How to Deal with Delays in Car Accident Insurance Claims

Fortunately, knowing why these delays happen and how to deal with them can make a significant difference. This knowledge also helps you to navigate the claims process while avoiding common pitfalls. Read more to learn how to deal with delays in car accident insurance claims if they arise.

What Causes Delays in Car Accident Insurance Claims?

Insurance companies often give several reasons for delaying car accident insurance claims. While some of these reasons are valid, others are techniques to minimize or deny settlements; they include:

Missing or Incomplete Documentation

Insurers may pause if you do not provide important documents, such as medical records, police reports, proof of damage, or repair cost estimates. Missing paperwork is a leading cause of delays with car accident claims.

Liability Disputes

If liability in a car accident is unclear, insurers may take longer to investigate before approving a settlement. Insurance companies usually evaluate the police reports, surveillance videos, and witness statements to determine who was at fault.

Delays in Medical Care

If medical treatment is ongoing during the car accident claims, insurers may wait for the final invoice before calculating the settlement amount. Some insurance providers use this excuse to delay payments, insisting on assessing the full extent of injury and damage.

Claim Valuation Disputes

Delays may occur when disagreements occur over the actual value of a car accident claim. Claim disputes mostly arise when the insurer’s assessment of the damages and injuries is much lower than the policyholder’s.

Bad Faith Tactics

Insurers sometimes delay claims in bad faith to pressure policyholders into accepting low-ball settlements. For instance, they may request unnecessary documents or ignore calls or emails, causing the claimant to become frustrated and cave in.

How to Handle Delays in Car Accident Insurance Claims

When faced with delays from insurance providers during a car accident claim, you must play your cards right to improve your odds. This involves sticking to the requirements and taking it up with the authorities if it gets out of hand. Here is exactly what to do.

Submit the Needed Documents Promptly

Ensure that all the required documents are submitted on time to avoid delays in your car accident insurance claim. These documents usually include:
- The police report
- Photographs of the vehicle damage
- Witness statements
- Medical records and expenses
- Proof of lost income

Let an Attorney Communicate with the Insurer

Insurers may sometimes trick you into saying things they can use to lessen your claim. Instead of risking this, always push all communication through your attorney. Working with an attorney ensures that your claim is processed promptly and fairly.

Quickly Follow up on Medical Treatment

Seek prompt medical attention if you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident. Besides protecting yourself, you can prevent settlement delays since insurers sometimes wait for the final medical bill before processing claims.

Request a Different Check for Repairs

If your car accident settlement includes compensation for personal injuries and property damage, request different checks for them. For instance, you can request compensation for a vehicle damage claim while disputes over other aspects are resolved.

File a Complaint with Your State Insurance Department

If your insurer does not resolve or respond to your claim promptly, consider filing a complaint with your state insurance department. This department oversees insurance issues and can intervene on your behalf.

Endnote

After filing car accident claims, insurers may delay settlement due to incomplete documentation, liability disputes, bad faith, delays in medical care, or claim valuation disputes. To handle these delays, submit documents on time, follow up on medical treatment, let your attorney handle the communication, request separate checks, and file a complaint if it persists.