What Are Your Rights If Travel Insurance Denies Your Claim?

What Are Your Rights If Travel Insurance Denies Your Claim? That’s a seriously frustrating question, right? No one wants to shell out for travel insurance only to get stiffed when something goes wrong. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from understanding your policy’s fine print to fighting for what’s rightfully yours. We’ll cover common reasons for denial, how to appeal, and even your legal options if all else fails.

Get ready to become a travel insurance ninja!

Navigating the world of travel insurance claims can feel like a bureaucratic maze. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to effectively handle a denied claim. We’ll walk you through each step of the process, from analyzing your policy to exploring alternative dispute resolution and, if necessary, pursuing legal action. By understanding your rights and the potential avenues for recourse, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Understanding Your Travel Insurance Policy

So, your travel insurance claim got denied? Before you freak out, understanding your policy is key to figuring out your next steps. Travel insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal; policies vary wildly, and knowing what’s covered (and, crucially, what isn’t) is essential. Let’s break down the basics.Travel insurance policies typically include several key components. These often cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and sometimes even things like flight delays.

However, the specific coverage and limits depend entirely on the policy you purchased. It’s vital to read the fine print – seriously, read the whole thing! Don’t just skim it; understanding the nuances can save you a lot of headache later.

Key Terms and Conditions

A standard travel insurance policy will detail specific terms and conditions, including the covered perils, coverage limits, and any exclusions. Covered perils are the events or circumstances that the insurance will cover, such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters. Coverage limits define the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a specific event, like medical expenses or lost luggage.

Exclusions are specific situations or events that are explicitly not covered by the policy. For instance, a policy might exclude pre-existing medical conditions or adventure sports. Understanding these limitations is critical in determining whether your claim is valid.

Coverage Limitations Related to Denied Claims, What Are Your Rights If Travel Insurance Denies Your Claim?

Many denied claims stem from a misunderstanding of the policy’s limitations. These limitations are often detailed in the policy’s exclusions section. Policies frequently have clauses specifying that certain activities, pre-existing conditions, or failure to follow instructions (like not seeking immediate medical attention when needed) will void coverage. For example, if your policy excludes adventure sports and you get injured while skydiving, your claim will likely be denied.

Similarly, if you have a pre-existing condition and suffer a related medical emergency, the claim might be rejected, even if the emergency occurred during your trip. The policy wording is key; ambiguous phrasing is often interpreted in favor of the insurance company.

Examples of Situations Leading to Claim Denial

Let’s look at some common scenarios that result in denied claims. Imagine you booked a trip and cancelled it due to a sudden, unexpected illness. However, if your policy excludes coverage for pre-existing conditions and your illness was related to a condition you already had, your claim would likely be denied. Another example: You lose your luggage, but you didn’t report the loss to the airline immediately as instructed in your policy.

This failure to follow procedure could result in a denied claim. Finally, if your policy only covers medical emergencies requiring hospitalization, a minor injury treated at a clinic might not be covered. The details matter, and paying close attention to your policy’s specific wording is crucial.

Grounds for Claim Denial

Travel insurance, while offering a safety net for unexpected events, isn’t a guaranteed payout. Insurance companies have specific criteria for approving claims, and understanding these is crucial to avoid disappointment. Denials often stem from misunderstandings about policy coverage or failure to meet the insurer’s requirements. Let’s explore some common reasons why travel insurance claims get denied.

Several factors contribute to travel insurance claim denials. These range from pre-existing medical conditions to failing to properly notify the insurer of a claim. Understanding these factors can help travelers prepare better and increase their chances of successful claim processing.

Pre-existing Conditions

Pre-existing conditions are a frequent source of claim denials. This refers to any medical condition you had before purchasing the travel insurance policy. Most policies have a waiting period (often 15-30 days) after purchasing the policy before coverage for pre-existing conditions begins. If your trip-related medical emergency is related to a pre-existing condition within this waiting period, your claim is likely to be denied.

Even after the waiting period, coverage may be limited or require additional documentation proving the condition worsened during the trip, rather than being a relapse of a pre-existing condition. For example, if you have a history of heart problems and experience a heart attack during your trip, your claim could be denied if it’s deemed directly related to your pre-existing condition, regardless of whether the waiting period has passed.

