(1) When an insurer uses the services of a third party administrator:

(a) Payment to the third party administrator of any premiums or charges for insurance by or on behalf of the insured party shall be considered to have been received by the insurer.

(b) Payment of return premiums or claim payments forwarded by the insurer to the third party administrator shall not be considered to have been paid to the insured party or claimant until the payment is received by the insured party or claimant.

(2) Nothing in this section limits any right of the insurer against the third party administrator resulting from failure by the third party administrator to make payments to the insurer, insured parties or claimants. [1991 c.812 § 13]