As a policyholder, it is your right to file a claim for pain and suffering after a car accident. However, you might be wondering what information your insurance company will need from you and what they can and cannot investigate regarding your medical history. This blog post will help you understand the process so that you can know your rights and make informed decisions.
Firstly, it is essential to know that insurance companies have the right to investigate your medical history to determine whether your claim is legitimate or not. Therefore, when you file a claim, expect your insurer to ask for your medical records and bills. You may also need to give permission for your healthcare provider to release this information to your insurance company.
Secondly, if your claim is related to pre-existing conditions or past injuries, your insurance company may investigate your medical history further. They may ask for additional records and bills related to the pre-existing condition to determine its relationship with your injury claim. This investigation can include medical records for a few years before the current accident to trace the origin of the injury.
Thirdly, insurance companies may also investigate previous claims you have made with other insurers. Most insurers share claim information via a database called the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE). Therefore, if you have had a previous injury claim with another insurance company, it is possible that your current insurer will investigate it and use it to validate or deny your current claim.
Fourthly, even if you have no pre-existing conditions or previous claims, insurance companies may still investigate your medical history. They may interview your medical providers to understand your injury further. Also, their medical assessors might request specific tests to diagnose your injuries or review other treatments that could have affected your current condition.
Lastly, it is important to know that insurance companies have limitations on the information they can request and investigate. You have the right to refuse to share information that isn’t related to your medical condition. Also, if you have received mental health services or a drug or alcohol treatment history, you have the right to refuse to disclose that information since they are separate from your physical injuries.
Filing a claim for pain and suffering after a car accident is your right, and insurance companies have a legitimate reason to investigate medical injuries to prevent fraudulent claims. However, it’s important to understand your rights and the limitations of your insurance company. Always read your policy thoroughly and seek advice from a professional who will guide you through the process, ensuring that you get the compensation, you deserve without compromising your rights and privacy.