Was your auto claim denied?
A denial letter is not always the final word. Insurance companies deny, underpay and delay car claims every day, often on reasons that can be questioned. Before you accept the answer, find out why it was denied and what your policy actually says.
Get Help With Your ClaimWhy insurers deny auto claims
A denial usually comes down to one of a handful of reasons. Some are solid. Many are worth a second look.
- The damage isn't covered by your policy
- The claim was reported too late
- Disputed fault for the accident
- The driver wasn't listed on the policy
- The policy had lapsed for nonpayment
- The damage was called old or pre-existing
- The car was used for business or rideshare
Signs the denial deserves a second look
- The letter doesn't quote your policy language
- No one inspected the vehicle
- The repair estimate or total-loss value seems low
- The reason keeps changing
- You were pressured to settle quickly
What to do after a denial
Five steps to take before you give up on your claim.
Get it in writing
Ask for the exact reason and the policy language it relies on.
Get your full policy
The declarations page and every endorsement, not just the summary.
Keep everything
Photos, estimates, the police report, towing and medical bills, every letter.
Watch the deadlines
Policies limit how long you have to dispute a decision. Waiting can cost you.
Get someone on your side
The insurance company has its own adjusters. You can have yours.
Who can help me fight a denied claim?
The adjuster who denied your claim works for the insurance company, and their job is to protect its bottom line. A Public Insurance Adjuster, like Adjuster Shield, is an independent, licensed expert who works for you: reviewing your policy, documenting the loss, and pushing your own insurance company to pay what it owes.