Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
After you submit additional medical evidence to support your personal injury claim, an insurance company must process your information promptly under Utah law. By following a clear, documented process, you can encourage a timely response and protect your rights.
1. Understand Utah’s Claim Response Deadlines
Under Utah Code §31A-26-303 (Unfair Claim Settlement Practices), insurers must acknowledge receipt of a claim within 15 days. They must also affirm or deny your claim within a reasonable time. If the insurer misses these deadlines, you can point to the statute to press for action.
2. Draft a Clear Follow-Up Letter or Email
- Reference your claim number, policy number, and date you submitted the additional evidence.
- List each document you sent and on what date.
- Ask the adjuster to confirm receipt and provide a new review timeline.
- Send your communication via certified mail or trackable email for proof of delivery.
3. Maintain Detailed Records
Log every interaction. Note dates, times, names, and the substance of conversations. Save copies of all letters, emails, medical records, and proof of mailing. Your file will help you if you need to escalate the matter or file a lawsuit.
4. Reference Your Insurance Policy
Review key policy provisions, including deadlines for submitting evidence and insurer response times. Cite these sections in your follow-up to show you understand your rights and obligations.
5. Escalate When Necessary
If the insurer fails to respond, consider two options:
- File a complaint with the Utah Insurance Department: insurance.utah.gov/complaints.
- Consult a personal injury attorney to explore litigation before Utah’s four-year statute of limitations expires (Utah Code §78B-2-305: le.utah.gov/xcode/Title78B/Chapter2/78B-2-S305.html).
Utah Law on Insurance Claims
Read the full text of Utah Code §31A-26-303 here: Utah Code §31A-26-303. This statute outlines insurer obligations and timelines for acknowledging, investigating, and resolving claims.
Helpful Hints
- Keep a dedicated claim folder with all emails, letters, and medical reports.
- Use certified mail or delivery receipts when sending documents.
- Maintain a polite, professional tone—courtesy can speed up responses.
- Follow up at reasonable intervals (e.g., every 2 weeks) if you receive no update.
- Set calendar reminders for insurer deadlines and statute of limitations.
- Consider legal counsel if the insurer delays unreasonably or denies valid evidence.