What to Do if Progressive Denies My Car Accident Claim

Being involved in a car accident is never a pleasant experience. From physical injuries to emotional trauma, it can be difficult for anyone. To make matters worse, dealing with an insurance company that denies your claim can be frustrating and overwhelming. 

If Progressive has denied your car accident claim, do not lose hope. A John Foy & Associates car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights.

Understand Why Your Progressive Insurance Claim Was Denied

The claims process can be complicated, and insurance companies often deny claims. If you have been in a car accident and Progressive has denied your claim, it is essential to understand why. Knowing the reasons for the denial can help you take the appropriate steps to appeal the decision.

The Policy Does Not Cover the Damages or Injuries Sustained in the Accident

One of the most common reasons for a denied car accident claim is that the policy does not cover the damages or injuries sustained in the accident. For example, if your policy only covers liability, and you were injured in the accident, your claim for medical expenses may be denied. Or if you were involved in a hit-and-run accident and only have liability coverage, your claim for vehicle damage may be denied.

The Accident Was Not Reported on Time

Insurance companies require that accidents be reported on time. If you do not report your accident to Progressive promptly, your claim may be denied. You must report your accident immediately to ensure your claim is processed promptly.

The Policyholder’s Coverage Lapsed or Was Canceled Before the Accident Occurred

The claim may be denied if the policyholder’s coverage lapsed or was canceled before the accident occurred. It is important to keep your insurance policy current and make timely payments to avoid coverage lapses.

The Policyholder Was Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

If the policyholder was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, the claim might be denied. Driving under the influence is a violation of the law and is considered negligent behavior. Insurance companies will often deny claims for accidents that occur as a result of negligent behavior.

The Policyholder Was Driving a Vehicle that Was Not Covered Under Their Policy

The claim might be denied if the policyholder was driving a vehicle not covered under their policy. It is important to make sure that all vehicles you drive are covered under your insurance policy to ensure that you are protected in the event of an accident.

Appealing a Denied Claim

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. The first step in the appeals process is gathering all the necessary documentation for your accident and claim. This includes the police report, medical records, bills, repair estimates for the damage to your vehicle, and any correspondence you have had with Progressive regarding the claim.

With this documentation, you can appeal the decision by contacting Progressive and explaining why you believe your claim should be approved. Be sure to provide any additional evidence that supports your case. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the appeals process, you may want to consider filing a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner.

File a Complaint with the State Insurance Commissioner

The insurance commissioner is a government agency that regulates insurance companies and ensures they comply with state laws and regulations. The insurance commissioner’s office can investigate your claim and determine whether Progressive’s decision to deny your claim was justified. If the commissioner finds your claim was wrongly denied, they can order Progressive to pay your claim and any associated damages.

To file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner, you will need to provide all of the documentation related to your claim, including the police report, medical bills, and repair estimates. You will also need to provide a detailed explanation of why you believe your claim was wrongly denied. Be sure to include any additional evidence that supports your case.

The insurance commissioner’s office will review your complaint and may request additional information or documentation from you. They will also contact Progressive to obtain their side of the story. The investigation may take some time, but the insurance commissioner’s office will inform you of any developments in your case.

Hiring an Attorney

You may consider hiring an attorney if you have exhausted all other options and still have not gotten Progressive to pay your claim. An attorney can review your case and determine whether you have a valid claim. They can also help you gather evidence and documentation to support your case. If your claim goes to court, an attorney can represent you and argue your case before a judge and jury.

Remember that hiring an attorney can be costly, so weigh the potential benefits against the cost before you decide to move forward with this option.

Other Options

You can explore other options if your car accident claim is denied. Here are the steps you can take if Progressive denies your car accident claim:

• Understand why your claim was denied.
• Gather all the necessary documentation related to your accident and claim.
• Appeal the decision by contacting Progressive and explaining why your claim should be approved. Provide any additional evidence that supports your case.
• If the appeal is denied, file a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner. Provide all the documentation related to your claim and a detailed explanation of why you believe your claim was wrongly denied. The insurance commissioner will investigate the matter.
• Consider hiring an attorney to fight for your rights if all else fails.
• Explore other options, such as negotiating with Progressive directly or considering mediation to resolve the dispute.

Contact John Foy & Associates for a Car Accident Attorney

Hiring an attorney can be valuable if Progressive denies your car accident claim. A car accident attorney from John Foy & Associates can help build the best case possible and represent you in court if your claim goes to trial. Contact us today.