If you have suffered injuries in an accident, you are probably dealing with surgeries, physical therapy, medication, pain and perhaps new limitations on your activities. The last thing you want to add to that mix is a fight with the insurance company for the benefits you need and deserve. Unfortunately, these fights are all too common, and many accident victims simply give up and try to manage without the funds that could help pay for their medical care and other needs.
The truth is that insurance companies are businesses, and as much as they may promote being on your side like a friendly neighbor, their goal is to make money. That includes minimizing the amount they pay on claims. Unfair as it may seem to have to fight for your rightful payout, there are some steps you can take to improve the chances of winning the fight.
Know your rights and stick by them
From the moment the dust settles from your accident, you are on another collision course with the red tape of an insurance claim. You keep up with your premiums and can only hope other drivers do the same. Nevertheless, about 18% of those who file complaints about an insurer cite unnecessary delays during the claims process. Another 13% say the insurers undervalued their claim, and over 12% are shocked when an insurer denies their claims altogether. Here are some ways you can avoid being one of these statistics:
- Review your policy so you know exactly what is covered and what your policy excludes.
- If you are able, take pictures and videos of the accident scene, both vehicles and your injuries.
- Keep every receipt and record of what you spend on your care and other expenses related to your accident.
- Log every transaction with the insurer, including date, time, name of the person you speak with and what was said, including those details that might seem contradictory or deceitful.
- Remain calm and respectful during every interaction with the insurer, but be firm and persistent.
The insurer may fail to contact you or return your calls, but this should not deter you. Your determination and attention to detail can make all the difference in how successful your claim will be. No matter how complicated the struggle becomes as you work to obtain the insurance benefits you deserve, you always have the option of enlisting help, such as a North Carolina state insurance regulator or an experienced legal professional.