If your claim is denied, don’t panic. Belal Hamideh, experienced Long Beach personal injury lawyer, has helped many whose claims were initially denied. Insurance companies often deny claims for various reasons, but there are actions you can and should take. You should:
- Review the denial letter – The insurer must provide a written explanation. Understanding their reasoning is the first step towards successfully receiving the compensation you should.
- Gather additional evidence – If the denial is based on insufficient proof, collect medical records, witness statements, photos, or police reports.
- File an appeal – Most insurers have an appeals process. Follow their guidelines and submit any missing documentation.
- Consult a personal injury attorney – If the insurer is acting in bad faith or you’re unsure how to proceed, legal help can make a difference. Belal very well may be able to help you. He can tell you during a free case evaluation.
Why would an insurance company deny my claim?
The insurance company could deny your claim for any number of reasons. Common reasons for denial include:
- Lack of evidence – Insufficient proof that the other party was at fault or that your injuries are serious.
- Missed deadlines – Failing to file within the statute of limitations or not submitting paperwork on time.
- Disputed liability – The insurer claims you were partially or fully at fault.
- Pre-existing conditions – They argue your injuries existed before the accident.
- Low medical treatment – If you didn’t seek immediate medical care, they may downplay your injuries.
- Policy exclusions – Certain injuries or accidents may not be covered under the policy.
Belal Hamideh may be able to assist you if the insurance company denies your claim. After all, they may have done so erroneously and you may have a strong case.
Can I appeal a denied claim on my own?
It’s not a good idea. You limit the possibility that you can receive the compensation you deserve. If the insurer disputes fault or injury severity, an attorney can strengthen your case by:
What if the insurance company offers a low settlement after denying my claim?
This is a common tactic—deny first, then offer less than you deserve. Do not accept without consulting an attorney. A low offer may not cover future medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Belal Hamideh can assess whether the offer is fair or fight for a better resolution.
How can Belal Hamideh help with my denied claim?
Belal Hamideh has extensive experience handling denied claims and can assist by:
- Investigating the accident – Collecting police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Reviewing medical records – Working with doctors to prove your injuries are accident-related.
- Filing an appeal – Ensuring all paperwork meets legal requirements.
- Negotiating with insurers – Using legal strategies to push for maximum compensation.
- Taking legal action – If necessary, filing a lawsuit to hold the insurer accountable.
What if the insurer claims I was at fault?
California follows comparative negligence rules, meaning you can still recover damages even if partially at fault (though your compensation may be reduced). An attorney can challenge their assessment by:
- Proving the other party’s negligence was greater.
- Presenting evidence like traffic laws, accident reconstruction, or cell phone records.
Belal explains how this and more works in his videos.
How long do I have to appeal a denied claim?
Deadlines vary by insurer and case type. In California, personal injury lawsuits generally must be filed within two years of the accident. However, appeals with the insurer may have much shorter windows. Missing deadlines can forfeit your rights, so act quickly.
What if my claim was denied because of a pre-existing condition?
Insurers often use this excuse to avoid paying. However, if the accident worsened a prior injury, you may still be entitled to compensation. Belal Hamideh can help by:
- Obtaining medical opinions linking the accident to your current injuries.
- Proving the insurer is misusing your medical history to deny a valid claim.
Can I sue the insurance company for bad faith denial?
Yes, if they unreasonably denied your claim or acted dishonestly. California law requires insurers to handle claims in good faith. If they violated this duty, you may sue for additional damages. Signs of bad faith include:
- Ignoring evidence.
- Failing to investigate properly.
- Delaying payments without cause.
- Offering far less than your claim is worth.
Steps to Take If Your Insurance Claim Is Denied: In-Depth
A denied insurance claim can be frustrating, but you have options. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do next:
Study the Denial Letter Carefully
Insurance companies must provide a written explanation for denials. Look for:
- The specific reason for denial (e.g., “lack of evidence,” “disputed liability”).
- Deadlines to appeal (some insurers require a response within 30-60 days).
- Any missing documentation they claim you failed to submit.
More Evidence May Be What’s Required
If the denial was due to insufficient proof, strengthen your case by collecting:
- Medical records (doctor’s notes, treatment plans, imaging results).
- Accident reports (police reports, witness statements, photos/videos).
- Proof of lost wages (pay stubs, employer verification).
- Expert opinions (if needed, such as accident reconstruction or medical specialists).
File an Appeal with the Insurance Company
Most insurers have an internal appeals process. Steps include:
- Writing a formal appeal letter addressing their reasons for denial.
- Attaching new evidence that supports your claim.
- Following their submission guidelines (deadlines, required forms).
Consult a Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney
If the insurer refuses to cooperate, Belal Hamideh can help by:
- Reviewing your case for errors or bad faith tactics.
- Negotiating directly with adjusters for a fair settlement.
- Preparing a strong demand letter with legal arguments.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary.
Consider a Bad Faith Insurance Claim
If the insurer acted unfairly (e.g., ignored evidence, delayed without reason), you may sue for bad faith, which can result in:
- Additional compensation beyond your original claim.
- Punitive damages (if their conduct was especially unreasonable).
Act Quickly – Deadlines Matter
- Insurance appeals often have short windows
- California’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is generally two years from the accident date.
Belal Hamideh has helped many clients over the years. You can see some of his reviews here.
Common Insurance Company Tactics to Deny Claims & How Belal Hamideh Counters Them
Insurance companies often use aggressive tactics to minimize or deny valid claims. Belal Hamideh knows how to fight back to protect your rights.
Disputing Liability (Claiming You Were at Fault)
Tactic: The insurer argues you were partially or fully responsible for the accident to reduce or deny compensation.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Gather police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to prove the other party’s negligence.
