What to Do if an Insurance Company Denied Your Injury Claim

If you or a loved one has been hurt during a car crash, you should be able to rely on receiving coverage from an auto insurance company to cover your losses. Unfortunately, insurance companies are notorious for denying claims, as they typically prioritize their own profits over the rights of accident victims. If your insurance claim has been denied, it is important to know the steps to take to obtain the financial compensation you are entitled to. Below, our car accident lawyer in Illinois explains what those are.

Why Do Insurance Companies Deny Claims?

It is true that often, insurers care more about their own bottom line than they do protecting accident victims. However, this is not the only reason insurance companies deny claims. Other reasons for denials include:

• A claim was above the coverage limits of the policy
• The negligent driver was not included in the policy
• There was a lapse in coverage with the insurance policy

Still, even when your claim has been denied due to the above reasons, it does not mean you do not have any options for obtaining the compensation you need.

Steps to Take if an Insurance Company Denied Your Injury Claim

It is sometimes possible to reverse the decision of the insurance company but to do so, you must take the appropriate steps. These include:

• Request a written explanation: Insurance companies should always provide a detailed explanation, in writing, about why they arrived at the decision they did. Ask for this written explanation along with a copy of the policy with the relevant parts highlighted.
• Collect evidence: Any time you file an insurance claim, you need strong evidence to back it up. This can include proof of lost wages, medical records, and photos and video footage of the accident scene.
• Understand the appeals process: You can usually appeal the decision if the insurer decides against you. Know the appeals process the insurer follows and if you do not know, ask the insurance company about the steps to take. Also send a letter to the insurance company stating that you are appealing the decision.
• Speak to a lawyer: Most car accident lawyers in Illinois will offer a free consultation so reach out to one to talk about your legal options.

How Long Does an Insurer Have to Settle a Claim?

Under state law in Illinois, insurance companies must provide accident victims with the appropriate forms to file their claim within 15 working days. Once the insurer has received the completed forms, they have only 60 days to conduct an investigation and inform the claimant of whether their claim was approved or denied.

Our Car Accident Lawyer in Illinois Can Help with Your Claim

If your insurance claim has been denied after a crash, our Illinois car accident lawyer at Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd. can still help you claim the financial compensation you deserve. Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to obtain the sound legal advice you need.