The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) creates a yearly compilation of complaints from consumers about their insurance providers.
According to a study by NAIC study in 2019, 19% of complaints are about unsatisfactory claims insurance firms offer. Another complaint by policyholders was about delays when demanding claims, which was at 17%, and claim denials, which made up 14%.
With these complaints in mind, it is important to be vigilant about insurance claims. Here we are talking with Mr. David Furtado, experienced lawyer in legal representation against insurance companies. In this article he shares some ways to handle with an insurance company that delays, underpays, or denies your claim.
#1. Maintain Perfect Records
According to Furtado, it is crucial to keep all records and receipts of your assets, whether affordable or expensive. These records will help you after an accident has occurred.
Furtado advises that you take a tour of your home with a picture and video camera, record everything in your house and keep the record somewhere safe 0utside your place.
When claim disputes occur, you would need records of the conversations you had, people you talked to, and what you discussed with them.
Many insurance firms go the extra mile to make things difficult, so arm yourself with these records.
#2. Leverage the State Regulator
Furtado suggests that you try working with your insurance company or agent when working on a claim while considering court as a last resort. While working with the agent, take records of the entire process. If you don’t make progress, then consider working with a state insurance regulator that can speed up the process.
#3. Understand Your Insurance Policy
Carry out a thorough review of your insurance policy, so that you know what to do in the instance of a claim. Find out what your insurance covers, how to file a claim when to do it, and what the process entails. Furtado sa
ys that this process also helps you know how much you will be reimbursed for your loss or damages.
#4. Hire a lawyer
When dealing with insurance claims, a valuable piece of advice is to engage the services of a legal firm with experience handling insurance claim issues.
For instance, Furtado Law PC can assist you when you face claim denials for property damage or a loved one’s life insurance.
A lawyer’s help is priceless when attending interviews with an insurance firm to talk about your accident or the value of your possessions in a property insurance claim.
A lawyer will guide you with answering questions, especially if you are not clear about your rights, policy details, and you are discussing light amounts of money with your insurance company or regulator.
#5. Don’t Give Up
Most times, you will face difficulties when attempting to get your insurance company to honor their promise to you. This process can be confusing and frustrating, but persistence will help you achieve it.
While many insurance firms are ethical enough to handle disputes and claims properly and straightforward, some others don’t.
Furtado advises that you remain persistent with your insurance provider, follow up the process closely, and keep proper documentation throughout the process.