How to Appeal a Denied Accident Claim
Posted in Car Accidents on June 2, 2025
A car accident can create substantial economic hardship. Filing an auto claim and receiving an approval can provide the financial support you need. However, not every claim receives approval, and not every denial is reasonable.
You have the option to appeal a denied accident claim. Understanding the reasons for a claim’s denial and the appeal process in Washington is imperative to receiving the help you deserve. Our Seattle car accident lawyers can review the claim and initiate the steps to appeal a denied accident claim.
Review the Denied Accident Claim
The law requires insurance companies in Washington state to submit a written explanation for denying an accident claim. It benefits the insurance company by minimizing or denying your claim. Reasons for denying a claim may include:
- Insufficient documentation
- Attributing unnecessary fault to your actions
- Lack of coverage, coverage disputes, or policy exclusions
Even approved claims can include low settlement offers that do not cover your damages. Identify what information is necessary to support your claim’s approval in an appeal. Knowing how to deal with an insurance adjuster after an accident can minimize the chances of a claim’s denial.
Gather Documentation to Support an Accident Claim
Sometimes, a denial is as simple as a lack of supporting evidence. It is up to you to prove that another driver’s negligence caused your damages. You improve the chances of receiving approval or appealing a claim successfully by providing thorough supporting evidence, such as:
- Medical expense documents
- Repair estimates
- Accident report
- Photos and videos from the accident scene
- Eyewitness accounts
Insurance companies may request access to your medical records after a car accident. You have the right to limit access to only the medical records that apply to the accident.
Submit an Appeal
You will file the appeal with your insurance company, along with copies of the documentation that supports your claim. In detail, discuss why you feel the denial is unjustified. A Washington car accident attorney can identify Washington insurance and car accident laws that apply to your claim and the denial, demonstrating legal support for the approval of an appeal.
File a Complaint
It may be necessary to file a complaint with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner when an appeal is unsuccessful and you feel a denial is unfair. An investigation strives to identify bad faith practices by an insurance company.
Arbitrate or Mediate a Denied Appeal
Some policies allow arbitrating or mediating grievances with insurance companies to settle policy disputes more quickly. These methods of solving disputes can be cost-effective. A car accident lawyer in Seattle who focuses on your best interests can address disputes with the insurance company.
File a Legal Action
Filing a lawsuit against the insurance company for unreasonable denial of your claim for payment of benefits may be possible when other forms of negotiation are unproductive. A successful lawsuit may compensate you for reasonable attorney’s fees, costs of litigation, expert witness fees, and damages totaling up to three times the actual damages. Settling a dispute and receiving claim coverage may occur through effective mediation and negotiation, eliminating the need to go to court.
An experienced Seattle car accident lawyer is crucial to filing a successful accident claim and appealing a denial. An understanding of car accident and insurance laws is pivotal in protecting your rights and fighting unfair insurance practices. Discuss an accident claim or claim denial with us today.