Detailed Answer
After you submit additional medical evidence to support your Wyoming personal injury claim, your goal is to maintain momentum and prompt the insurer to review your materials. Follow these steps to communicate clearly, track progress, and avoid unnecessary delays.
1. Review Your Policy and State Law
Before following up, check your insurance policy for claim-handling deadlines. While Wyoming law does not set a strict timeframe for every response, it does prohibit unfair claim settlement practices under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 26-13-XX (Unfair Claims Settlement Practices). Also note Wyoming’s four-year statute of limitations for personal injury suits under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 1-3-105. Timely follow-up ensures you preserve your rights.
2. Send a Written Follow-Up
Use a concise, polite letter or email. Include:
- Claim number and date: Reference your original submission date and the insurer’s assigned claim number.
- List of attachments: Itemize the medical records, reports, and bills you sent.
- Requested action: Ask the insurer to confirm receipt and provide an estimated review date.
- Deadline: Request a response within 10–15 business days.
Send by certified mail or request a read receipt in email. Keep copies of your correspondence and delivery confirmations.
3. Follow Up by Phone
If you don’t receive a written response by your deadline, call the claims adjuster. Prepare a brief script:
- Introduce yourself and reference your claim number.
- Confirm that the adjuster received your additional evidence.
- Ask for an updated timeline for review.
Log the date, time, name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of the conversation.
4. Escalate When Necessary
If repeated follow-ups yield no response, escalate:
- Request to speak with the adjuster’s supervisor.
- Send a formal demand letter outlining your injuries, medical costs, and the insurer’s duty under Wyoming law.
- File a complaint with the Wyoming Department of Insurance at doi.wyo.gov.
Helpful Hints
- Maintain a detailed log: Track all calls, letters, and emails with dates and times.
- Use clear subject lines: e.g., “Claim #123456 – Submission of Additional Medical Evidence.”
- Be concise and professional: Stick to facts and avoid emotional language.
- Set calendar reminders: Prompt yourself to follow up at regular intervals.
- Confirm receipt: Always verify that your evidence arrived and is under review.
- Know your rights: Review Unfair Claim Practices and the four-year statute of limitations.
- Consider legal help: If the insurer ignores reasonable follow-ups, a personal injury attorney can draft a demand letter or pursue court action.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. If you need guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed attorney.