Always carefully review your policy’s definition of “pre-existing condition” and the specific coverage limitations.

Failure to Follow Claim Notification Procedures

Prompt notification is a cornerstone of successful claim processing. Most travel insurance policies require you to notify the insurer within a specific timeframe after an incident. This notification is typically done by phone and followed up with written documentation. Failing to meet these deadlines—even by a day or two—can be grounds for denial, even if the incident itself is covered.

For instance, if your luggage is lost and you wait a week to report it when the policy requires notification within 24-48 hours, the claim might be rejected. Similarly, failing to provide the necessary documentation (police reports, medical bills, etc.) within the stipulated time frame can also result in denial. Always keep copies of your policy and carefully note the specific notification requirements.

It’s also wise to retain records of all communications with your insurance provider.

Other Common Reasons for Claim Denial

Beyond pre-existing conditions and notification issues, several other factors can lead to claim denials. These include:

• Activities excluded by the policy: Many policies exclude coverage for certain activities like extreme sports or risky behaviors. If you suffer an injury while engaging in an excluded activity, your claim will likely be denied.
• Failure to provide sufficient documentation: Insurance companies require supporting evidence to validate claims. Lack of necessary documents such as medical bills, police reports, or receipts can result in denial.
• Fraudulent claims: Submitting false or misleading information is a serious offense and will lead to immediate claim denial and potential legal repercussions.
• Acts of God not covered specifically: While many policies cover natural disasters, the specifics vary. A claim for damages resulting from a natural disaster not explicitly covered in the policy will be denied. Carefully review your policy’s definition of covered events.

Reviewing the Denial Letter

Getting a travel insurance claim denied is frustrating, but understanding the denial letter is the first step towards resolving the issue. The letter should clearly state the reasons for the denial, referencing specific clauses in your policy. Don’t just skim it; take your time to thoroughly analyze the content.A well-structured denial letter will Artikel the claim, the policy provisions relevant to the claim, and the specific reasons why the claim was denied.

It will also typically include information about your appeal rights. Let’s look at a sample.

Sample Denial Letter and Key Information

Imagine you submitted a claim for a medical emergency during your trip. A sample denial letter might look like this:

To: [Your Name]From: [Insurance Company Name]Date: October 26, 2024Subject: Claim Denial – Policy Number [Your Policy Number]Dear [Your Name],This letter is to inform you that your claim for medical expenses incurred on October 10, 2024, has been denied. Your policy, number [Your Policy Number], excludes pre-existing conditions. Our review of your medical records indicates that the condition for which you sought treatment – a flare-up of your asthma – was pre-existing. As such, this expense is not covered under the terms of your policy. Please refer to Section 4, Subsection B, Paragraph 3 of your policy document for details regarding pre-existing conditions.You have the right to appeal this decision within 30 days of the date of this letter. Instructions for filing an appeal are included on our website at [Website Address].Sincerely,[Insurance Company Name]

Key information to look for includes the specific reason for denial, the relevant policy sections, and the appeals process. Note the reference to specific policy sections; this is crucial for your next steps. The deadline for appeal is also extremely important.

Understanding the Reasons for Denial

Once you’ve identified the reason for the denial, carefully review the corresponding section of your policy. Compare the policy language with the facts of your situation. Did you meet all the conditions stated in the policy? Were there any misunderstandings or misinterpretations? For example, was there a specific timeframe for reporting the claim that you missed?

Was there a required documentation that you didn’t submit? Thoroughly examining the policy alongside the denial letter is key to understanding the insurer’s perspective.

Requesting Clarification on the Denial

If after reviewing your policy you still have questions or believe the denial is incorrect, contact the insurance company directly. Request clarification on the specific points you don’t understand. Keep detailed records of all communication – dates, times, names of representatives you spoke with, and summaries of your conversations. This documentation is vital if you need to escalate your appeal.

A formal written request for clarification is often more effective than a phone call, as it creates a documented record of your concerns.

Appealing a Denied Claim

So, your travel insurance claim got denied? Don’t panic! Many claims are denied initially, often due to misunderstandings or missing information. The good news is that most insurance companies have an appeals process. Knowing how to navigate this process can significantly increase your chances of getting your claim approved.Appealing a denied travel insurance claim typically involves submitting a formal request to the insurance company, outlining why you believe the initial denial was incorrect.

