Dear Hartford,

I am in reciept of your letter, dated July 19, 2003, advising me that Hartford will be assessing a surcharge to my automobile policy due to an auto accident which occurred September 3, 2002. Further, the assessment will be for 3 year (3 renewal periods).

Let me explain the incident in question. I was driving home from Church and grocery shopping on Sedgwick street, a large two way residential street, lined with many old and large oak trees. No traffic, no parked cars. I was trveling perhaps about 20 miles an hour, when a few bumble bees flew into the car and one flew down my blouse.

I was terrified and emotionally distressed temporarily with the bee in my blouse, especially since I have allergic reactions to bee bites. At that very instant as I was attempting to avoid the bee, I accidentally hit the tree. The car tumbled over and landed on its roof. Even though the paramedics had to assist me out of the side window and take me to the hospital for possible head trauma, I was not hurt or injured whatsoever. There were no claims for bodily injury, even though your adjusters stated the car was totaled. Yes, the damage was extensive. I am told that 80% of people who hit a tree are killed, if this statistic is accurate, not only am I blessed to be alive, but not hurt or injured. I emphasize this issue, because the incident was severe and could have been life threatening.

Bees scare the wits out of most of us. Look around and notice when bees are near, people flap thier arms and run around screaming. A bee sting or insect attack leads to one conclusion: they hurt!

According to my policy, there are exceptions to the surcharge. Exceptions such as:
3b - accidents involving damage by contact with animals or fowl; or
3c - accidents involving physical damage, limited to and caused by flying gravel, missles, or falling objects.

Bees are flying hazardous insects that may cause physical bodily damage in stung. A bee was clearly in contact with me, the driver. This circumstance fits the above mentioned scenarios, as I interpret them.

My husband and I have excellent driving records, no traffic violations, no accidents caused by either of us, and we generally drive less than twelve thousand miles a year each. We purchase and/or lease new cars every few years and we keep them in prime condition for the road. As your letter of July 19th states, a driver with a clear record pays the lowest possible rates. 

I would genuinely appriciate a review and reconsideration of our policy premium, $4,231 premium is not only excessive, but unfair.