Sometimes adjusters tell unrepresented claimants that if they don’t accept the claim or do some other task that the insurance company wants, that the insurer will “close” the claim.
I recently received a question about whether an insurance company can cut off benefits by simply closing the claim.
As an attorney, it is my job to make sure you are informed with the informaiton you need to make decisions and arm you with the knowlegede you need to seek legal advice and support. Take a look at what you should do if an an adjuster threatens to close your claim.
Internal Procedures are Not Laws
There is no statute or case law that defines or allows for “closing” a file, short of a full release and settlement agreement signed by the injured party (or the expiration of the statute of limitations). An insurance company may have some internal procedures for “closing” a file, but that is not binding in a court of law. Filing a lawsuit against the insurer forces them to address your claims, regardless of how they classify them internally.
Seek Legal Advice
If an insurance company is using a sham argument about closing your claim to get you to do something, there is a reasonable possibility they are not being forthright on other things as well. It may be time for a legal consultation.
From the threatening insurance company, to the scary courtroom and judge, filing a lawsuit may seem like a daunting task. However, it is not as frightening as it seems and the auto accident attorneys in Milwaukee are always willing to hear your story and help you through the process.
Additional Legal Resources
Here are some additional legal resources that may be of benefit to review. Take a look and as always, let us know how we can help.
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