This process often requires providing additional documentation and clearly explaining why your situation falls under the coverage Artikeld in your policy. Remember, a well-crafted appeal is your best shot at getting a favorable outcome.

The Appeals Process

The specific steps involved in appealing a denied claim vary depending on your insurance provider. However, a common process involves reviewing your policy and the denial letter carefully, gathering additional supporting documentation, and then submitting a formal appeal letter. This letter should clearly state your disagreement with the initial decision and present compelling evidence to support your claim. Many insurance companies have detailed instructions on their websites outlining their appeals process.

Always refer to your specific policy documents and the instructions provided in the denial letter for precise guidance.

Sample Appeal Letter

To: [Insurance Company Name][Insurance Company Address]Date: [Date]Subject: Appeal of Denied Claim – Policy Number [Your Policy Number]

Claim Number [Your Claim Number]

Dear [Insurance Company Contact Person or Department],This letter is to formally appeal the denial of my travel insurance claim, number [Your Claim Number], under policy number [Your Policy Number]. I received the denial letter on [Date of Denial Letter], and I respectfully disagree with the decision.The initial denial cited [Reason for Denial given in the letter]. However, I believe this reason is incorrect for the following reasons: [Clearly and concisely explain why you disagree with the denial.

Provide specific details and supporting evidence].I have attached the following documents as supporting evidence:* Copy of my original travel insurance policy.

• Copy of the denial letter.
• [List all other supporting documents, e.g., medical bills, flight itineraries, police report, photos of damaged luggage].

I request that you reconsider my claim in light of the additional information provided. I am confident that a thorough review will demonstrate that my claim is valid and covered under the terms of my policy.Thank you for your time and consideration.Sincerely,[Your Name][Your Address][Your Phone Number][Your Email Address]

Importance of Detailed Records and Evidence

Maintaining meticulous records throughout your trip and the claims process is crucial. Think of it as building a strong case for yourself. This includes keeping copies of your travel itinerary, flight confirmations, hotel reservations, receipts for expenses, medical records (if applicable), police reports (if applicable), and any communication with the insurance company. The more comprehensive your documentation, the stronger your appeal will be.

Digital copies are ideal, as they are easily accessible and can be readily included in your appeal letter. Organize your documents systematically; a well-organized submission makes a positive impression. Consider using a cloud storage service for easy access and backup. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words – if applicable, photographs can provide compelling visual evidence to support your claims.

For example, pictures of damaged luggage or a doctor’s note confirming an injury are incredibly valuable.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

So, your travel insurance company denied your claim. You’ve reviewed the denial letter, maybe even appealed, and still no luck. What now? Don’t despair; you still have options. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods offer ways to resolve your dispute outside of a formal court proceeding, often saving time and money.ADR methods provide a less adversarial approach than litigation, focusing on finding a mutually agreeable solution.

These methods are generally less expensive and time-consuming than going to court, which is a significant advantage for many travelers dealing with relatively small claim amounts. However, the outcome isn’t always guaranteed, and some methods might require more effort from the involved parties than others.

Mediation

Mediation involves a neutral third party, a mediator, who helps both sides communicate and find common ground. The mediator doesn’t make a decision; instead, they facilitate a discussion, helping you and the insurance company reach a compromise. This process is often confidential and can be more flexible than other methods.Advantages of mediation include its relatively low cost, its flexibility in terms of scheduling and location, and its potential for preserving a positive relationship between the parties.

However, a successful mediation requires cooperation from both sides, and there’s no guarantee of a resolution. If one party is unwilling to compromise, mediation might be unproductive.

Arbitration

Arbitration is similar to mediation, but with a key difference: the arbitrator makes a binding decision. Both parties present their case to the arbitrator, who then reviews the evidence and makes a ruling. This decision is usually legally binding, meaning both parties must adhere to it.Arbitration offers the benefit of a final decision, providing certainty that a court case wouldn’t.

It’s also typically faster and less expensive than litigation. However, the process is less flexible than mediation, and the arbitrator’s decision is final, even if you disagree with it. The selection of the arbitrator can also be a factor, and choosing a neutral and experienced individual is critical for a fair outcome.

