A wildfire can be extremely damaging, inflicting losses such as severe burn injuries and extensive property damage. Recovering from a California wildfire can be easier with a successful insurance claim that leads to financial compensation to cover the full extent of your losses. You need to prepare for potential challenges and common issues to get the full benefits you deserve.
Insufficient Proof of Losses
One way insurance companies often try to deny claims and reduce payouts is by requesting extensive proof of your losses. You can help prevent this roadblock by fully documenting your losses from the start, such as by taking pictures of damaged structures and personal belongings. Get a professional appraisal of your property damage to submit with your claim. If you were hurt in the fire, get immediate medical treatment and keep copies of your hospital records.
Unnecessary Delays
Another method used by insurers to avoid large wildfire payouts is to unintentionally delay the processing of a claim. Insurance claims adjusters may try to wait as long as possible to investigate, process or pay valid claims to pressure a claimant into quickly accepting the first settlement offer, which is often lower than the person requires. You can deal with claim delays by requesting explanations from the insurer for a prolonged or extended investigation timeline. There must be a valid reason. You can also hire a California wildfire attorney to expedite the process as much as possible from the beginning with efficient claim management.
Low Settlements
It is common for insurance companies to offer initial settlements that are lower than the true value of a wildfire victim’s losses. Homeowner and commercial property insurers maintain their profitability by regularly undervaluing settlements. Wildfires can cause immense damage, such as the destruction of structures that must be totally rebuilt. Do not accept a settlement until you ensure it meets the true extent of your bills and losses.
Policy Disputes
An insurance provider may try to dispute the limits or types of insurance on a policy during a wildfire claim. The insurer may reject coverage for certain types of losses based on policy exclusions, for example, such as for smoke or water damage. Policy lapses, insufficient coverage, administrative problems, missed deadlines and misrepresented policy terms can all lead to disputes over coverage.
Denials
Insurers may reject a valid claim for numerous reasons, from an alleged lack of coverage to partial denials for “invisible” fire damage, such as smoke damage. Insurance companies must give a reason when they issue a denial. Read the denial letter carefully and compare it to the language of your policy. If you cannot remedy the issue yourself by submitting more evidence or contesting the denial, contact an attorney for claims assistance.
How a Wildfire Attorney Can Help
A wildfire claim can encounter many challenges that interfere with your ability to recover from the disaster. Insurance companies may dispute your claim or undervalue your losses to protect their own interests. The most effective way to move forward with your claim is with help and guidance from an experienced wildfire attorney. An attorney can take over the legal legwork of your case, from accurately estimating your wildfire losses to dealing with unnecessary delays and unfair denials by insurers. A lawyer will work hard to secure the case results you need to recover, rebuild and restore your life as much as possible.