An auto accident can be difficult to deal with even when the other party is at fault. If a driver follows the rules of the road and the other person’s insurer denies their claim, they may not know how to proceed. There are many reasons why an at-fault party’s insurer may deny a claim, and some of these are listed below.
Policy Exclusions
If the policy excludes natural events (sometimes referred to as “acts of God”), the insurer may dispute the claim if the company believes that a natural act, rather than its client’s negligence, caused the accident and resulting damage.
The Driver’s Coverage Has Lapsed
If the other person failed to pay his or her insurance premiums and allowed the policy to lapse. As a result, the insurance company may claim the accident isn’t covered. Clients in these situations must rely on uninsured motorist coverage or Auto Accident Attorneys in Centralia WA for help.
Late Reporting
Most insurance policies set forth a deadline for claims, and they must be reported within a certain time in to be coverage. That’s why it is important for a victim to notify the other driver’s insurer as soon as possible after an event.
How to Handle a Denied Claim
If an auto insurance claim is denied, regardless of its legitimacy, the victim will likely need to consult Auto Accident Attorneys in Centralia WA if they want to contest the denial. Insurers make money by taking more in premiums than they pay in claims. However, a lawyer’s claim is typically treated more seriously by insurance companies.
Demand Letters
An attorney may first write a demand letter, which is a formal request for compensation that tells the victim’s side of the story and lists the value of the personal injury and property damage that occurred. An insurer will likely feel pressure to offer a reason for the claim’s denial, reverse its decision, or offer partial compensation.
When is it Appropriate to Sue?
If the insurer denies the lawyer’s claim, a victim may consider suing the company. However, a lawyer may not want to put weeks of work into a claim that has little chance of success or if they believe the client hasn’t been forthright with his or her side of the story. Get more information online or call the office for a free claims evaluation.