Initiating an Alternative Dispute Resolution Process

A step-by-step guide to initiating ADR usually begins with checking your travel insurance policy. Many policies specify ADR procedures. If so, follow those instructions closely.

1. Review your policy: Look for clauses regarding dispute resolution, including whether mediation or arbitration is an option, and the specific process to initiate it.
2. Contact the insurance company: Inform them of your intention to pursue ADR. Request information about their preferred ADR method and procedures.
3. Select a method: Based on your policy and the insurance company’s response, choose mediation or arbitration.
4. Locate a mediator or arbitrator: Many organizations offer mediation and arbitration services. Your policy might list approved providers, or you can search online for qualified professionals.
5. Prepare your case: Gather all relevant documentation, including your policy, claim documents, and any supporting evidence.
6. Participate in the ADR process: Follow the established procedures for your chosen method. Be prepared to present your case clearly and concisely.

Remember, the specific steps might vary depending on the ADR method and the insurance company’s procedures. It’s always advisable to seek legal counsel if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process.

Legal Recourse

So, you’ve exhausted all appeals with your travel insurance company, and your claim is still denied. What are your options? While it’s rarely a first resort, pursuing legal action might be necessary to recover your losses. Remember, this is a significant step requiring time, resources, and careful consideration.Filing a lawsuit against an insurance company is a complex process, but understanding your rights and options is crucial.

Success isn’t guaranteed, and the potential costs should be weighed against the potential recovery. Before initiating a lawsuit, consulting with a qualified attorney specializing in insurance law is strongly recommended. They can assess the merits of your case, explain the legal procedures, and advise you on the best course of action.

Filing a Lawsuit Against an Insurance Company

The process of filing a lawsuit generally begins with drafting a complaint, a formal document outlining your case against the insurance company. This complaint details the facts of your situation, the terms of your policy, the reasons for your claim, why the denial was unjustified, and the amount of damages you’re seeking. This document is then filed with the appropriate court, usually in the jurisdiction where you reside or where the insurance company operates.

After filing, the insurance company will be served with the complaint and given a deadline to respond. The subsequent legal process can involve discovery (exchanging information and evidence), depositions (testimony under oath), motions, and potentially a trial if a settlement can’t be reached. The specific procedures vary by jurisdiction and the complexity of the case.

Factors Influencing the Success of a Legal Action

Several factors significantly influence the outcome of a lawsuit against an insurance company. The strength of your case, based on the policy’s terms and the evidence supporting your claim, is paramount. Clear and compelling documentation, such as medical bills, receipts, and witness statements, strengthens your position. The insurance company’s actions and the reasons for their denial are also scrutinized.

A denial based on a misinterpretation of the policy or a lack of proper investigation may be more easily challenged than a denial based on a clear violation of policy terms. Finally, the legal expertise and experience of your attorney are crucial. A skilled attorney can navigate the legal complexities, present your case effectively, and negotiate a favorable settlement or pursue litigation strategically.

The financial resources available to pursue the lawsuit, including potential attorney fees, are also a key consideration. A successful outcome might necessitate significant financial investment.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing travel insurance claim denials starts long before your trip even begins. Proactive steps in choosing the right policy and meticulously documenting your trip can significantly reduce the chances of encountering problems later. By being informed and organized, you can protect yourself and your investment.Choosing a reputable travel insurance provider is crucial. A seemingly low price might mask inadequate coverage or unreliable claims processing.

So, your travel insurance denied your claim? That totally sucks. Figuring out your next steps can be tricky, but it’s similar to dealing with other insurance snafus. For example, if you’re dealing with a low home insurance payout, check out this helpful guide on How to Dispute a Home Insurance Claim Payout That’s Too Low for some strategies.

Applying those same principles of documentation and negotiation to your travel insurance claim might just get you the compensation you deserve.

It’s a balance between cost and comprehensive coverage.

Selecting a Reputable Travel Insurance Provider

Several factors contribute to identifying a trustworthy provider. Check for licensing and accreditation from reputable organizations. Look for reviews and ratings from independent sources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or consumer advocacy groups. Consider the provider’s claims processing history and customer service reputation. Websites like NerdWallet or Consumer Reports often publish comparative analyses of travel insurance companies, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

Don’t solely rely on flashy advertising; dig deeper to understand the fine print and the company’s track record. A company with a history of promptly and fairly handling claims is a better investment than one with a reputation for lengthy delays or denials.

