Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney in Wisconsin for guidance on your personal injury claim.
Detailed Answer
Once you’ve submitted additional medical records to support your personal injury claim, taking a structured, proactive approach to follow up can help move your case forward and reduce delays. Under Wisconsin law, insurers must handle claims fairly and in good faith (Wis. Stat. § 628.34), and they generally have set timeframes to acknowledge and resolve claims (Wis. Stat. § 628.46). Here’s how to follow up effectively:
- Confirm Receipt in Writing
Within a few days of sending your medical records, email or mail a short note asking the claims adjuster to confirm they received and added the documents to your file. Keep copies of all correspondence.
- Set a Reasonable Deadline
Wisconsin law doesn’t specify an exact response time for liability claims, but many insurers aim to review new evidence within 15–30 days. In your follow-up, state that you’d appreciate an update by a certain date (e.g., “Please let me know your decision by June 15, 2024”). This creates a clear target.
- Ask Specific Questions
Rather than a general “any news?” inquiry, ask targeted questions:
- “Has the adjuster completed the file review?”
- “Are there any outstanding documents or forms you need?”
- “Do you anticipate making a settlement offer based on this evidence?”
- Document Every Interaction
Keep a log of phone calls (date, time, person spoken to, summary) and save emails. If you speak by phone, follow up with a brief email summarizing the conversation. This creates a paper trail if disputes arise.
- Escalate If Necessary
If you don’t receive a response by your deadline, send a formal letter via certified mail. Reference previous communications and cite Wis. Stat. § 628.34 on unfair claim settlement practices. Politely request an immediate update.
- Consider Mediation or Legal Counsel
If the insurer still stalls or denies your claim without adequate explanation, you can explore mediation or hire an attorney to send a demand letter. An attorney can help enforce your rights under Wisconsin’s bad faith statutes.
Helpful Hints
- Keep all medical bills and doctor’s notes organized chronologically.
- Use email when possible for faster, documented communication.
- Politeness and professionalism can speed things up—avoid aggressive language.
- Record claim numbers, adjuster names, and policy numbers in a central file.
- Review your insurance policy for internal claim-handling deadlines.
- If you’re unsure about statutory timelines, check Wisconsin’s statutes online.
By confirming receipt, setting clear deadlines, and keeping detailed records, you signal that you’re organized and serious about your claim. If you hit a roadblock, certified letters and legal assistance can push the process forward and protect your rights under Wisconsin law.