Disputing A Denied Auto Insurance Claim After Crashing On Ice

Driving during the winter is always a terrifying situation, particularly if you live in an area that is prone to ice buildup. Crashing after slipping on ice is a situation that may result in some issues with your insurance company, making it important to understand the realities of this type of case.

Sliding On Ice Is An At-Fault Claim

When you are driving, and your car slips on ice, the insurance company considers you at-fault for the accident. This reality may not seem fair, but they argue that if you had been driving appropriately for the conditions, this accident wouldn't have happened. As a result, you are liable for injuries to yourself, to others, damage to your vehicle, and to any other vehicles or property, you may hit.

In most cases, you should be able to get coverage for these problems and avoid having to pay too much out of pocket. However, there are some instances in which you may be denied for slipping on ice. Fully understanding these reasons is an important step towards avoiding significant monetary loss. 

Denial May Be Possible

Your insurance company may deny your ice-slip claim if they believe that your driving was dangerous or problematic. While they understand that crashes like this are often out of the control of the driver, they may feel that your driving was particularly problematic.

There are a few reasons they may feel this way. For example, they may get a police report blaming you for the accident. Or you may have a history of accidents that they believe indicates poor decision-making skills. Whatever the reason, you can try to dispute this denial to avoid monetary loss. 

Disputing This Denial May Be Wise

If for any reason, your auto insurance company denies your claim after getting into an ice-related accident, you can dispute this denial and try to get it overturned. For example, you can talk to your agent and find out why you were denied and then send documentation from police showcasing that the accident was not your fault. Even if the accident is considered "at-fault" by your insurance, a letter like this may sway their denial.

You can also hire an independent appraiser to gauge the denial to tell the insurance company that your claim should be approved. An independent appraiser is a wise decision because they have no stake in you winning or losing. While this can backfire if the appraiser finds you were at fault in the accident, you should be okay if you weren't at fault.

As a result, it is a good idea to talk to your insurance agent and even get a quote on better auto insurance. This step is necessary because it can ensure that you are fully covered and not liable for an accident that is truly not your fault. For more information on insurance quotes, contact a local insurance agent.