Common Reasons Why Insurance Companies Deny Car Accident Claims
Michael Babboni
Car Accidents
Car accidents happen every day. When that happens, it is important to have the right protection in place.For Florida residents, having insurance help offset losses in the event of a car accident. This coverage can cover expenses related to injuries incurred from the accident. That said, not all drivers get compensation.
Common Reasons for Claims Denial
Based on state law, Florida drivers must carry at least the minimum auto insurance coverage requirements. These include personal injury protection (PIP), which covers medical expenses and lost wages, and property damage liability (PDL), which covers vehicle repair and replacement costs in an at-fault car accident.
Because of these coverages, you are entitled to receive compensation in the event of a car crash. However, there are instances when car accident claims get denied.
Here are some of the reasons why this happens:
• Issues with coverage terms: When a policyholder fails to pay their insurance premiums, their policy lapses. Depending on the level and type of coverage you have, certain circumstances surrounding the car accident may be excluded from allowed claims.
• Issues about the accident: Insurance companies may also choose to dispute how a car accident happened. They may even deny liability due to the lack of evidence.
• Issues related to your injuries: Some insurers deny claims due to disputes. There are four scenarios you should be wary of.
First, you did not seek proper treatment immediately. When you get involved in a car crash, you need to have medical treatment as soon as possible. Not only will this help treat your injuries and prevent more serious medical issues, but it can also support your claim. Reluctance to seek medical attention can be used against you. The insurance adjuster may argue that you were not injured in the accident and are only trying to get money from the insurance company.
Second, you did not file an injury report fast enough. Getting in an auto accident can be stressful, overwhelming, and painful. That is why some people end up forgetting to report the incident immediately. There are also those who think that reporting such events can be done later. What they do not know is that insurers may use this as a reason to deny your claims.
Generally, you must immediately inform authorities about a car accident when there are injuries and property damage involved. If you can, try to do this right after the incident. In doing so, you can have written and objective evidence proving the accident.
Third, the insurer disputes over the extent of the damages. Some insurers dispute the extent of damages a claimant suffers. Thus, the claim gets denied. In some cases, the insurance adjuster offers less than the total medical expenses, lost wages, and car repairs.
Fourth, the insurance company disputes the seriousness of the injuries. To prevent a claimant from qualifying for a policy payout, some insurers would claim that the injuries are not serious enough to get compensation. That is why it is crucial to get proper medical treatment and diagnosis. This way, you will have proof of the severity of your injuries.
What To Do
Some insurers tend to do their best to not pay the appropriate amount of compensation. So, they look for possible issues that could affect a car accident claim.
To prevent this from happening to you, it is important to know what steps to take in the event of a vehicular accident.
• Report the accident to the police immediately.
• Exchange information, such as name, contact number, and insurance details, with the other parties involved.
• If possible, gather evidence. Take pictures at the scene and get the contact information of possible witnesses.
• Get proper medical treatment right away. Follow your doctor’s orders.
• Consult an auto accident lawyer before making any statement to your insurance provider or accepting settlements from the insurance adjuster.
If you want to know more about car accident claim denials and what you should do to prevent them, contact St. Pete’s Lawyer.