Unfair Claims Practices - Ohio Administrative Code § 3901-1-54

This section is not state law, but is part of the state regulations governing insurers. It governs unfair settlement practices in the handling of property and casualty claims. Numerous minimum standards of conduct for claims representatives are set forth. It was substantially modified in November, 2004.

Although the code expressly provides violations of the code may result in disciplinary action being taken by the Department of Insurance, violations do not lead to civil liability, even on first- party claims.

If it is economically impractical to repair a vehicle and the insurer has paid the owner an agreed sum for the purchase of the vehicle, the insurer shall obtain the title and within 30 days obtain a salvage title.

If the owner retains possession of the vehicle, the insurer cannot pay the owner to settle the claim until the owner first obtains a salvage title.

Settlement of Minor’s Claims - R.C. § 2111.18

All settlements of personal injury claims of minors must be approved by the probate court of the county where the minor resides.

If the net amount of the settlement proceeds to the minor exceed $10,000, a guardianship must be established until the minor turns 18 or the balance of funds no longer exceeds $10,000.