Can the insurance company deny my claim without explaining why?

No. While an insurance company can deny your car accident claim, it must give a reason for the denial. However, the explanation is often vague, incomplete, or based on a questionable interpretation of the policy. An experienced attorney can review the denial, determine if it involves bad faith, and help you challenge it.

How long should a car accident claim take?

The timeline for a car accident claim varies. Simple property-damage claims may resolve in a few weeks, while injury claims can take several months or longer, especially if medical treatment is ongoing. Long, unexplained delays or constant stalling can be a red flag that the insurer is trying to minimize or avoid paying your claim.

Do I have to use the insureru2019s recommended repair shop?

No. You are not required to use the repair shop recommended by the insurance company. You have the legal right to choose your own repair shop, obtain multiple estimates, and question any repair plan or valuation that seems too low or does not fully address the damage caused by the car accident.

What if the insurance company says Iu2019m partially at fault?

If the insurance company says you are partially at fault, do not accept their assessment without evidence. Insurers sometimes overstate your share of fault to reduce what they must pay. Under Ohiou2019s comparative negligence rules, you may still recover compensation, and a lawyer can help dispute unfair fault allocations.

Will hiring a lawyer change how the insurance company treats my claim?

Yes. Once you hire a car accident lawyer, the insurance company typically becomes more cautious and professional in its communications. Your attorney can handle negotiations, push back against delay or lowball tactics, and make sure your claim is properly documented and valued so you are not pressured into an unfair settlement.