At some point in life, you may be involved in a car accident, whether it’s your fault or the other driver’s. When the other driver is at fault, their insurance company is responsible for covering your medical expenses, repairing your vehicle, or compensating you for its value. However, insurance companies do not always act in good faith. If the at-fault driver’s insurer refuses to pay your valid claim, you may need to take action, including consulting an insurance lawyer. Some insurers delay payouts but eventually settle, while others may deny claims entirely. Here are steps you can take to encourage the insurance company to resolve your claim.
Ask for an Explanation
Insurance companies often prioritize their own policyholders. They might refuse to inspect your car until they obtain the other driver’s version of events. If your claim is denied despite clear evidence that you were not at fault, contact the insurer with supporting documentation, including police reports, recorded statements, and eyewitness accounts. If the company still won’t budge, demand a detailed explanation of how they believe the accident occurred.
Threaten Their Profits
Insurance companies aim to maximize profits, and sometimes a firm push is needed to get them to act. An insurance lawyer can help apply pressure. By contacting the Austin Lawyer Referral Service for a qualified attorney, you can ensure your claim is fairly evaluated. The lawyer will compile and submit all necessary documents, along with a clear deadline for payment. Insurance companies are often more willing to settle when faced with a formal demand letter from a lawyer, as they want to avoid costly litigation and time-consuming evaluations.
Use Your Policy
If the other driver’s insurer is uncooperative, you may be able to recover damages under your own insurance policy. If your policy includes collision coverage, your insurer should pay for your vehicle’s damage and then pursue subrogation to recover those expenses from the at-fault party’s insurer.
Small Claims Court and Mediation
If the disputed amount is relatively small, you might consider filing a case in small claims court, depending on your state’s limits. You can represent yourself or bring an attorney to mediation, where a neutral third party will hear both sides and work toward a resolution. This can be an efficient way to settle without the need for a drawn-out lawsuit.
File a Lawsuit
If all else fails, you may need to file a lawsuit against the insurance company to recover your damages. An insurance lawyer can help you build a strong case to increase your chances of receiving a settlement or favorable judgment. If you’re unsure where to begin, the Austin Lawyer Referral Service can connect you with an experienced attorney specializing in insurance law. Be mindful of Texas’s statute of limitations for filing insurance claims to ensure you don’t miss your opportunity to sue.
Taking the right steps early on can make all the difference in resolving an insurance dispute efficiently.