Why Do Insurance Companies Delay Paying Valid Claims?
When a car accident happens, you’re not just dealing with the crash itself; you are also coping with the physical pain, emotional stress, and mounting medical bills that come with it. You submit a claim to your insurance company, expecting them to help you through this difficult time, only to face delays and denials.
This is a frustrating and all-too-common experience, which is why it is important to work with an attorney who can help you navigate the claims process. Here are some of the reasons why insurance companies delay paying valid claims—and what you can do to fight back.
You Missed the Deadline to File the Claim
Insurance policies typically have strict deadlines for reporting accidents and submitting claims. If you fail to meet these deadlines, your insurance company may use this as a reason to delay or deny your claim. It is essential to initiate your claim as soon as possible after the accident to avoid missing any required deadlines.
You Did Not Seek Medical Care After the Accident
Insurance companies often use a lack of immediate medical treatment as a reason to question the severity of your injuries and delay payment. They may argue that if you didn’t seek medical care right away, your injuries must not have been serious enough to warrant compensation. To protect your health and your claim, get a thorough medical evaluation as soon as possible after an accident, even if you do not feel seriously injured.
The Insurance Coverage Is Not Valid
In some cases, insurance companies may delay payment by claiming that the other driver’s coverage was not valid at the time of the accident. This could be due to a lapse in payment, a policy cancellation, or an exclusion. In this situation, you may need to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or a claim under your own policy.
The Policy Does Not Cover Your Losses
Insurance companies may also argue that the specific losses you’re claiming are not covered under the policy. For example, they might assert that your injuries were pre-existing and therefore ineligible for coverage. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your policy and determine whether these assertions are valid.
The Insurance Company Is Acting in Bad Faith
In some instances, insurance companies may engage in bad faith practices, deliberately delaying or denying valid claims to protect their own financial interests. Examples of insurance bad faith include failing to investigate a claim properly, offering an unreasonably low settlement, or refusing to communicate with the policyholder. If you suspect the insurance company is acting in bad faith, consult with an attorney who can hold them accountable.
Recover a Fair Settlement with an Attorney on Your Side
When you’ve been injured in an accident and are relying on your insurance company to cover your expenses, payment delays can be devastating. At Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante, our New Haven car accident attorneys have extensive experience dealing with insurance company tactics and are dedicated to recovering timely compensation for our clients. Contact us today at (203) 333-3333 for a free consultation and let us work to secure the payment you deserve.