To protect themselves from liabilities or unbudgeted costs, individuals and businesses hold different types of insurance coverage. From medical coverage to auto insurance and everything in between, insurance policies have one thing in common. The insurer often pays for the losses, damages, or incurred costs upon the request of the policyholder. This is what is termed an insurance claim.
This means that if you hold any insurance coverage, you may need to make an insurance claim at some point. However, insurance claims often involve a process, eligibility requirements, documentation, and deadlines to be met. If you are not well informed about the entire process, you could easily get stuck or your claims could be denied by the insurer. Here is a checklist to help you out in case you get stuck with your insurance claim.
1. Get Legal Assistance
Keep in mind that insurance companies are in the business for profits. Many insurance plans have “loopholes” that could end up causing your claim to be denied. This is commonly seen in personal injury and accident compensation claims.
If your insurance carrier has rejected your claim on grounds you deem unreasonable or unfair, it is time to seek legal assistance from a decorated attorney. While at it, the folks at The Horne Law Firm recommend working with an experienced attorney that you will meet in person and discuss the best way forward. Whether it is a truck accident case, a wrongful death issue, or serious injury, be sure to get a lawyer with an outstanding track record in cases such as yours. They should also:
- Provide you with regular case updates
- Be easily accessible via phone and other options
- Be willing to go to trial
- Have a limited number of caseloads so they can serve you better
2. Understand What Your Policy Says About Reporting a Claim
Always check your policy document to determine the period in which claims must be made after an incident. If you wait so long to apply, the deadline might elapse. Making your claim as early as possible is also advantageous in that sometimes insurance companies take a long time to respond. The best part is that many insurance companies allow the policyholder to file their claims electronically, which is more convenient in some cases. You can also walk into their offices in person or contact your insurance carrier via phone.
3. Keep Detail of the Communication between You and the Insurance Provider
Keep track of details like the date, how, and to whom you submitted your argument. Keep a record of conversations, contact details, addresses, work descriptions, and other pertinent information. This information comes in handy in case your insurance provider rejects your claim and you still think it was worth compensation. Abiding by the company’s policies ensures you are always on the right side.
4. Note Down Any Expenses You Incur
Sometimes you may have to make some repairs to your vehicle or property after sustaining damage. If you were injured, you may seek treatment and cover the costs out of your pocket. All these should be noted down and documented in the form of bills, keep receipts, invoices, and so forth.
5. Document the Extent of the Damage
Make a list of the items that have been damaged, and be as specific as possible. Include receipts, brand names, serial numbers, the date of purchase, and the sum paid for the item. Take pictures of the injury as well. Since you can discover new losses or harm after the claim period has expired, make it clear that your list is only partial but to the best of your knowledge. While this may not completely protect you in case new harm is discovered, it will assist you in getting as much compensation as possible. All you need is evidence of the damage.
6. Never Discuss Fault or Accept Liability
The majority of insurance claims are more concerned with liability rather than injury. For example, if someone falls and gets injured on your property or place of business, you may be held liable. It is to your advantage if you gather names, addresses, phone numbers, and other details about those involved. These should include the injured and witnesses, and contact your insurer as soon as possible. Do not admit possible responsibility to third parties such as witnesses or injury victims. Instead, obtain testimony from them where applicable. You should also be careful how you address the public or claimants if any.
And there you pretty much have it. This checklist will make sure your claim doesn’t get rejected. It can also help you get things right, so you don’t have to wait many months before your insurance provider responds.