After a car accident, most people expect insurance to help them through a tough time, but many are surprised at how tough insurance companies push back on a car accident claim in St. Louis. Denials or very low settlement offers are more common than most customers realize, even in cases with clear and valid injuries.
Financial Incentives Behind Claim Denials
The truth of the matter is that insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They make money by collecting premiums from customers and then paying out less than what they take in. Every dollar an insurer saves on a claim, whether by denying a claim or negotiating a smaller payout, directly improves their bottom line.
Insurance adjusters are trained to contain costs, and their performance is measured by “loss ratios” (how much they pay out versus what they collect). Standing up for your right to fair compensation sometimes means understanding you’re not working with a company that has your best interests in mind; you’re fighting to get compensation from people who want to pay out as little as possible.
Common Reasons Insurance Companies Give for Denying Claims
Dealing with a denied car accident claim can catch anyone off guard, especially when you’re so sure that someone else caused the accident and you’re not expecting pushback. Understanding why claims often get denied helps you know what to expect. Below are some of the explanations insurers frequently use when telling drivers their claim isn’t covered:
- Claiming the policyholder did not report the accident promptly or follow correct reporting procedures.
- Arguing that important documents are missing or the submitted paperwork contains mistakes.
- Stating that the insurance policy has lapsed due to missed payments.
- Suggesting the injuries reported are not related to the incident described, or were pre-existing issues.
- Pointing out exclusions in the insurance policy that they claim apply in your particular case.
- Alleging possible fraud, misrepresentation, or other technical policy violations by any party involved.
- Questioning the severity of the injuries and doubting the medical necessity of certain treatments.
- Blaming the driver for causing the accident due to reckless driving or traffic law violations.
Being aware of these reasons for denial allows you to plan your case appropriately and fight back when you know you deserve more.
Why it Helps to Have a St. Louis Car Accident Attorney On Your Side
When you’re up against an insurance company after a car accident, the process can quickly become confusing, frustrating, and even unfair. Here’s why having a lawyer is so important:
Leveling the Playing Field
Insurance companies have experienced adjusters and legal teams trained to minimize payouts. A lawyer gives you someone just as skilled working to protect your interests – someone who fully understands the tactics insurers use.
Building a Stronger Case
Your attorney gathers and organizes all relevant evidence, communicates with medical providers, works with experts, and speaks with witnesses to help build your case. Your attorney will know what to look for and how to present it to an insurance company or in court if necessary.
Negotiating Higher Settlements
St. Louis car accident lawyers know what claims like yours are truly worth and will advocate firmly through every round of negotiation. Adjusters are far more likely to take your case seriously (and offer fairer payment) when they see you’re willing to stand up for yourself with legal help.
You don’t have to face these cases on your own. We’re ready to fight with you every step of the way to win fair compensation. Call us at Meyerkord & Kurth to schedule your free consultation.