How to Follow Up Effectively with an Insurance Company After Submitting Additional Medical Evidence to Support Your Personal Injury Claim

Detailed Answer

After you submit new medical evidence to an insurer, prompt and organized follow-up can speed up your claim. Tennessee law requires insurers to investigate claims fairly and respond within a reasonable time. Under the Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act (Tenn. Code Ann. § 56-7-105), an insurer must not refuse payment without a reasonable investigation. Although the code does not set a fixed response deadline, most carriers aim to respond within 30 days of receiving new evidence.

1. Confirm Receipt in Writing
Send a brief letter or email to the adjuster confirming receipt of your medical documents. Include the date you sent the evidence and a summary of key records (for example, treatment dates and provider names). Use certified mail or read-receipt email to create a clear paper trail.

2. Track Your Timeline
Note the date you submitted the evidence. Follow up if you haven’t heard back after 14 business days. If you still receive no response by day 30, reference the insurer’s duty under Tenn. Code Ann. § 56-7-105 and request a status update.

3. Be Clear and Concise
In each follow-up, restate your claim number, policyholder name, and the specific records you sent. Ask direct questions such as, “Have you had an opportunity to review my MRI report dated June 5, 2023?” This clarity helps the adjuster locate your file quickly.

4. Use Multiple Communication Channels
Combine written follow-up with brief phone calls. After a call, send an email summarizing what you discussed: adjuster name, date, and next steps agreed upon. This dual approach ensures you can document verbal commitments.

5. Reference Statute of Limitations
Keep Tennessee’s two-year deadline in mind (Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-104). Politely remind the adjuster that timely handling avoids unnecessary delays or the need for formal action.

6. Escalate When Necessary
If repeated follow-ups fail, escalate within the company. Ask to speak with a claim supervisor or a manager. You may also file a complaint with the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) at tn.gov/commerce/insurance. Provide your communication log to support your complaint.

7. Consider Legal Help
While many claims settle without a lawsuit, consulting a Tennessee personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights. An attorney can handle follow-up, negotiate with the insurer, and, if needed, file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.

Helpful Hints

• Keep copies of all medical records and correspondence.
• Create a simple spreadsheet tracking dates, contacts, and outcomes.
• Use clear subject lines such as “Status Update Needed: Claim #12345.”
• Maintain professional tone; avoid emotional language.
• Set calendar reminders for key follow-up dates.
• Save voicemails and confirmation emails.
• Ask for written confirmation of any verbal update.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee to discuss your specific situation.