Can a Lawyer Help Me With an Insurance Denial Appeal?

When you’re counting on insurance coverage after a car accident, property damage, illness, or other unexpected events, a denial can be devastating. It doesn’t just leave you short of funds; it can shake your faith in the entire insurance system. While you may initially try to appeal the decision yourself, there are many ways a lawyer can make a significant difference in obtaining the compensation you’re entitled to.

Understanding Your Policy & Navigating Complex Appeals

Insurance policies are complex legal documents, and understanding your rights within them can be daunting. A lawyer specializing in insurance law can help you navigate the insurance appeals process. The appeals processes can be multi-layered, a lawyer will be with you through each stage.

Here’s how our insurance attorneys can help you win your appeal:

  • Decoding the Fine Print: Insurance policies are often filled with complex legal language and confusing terms. A lawyer trained in insurance law can review your policy, pinpoint areas where the denial may be invalid, and identify coverage that the insurer might be trying to obscure.
  • Understanding State Laws: Each state has specific regulations governing insurance practices and claims processes. A lawyer can ensure your appeal aligns with these laws by managing deadlines, filing the correct forms, and ensuring the insurance company follows all required steps.
  • Multiple Rounds of Appeal: Denial appeals can involve internal reviews by the insurer and sometimes even an external appeal to a state agency. A lawyer can guide you through each stage, tailoring your arguments for maximum impact in different forums.

Building a Strong Case: Gathering Evidence & Presenting Arguments

A lawyer can significantly strengthen your insurance appeal. They’ll present your case clearly and persuasively challenging the insurer’s reasoning for denial. If the insurer acts in “bad faith,” a lawyer may be able to seek damages beyond what your policy originally covered.

  • Thorough Investigations: Lawyers understand the types of evidence that are persuasive in insurance disputes. They can help you collect medical records, repair estimates, expert opinions, police reports, or witness statements that support your claim.
  • Organized and Compelling Presentation: A lawyer knows how to present your case in a clear and concise manner. They can craft a compelling narrative that highlights the merits of your claim and directly counters the insurance company’s arguments for denial.
  • Challenging Insurer Bad Faith: In cases where the denial appears unreasonable or where the insurance company acts in “bad faith” (deliberately misleading or stonewalling), a lawyer can identify violations of your rights and potentially seek damages beyond your policy limits.

Aggressive Negotiation & Litigation When Necessary

A lawyer can be a powerful ally against insurance companies that rely on people giving up after a denial. Their presence signals your determination to fight for what you deserve. Experienced negotiators understand insurer tactics and can push for a better settlement. Should negotiations fail, a lawyer can confidently represent you in court, potentially winning a larger award than your original claim.

  • Leveraging Intimidation: Insurance companies know most people don’t have the time or resources to fight a prolonged legal battle. A lawyer’s presence alone sends a signal that you’re serious and won’t simply accept an unfair offer.
  • Experience at the Table: Skilled negotiators understand insurance company strategies. They can advocate forcefully for your interests and may secure a better settlement than you could achieve on your own.
  • Courtroom Power: If the insurer refuses to budge, a lawyer can build a strong case for trial. They can argue complex legal issues before a judge and may succeed in winning higher compensation than your initial claim.

Finding the Right Lawyer & Evaluating Costs

When facing an insurance denial, choosing the right attorney can have a big impact on your success. Choosing just any lawyer for something so important could lead to negative outcomes not just for your appeal—but also your life. Review the factors below you should consider before hiring an attorney for your insurance claim denial appeal.

  • Look for Specialization: Not all lawyers are equal. Seek out an attorney with a demonstrable track record of success in insurance denial appeals, particularly within your state.
  • Understanding Fee Structures: Lawyers can work on hourly rates, contingency fees (a percentage of your award), or a combination. Discuss payment upfront to avoid surprises.
  • Weighing the Pros and Cons: Consider the size and complexity of your claim, the potential benefits of legal help, and your financial resources when deciding if a lawyer’s cost is justified.

Doug Terry Law: Ready to Address Your Denied Health Care Claims

Contact Our Denied Health Insurance Claim Lawyer Today

At Doug Terry Law, we understand how to aggressively address denied claims while empathetically managing the legal process. We know you are frustrated and concerned about your financial future.

Payment on your medical insurance claims are not a luxury: they are benefits due to you for losses you have experienced based on the policy for which you paid. When claims are denied, you absorb the financial burden. We will address these issues on your behalf and work tirelessly for a positive outcome.

Years ago, Doug Terry founded his firm because he saw the unfair ways in which insurance companies treated individuals, and he believes that ordinary people need and deserve the same high quality legal services as large corporations.

Our clients have the entirety of our firm’s resources behind them as we work to right the wrongs of their health insurance companies.

When declined claims are an issue, act quickly. Contact our team at 405-463-6362 to schedule a free consultation.  Let us review your case and explain how we believe we can best support you.

GET A FREE CONSULTATION

Attorney Doug Terry

Lawyer Doug TerryAfter 25 years practicing in a larger firm, Doug chose to open his own practice in Oklahoma City. He brings his wealth of knowledge and his skills as a litigator to bear for his clients in matters of insurance bad faith, personal injury cases and class actions. Doug has the distinction of being awarded a Martindale-Hubbell “AV Preeminent” rating from his peers in the legal community. He has also been selected as an Oklahoma Super Lawyer. [ Attorney Bio ]

See All