As a bicyclist, you face the risk of extreme injury and damage if you are in an accident. Suppose an irresponsible driver hits you in a bicycle accident. In that case, the driver’s insurance should help to cover the costs related to the accident. In theory, the insurance should cover things like your medical bills from the accident and money to repair or replace damaged property.
However, sometimes companies like The General Insurance might deny your bicycle accident claim. Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to contest the decision or make an appeal. In certain instances, you may choose to file a bicycle accident lawsuit. After experiencing an insurance claim denial, it can be helpful to consult with a bicycle accident attorney to review your legal options.
How Serious Are Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycling is a great way to exercise and get around but can also be dangerous. Bicycles are small and not always visible to drivers. If a driver hits you, you could experience severe injuries.
While wearing a helmet can reduce your risk for head trauma, you could still experience broken bones, soft tissue injuries, or even spinal cord injuries. It can take a while to recover from a bicycle accident. You might need emergency medical treatment and follow-up care. You might also have to take time off from work as you recover.
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What Sort of Coverage does the General Insurance Offer?
The General Insurance offers several types of insurance to its clients. For example, they offer auto insurance, including collision and comprehensive coverage. They have helped insure over one million customers and have a high satisfaction rate with many of their clients.
Suppose you are in an accident where a car hits your bicycle. In that case, the driver’s auto insurance may help to cover the costs of your damages from the collision. And if you as a driver were to hit a cyclist, your auto insurance should work to cover the cyclist’s damage.
Why Might the General Insurance Deny My Bicycle Accident Claim?
It might seem unfair for The General Insurance to deny your claim. Still, in some cases, there are legitimate reasons for a bicycle accident claim denial. In other instances, you can contest the denial to possibly get the claim approved. Insurance companies may give the following reasons when they deny your claim:
- You waited too long after the bicycle accident to file your claim. The General Insurance should be clear about its deadlines for filing a claim. Make sure to clarify your deadline if it is unclear.
- The damage or injuries of the accident were your fault.
- Your injuries or damages were not as extensive as you claimed.
- The policy under which you filed your claim does not cover your specific accident.
- The cost of damages exceeds what the insurance policy covers.
When filing your claim, it can be helpful to review the insurance policies involved in the claim. It is also critical to be complete and accurate with the information you provide. Accurate data can help you avoid unnecessary denials in your bicycle accident case.
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What Steps Should I Take If the General Insurance Denies My Bicycle Accident Claim?
Your exact steps after an insurance denial will depend on the reasons for the denial. Sometimes, you might have to pay out of pocket for costs. For example, if you really did fail to file your claim within the deadline, there is likely little you can do to contest the denial.
In other cases, though, you may be able to correct inaccuracies and argue your case for coverage. For example, you may be able to present evidence as to the extent of your injuries and who was responsible for the accident. After a denial, you can do the following:
- Review the reason for the denial.
- Clarify any information that you find confusing for the claim’s denial.
- Communicate with the insurance company about the steps for contesting the denial.
- Consult with an attorney to help you through contesting your denial or pursuing further legal action.
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Begin Your Bicycle Accident Case Today with a Free Consultation
Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers is ready to help you in your bicycle accident case. We will review your case for free at your initial consultation. From here, we can explore your options and how our firm can assist you. If you choose to work with us, we will fight to get you the compensation you need after your bicycle accident. Contact us today so that we can start reviewing your case.
Call or text (337) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
