33-20-142. Contents of notice -- proof -- limitation on recovery -- exemptions. - Montana Statutes

     33-20-142. Contents of notice -- proof -- limitation on recovery -- exemptions. (1) (a) The notice of cancellation shall state:
     (i) the amount of the premium, installment, or interest due on such policy;
     (ii) the place where it must be paid; and
     (iii) the name and address of the person or company to which the premium is payable.
     (b) The notice must also state that unless the premium or other sums are paid to the company or its insurance producer, the policy will lapse or be forfeited, except as to any nonforfeiture options provided for by a life insurance policy.
     (2) "Policyowner", as used in this section, means the owner of the policy or any other person designated as the person to receive premium notices, as shown by the records of the insurance company.
     (3) The affidavit of any responsible officer, clerk, or insurance producer of the insurance company authorized to mail the notice that it is the standard practice of the company to mail to policyowners the notice required by this section is prima facie evidence that the notice has been duly given.
     (4) No action may be maintained to recover under a lapsed or forfeited policy on the ground that the insurance company failed to comply with this section unless the action is instituted within 2 years from the due date upon which default was made in paying the premium, installment, or interest for which lapse or forfeiture is claimed.
     (5) Section 33-20-141 does not apply to:
     (a) group or group-type policies;
     (b) industrial life or industrial disability policies; or
     (c) policies upon which premiums are payable monthly or at more frequent intervals.

     History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 723, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 713, L. 1989.