How to Deal with a Denied Car Accident Claim

The Most Common Reasons for a Denied Auto Accident Claim

The first step in taking care of a denied claim is understanding why it happened. Insurance companies will deny claims for a variety of reasons, some more complex than others. Here are a few common culprits:

• Disputes Over Fault: If the insurance company questions who is at fault in the accident, they might deny your claim. This can happen if there's conflicting evidence or witness statements.
• Policy Exclusions: Every insurance policy has exclusions, which are specific situations or types of damage that aren't covered. If your accident falls under these exclusions, then your claim could be denied.
• Late Claim Filing: There are deadlines for filing insurance claims. If you miss these deadlines, even by a day, your claim could be rejected.
• Insufficient Evidence: Insurance companies require adequate evidence to process claims. If they believe you haven't provided enough proof of your accident or injuries, they may deny your claim.
• Severity of Injuries: Sometimes, insurers dispute the severity of your injuries or claim they're unrelated to the accident.

How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

When your claim gets denied, it's not the end of the road. This is where the help of a personal injury attorney becomes critical. An attorney can thoroughly review your claim, identify any weaknesses, and help gather additional evidence to support your case. They have a deep understanding of policy language and insurance laws, ensuring that your rights are fully protected. With their negotiation skills, they can effectively communicate with the insurance company, presenting your claim in the strongest possible manner.

The Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

Having an attorney by your side offers several benefits:

• Expert Advice: An attorney can explain the complexities of your policy and the legal implications of your claim.
• Evidence Gathering: They can help collect and organize the necessary documentation, from medical records to accident reports.
• Negotiation Skills: Experienced in dealing with insurance companies, attorneys can negotiate to maximize your settlement.
• Legal Representation: If your case goes to court, having a knowledgeable attorney to represent you is invaluable.

Filing an Appeal vs Pursuing Legal Action

After understanding the reason behind your claim's denial, you generally have two paths. You may appeal the decision with the insurance company or take legal action. Appealing involves resubmitting your claim with additional evidence or arguments. Legal action, on the other hand, means taking your case to court. Your attorney can guide you in choosing the best course of action based on your specific situation, the strength of your claim, and the likelihood of a successful appeal or lawsuit.

Including Non-Economic Losses in Your Claim

One common mistake people make after a car accident is underestimating the full scope of their losses. While tangible costs like medical bills and car repairs need to be addressed, you should also account for non-economic losses. These include emotional distress, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Such damages are less quantifiable but equally important. An experienced attorney can help you assess these losses so that your claim reflects the true impact of the accident on your life.

Gathering Comprehensive Evidence

To bolster your claim, gather as much evidence as possible, including:

• Medical Records: Documenting your injuries and treatments.
• Photos and Videos: Showing the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from people who saw the accident.
• Expert Testimony: Input from accident reconstruction specialists or medical experts.
• Personal Records: Documenting your pain, suffering, and how the accident affected your daily life.

Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

At the Law Offices of Andrew Zeytuntsyan, our experienced personal injury attorneys can guide you through this challenging time. We're committed to offering personalized and effective legal assistance, fighting for your rights, and ensuring you receive the compensation you're entitled to. If you're struggling with a denied car accident claim, don't hesitate to reach out to discuss your case and take the first step toward moving forward with your life.