Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But when your insurance company denies your claim or offers a settlement that doesn’t cover your losses, that frustration can turn into confusion and concern.
Fortunately, a denied or disputed car accident claim isn’t the end of the road.
You have the right to appeal the decision and understanding how to navigate the process gives you a better chance of securing the compensation you deserve.
Why Are Claims Denied or Disputed?
Insurance companies don’t deny claims arbitrarily—they usually offer an explanation. But not all denials are justified. Sometimes, insurers will dispute who is at fault, question the extent of your injuries, or say that your policy doesn’t cover the specific situation.
Other times, they may claim that you failed to provide the necessary documentation or didn’t meet a deadline. Errors in the insurer’s evaluation, incomplete investigations, or simple misunderstandings can all contribute to unfair outcomes.
Appealing a claim allows you to push back with new information or clarification.
Review the Denial Letter Carefully
Before you do anything else, read the denial letter or settlement offer in full. It should explain the reason for the decision and outline what steps you can take next. If the language is vague or confusing, contact the insurer and ask for a more detailed explanation in writing.
By knowing exactly why your claim was rejected, you can respond more effectively.
Check the letter for important information such as:
- The specific policy exclusion cited
- The insurer’s assessment of fault
- What documentation they reviewed (or didn’t receive)
- The deadline for filing an appeal
This first step is essential because it sets up your response. You can’t build a successful case unless you know what you’re arguing against.
Gather Supporting Evidence
Once you understand the insurer’s reasoning, start collecting the documents and evidence that can strengthen your case. Your goal is to fill in the gaps or correct the record. Focus on providing clear, organized information that directly addresses the reasons for denial.
Depending on your situation, some helpful evidence might include:
- Police reports showing fault
- Medical records (your doctor’s diagnosis, prescribed treatment, and prognosis)
- Photos or video of the damage or accident scene
- Eyewitness statements or affidavits
- Repair estimates or invoices
- Additional documentation of expenses, like lost wages or transportation costs
In some cases, you might also benefit from an expert’s opinion, such as a doctor clarifying a medical condition or a mechanic assessing vehicle damage.
Understand Your Insurance Policy
Insurance policies are official contracts, and the fine print matters. Go back to your policy and review the coverage terms. Make sure you understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and what the insurer is obligated to provide. If you suspect they are misinterpreting your policy or applying the terms unfairly, make a note of those concerns as part of your appeal.
Many policies include coverage for bodily injury, property damage, uninsured motorists, and more, but the language can be technical.
If you’re not confident in your interpretation, consider asking an attorney or insurance professional to review the terms with you.
How Do You File an Accident Claim Appeal?
The process for filing an appeal varies by insurer, but most follow a general structure. You’ll typically need to submit a written appeal letter and any supporting evidence. Some companies allow you to email your appeal, while others may require submission through an online portal or physical mail.
A good appeal letter should:
- State clearly that you are appealing the decision
- Reference the claim number and denial date
- Briefly explain why you believe the decision was incorrect
- Include relevant evidence and documentation
- Request a specific action (such as claim approval or higher payout)
Keep your tone polite and professional. Avoid using emotional language or making accusations; instead, focus on the facts. You want to show the insurer that your case is well-documented and deserving of a second look.
Follow Up and Stay Organized
After submitting your appeal, keep records of everything you send and receive. Log the date you filed the appeal, the method of delivery, and the name of the claims representative handling your case.
If you speak to anyone by phone, write down the date and time of the call and what was discussed.
Insurance companies usually have a set period to respond to appeals, often 30 to 60 days. If you don’t hear back within that timeframe, you should follow up in writing. Persistence, backed by documentation, keeps your appeal on track and demonstrates that you’re not giving up easily.
What To Do if the Appeal Is Denied
If your appeal is rejected, you still have options. Depending on the nature of the dispute, you might:
- Request an internal review with a different adjuster
- File a complaint with your state’s insurance department
- Hire an attorney to help negotiate a settlement or litigate the claim
- Consider seeking mediation or arbitration, if offered
At this stage, legal representation can be especially helpful, particularly if the insurer’s position appears unreasonable or if the damages are significant.
Key Tips for Appealing a Denied Claim
To improve your chances of success, keep the following in mind:
- Act quickly and meet all deadlines
- Keep all communications in writing
- Stay organized and back your claims with evidence
- Maintain a calm, professional tone throughout the process
- Don’t accept a final decision without fully understanding your rights
How McCoy & Hiestand, PLC, Can Help
Appealing a car accident claim decision takes effort, patience, and attention to detail—but it’s often worth pursuing.
Insurers make mistakes, and denials don’t always mean your claim is invalid. Our experienced legal professionals at McCoy & Hiestand, PLC can carefully review the denial, gather strong evidence, and present your appeal clearly, improving your chances of overturning a bad decision.
And if the process becomes too complex or the stakes too high, professional help is always an option.
Ultimately, the appeals process gives you a chance to make your case and fight for the compensation you’re entitled to.
