"Insurance Adjuster Doesn't Return my Calls"
We hear it all the time from clients: “My insurance adjuster doesn’t return my calls after my car accident.” It’s horrible. They aren’t doing their job. You pay for insurance, and it’s their job to help in the event of an accident.
Let’s imagine this, which may be a bit similar to your current situation:
Jane, a resident of Columbus, Georgia, is involved in a severe car accident. Jane sustains a number of injuries and promptly files a claim with her insurance company. Initially, the insurance adjuster is responsive, but after a few weeks, Jane finds herself in a frustrating situation with her adjuster not returning her calls.
What should she, or anyone in Jane’s situation, do now? Does this type of situation sound familiar? If you are facing a non-responsive insurance adjuster, you are not alone. Read further if your insurance adjuster is not responding to calls after a car accident.
The Responsibilities of Insurance Companies in Georgia
In Georgia, insurance companies have a legal obligation to handle claims promptly and fairly. The Georgia Insurance Code requires insurers to:
- Acknowledge and respond to claims promptly: Insurers must acknowledge receipt of a claim within 15 days and respond within a reasonable time frame.
- Conduct thorough investigations: Insurance companies must investigate claims thoroughly and in good faith.
- Communicate clearly: Insurers must keep their policyholders informed about the status of their claim and any delays or issues that arise.
When an adjuster stops returning your calls, it can be a sign of neglect or even bad faith practices. Understanding your rights and the steps you can take is crucial to ensure your claim is handled appropriately.
Steps to Take When Your Insurance Adjuster Is Not Returning Your Calls
If you find yourself saying, “My adjuster is not returning my calls,” here are three essential steps to follow:
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1. Document Every Interaction
Keep a detailed record of all your interactions with the insurance company. This includes:
- Dates and times of phone calls, emails, and messages.
- Names of people you spoke with and their job titles.
- Summary of conversations and any promises or commitments made.
This documentation can be critical if you need to escalate your complaint or take legal action.
2. Escalate Your Concerns
If your adjuster is not returning your calls, it’s time to escalate the issue. Here’s how:
- Contact a supervisor: Request to speak with the adjuster’s supervisor or manager. Explain your situation and provide your documentation.
- File a complaint: If the supervisor is unhelpful, you can file a complaint with the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner. This state agency oversees insurance companies and can investigate your complaint.
- Send a formal letter: Draft a formal complaint letter detailing your issues, your attempts to resolve them, and your expectations. Send this letter to the insurance company’s corporate office.
3. Seek Legal Advice
If your adjuster is still not returning your calls after you’ve taken the above steps, it’s time to consult with a car accident lawyer. Legal professionals can:
- Assess your claim: A lawyer will review your case to determine if the insurance company is acting in bad faith.
- Communicate with the insurer: Sometimes, just having a lawyer involved can prompt the insurance company to act more responsibly.
- Pursue legal action: If necessary, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against the insurance company for bad faith practices, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Cheves Briceno for Assistance
When faced with an unresponsive insurance adjuster, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of your claim alone. At Cheves Briceno, we understand the frustration of dealing with an adjuster not returning your calls. Our experienced car accident lawyers in Columbus, Braselton, and Peachtree Corners are here to help.
We offer free consultations to discuss your car accident case and explore your options. Whether you need help communicating with your insurer or considering filing a claim, our team is ready to assist you. We also take personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us unless we win your case.
Don’t let an unresponsive insurance adjuster add to the stress of your car accident. Contact Cheves Briceno today for the support and guidance you need to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is handled fairly.
