How to Ask an Insurer in Maryland to Reopen a Closed Auto Damage Claim

Short answer: Collect your policy documents and all evidence, request a written explanation and the claim file, send a clear written demand to reopen with supporting evidence, and escalate to the Maryland Insurance Administration if the insurer refuses. If those steps fail, consider appraisal/arbitration, small claims court, or hiring a lawyer.

Detailed answer — step-by-step process

This section explains practical steps you can take if your auto damage claim was closed without notice. It assumes you are in Maryland and starts from zero legal knowledge. This is educational information, not legal advice.

1. Confirm the claim status and gather documentation

Start by assembling everything related to the loss and the claim:

• Your insurance policy (declarations page and any endorsements).
• All communications with the insurer (emails, letters, call notes, dates and names of representatives).
• Photographs of vehicle damage, repair estimates, receipts, tow records, police reports (if any), and medical records (if applicable).
• The claim number, the adjuster’s name, and any claim file reference numbers.

2. Ask the insurer for a written explanation and the claim file

Contact the insurer in writing (email and certified mail recommended). Request:

• A written explanation for why the claim was closed and the specific date it was closed.
• A copy of the claim notes and all documents in the insurer’s claim file.

Insurers often record calls and maintain claim notes. Getting the file helps you see whether the closure was an error or based on a coverage decision.

3. Submit a written request to reopen the claim with supporting evidence

If you have new evidence or if the insurer closed the claim in error, send a formal written demand to reopen. Include:

• Claim number and policy number.
• Clear statement that you request the claim be reopened and why (new evidence, mistakes, missing documents, or incomplete investigation).
• All supporting documents (photos, repair estimates, police reports, receipts).
• A reasonable deadline for response (commonly 10–14 days).

Send this demand by certified mail (return receipt) and keep electronic copies.

4. Use the insurer’s internal appeal or dispute process

Many carriers have an internal appeal or claim dispute procedure. Ask the insurer to explain the appeal steps and follow them exactly. Keep records of appeal submissions and any deadlines described by the insurer.

5. Cite Maryland consumer protections and unfair claim practices

If the insurer closed the claim without reasonable explanation or failed to investigate, that could violate Maryland’s unfair claim settlement practices rules. See Maryland’s Insurance Article, which addresses unfair or deceptive acts and claim practices:

Maryland Code, Insurance Article § 27-303

When you communicate with the carrier, politely reference the state rules and that you may file a complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA) if the insurer does not adequately address the situation.

6. File a complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA)

If internal appeals fail or the insurer does not respond, file a complaint with the MIA. The MIA reviews consumer complaints, may investigate insurance companies for unfair practices, and can often help obtain a response from the insurer.

File directly here: Maryland Insurance Administration — File a Complaint

General consumer guidance from the MIA about claims is available here: MIA — Property & Auto Claims

7. Consider appraisal, arbitration, small claims, or a lawyer

Options if the insurer still refuses to reopen or fairly resolve the claim:

• Appraisal: If your policy contains an appraisal clause for disputes about the amount of loss, either side can initiate appraisal to resolve value disputes.
• Arbitration or mediation: Some policies require or allow alternative dispute resolution before a lawsuit.
• Small claims court: For smaller damage amounts you can file in the county small claims court (limits vary). Check the monetary limit for Maryland small claims.
• Hire an attorney: If damages are substantial or the insurer’s conduct looks unfair or bad-faith, an attorney who handles first-party property or auto claims can advise on next steps, including litigation.

8. Act promptly

Seek action quickly. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and legal deadlines (policy notice requirements or statutes of limitation) can bar claims later. Even if you file a complaint with the MIA, preserve all documents and communications.

Sample short written demand to reopen (hypothetical)

Below is a basic example of what to include in a written demand. Personalize with your facts and attach supporting documents.

Re: Policy No. [policy number], Claim No. [claim number]
To whom it may concern: I request that you reopen the above-referenced claim. The claim was closed on [date]. I disagree with that closure because [explain: e.g., new repair estimate, police report, missing documentation, incomplete investigation]. I attach [list documents]. Please confirm receipt of this letter and advise whether the claim will be reopened within 14 days. If I do not receive a satisfactory response, I will file a complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration and consider other remedies.

Helpful Hints

• Always send important letters by certified mail and keep proof of delivery.
• Keep a dated log of every phone call: who you spoke with, their title, and what they said.
• Ask for the adjuster’s notes and the claim file early. Those records often reveal why the insurer closed the claim.
• If you get a denial letter, read it carefully for how to appeal and any deadlines inside the letter or policy.
• Use the Maryland Insurance Administration as an advocate. They can request claim files and prompt an insurer to respond.
• If the insurer’s conduct appears unreasonable or intentionally obstructive, consider consulting an attorney experienced in first-party insurance claims.

Where to find more information

Maryland Insurance Administration: https://insurance.maryland.gov/

File a complaint: https://insurance.maryland.gov/Consumer/Pages/FileComplaint.aspx

Maryland unfair claim practices statute: https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ins&section=27-303

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not provide legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.