Notice of Denial, Cancellation and Non-Renewal

• Although the specifics vary by state, you are entitled to notices from the insurance company when you are denied coverage, and when the insurer cancels or does not renew your existing coverage. In some states, like Virginia, you may have to ask your insurer to disclose the reason your coverage was denied, but then the insurer must disclose the information. Insurers are generally not allowed to cancel coverage that has been in force more than 60 days except for a handful of reasons such as nonpayment of premium. Additionally, if they do cancel or don't renew coverage, they must say so in writing a certain number of days in advance of the cancellation date.
  
  

Right to Obtain Coverage

• Since auto insurance is mandatory nearly everywhere, many states have an insurer of last resort that you can use if you cannot obtain coverage on the private market. Massachusetts, for example, has the Massachusetts Automobile Insurance Plan that will find a company to cover you for up to three years. These state plans are generally more expensive and more restrictive than private policies, but they guarantee insurance to people in need.
  
  

Right to Cancel and Change Carriers

• You always have the right to cancel your existing insurance plan at any time for any reason, as long as you put the request in writing. While you may want to cancel your policy before its expiration date for unavoidable reasons like moving out of state, you may also just want to change to a less expensive carrier. You have the right to switch carriers at any time during the policy period, not just at the expiration date. Some insurers charge a small fee for doing this, in states where this practice is legal.
  
  

Alternative Parts

• Many states permit insurers to utilize aftermarket, reconditioned or recycled parts, collectively called alternative parts, when repairing vehicles after an accident, as long as the parts maintain a certain safety and appearance standard set by law. Insurers do this to save money on repairs, and if your insurance policy permits this there is little you can do about it unless you want to spend your own money for different parts. You generally have the right, however, to be told in writing that these parts will be used for your vehicle. California requires this information to be on insurance and repair facility estimates and invoices.