Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
After you submit additional medical evidence to an insurance company for your personal injury claim, effective follow-up ensures the carrier reviews your documents timely and accurately. Under Pennsylvania law, insurers must handle claims in good faith and within a reasonable time frame. See 42 Pa. C.S. § 8371 (Unfair Insurance Practices Act).
1. Confirm Receipt and Record Reference Numbers. Wait 7–10 business days for the insurer’s acknowledgment. If you don’t receive confirmation, send a polite follow-up email or letter requesting a claim reference number. Having a claim number speeds up all future communications.
2. Organize and Summarize Medical Evidence. Attach a cover letter summarizing each medical report, date of service, provider name, and key findings. Label exhibits (Exhibit A, B, C) and point to pages in your summary. This clarity reduces processing errors.
3. Track Deadlines. Personal injury claims under Pennsylvania’s two-year statute of limitations must be filed within two years of the injury date. See 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524 (Statute of Limitations). Make sure your follow-up occurs well before any critical deadlines.
4. Send Follow-Up with Proof of Delivery. Use certified mail with return receipt, or an equivalent trackable courier service. In your letter, reference the claim number, list the documents submitted, and state that you await written confirmation within a reasonable period (e.g., 10 business days).
5. Maintain a Detailed Communications Log. Record date, time, name of the representative, and content of each call or email. This log can prove essential if you later allege bad faith handling under 42 Pa. C.S. § 8371 or need to file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Insurance Department (Insurance Department Complaints).
6. Escalate Responsibly. If the insurer fails to respond or denies your claim unfairly, consider sending an executive appeal to a higher-level adjuster or supervisor. Cite your earlier communications, reference statutory duties, and request a timely review. If needed, consult an attorney specializing in Pennsylvania personal injury and insurance claims.
Helpful Hints
- Keep physical and digital copies of all evidence and correspondence.
- Be concise and professional in every communication.
- Follow up promptly if the insurer misses its self-imposed deadlines.
- Use bullet points and headers in letters to improve readability.
- Know when to seek legal assistance, particularly if the insurer delays unreasonably.