An insured suffers a loss covered by an individual accident and sickness policy. Under the uniform required provisions of Va. Code § 38.2-3503(A), within what period after the loss must the insured furnish written proof of loss, unless doing so is not reasonably possible?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why C is correct
Va. Code § 38.2-3503(A) requires written proof of loss under an individual accident and sickness policy within 90 days after the loss, with a backstop: if furnishing proof within that period is not reasonably possible, the insured has up to 1 year, and in no event other than incontestability-related circumstances may proof be waived later. The 90-day window gives the insurer the documentation it needs to evaluate and pay the claim promptly. Insureds who delay beyond it without a reasonable excuse risk having the claim denied, which is why the Virginia Bureau of Insurance treats this required provision as claim-handling bedrock.
Why the other options are wrong
- A) 15 days is the period for the insurer to furnish claim forms after notice of claim, not for the insured's proof of loss.
- B) 20 days is the notice-of-claim window, which is a preliminary step distinct from furnishing full proof of loss.
- D) 60 days is the waiting period before a legal action may be brought after proof of loss, not the proof deadline.
Memory hook
Notice in 20, forms in 15, proof in 90 — three clocks, don't mix them.