If you have been involved in an auto accident or other situation that left you seriously injured, the last thing you need is to have the insurance company deny your claim. When this happens, you suddenly find yourself trying to figure out how to pay your medical bills, replace lost wages, and handle other related matters that will come along. Unfortunately, it is quite common for insurance companies to deny claims made by accident victims. To fight back and get the compensation you need and deserve, take the following steps.
Demand an Explanation
Upon finding out your claim has been denied, don’t hesitate to ask for an explanation. Whether the insurance company is claiming you were at fault for the accident or that you were not injured seriously enough to warrant paying out a claim, always make the company explain their decision to you in writing.
Appeal the Decision
When your injury claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. To do so, you should gather together such evidence as medical records, police reports if you were involved in a car accident, and other information that allows you to show the company you deserve compensation for your accident.
Hire an Attorney
In many situations, insurance companies will pay little attention to the demands of accident victims until they hire a personal injury lawyer who can take the fight directly to the insurance company. By hiring a lawyer, you are letting the insurance company know you are not going away quietly and will pursue every legal recourse you have to get the compensation you deserve for your accident.
File a Lawsuit
Once you hire an attorney to represent you, they can begin negotiating with the insurance company in hopes of reaching a quick settlement. However, if this fails to get results, you and your attorney can then file a lawsuit and take the insurer to court. By taking this step, you will get the attention of the insurance company in a hurry. In addition, your attorney can give the insurance company a deadline in which to pay you, or face having a day in court. More than likely, this will prompt the company to reach a settlement, since this almost always costs them less than going to court and putting their fate in the hands of a jury.
Rather than let an insurance company deny you the compensation you need to pay your medical bills and meet other expenses, use all resources available to you that will get the matter resolved to your satisfaction.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.
