Insurance Claim: Can I Fight a Denial? How Do I Do It?

Getting into an accident and seeking compensation is stressful. However, it worsens if the other party’s insurance company denies your claim. Even though you followed the rules of the road and have evidence to show the other party was at fault, the insurance company can still choose to deny your claim.

You’re probably wondering what happens when they do this. The auto accident lawyers in Douglassville have the answers for you. In this article, we’ll explore why an insurance company might deny your claims and the steps you should take if your claim is denied.

What Is an Insurance Claim Denial?

Let’s paint a picture.

Suppose you filed a claim after an auto accident that resulted in many injuries while leaving you with extensive damage to your car. After filing the claim with the insurance company, you’re waiting for a positive response and probably a check in the mail. Instead, an unfavorable message comes in stating your claim has been denied.

This scenario is what an insurance claims denial looks like. It results in you being short on the money required to cover medical expenses or repair your car.

Most times, the first reaction is probably bewilderment. Next, you’re probably wondering why your claim was denied and the next steps to take. We provided some answers.

5 Reasons Why an Insurance Company Might Deny your Claims

There are many reasons why the insurer might choose to deny your claim even if they realize their version of the accident is factually incorrect. Most times, it’s because they believe your claim lacks merit and hope you won’t pursue it further.

Below are some common reasons why the other party’s insurance company might deny your claim.

  • They Believe You Caused the Crash

Insurance companies enjoy pointing the finger at the person filing the claim. Therefore, they might dismiss your claim and state that you caused the crash. They don’t have to pay compensation if they claim you’re at fault for the accident.

  • You Didn’t Seek Medical Attention Immediately

We advise getting medical attention immediately after a crash, especially when you sustain injuries. However, some victims might not realize they were hurt in the accident until days later when the symptoms begin to appear.

An example is an accident victim that suffers traumatic brain injuries. Symptoms sometimes take days or weeks after the accident to emerge, and a victim might not seek medical treatment within that period. A failure to seek medical attention immediately will lead the insurance company to believe you’re not hurt or that your injury is not connected to the accident.

  • You Didn’t Prove the Other Party Is at Fault

Insurance companies are always looking for proof of liability before compensating the claimant. Therefore, they will deny your claim if you fail to show that the other party caused the accident. Auto accident lawyers in Douglasville can help you gather evidence supporting your claim with the insurance company.

  • You Have a Pre-Existing Medical Condition

A pre-existing condition is a standard reason for claim denial. For example, neck pain is a common injury in car accidents. But the insurance company might deny your claim if you have a history of neck pain or feel your medical treatment is unnecessary.

  • Exclusions in the Policy

The insurance company can deny your claim if the at-fault driver’s insurance policy doesn’t include natural events. An example is if they believe extreme weather conditions were the real cause of the accident and not negligence on the driver’s part.

What To Do if an Insurance Company Denied Your Claim

It’s frustrating when you’re hurt and have bills to settle, but the insurance company denies your claim. In such a case, you’ll likely have to hire one of Douglasville’s best auto accident lawyers.

Insurance companies make profits by taking more money in premiums than they give out in claims. However, the insurer might take you more seriously with an attorney by your side.

If an insurance company denies your claim, ask them the following questions:

Demand a Reason for the Denial

Your lawyer would draft a demand letter asking the insurance company to provide a specific reason for denying your claim. On some occasions, the insurance company will reverse their decision immediately.

If your lawyer suspects that the insurance company engaged in prohibited acts, they could file another claim on that ground. Georgia statute lists prohibited acts as improper claim practices, including refusing to pay claims without reasonable investigations.

Gather Evidence of Liability

Another step you should take if the insurance company denies your claim is gathering evidence, especially if the denial is because of insufficient proof. You can start with a copy of the police report.

The report usually contains information from the responding officer at the accident scene. It would also include any moving violations or charges against the at-fault party.

Get Proof of Your Injuries

You should also get proof of your injuries to support your claim. You can ask your healthcare provider for medical proof like scans and x-rays. Additionally, you could ask for a written evaluation of your injuries.

File an Appeal with an Amended Claim

The best auto accident lawyers in Douglasville can help you file an amended claim after a denial. During the appeal, your lawyer will directly answer the concerns that led to a denial of your claim the first time.

An example is if the insurance company denied your claim because of a lack of evidence. Your auto accident attorney can help you obtain a copy of the accident report, witness statement, and other proof.

File a Lawsuit

Sometimes, the best action is to file a lawsuit against the insurance company. However, this option is only best if you have valid evidence that the other party was at fault.

You should also consider the expenses attached to a lawsuit before filing one. On the other hand, if you have a strong case, a lawsuit will ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Talk to Auto Accident Lawyers in Douglassville Now!

Auto accidents are never pleasant, whether it results in bodily injuries or property damage. However, if the other party’s insurance company denies your claim, things can get even worse for you. If you don’t know what to do after a denial, you should get legal help from a personal injury attorney in Douglassville.

Our auto accident lawyers in Douglassville deal with insurance companies all the time. Therefore, we know exactly what to do and what needs to be included in the demand letter to increase your chances of a payout.

Additionally, we have strong negotiation skills that will ensure you get maximum compensation for your injuries. So let us help you when the insurance company denies your claim. Contact our law firm today for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer in Douglasville.

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