- Works with accident reconstruction experts (if needed) to demonstrate fault.
- Uses California’s comparative negligence laws to ensure you still recover damages even if partially at fault.
Downplaying Your Injuries (“Pre-Existing Condition” Excuse)
Tactic: The insurer claims your injuries existed before the accident and aren’t related.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Obtains medical records and expert testimony showing the accident worsened your condition.
- Highlights timing of symptoms (e.g., no prior complaints before the crash).
- Exposes their bad faith if they exaggerate minor past issues to deny your claim.
Delaying the Claims Process
Tactic: Insurers drag out investigations, hoping you’ll accept a lowball offer or drop the claim.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Sets strict deadlines for the insurer to respond.
- Files pre-litigation demands with legal consequences for unreasonable delays.
- Prepares to file a lawsuit if they refuse to act in good faith.
Offering a Quick, Lowball Settlement
Tactic: They push a fast, unfair payout before you realize the full extent of your injuries.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Reviews medical prognosis and future costs (surgeries, therapy, lost wages).
- Calculates the true value of your claim (including pain & suffering).
- Negotiates aggressively or takes the case to court for maximum compensation.
Claiming “Insufficient Evidence”
Tactic: The insurer says you didn’t provide enough proof, even if you did.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Collects additional evidence (surveillance footage, cell phone records, expert testimony).
- Forces them to reevaluate with a strongly documented appeal.
- Uses legal pressure (e.g., subpoenas if they ignore key facts).
Misinterpreting Your Policy Language
Tactic: They twist policy terms to say your claim isn’t covered.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Reviews the full insurance policy to challenge their interpretation.
- Cites California insurance laws that protect policyholders.
- Files a bad faith lawsuit if they knowingly misapply coverage.
Pressuring You to Give a Recorded Statement
Tactic: They ask for a recorded call, hoping you’ll say something they can use against you.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Advises you never to give a statement without an attorney.
- Handles all communications with adjusters to prevent traps.
- Ensures you only provide necessary facts—no speculation.
Denying Medical Treatment Was “Necessary”
Tactic: They argue your doctor visits, therapy, or surgeries were excessive.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Submits detailed medical reports showing treatment was accident-related.
- Gets testimony from your doctors explaining why care was essential.
- Threatens legal action if they refuse to cover valid medical bills.
Blaming “Lack of Immediate Medical Attention”
Tactic: They deny claims if you didn’t see a doctor right away (common with soft-tissue injuries).
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Explains delayed symptoms (e.g., whiplash, concussions).
- Shows consistent medical records once treatment began.
- Proves you had valid reasons for waiting (e.g., financial concerns).
Wrongfully Denying Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Claims
Tactic: Your own insurer refuses to pay even when the at-fault driver has no coverage.
How Belal Hamideh Counters It:
- Proves the other driver was uninsured or underinsured.
- Files a bad faith claim if your insurer unreasonably denies UM/UIM benefits.
Belal Hamideh’s Legal Strategies Against Insurance Denials
- Aggressive Evidence Collection – Leaves no stone unturned to prove your case.
- Expert Negotiation – Knows insurer tactics and how to counter them.
- Trial-Ready Approach – If they won’t pay fairly, he’ll take them to court.
- No Upfront Fees – You pay nothing unless he wins your case.
What compensation can I recover if my claim is approved after denial?
Possible damages include:
- Medical expenses (past and future).
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Property damage (vehicle repairs, etc.).
- Punitive damages (if the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless).
How much does it cost to hire Belal Hamideh for a denied claim?
Belal Hamideh works on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront. Fees are only collected if you win your case, typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict.
What should I bring to my consultation with Belal Hamideh?
To evaluate your case, bring:
- The denial letter from the insurer.
- Police/accident reports.
- Medical records and bills.
- Photos/videos of the accident and injuries.
- Correspondence with the insurance company.
How long does it take to resolve a denied claim with legal help?
Timelines vary—some cases settle in months, while complex disputes may take years if litigation is needed. An attorney can speed up the process by aggressively pursuing evidence and negotiations.
What if my claim was denied because I didn’t seek medical help right away?
Delayed treatment can hurt your case, but it’s not always fatal. A lawyer can argue:
- You didn’t realize the severity of your injuries initially.
- Symptoms developed over time (common with whiplash, concussions, etc.).
- You had valid reasons for postponing care (financial concerns, fear, etc.).
Can Belal Hamideh help if my claim was denied after a car, truck, slip-and-fall, or motorcycle accident?
Yes, Belal Hamideh handles all types of personal injury cases, including but not limited to:
- Car accidents.
- Truck collisions.
- Motorcycle crashes.
- Slip-and-fall incidents.
- Pedestrian accidents.
- Dog bites.
- Wrongful death claims.
Why choose Belal Hamideh over other Long Beach personal injury attorneys?
- Local knowledge – Familiar with Long Beach courts, judges, and insurers.
- Proven results – Successful track record in denied claim appeals.
- Personalized attention – Direct access to your attorney, not just paralegals.
- Aggressive advocacy – Willing to fight insurers in court if needed.
What if I can’t afford medical treatment while fighting the denial?
Belal Hamideh can connect you with doctors who treat patients on a lien basis (payment deferred until case resolution). This ensures you get care without upfront costs.
Can I still recover damages if the at-fault driver was uninsured?
Yes, through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Many insurers wrongfully deny these claims—an attorney can force them to honor your policy.
What’s the first step if my claim was denied?
Contact Belal Hamideh’s office for a free case review. He’ll analyze your denial, explain your options, and outline the best strategy to recover compensation. Schedule a free case evaluation today.