What Happens If My Car Accident Claim Is Denied?

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But guess what the worst part is? Getting your insurance claim denied to cover damages like – medical bills and other costs.

That’s why it is important to know why claims are denied and what steps you can take next to secure the compensation.

If you’re in Fresno and dealing with a denied claim – here’s what you should know and what actions you should take.

But first things first – it is always best to contact a Fresno car accident law firm and get expert consultation.

Reasons why car accident claims are denied

Let’s get one thing straight – Insurance companies don’t always approve claims. In fact – they often deny them for various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes.

Liability disputes

Sometimes, the insurer may argue that you were at fault or that another driver’s actions caused the crash. If liability isn’t clear – they may deny the claim outright. In such cases – hiring a Fresno injury attorney can help establish who was responsible for the collision.

Lack of evidence

Insurance companies look for proof. If there’s insufficient evidence to back up your claim—like photos of the wreck, medical records, or witness statements—they may deny it.

Delays in filing

Filing a claim too long after the accident may lead to denial. Insurance policies typically require you to report crashes promptly. Failing to do so can weaken your case.

Exclusions in the policy

Some policies have exclusions – meaning certain incidents aren’t covered. For example – if your insurance policy doesn’t cover collision damages – the insurer won’t cover repairs to your vehicle. So, make sure you always review your policy to understand any exclusions.

What steps to take after a denied claim

If your claim has been denied, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to try and overturn the decision.

Review the denial letter

Insurance companies provide a denial letter explaining why your claim was rejected. Carefully read this letter to understand the reasons. Knowing the specific grounds for denial will guide your next steps.

Gather additional evidence

If lack of evidence led to the denial – gather more documentation. This could include – medical case records, photos, police reports, and witness statements. Strong evidence can support your case and improve your chances of approval upon appeal.

File an appeal

Many insurance companies allow you to appeal a denied claim. To do this – submit an appeal letter that addresses the reasons for the denial and includes any additional evidence. Consulting with a Fresno car accident lawyer can help you prepare a solid appeal – improving your chances of a positive outcome.

Consult a lawyer

Handling a denied claim can be tough. Working with a Fresno car accident law firm or pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand your rights and take the right steps. An experienced attorney can advocate for your case and negotiate with the insurance company.

So, when should you consider legal action

If an appeal still doesn’t work – legal action may be necessary. An attorney can advise you on whether a lawsuit against the insurer is appropriate. In some cases – the insurer may refuse to offer fair compensation – even if you followed all the necessary steps. A skilled lawyer will understand how to handle such situations and can file a lawsuit on your behalf if needed.

Conclusion

A denied car accident claim can be disheartening – but it doesn’t have to be the end of your pursuit for compensation. With the right approach—whether it’s gathering more evidence, filing an appeal, or consulting with a lawyer—you can still seek the justice and compensation you deserve. In complex cases – hiring a car accident lawyer can be crucial to achieving a favorable outcome.