The Right to Appraisal Protected Our Family Finances

When our 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 was declared a total loss, we trusted Progressive to fairly value our truck. Instead, we received an offer of $8,469.79, and it immediately felt too low.

This wasn't just another old truck to us. It was a dependable diesel that had served our family well for years. Finding a comparable replacement for the amount Progressive offered simply wasn't realistic.

When we questioned the valuation, we still didn't feel like we were getting a fair answer. Fortunately, our insurance policy included a Right to Appraisal provision.

We hired a public adjuster to review the claim, and after examining the valuation, they agreed that our truck had been significantly undervalued. They handled the appraisal process on our behalf, allowing us to focus on moving forward instead of arguing with the insurance company.

The appraisal process worked exactly as it was intended. Both appraisers independently evaluated the claim and ultimately reached an agreed value of $14,450.00.

That was an increase of $5,980.21, more than 70% higher than Progressive's original valuation.

Without the appraisal clause in our policy, we likely would have accepted the original offer and lost nearly $6,000. Instead, we had access to an independent process that resulted in a fair settlement.

Our experience reinforced something every Montana driver should know: insurance companies don't always get it right the first time. When they don't, consumers deserve a fair and independent way to resolve the disagreement.

That's why we support Montana's Right to Appraisal legislation. Every auto insurance policy sold in our state should include this important consumer protection, and claimants should also have access to the same independent dispute resolution process. No one should be forced to accept an unfair valuation simply because they don't have another option.

The Right to Appraisal made all the difference for our family, and we hope every Montanan has that same protection in the future.