Answering Questions from an Insurance Company After a Car Accident | Roden Law (2024)

FAQs

How to answer insurance claim questions? ›

Do Not Admit Fault. You do not want to say anything to an insurance adjuster that could be taken as an admission of fault. To recover compensation, you'll need to show that someone else was responsible for your injuries.

New York is a “no-fault” insurance state, which means that insureds are generally reimbursed by their insurance company for damages regardless of who was responsible for causing the accident. Insureds can be reimbursed for medical costs and other losses that might surface after the accident.

One of the primary reasons insurance companies ask questions is to assess your driving history. This includes your previous accidents, traffic violations, and claims you've made. They do this to gauge your risk as a driver.

You'll need to include copies of all paperwork that will help your claim, including receipts or medical certificates. You should also keep copies of the originals in case your claim is queried or refused. Your insurer may ask if you have other insurance that may cover the claim.

Dispute the Decision and File a Complaint

Many policies allow you to request arbitration through the insurance company. You'll present evidence to an independent adjuster, who then makes a binding settlement determination. You can also file a complaint with your state department of insurance.

The statute of limitations in New York for a personal injury action, including those involving car accidents, is three years. The timeline begins running on the date the accident occurred. However, there are certain circ*mstances under which the statute of limitations may be much shorter.

How is fault determined in a car accident in New York? ›

How Is Fault Determined In NY Auto Accidents? In the state of New York, fault in car accidents is determined based on the Comparative Fault approach, with each driver accepting a percentage of the fault anywhere between being found not at fault at zero percent and being found completely at fault at 100 percent.

Liability Coverage is for accidents that are your fault. Bodily injury liability pays for bodily injury you cause someone else. Property damage liability pays for property damage you cause someone else. California law requires you to have this coverage.

Frequently asked questions

In the case of a claim, pictures of your car can be used to verify the exact damage caused and estimate your payout amount.

Understanding Usage-Based Insurance. Imagine a world in which your auto insurer monitors your driving using a cell phone, embedded technology, or a device. The insurance company receives data on your driving which, in turn, helps to determine the amount you pay for coverage.

When you file a claim, you'll be asked to provide some basic details, such as where and when the accident or incident took place, contact information for everyone involved and a description of what happened. You might also be asked to give an estimated cost of the damage from the accident—if you have that available.

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to request a review of your denial of the claim for treatment or services provided by name of provider on date provided. The reason for denial was listed as (reason listed for denial), but I have reviewed my policy and believe treatment or service should be covered.

An insurance claim is a formal request from the policyholder to their insurance company asking for payment after a covered incident, such as a hospital stay, a natural disaster, theft, and more.

Promptly respond to letters and requests if they are unreasonable. If they are, say so, in writing. Be proactive: Give your insurer proof of your losses and ask for the dollar amounts you are entitled to. Don't wait for them to tell you how much they owe you.