Filing an insurance claim after a personal injury is often one of the first steps toward financial recovery. You expect that your medical bills, lost income, and other damages will be covered—especially if the facts are on your side. But when the insurance company comes back with a denial, it can feel like a major setback.

Being denied can be frustrating, especially when you're already trying to recover physically and emotionally. While it might seem like the end of the road, it doesn't have to be. Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons, but a denial doesn’t mean you don’t have a valid case. You may still have options to challenge that decision and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

Let’s take a closer look at why insurers deny personal injury claims, what steps you should take after receiving a denial, and how legal support can make a difference.

Why Do Insurance Companies Deny Claims?

Insurers don’t always act in good faith. While some denials are legitimate, others are based on technicalities or designed to limit payouts. Here are common reasons a claim might be denied:

• They dispute who was at fault. The company may argue their insured wasn’t responsible for your injuries.
• You waited too long to get medical treatment. A delay in care can weaken the connection between the accident and your injuries.
• Missing documentation. If important records—like medical reports or an accident report—aren’t included, your claim may be rejected.
• Policy limitations or exclusions. Some policies exclude specific types of accidents or impose limits that affect your claim.
• Pre-existing conditions. The insurer may try to blame your symptoms on an old injury or medical condition.
• Filing errors or missed deadlines. Even small mistakes or delays can give insurers a reason to deny a claim.

Understanding the reason behind the denial is the first step toward addressing it.

What to Do After Your Claim Is Denied

Don’t assume that the insurer’s decision is final. Here’s how you can respond:

1. Get the denial in writing. The insurer must provide a letter stating why the claim was denied. Read it carefully.
2. Review your insurance policy. Make sure you fully understand what’s covered, including any exceptions.
3. Collect your records. Gather everything related to the injury—photos, medical reports, bills, police reports, and any communication with the insurer.
4. Avoid giving additional statements. Be cautious about what you say to the insurance adjuster from this point forward.

With this foundation, you’ll be better prepared to appeal or take the matter further.

Can You Appeal a Denied Injury Claim?

Yes. Many denied claims can be appealed—sometimes successfully. Each insurance provider has its own appeal process, but most involve these steps:

• Write a formal appeal. Respond directly to the denial points and explain why the decision should be reconsidered.
• Provide more documentation. Strengthen your appeal with updated medical records, expert evaluations, or new witness statements.
• Act within deadlines. Appeals usually have to be filed within 30 to 60 days of the denial.

Even if you follow the process exactly, the insurer may continue to deny your claim. That’s when legal help becomes even more important.

After a Denied Claim: When It’s Time to Contact a Lawyer

If the insurer won’t budge—or offers a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover your losses—it may be time to get an attorney involved. A lawyer can step in and push back on your behalf, especially when negotiations have stalled.

Keep in mind:

• Time limits apply. In many states, including New Jersey and New York, you typically have two to three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.
• Legal representation shows you're serious. An insurance company usually takes a claim more seriously when a lawyer is involved.

Working with a legal team can give you leverage, help uncover additional coverage, and present your case in the strongest light possible.

Why It Matters Financially

Without a successful claim, you may be stuck paying medical bills out of pocket, losing income, or covering the costs of long-term treatment. This kind of financial pressure can be overwhelming—especially when the accident wasn’t your fault.

Don’t give up if your claim was denied. With the right information and support, you may still be able to get the compensation you need.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

A denied personal injury claim doesn’t have to be the end of your case. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we help clients challenge insurance denials and fight for what they deserve.

If you’re feeling stuck after your claim was turned down, let us review your case and explain your legal options. We’re here to protect your rights and guide you through the appeals or litigation process. Contact us today for a free consultation.