Underinsured and Uninsured Claim Denied? Steps to Take and Common Mistakes to Avoid
When an accident happens, insurance is meant to help you recover. But if a driver with limited insurance coverage injures you and your own underinsured motorist claim is denied, it can feel frustrating and overwhelming.
Why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Below, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to take and common mistakes to avoid when dealing with a denied Underinsured and Uninsured motorist (UIM) claim.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Denied Underinsured and Uninsured Claim
1. Understand the Denial Reason in Writing
Insurance companies are required to give a specific reason for denying a claim in writing. Reasons might include late reporting, insufficient proof of damages, or coverage exclusions.
For example, an insurer might deny a claim, citing inadequate medical evidence. Understanding this reason is important so that you know how to respond.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy Carefully
Go over your Underinsured and Uninsured motorist coverage details. Policies vary and may limit coverage to specific types of damage, such as bodily injury or property damage.
If your policy only covers injuries but not vehicle damage, this could be why your claim was rejected.
3. Hire Legal Help Early On
If you are unsure about the reason for the denial or need guidance, contacting a professional, such as an accident lawyer in Reno, can be invaluable.
A lawyer can review your case and provide advice on how to best respond. An experienced attorney can also help you understand your policy language and prepare you to appeal the denial effectively.
4. Gather Additional Documentation
Insurance companies often require thorough documentation to process Underinsured and Uninsured Claims.
After denial, double-check that you have included essential documents, such as medical records, accident photos, vehicle repair estimates, and witness statements.
These materials support the value of your claim and can help resolve the denial more quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After an Underinsured and Uninsured Claim Denial
To help avoid complications or further rejection of your Underinsured and Uninsured claim, avoid the following mistakes –
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Delaying Accident Reporting
Waiting too long to report an accident can weaken your claim. Insurers expect quick notification of any incident to verify the details and prevent suspicion.
For instance, if you delay reporting for several weeks, it could lead to denial because the accident evidence may be harder to verify.
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Lapsed Premium Payments
You need to make sure your insurance premiums are up-to-date. A lapse in payments might result in canceled coverage, and any accident during this time may not be covered.
Missing even one payment can void your coverage entirely, meaning the insurance company could have a valid reason to deny your claim.
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Ignoring Policy Coverage Specifics
A common oversight is not knowing what is and isn’t covered. For example, if your underinsured and uninsured policy only covers bodily injury and excludes vehicle damage, filing a claim for vehicle repairs may be denied.
Understanding these details before filing can save time and help you approach the situation more strategically.
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Undervaluing Your Claim Documentation
Providing limited or insufficient documentation can lead to claim denial. Insurers need clear, concrete proof to approve a claim.
This includes detailed medical records, proof of lost wages, and receipts for any property damage.
If you fail to supply enough evidence of damages, the insurance company may dispute the claim amount or validity.
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Assuming the Denial Is Final
Many policyholders mistakenly assume a denial is the end of the road. In reality, you have options, including appeals, arbitration, and even legal action.
If you suspect bad faith in the denial of your Underinsured and Uninsured claim, contacting a personal injury lawyer in Carson City can help you analyze these additional options and decide if the insurer failed to act fairly when approving your claim.
What to Do If You Are Still Denied? Appeal and Other Options
So, what can you do if your Underinsured and Uninsured claim is still denied even after taking the steps mentioned above? Here are other actions you can take –
- Request an Appeal or Review – After reviewing the denial, you may formally request an appeal. This involves submitting additional evidence and documentation that may strengthen your case. It’s often helpful to have a personal injury lawyer Carson City by your side at this stage, as they can guide you in submitting a thorough and well-supported appeal.
- Consider Arbitration – Some insurers offer arbitration to settle disputes without going to court. In arbitration, a neutral third party will hear both sides and decide. This can sometimes be a faster and less costly option than litigation.
- File a Lawsuit if Necessary – If you continue to face unjust denial, legal action might be an option. When insurers act in bad faith by denying a valid claim, failing to investigate, or stalling, they may be legally obligated to compensate you.
This process can be difficult, but a knowledgeable accident lawyer Reno can help decide if you have grounds for a lawsuit and guide you through the court process.
Need Help with an Underinsured and Uninsured Claim Denial? Contact Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney
If you are struggling with a denied Underinsured and Uninsured motorist claim, the experienced attorneys at Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney Law Firm are here to help.
Whether you are from Reno or Carson City, our trustworthy team of accident lawyers in Reno has vast knowledge of insurance policies and can help you deal with the complex claims process.
We will help you gather the necessary documentation, file an appeal, and represent you if legal action becomes necessary.
Don’t let a claim denial stop you from receiving the compensation you deserve. Reach out to Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us advocate for your rights.