What If My Bicycle Accident Claim Was Denied By Geico?
Geico held over 44 billion in admitted assets at the close of 2020, further solidifying the company’s presence as one of the nation’s top three private insurance companies. It’s safe to say that the company has more than enough means to cover your bicycle accident claim. So when your claim gets denied, you may be left feeling confused and disheartened.
Thankfully, a claim denial does not mean the end of the road for your case. You may still be able to claim compensation for your losses. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers is ready to help you. Keep reading to learn about your rights as a claimant and resources for moving forward.
What do I Do If My Claim Is Denied?
Personal injury laws protect the victim’s right to be compensated when injured due to someone else’s negligence. A claim denial doesn’t forfeit that right. If your claim is denied, you have several legal options available. These are the possible steps you can take to move forward after a denial:
Request an Internal Review of Your Claim
Many insurance companies have an internal appeals process in which you can have your claim manually reviewed and reevaluated to overturn the decision. This can be especially helpful if you believe there are inaccuracies in your claim.
Submit a Demand Letter and Negotiate With Geico
If you have an attorney, they can submit a demand letter on your behalf to attempt to settle the claim before filing a lawsuit. In addition, your attorney can help with negotiating to reach a fair settlement.
File a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver
If a settlement can’t be reached, you can take legal action against the at-fault party. Your attorney can file and represent you in your case.
Keep in mind that personal injury claims are subject to the statute of limitations. These deadlines can range from as little as one to a few years. Get familiar with your state’s statute of limitations laws to avoid having your claim thrown out.
Why did Geico Deny My Insurance Claim?
If your claim has been denied, it may be for a number of reasons, many of which have nothing to do with you. But as a claimant, it’s important to be informed of why your claim was denied so that you can prepare your next steps.
Your accident claim can be denied due to:
- Lapsed insurance coverage
- Filing your claim too late
- Filing discrepancies
- Lack of sufficient evidence
- Liability disputes
- The adjuster is acting in bad faith
The truth is that valid claims can get denied and insurance companies like Geico profit off individuals not knowing they can challenge this decision. Whatever the reason for your claim denial, you should receive a written explanation of the denial to review.
How Much Is a Bicycle Accident Claim Worth?
A bicycle accident can inflict life-threatening injuries and life-long trauma. And while no amount of money can replace the value of your health, compensation can help you begin to move forward. Your claim will be valued based on the extent of your economic and noneconomic damages.
If you’ve been in an accident, you may be able to recover:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Insurers may attempt to reduce the compensation you’re entitled to by downplaying the extent of your damages. When they do this, you have the right to fight back.
What Are Bad Faith Insurance Practices?
When an insurance company knowingly denies a valid claim, they act in bad faith and can be held accountable. Bad faith tactics can include:
- Failure to thoroughly investigate a claim
- Failure to provide a reason for claim denial
- Not complying with state regulations for claim processing
- Ignoring information that supports the claim
- Prolonging the claims process without a valid reason
If you suspect Geico is acting in bad faith, a personal injury lawyer can defend you in your case.
What does a Bicycle Accident Lawyer Do?
A bicycle accident attorney can help you navigate the aftermath of your accident and help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Hiring an attorney can be beneficial to your case while also allowing you to recover from your injuries in peace. A lawyer can help you by:
- Establishing negligence with the other party
- Investigating the circumstances of your accident
- Collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses
- Calculating the value of your damages
- Negotiating for settlement on your behalf
- Handling all correspondence
- Keeping you updated throughout the process
- Taking your case to court, if necessary
Having an attorney on your side can make Geico take your claim seriously and ensure that your rights aren’t violated.
Contact Our Attorneys Today for a Free Case Evaluation
If you believe your Geico bicycle accident claim was denied unjustly, you don’t have to accept their decision. Call our attorneys today at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers and claim your free case evaluation.
