An insurance claim denial occurs when your insurance company refuses to pay for damages or injuries resulting from your motorcycle accident. This can be frustrating, particularly when you are in need of money for repairs or even payment of medical bills.
Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, is home to picturesque roads and a growing community of motorcyclists. But the more riders on the road, the higher the chances of an accident. A Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, appeal the denial, and seek fair compensation.
Why Are Insurance Claims Denied?
There are numerous reasons why insurance claims are denied. Insurers sometimes attempt to minimize payouts, and not always because a claim is invalid. In some cases, a denial may be caused by missing documentation or delayed submission.
According to a study reported by the American Journal of Managed Care, denial of valid claims by insurance companies is on the rise. Insurers have a tendency to pay less, and not always because your claim is invalid. It is important to understand why your claim was denied in order to determine the correct action to take.
Key Steps to Take After a Denial
Request a Detailed Explanation
The first thing you should do is read your denial letter. It must clearly explain why the decision was made and mention specific areas of your policy. If it does not, ask your insurance adjuster to provide a detailed written explanation.
Remain professional and calm when communicating. A clear understanding will help you determine whether the denial was fair or based on an error.
Gather More Evidence
After finding out why your claim was denied, gather additional evidence to support your case. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident scene photos.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that motorcyclists are more likely than car passengers to die in a crash. It is important to record all the details of your injuries and car damage. The better organized your evidence, the better your chances at reversing the insurer’s decision.
File an Appeal
The vast majority of insurance firms provide an appeal procedure to contest the rejection. Send an official appeal letter and all supporting evidence. Provide a clear explanation as to why the denial was not fair and how your documents support your case.
Be sure to submit your appeal within the deadline indicated in your denial letter. Appeals made late are automatically dismissed.
File a Complaint with the West Virginia Department of Insurance
If your insurer still acts unfairly, file a complaint with the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner. The agency can investigate whether the company acted appropriately and treated you fairly. Clearly present the facts so that your complaint can be reviewed effectively.
Consider Legal Action
When everything else fails, call a lawyer and discuss legal possibilities. A good lawyer can help determine whether the insurer acted in bad faith or violated state law. Legal action can sometimes compel insurance companies to act and help ensure that your rights are protected and your case receives the justice it deserves.
A denied motorcycle insurance claim does not have to be the end. You can receive fair compensation by remaining calm and taking the necessary actions.
Key Takeaways
- Get to know why your claim was denied.
- Gather more evidence and make an appeal.
- Contact the West Virginia Department of Insurance when the insurer is unfair.
- Get the help of a motorcycle accident attorney.
