Insurance companies regularly deny legitimate car accident claims to protect their bottom line, leaving accident victims struggling to pay medical bills and replace damaged vehicles. These denials happen even when the policyholder has faithfully paid premiums and meets all coverage requirements.
At The Eberst Law Firm, we protect Florida families from insurance company tactics aimed at minimizing payouts. Our attorneys understand how to challenge wrongful claim denials and fight for the compensation you deserve after a car accident.
Why Insurance Companies Deny Valid Claims
Insurance companies operate as businesses focused on profit, which creates an inherent conflict with their obligation to pay legitimate claims. Adjusters receive training on techniques to reduce claim values or find reasons to deny coverage entirely. They may deny valid claims for several reasons.
Disputing Liability
Insurance companies frequently argue that their policyholders were not at fault for the accident, even when evidence clearly shows otherwise. They may claim the other driver contributed to the crash or dispute witness statements and police reports. This tactic allows them to avoid responsibility for paying damages.
Questioning Medical Treatment
Insurers often challenge the necessity or extent of medical treatment following an accident. They may argue injuries are pre-existing, claim treatments are experimental or unnecessary, or suggest recovery times are excessive. This approach helps them avoid paying medical bills and reduces overall claim values.
Policy Interpretation Issues
Companies may interpret policy language in a way that excludes coverage for specific situations. They might claim certain circumstances void coverage or argue policy limits don’t apply to particular damages. These interpretations often contradict reasonable expectations about what insurance covers.
Common Tactics Used to Deny Claims
Insurance adjusters employ various strategies to minimize or deny payouts to accident victims. Recognizing these tactics helps you protect your rights and respond appropriately when dealing with insurance companies.
Adjusters may request excessive documentation, hoping victims will give up rather than provide all the necessary paperwork. They might delay the claims process for months, causing financial pressure that forces quick settlements for lower amounts. Some companies use surveillance to try to catch claimants in activities that contradict their injury claims.
Insurers also make lowball settlement offers quickly after accidents, before victims understand the full extent of their injuries or damages. They may pressure victims to provide recorded statements without legal representation present, hoping to get admissions that damage the claim.
How to Fight a Wrongful Claim Denial
When an insurance company wrongfully denies your claim, you have options to challenge their decision. Document everything related to your accident and claim, including medical records, repair estimates, and all communications with the insurance company.
File a formal appeal with the insurance company, providing additional evidence that supports your claim. Many states require insurers to have internal appeal processes before you can pursue other remedies. Consider hiring an attorney who specializes in handling insurance disputes, as they understand the legal requirements and negotiation strategies necessary to overcome denials.
You may also file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner, who can investigate whether the company violated state insurance laws. In some cases, you may need to file a lawsuit against the insurance company for bad faith practices.
Legal Remedies for Insurance Bad Faith
Florida law requires insurance companies to handle claims in good faith, meaning they must investigate thoroughly and fairly evaluate coverage. When insurers violate this duty, they may face additional penalties beyond simply paying the original claim amount.
Bad faith lawsuits can result in compensation for emotional distress, attorney fees, and punitive damages designed to punish the insurance company. These cases require proving the insurer unreasonably denied the claim or failed to investigate properly. Courts may also award interest on unpaid claims and additional damages for financial hardship caused by the denial.
Get Help from Florida Car Accident Attorneys at Eberst Law
When insurance companies deny your valid car accident claim, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights. The Eberst Law Firm has successfully challenged wrongful claim denials and recovered millions for Florida accident victims, including a $1.26 million car accident settlement and a $510,000 case involving a spine injury.
We understand the tactics insurance companies employ and know how to build strong cases that result in fair settlements. Our attorneys provide timely support and clear communication throughout the process, ensuring you understand every step of your case. You can reach us at (772) 225-4900 or use our contact form to schedule a free consultation regarding your insurance claim denial.