Thorough Policy Review Before Purchase

Before clicking “buy,” meticulously review the policy wording. Don’t just skim the highlights; read the entire document carefully. Pay close attention to exclusions, limitations, and definitions. Understand what is and isn’t covered, including specific situations like pre-existing conditions, trip cancellations due to specific reasons (e.g., weather vs. personal reasons), and the level of coverage for medical emergencies.

If anything is unclear, contact the provider directly for clarificationbefore* purchasing the policy. It’s far better to ask questions upfront than to discover a critical exclusion after a claim is denied. Compare several policies from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs and budget.

Documentation Checklist for Travel Insurance

Maintaining comprehensive documentation is paramount. This documentation serves as irrefutable evidence in the event of a claim.

Creating a Comprehensive Travel Insurance Documentation Checklist

A well-organized checklist should include:

• Policy Documents: Keep a digital and physical copy of your policy, including all endorsements and amendments.
• Trip Itinerary: Detailed flight, accommodation, and activity schedules.
• Proof of Purchase: Receipts for flights, hotels, tours, and other pre-paid expenses.
• Medical Records: If relevant to your claim (e.g., pre-existing conditions, medical emergencies), gather all necessary documentation from your doctor.
• Photos and Videos: Document any incidents or damages that led to your claim, such as damaged luggage or a medical emergency.
• Communication Records: Keep records of all communication with the travel insurance provider, including emails, letters, and phone call notes.
• Police Reports: If applicable, obtain a police report for any incidents involving theft, loss, or injury.

Organizing this information in a readily accessible manner – perhaps a dedicated folder on your computer and a physical binder – will streamline the claims process significantly should the need arise.

So, your travel insurance claim got denied? That totally sucks. Figuring out your next steps can feel like navigating a minefield, but remember, you have rights! Disputes over insurance are surprisingly similar to other legal battles, like those involving life insurance beneficiaries – check out this helpful guide on How to Handle a Dispute Over a Life Insurance Beneficiary Change for some perspective on handling disagreements.

Understanding the appeals process and potentially seeking legal counsel are key to getting the payout you deserve for your travel insurance claim.

Consumer Protection Laws

Travel insurance, while designed to protect you from unforeseen circumstances, sometimes falls short. Understanding your rights under consumer protection laws is crucial if your claim is unfairly denied. These laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally aim to ensure fair dealing and prevent deceptive or abusive practices by insurance companies. Knowing your options can significantly improve your chances of a successful resolution.Knowing which consumer protection laws apply to your situation is key to fighting back against an unfair travel insurance denial.

These laws offer a safety net against deceptive or misleading practices by insurance companies. They vary from state to state and even country to country, so it’s vital to understand the specific regulations governing your policy and where your claim originated.

Relevant Consumer Protection Laws

Many laws could potentially apply, depending on the specifics of your case and your location. These include state-level insurance regulations, the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (if your credit history is impacted), and potentially even consumer protection laws at the state or national level related to unfair business practices. The precise laws that apply will depend heavily on the details of your claim, your location, and the type of insurance policy you hold.

Consumer Protection in Different Jurisdictions

The following table offers a simplified comparison. It’s crucial to consult the specific laws and regulations of your relevant jurisdiction for complete and accurate information, as laws are subject to change. This table is not exhaustive and should not be considered legal advice.

Jurisdiction	Relevant Laws (Examples)	Consumer Protections	Enforcement Mechanisms
United States (varies by state)	State insurance codes, Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices (UDAP) statutes, consumer protection acts	Protection against unfair claim denials, deceptive marketing, and misleading policy terms. Access to dispute resolution mechanisms.	State insurance departments, Attorney General’s office, private lawsuits.
United Kingdom	Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations, Consumer Rights Act 2015	Protection against mis-selling, unfair contract terms, and unreasonable claim handling. Access to the Financial Ombudsman Service.	FCA, Financial Ombudsman Service, courts.
Canada (varies by province/territory)	Provincial insurance acts, consumer protection acts	Similar protections as in the US, including access to dispute resolution mechanisms.	Provincial insurance regulators, consumer protection agencies, courts.
European Union (varies by member state)	EU consumer protection directives, national insurance regulations	Harmonized consumer protections across member states, with emphasis on transparency and fair treatment.	National consumer protection authorities, European Commission.

