When an insurance company stalls your claim, it can be a confusing and frustrating experience. The insurance adjuster may use various tactics to avoid paying a fair settlement, such as delaying deadlines, misplacing documentation, or requesting unnecessary information. If you find yourself dealing with a stalling insurance company, it's important to take action to protect your rights.
-
Gatherecessary Documentation
To help speed up your claim, gather all relevant medical records, receipts, and supporting evidence to back your claim. Keep all communication with the insurance company in writing, including dates/times of phone calls, details discussed, and names of representatives you dealt with. -
Send Formal Written Requests and Deadlines
Put all demands for claim action, requests for status updates, and questions in formal letters sent by certified mail. Provide reasonable but firm deadlines for the insurer to respond or provide requested claim information. Start the clock officially ticking for them to reply within set timeframes. -
Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If your insurance adjuster is stalling your claim, it may be helpful to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer experienced in countering insurer stall tactics. They can advocate for you, negotiate firmly on your behalf, and know how to get unreasonably delayed claims moving again. -
File an Official Complaint With Insurance Regulators
If the insurance company continues to delay your claim, filing a formal complaint with your state's Department of Insurance can help punish companies for bad faith stalling behavior. Seek legal advice if you feel your rights have been violated. -
Consider Legal Action with a Bad Faith Lawsuit
In some cases, the insurance company's stalling may rise to the level of bad faith. You may have a legal basis to sue the insurance company for intentional delay without good cause, such as if they've undervalued your claim or have been unreasonably unresponsive. Bad faith lawsuits hold companies legally and financially accountable for intentionally delaying valid claims.
Remember that insurance companies are businesses that aim to minimize their profits, and sometimes this can result in unfair treatment of claimants. Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you during a difficult time. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself and get the compensation you deserve.
