Why Insurers Deny Car Accident Claims
It can happen to even the most experienced and cautious of drivers: one minute you are driving to work, running errands, or leaving a local parking lot, the next you are involved in a crash. One of the first things most people do after car accidents happens is reach for insurance information.
After paying massive amounts in premiums, you expect them to help in this situation. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Auto insurers are notorious for denying claims. Our Monterey car accident lawyer explains why and how to protect your rights to compensation.
Common Reasons For Denied Car Accident Claims
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) advises that all drivers must have a mandatory minimum amount of insurance coverage. This protects you against personal injury costs and helps offset property damages. However, after faithfully paying premiums, it can come as a shock when a claim is denied.
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and their primary concern is maintaining their profits. As a result, adjusters and other employees face significant pressure to deny or downplay claims. Common reasons include:
- Failure to comply with policy terms: It is important to read the fine print when purchasing a policy, They often include provisions that allow insurers to avoid liability.
- Blaming you for the accident: This is one of the most common reasons for denied car accident claims. If the insurer can point to actions of yours that may have caused or even contributed to a crash, they can deny your claim.
- Disputing your injuries: Another common tactic used by insurers, they may attempt to deny or downplay your injuries as a means of avoiding a pay-out.
Do not underestimate how far insurers will go to avoid paying settlements. You can expect them to launch extensive investigations, and even conduct surveillance, either in-person or online, to obtain evidence that can be used against you.
Protecting Your Rights When Dealing With Auto Insurers
The first step in protecting yourself when dealing with insurers after a car accident is to realize they are not your friends. From the very moment a crash happens, it is important to gather evidence in support of your claim. The Insurance Information Institute (III) recommends taking the following actions:
- Notify the police immediately and make sure an accident report is filed;
- Get names and contact information for the other driver, witnesses at the scene, and anyone else involved;
- Use your cell phone to take pictures or videos of the scene, the damage to your vehicle, and your injuries;
- Seek medical attention right away and follow your doctor’s instructions regarding treatment and activity restrictions.
Contact Our Monterey Car Accident Lawyer
Before making statements to insurers that could be used to deny your claim, reach out to The Allen Law Firm first. We provide the professional legal representation you need in dealing with insurance companies, helping you avoid denials and get the maximum amount you deserve. Contact our Monterey car accident lawyer and request a consultation today.
Sources:
dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/insurance-requirements/
iii.org/article/scene-accident