Michigan Drivers Warned Of Fake Auto Insurance

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 18 -- The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs issued the following news release:

The Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation (OFIR) today warned Michigan drivers that they may have unknowingly purchased fraudulent automobile insurance certificates from an unlicensed individual reportedly issued through Tennessee Christian Motorist Aid.

An OFIR investigation found that Mervin Graber, an unlicensed individual, was selling bogus policies through Tennessee Christian Motorist Aid. OFIR ordered Mervin Graber and Tennessee Christian Motorist Aid to cease and desist from conducting unlicensed and fraudulent insurance activity.

"Any driver who purchased fake auto insurance from Mervin Graber needs to purchase legitimate coverage immediately," OFIR Commissioner Kevin Clinton said. "Right now they're driving without insurance."

Drivers are urged to contact OFIR toll-free at 877-999-6442 if they believe they may have bought a fraudulent policy from Mervin Graber. OFIR can assist consumers in determining whether they have proper auto coverage.

All insurance producers (agents) and agencies in Michigan are required to be licensed to sell insurance and all insurance companies must be authorized to write in Michigan. Consumers are advised to check to see if an insurance agent, agency, and insurance company are properly licensed to do business in Michigan by visiting: www.michigan.gov/lara/0,1607,7-154-10555_13251_13262---,00.html

OFIR has handed the results of its investigation over to the proper law enforcement agencies.

A copy of OFIR's cease and desist order can be found at: www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/MGraber_TN_Christian_Motorist_Aid_408433_7.pdf

TNS JF78JF-130119-4173263 EditorFurigay