Car Insurance Coverage and Collecting Compensation After a Car Accident
After a car accident, you’ll likely be counting on insurance to help you pay for expenses. If your coverage is denied, you may find yourself struggling to make ends meet. Your legitimate need for compensation for accident-related costs still exists, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
The insurance company’s denial of your claim isn’t the end of your chances for compensation, though. You should first contact the insurance company you sought compensation from, whether yours or that of the at-fault driver. Ask the insurance representative what might be able to be done to reverse the decision to deny the claim. In some cases, it’s a simple matter of having your doctor send in additional documentation or completing a missed form. Regardless, keep notes of your conversation, as you made them later, especially if your claim is still denied.
If, after discussing the matter with the insurance company, you still do not have a resolution, you may be able to get help from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Your complaint will include your insurance policy number, your account of the problem, and any documentation showing that your claim should be paid, such as medical records. An attorney can help you to ensure that your complaint is well-written and contains the necessary support.
Bad Faith Claims
In some cases, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation may not be able to resolve your claim, either. This leaves you with filing a bad faith claim as your final option for receiving the compensation you need. A personal injury attorney can help you through the process of filing a bad faith claim against the insurer. This claim is appropriate if:
- The insurance company has denied a claim for something covered by your policy.
- You do not receive a reasonable explanation for the denial of your claim.
- The company does not answer any of your attempts at correspondence.
- The insurance company refuses to investigate a claim.
- The refusal is based on the second opinion of a medical professional brought in by the insurance company.
- Inaccurately categorizing your claim, leading to denial or a lower payment than is required.
- Canceling, or threatening to cancel, your policy without informing you and/or without a legitimate reason to do so.
After reviewing your case, your attorney will begin to compile the evidence needed to prove that the insurance company acted in bad faith. That is, that the insurance company did not execute their end of the contract.
Although it may seem that patience is key in car insurance claims, be cautious that you do not wait too long. Florida law considers bad faith claims against insurance companies to be contract claims, which must be filed within five years of the breach of contract.
Let Us Help You Today
The experienced West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at Pike & Lustig, LLP will examine your case and help you pursue the compensation you need. Fighting the insurance company for compensation is no easy task. Make sure you have the best attorney by your side. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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