As a consumer, you probably have questions about insurance--specifically which types of insurance you need and which ones you don't. While the information presented within this section addresses the most common questions about insurance, your independent agent can answer your specific questions and make sure you have the coverages you need. 

Consumer Guides
IIAA has produced several comprehensive consumer guides to help you answer commonly asked questions about different types of insurance.

The Consumer's Independent Guide to Auto Insurance

Quick-Read Consumer Brochures
Easy-to-use information about of variety of insurance-related topics. Read through these useful brochures to learn more about possible liabilities and how to protect yourself before it is too late.

After An Automobile Accident

Filing Your Auto Insurance Claim

Insuring Your Sports And Recreational Vehicle

In the News

Kids and Airbags
Need An Airbag On/Off Switch? Probably Not
Seat Belt Facts
Potluck with Potholes

The following is an outline of the City of Boston administrative procedures established for filing a claim for injuries or damages due to roads, sidewalk defect/pothole, and accident with vehicles owned by the City of Boston.

Step 1.
Write a letter to:
Office of the City Clerk
601 City Hall
Boston, Ma. 02201
Attn: Claims Division
Include:

• A. Detailed statement of facts and claim for compensation for damages or injuries suffered. Include a thorough description of the exact Location of the defect/pothole or accident.
  B. Repair receipt or itemized estimate of damages or injuries. C. A $5:00 Filing fee per Chapter 13 of the Ordinances of 1981. Make check payable to, “The City of Boston.” Do Not Mail Cash.

There is a Thirty Day Statute of Limitations (M.G.L., ch. 84) from the date of the damages and/or accident to file a claim relative to the incident. Claims must be filed in the Office of the City Clerk, Prior to the thirty-day expiration date.

Step 2.
If the itemized estimate or repair bill is greater than $500.00 you may be required to get a second opinion.

Step 3.
Wait. Please understand that the Law Department requires sufficient time to complete investigation of your claim. To preserve your rights you must file suit in an appropriate court within three years from the date of the incident, if the city does not pay your claim. Compensation is paid only if the City of Boston is found liable.

Step 4.
Direct all subsequent questions and concerns to the Law Department at (617) 635-4034 or 635-4071. The Office of the City Clerk has no further involvement in the claims process once it has been forwarded to the Law Department. Please Allow 6 to 8 Weeks to Inquire about your claim.

Please Note:
Your Claim will not be processed:

• 1. If it arrives after the thirty-day limitation
• 2. If it is not accompanied with the $5.00 Filing Fee.