Case Studies of Denied Claims

Understanding how travel insurance companies handle denied claims is crucial. These case studies illustrate common scenarios, the insurers’ reasoning, and potential avenues for recourse. Remember, each situation is unique, and the specifics of your policy and the applicable laws will significantly impact the outcome.

Case Study 1: Trip Cancellation Due to Illness

Sarah purchased a comprehensive travel insurance policy before her planned backpacking trip across Southeast Asia. A week before her departure, she was diagnosed with a severe case of bronchitis. Her doctor advised against air travel due to the risk of complications. Sarah submitted a claim for trip cancellation, providing medical documentation from her physician. The insurer denied her claim, citing a pre-existing condition exclusion in her policy.

Sarah’s medical history did not show a pre-existing bronchitis condition, however, the insurer argued that a history of respiratory issues (she had asthma as a child) made her susceptible to bronchitis, triggering the exclusion. Sarah’s potential recourse involves reviewing her policy carefully for ambiguities in the pre-existing condition clause and potentially appealing the decision based on the lack of a clear pre-existing condition related to bronchitis.

She could also seek advice from a consumer protection agency.

Case Study 2: Lost Luggage During a Connecting Flight

Mark purchased a basic travel insurance policy that included baggage coverage. During a connecting flight in London, his luggage was lost by the airline. He filed a claim with his insurer, providing the airline’s lost baggage report and receipts for essential items he purchased to replace toiletries and clothing. The insurer denied his claim, stating that the policy only covered baggage loss due to theft or accidental damage, not airline mishandling.

Mark’s potential recourse involves carefully reviewing the specific wording of his policy regarding baggage loss coverage. He should seek clarification from the insurer on why airline mishandling is specifically excluded and if there’s any possibility of an exception based on the circumstances. If unsuccessful, he may need to pursue a claim with the airline directly, then potentially appeal to the insurer, emphasizing the policy’s ambiguity or lack of clarity.

Case Study 3: Medical Emergency Abroad – Insufficient Coverage

Emily purchased a budget travel insurance policy for a trip to Italy. While there, she experienced a severe allergic reaction requiring emergency hospitalization and extensive medical treatment. Her insurer covered a portion of the medical expenses, but denied coverage for the remainder, citing a policy limit significantly lower than the total cost of her treatment. Emily’s potential recourse involves carefully examining the details of her policy, including the specific coverage limits for medical expenses abroad.

She should scrutinize whether the insurer accurately applied the policy’s terms and conditions and if any specific exclusions apply. She could also explore the possibility of negotiating a payment plan with the hospital or seeking assistance from her credit card company (if the expenses were charged to her card) for dispute resolution and potentially reimbursement. If all else fails, she may consider legal counsel to explore further options.

Concluding Remarks

So, your travel insurance company denied your claim? Don’t freak out! While frustrating, it’s not the end of the world. By carefully reviewing your policy, understanding the reasons for denial, and strategically pursuing an appeal or alternative dispute resolution, you can significantly improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. Remember, knowledge is power – and this guide has armed you with the knowledge to fight for your rights.

Now go get ’em!

Questions Often Asked: What Are Your Rights If Travel Insurance Denies Your Claim?

What if my travel insurance policy is unclear about specific exclusions?

Contact the insurance company directly to clarify any ambiguities in your policy wording
-before* a claim arises. If the issue remains unresolved, seek advice from a legal professional.

Can I get help from a consumer protection agency?

Absolutely! Many agencies can investigate unfair insurance practices and help you navigate the dispute resolution process. Check your state’s or country’s consumer protection resources.

What kind of supporting documentation should I include with my appeal?

Gather everything: flight/hotel confirmations, medical bills, police reports (if applicable), photos of damages, witness statements – basically anything that supports your claim.

How long does the appeal process usually take?

It varies greatly depending on the insurer and the complexity of your claim. Be prepared for a wait of several weeks, or even months.