So you got into a car accident and then filed an insurance claim – but you still haven’t received your settlement check. Or worse, it was denied. Now what? Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating, especially when two or three weeks has gone by and you still haven’t received…
So you got into a car accident and then filed an insurance claim – but you still haven’t received your settlement check. Or worse, it was denied. Now what? Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating, especially when two or three weeks has gone by and you still haven’t received the answers you’re looking for. While a slight delay or denial might seem reasonable at first, be aware that these may actually be tactics that some insurance companies use to profit from.
If your claim was denied, it might be because your type of accident is not covered under your policy, you waited too long to file or there’s a disputed liability as to which party was at fault for the accident. In other instances, however, an insurance company might deny your claim due to a policy lapse or because you didn’t undergo the independent medical examination they requested.
However, even if you were examined, the practitioner might downplay the severity of your injuries or say that your injuries existed prior to the accident. As a result, your claim may be denied or, if accepted, the check you receive may be for a lesser amount than you anticipated.
Going through a similar situation? If so, there are steps you can take to seek retribution. Big insurance companies can be intimidating and confusing, but Stanley Law Offices can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
What You Can Do…
…If your claim was denied or inadequate:
- Appeal the decision. You can do this on your own, but without a lawyer on your side, the insurance company may repeat the decision. The more claims they can deny, delay and settle out of court, the more they will profit.
- Keep records. You know how much your medical bills cost, and you know much pain and suffering you endured. Don’t let an insurance company tell you otherwise. Always keep accurate records of doctor visits, costs and other damages that occurred as a direct result of the accident.
…If your claim is delayed:
- Follow up. Each time you call, record the date, time and what the agent’s response – or excuse – was. After the second or third time, ask to speak with a supervisor.
- Issue a complaint. After weeks go by without a legitimate reason for the delay, get in touch with your state’s insurance board (PA, NY). Do this first before seeking out a lawyer, as it demonstrates you did everything possible to receive your check.
- Pursue a lawsuit. Denying, delaying, failing to investigate, failing to provide information and more are all examples of the insurance company acting in bad faith – which is grounds for a lawsuit.
How Stanley Law Offices Can Help
With more than 90 years of combined experience, Stanley Law Offices in Northern Pennsylvania and Central New York can help you appeal an insurance company’s decision and/or pursue a bad faith lawsuit. Contact us today for more information and to schedule a free consultation.
