Are you frustrated because Geico denied your accident claim? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps to take when facing a claim denial from Geico. We’ll help you understand the reasons behind the denial, review the denial letter, gather additional evidence, and guide you through the appeals process.
If needed, we’ll even suggest seeking the legal assistance of a Michigan car accident lawyer.
Let’s get started on getting the claim you deserve.
Understanding Geico’s Review Process
It’s important to have an idea of how Geico handles accident claims internally so that you can better understand what you’re up against. This can also inform your strategy for appealing a denial.
- Initial Claim Assessment: Once your claim is filed, a Geico claims adjuster is assigned to your case. They review the preliminary documentation and may request additional information from you. This often involves examining the police report, photographs, medical records, and any other evidence you’ve submitted.
- Investigation: The adjuster will typically conduct an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident. This may include interviews with witnesses, inspection of the vehicles involved, and consultation with repair shops for damage estimates.
- Liability and Damage Assessment: After collecting all relevant information, the adjuster makes a liability decision and assesses the damages. They will consider factors like who was at fault, the extent of injuries, and the cost of vehicle repairs or replacement.
- Offer or Denial: Based on their findings, Geico will either make a settlement offer or deny the claim. If they opt for denial, they must provide a written explanation that outlines the reasons for their decision.
- Internal Appeals: If you’re unhappy with the decision, Geico has an internal appeals process that allows you to request a review of your claim. You’ll need to submit new evidence or arguments for why the denial should be overturned.
- Final Decision: Following the appeal, a final decision is made. If it’s still not in your favor, your remaining option is to take legal action.
Understanding Geico’s internal review process will give you a clearer picture of how decisions are made, equipping you with the knowledge to challenge a denial more effectively. This could be critical in ensuring that you get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Reasons for Denial
If you’re confused by the denial, you should start by reviewing the letter Geico sent you to understand why they denied your car accident claim.
By carefully reading the letter, you can gain insight into the specific factors that led to the denial. Geico may have cited various grounds for the denial, such as policy exclusions, lack of evidence, or failure to comply with certain requirements.
Understanding these reasons is essential as it will enable us to assess the validity of their decision and determine your next course of action. Once you grasp the rationale behind Geico’s denial, you can proceed with confidence and take appropriate steps to address the situation effectively.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Appealing the Decision
When appealing the decision, it’s important to gather any additional evidence that can strengthen your case and challenge Geico’s denial. You should thoroughly review your claim file and identify any missing or overlooked information that could support your position.
This might include obtaining witness statements, accident reports, medical records, or expert opinions. You should also consider documenting any ongoing medical treatment or expenses related to the accident, as this can demonstrate the ongoing impact of the incident.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney with experience in insurance claim denials. They can provide guidance on the best strategies for appealing the decision and help us navigate the complex legal process.
Steps a Lawyer Will Take to Secure Compensation from Geico
If Geico continues to deny your claim, hiring a personal injury attorney can be pivotal in obtaining the compensation you rightfully deserve. Here are the specific actions your attorney will likely take on your behalf:
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will first evaluate your case to determine its merits, looking into all pertinent documents, such as the police report, medical records, and communications with Geico. This allows them to better understand your position and outline a strategic plan moving forward.
- Gathering Additional Evidence: Your attorney will dig deeper to collect any further evidence that might be helpful in your case, which can include statements from witnesses, photos of the accident scene, or expert testimonials, among others.
- Sending a Demand Letter: After a thorough case evaluation and evidence collection, your attorney will draft and send a comprehensive demand letter to Geico. This letter will articulate the facts of the case, specify the damages you’ve incurred, and demand a settlement amount.
- Negotiating Settlement: Your lawyer will enter into negotiations with Geico’s adjusters or legal team. Armed with evidence and legal knowledge, they’ll seek to secure the highest possible settlement amount for you.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory outcome, your attorney will prepare and file a lawsuit against Geico.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: During the discovery phase, your attorney will exchange evidence with the defense, conduct depositions, and may file pre-trial motions to set the legal framework for the case.
- Representation in Court: Should your case go to trial, your attorney will represent you in court, presenting the evidence and making the legal arguments necessary to push for a favorable judgment.
- Appeal: If needed, your lawyer can also file an appeal to contest an unsatisfactory verdict or settlement.
By taking these specific steps, a personal injury attorney can provide you the legal support needed to challenge Geico’s claim denial and work toward securing the compensation you’re entitled to.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Reach Out to a Car Accident Lawyer for Help
A car accident is devastating. Beyond property damage, it could result in serious medical issues like brain injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder. If you’ve been a victim, a denied insurance claim isn’t acceptable.
If Geico continues to drag its feet, it’s time to get legal help. Contact White Law PLLC – our team will work hard to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Remember, don’t give up easily, and keep fighting for what you’re owed.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
