooperate fully with your insurance provider, providing them with all requested information and documents promptly. |
| 4. Follow Insurance Provider’s Instructions | Adhere to the instructions provided by your insurance provider throughout the claim process. |
| 5. Seek Legal Counsel (if needed) | Consult with an attorney specializing in notary law if the claim becomes complex or involves potential legal ramifications. |
Epilogue
In conclusion, comprehending what is e&o insurance for notary is paramount for every notary public. This insurance acts as a crucial safeguard, mitigating potential financial burdens arising from errors or omissions during notarization. By understanding the coverage, exclusions, and premiums associated with this insurance, notaries can confidently navigate their professional duties, ensuring a secure and reliable practice.
General Inquiries
What are the common errors made by notaries that are covered under E&O insurance?
Common errors include, but are not limited to, incorrect notarizations, forged documents, misrepresentation of facts, and failure to follow proper notarization procedures.
How can E&O insurance protect a notary against claims of negligence?
E&O insurance can protect notaries by covering legal expenses, settlements, and judgments arising from claims of negligence, providing financial support during legal proceedings.
What factors influence the cost of E&O insurance for notaries?
Factors include the notary’s experience, location, volume of work, and claims history. A clean claims history generally leads to lower premiums.
What are some typical exclusions from E&O insurance policies for notaries?
Typical exclusions include intentional misconduct, fraud, and claims arising from criminal activity. Notaries should always review their policy documents carefully.
What steps should a notary take when facing a claim?
Notaries should immediately notify their insurance provider, preserve all relevant documents, and cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation.