What to Do When Claims Adjuster Won’t Return My Calls
If you’ve been involved in a workplace accident resulting in injury, it’s critical to file a claim for compensation as soon as possible. Under Colorado law, you have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. This might seem like a long time, but delaying the claims process can result in losing out on the settlements you are owed. For your workers’ compensation claim, you typically need to report the accident as soon as you know you were hurt at work.
Once you initiate your claim (whether for workplace injury or work-related car accident injuries), an insurance adjuster is assigned to your case. This individual is responsible for assessing the damage done and being your point of contact throughout the insurance claims process. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for insurance claims adjusters to stop returning your calls. At Alverson + O’Brien P.C., we help you understand your rights to maximize legal settlements and get the compensation you deserve.
Reasons Your Adjuster Isn’t Calling You Back
It’s not unusual for claims adjusters to avoid calling you back throughout your claims process. Do not wait for the adjuster to reach you because there are deadlines in place that can have severe consequences if missed. An adjuster works for the insurance company and is paid by the company as well.
There are a few other reasons your claims adjusters may not call back promptly.
They’re Not Legally Obligated To Call You Back
Simply put, the insurance company is under no obligation to proceed contact you. They deal with many claims each day and may view your accident as just another number. There are no legal requirements forcing them to contact you in a timely manner.
They’re Hoping You’ll Accept a Lower Settlement
A claims adjuster is hoping to drive down the value of your claim by drawing out the process. The insurance company knows that you may be struggling financially due to an inability to return to work after their injury. They may rely on this desperation as the case drags on to force claimants into accepting lower settlements than they may be entitled to.
The Interests of the Adjuster Differ From Yours
Your insurance company is, first and foremost, a company that is driven by profit. This means that it is not looking out for your best interests but for its own financial gain. Regardless of your coverage, the insurance company seeks to maximize its profit and can achieve this by rejecting claims, not providing the medical treatment you need and slowing down the settlement process. Claims adjusters have an incentive to reduce the value of your claim because you accepting a lower settlement means more money back in the company’s pocket.
The Steps To Take When Your Adjuster Doesn’t Call Back
If you are injured in a workplace accident, the cost of medical bills and time off work are likely mounting quickly. If you are waiting for medical treatment to be authorized, you don’t have time to wait for an adjuster to get back to you. Here are a few things to try when they aren’t returning your calls in a timely manner.
Obtain Proof You Have Submitted Your Documents
A workers’ compensation adjuster may claim they didn’t receive the necessary documentation to approve your medical treatments or compensate you for time off work. To refute this excuse, you can send them documentation as proof (pay stubs, medical records, unpaid medical bills, etc.). This method ensures you have a receipt of delivery, proving they have the information they need.
Hire a Colorado Attorney
If you are not getting the information or attention you need from your insurance company, it’s time to hire a Colorado attorney who specializes in representing injured workers in workers’ compensation claims. An attorney can speak to the insurance adjuster on your behalf when issues arise and monitor the claim for you moving forward. Hiring legal representation can reduce the stress you experience while you recover from your injury.
At Alverson + O’Brien, We Can Help
Every employer in Colorado is legally obligated to carry workers’ compensation insurance. The services we offer at Alverson + O’Brien, P.C., Attorneys at Law include communicating with adjusters and insurance companies for workers’ compensation claims, injuries from pre-existing conditions and social security disability insurance. Let us use our skills and experience to fight for the compensation you deserve.
