Reasons insurance companies deny injury claims

Insurance companies in Virginia, like in many other states, may deny personal injury claims for several reasons. First and foremost, they may question the liability or fault in the accident. If the insurance company believes their policyholder is not at fault or that the injured party bears some responsibility for the accident, they may deny the claim or offer a reduced settlement. Virginia follows a contributory negligence system, which means if the injured party is found even slightly responsible for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation.

Second, insurance companies may deny claims if they suspect fraud or misrepresentation on the part of the claimant. Insurers closely examine the details provided in the claim, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. If they find inconsistencies or evidence of deliberate deception, they are likely to deny the claim. Insurance fraud is a serious offense, and companies are vigilant in detecting and preventing it.

Finally, insurance companies may deny personal injury claims in Virginia if the claimant fails to adhere to statutory requirements or policy terms. Virginia has specific rules and deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and failing to meet these requirements can result in a denial. Additionally, if the injured party does not promptly seek medical treatment or follow their doctor's orders, the insurance company may argue that their injuries were not as severe as claimed or that they failed to mitigate their damages, which could lead to a claim denial or reduced compensation. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals in Virginia to understand the legal and contractual obligations associated with personal injury claims to maximize their chances of a successful outcome.

Learn more about Virginia insurance laws from the Virginia State Corporation Commision site.

It is important to get help from an experienced personal injury attorney to handle the complex process of managing an insurance claim. Learn more about how a good injury lawyer can help with:

Regardless of how severe an accident is, almost everyone involved has to deal with insurance companies and claims. For accidents with very minor injuries and damage, a claim can sometimes be handled by working with the insurance adjuster. For crashes involving more serious injuries, or when a fatal crash occurs, a Charlottesville personal injury attorney is needed to manage the insurance claim. Go here to learn more about how a Charlottesville accident lawyer helps injured victims.

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