If you’ve been injured in an accident and are having trouble with your insurance company, you’re not alone—many people find themselves at odds with insurers when they need support the most. The good news? With the right guidance, you can resolve an insurance dispute and get the compensation you deserve.
IMPORTANT: Before taking any steps or speaking with the insurance company, it’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer to understand your options and what you may be entitled to. Many people unintentionally hurt their case by trying to handle negotiations on their own without understanding what they may be entitled to.
Here’s what you need to know about resolving insurance disputes, including some helpful steps you can take and insights into when a personal injury lawyer can help.
Start by Understanding Your Policy
Insurance policies can be full of legal terms and fine print, which often leads to misunderstandings. The first step in any insurance dispute is understanding exactly what your policy covers. If you’re dealing with an injury claim, look at sections related to bodily injury, medical payments, and any clauses on exclusions or limitations. Not sure where to start? An injury lawyer will be able to help and interpret your policy. Knowing what’s covered (and what isn’t) can make a big difference in resolving disagreements.
Keep Detailed Records of Everything
When dealing with an insurance claim, documentation is your best friend. Keep a record of all communications with your insurer, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Make sure to also gather copies of all medical records, bills, accident reports, and any other paperwork related to your injury. If it’s relevant to your claim, it’s worth holding on to! Detailed documentation not only helps you stay organized but also provides crucial evidence.
Try Negotiating Directly with Your Insurance Company
In some cases, disputes with insurance companies can be resolved through direct negotiation. This isn’t for everyone, but it is an option. You can contact your claims adjuster and ask for an explanation of why certain parts of your claim may have been denied or undervalued. Present any evidence you have, including medical records or repair estimates, to support your position.
Keep in mind that insurance companies might try to settle quickly or for less than what you deserve. Be clear and confident in your needs and remember that you have the right to ask questions and push back if something doesn’t seem fair.
Not sure you want to deal with the insurance companies? A personal injury lawyer can advocate on your behalf and handle the leg work for you.
If you haven’t had luck with the insurance company so far, there are a couple additional steps you can consider:
- Escalate the Dispute Within the Insurance Company – This is up to you. If you’ve tried negotiating with no success, you can ask to speak to a supervisor or file a formal complaint with the company.
- Most insurance companies have an internal process for handling disputes, which can include reviews by higher-level adjusters or claims specialists.
- Escalating your complaint can sometimes lead to a better outcome, especially if you’re able to present supporting evidence.
- While some people may wish to file a complaint, others may prefer to reach out to a personal injury lawyer (or both). An injury lawyer will handle the legal work and paperwork and fight to get the compensation you deserve.
- File a Complaint with Your Provincial Insurance Regulator – If you’re not making progress with the insurance company directly, another option is to file a complaint with your provincial insurance regulator. In Alberta, for instance, you can reach out to the Alberta Insurance Council (AIC) or the Superintendent of Insurance for assistance. These organizations oversee insurance companies and have processes to help with disputes. While they won’t decide your claim, they may be able to mediate or apply pressure for a fairer resolution.
When to Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer in Alberta
If you’re facing an insurance dispute that’s preventing you from getting the compensation you need, a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference. Lawyers that work with personal injury and insurance claims understand how to deal with insurers and navigate the complex web of legal requirements. They’ll work to ensure that you’re treated fairly, and they can take over negotiations so you can focus on your recovery.
In Alberta, you generally have up to two years from the date of an accident to file a claim in court—after that, your right to do so is lost forever. But it’s important not to wait, as there may be other deadlines or factors that could shorten this timeframe or impact your claim.
How Litco Law Can Help
Insurance disputes can be stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Litco Law, we know how frustrating it can be when an insurance company isn’t supporting you when you need it most. Our team is here to help you resolve disputes, handle negotiations, and ensure you receive fair treatment.
Contact us to speak with a member of our legal team today. Consultations are always free and you are never under any obligation to hire us.
