How to Appeal a Denied Auto Insurance Claim in Oklahoma

February 28, 2025

Has your Oklahoma automobile insurer rejected your claim for damages? If so, preparing to take action quickly is the first step in addressing their decision. As a policyholder, you are entitled to file an appeal.

In the world of automobile insurance decisions, “no” does not always mean no.

To maintain or increase profitability, auto insurance companies regularly deny claims. Some denial reasons are valid – for example, the lack of a specific type of coverage — but others are simply made in bad faith.  Because most policyholders accept these initial decisions as final, auto insurance companies’ strategies prove successful, and they continue what is often inappropriate behavior.

Doing nothing and accepting an insurance denial as final means that you assume financial responsibility for your losses; the costs associated with this decision can be considerable.  That said, you do have the option to file a claim appeal.  Bear in mind that this process can be complex and multifaceted. The language associated with many of the questions is technical; drafting and submitting an appeal can be challenging under the best of circumstances.

Because of this, engaging an Oklahoma automobile denied claims attorney can prove to be incredibly helpful. Seasoned professionals have an in-depth understanding of the laws governing insurance claims and the process for filing an appeal.  Moving forward with professional guidance is an investment in your future.

Steps to Filing an Automobile Insurance Claim Denial Appeal

If your automobile insurance claim was denied, taking action can be overwhelming.  Most people in this position don’t know where to begin or what to do. Below are the key steps to take when appealing your auto insurance company’s decision.

Identify an Automobile Denied Claims Attorney

Denying submitted claims is a business strategy employed by automobile insurance companies in Oklahoma and across the country.  Because so many people don’t realize they can appeal an insurance company’s decision or simply don’t want to deal with the associated hassle, insurance company profits are positively impacted by regularly denying claims.

One of the most effective ways to increase your chances of filing a successful appeal is to work with an experienced denied automobile claim attorney. These professionals leverage their knowledge of insurance company practices and the appeals process while managing all associated actions.

Knowledge is power, and leveraging it on your behalf when filing an auto insurance appeal is an important step.

Understand Your Automobile Insurance Policy

Provide your attorney with a copy of your insurance policy for review.  Individuals have options when purchasing auto insurance, so policies are not all the same.  While liability coverage is required by law (at amounts of 25/50/25), you can insure yourself for more.  Additional options include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and personal injury protection. Policy language can be extremely technical; you can rely on your denied claims attorney’s knowledge to decipher it.

You are eligible only for compensation that falls under the categories of your purchased insurance. Understanding your policy’s limitations is key to identifying whether your insurance company’s refusal to pay is legitimate.

Review Your Denial Letter

Together with your attorney take time to examine the denial documentation provided by your insurance company.  Simple mistakes can be corrected and resubmitted, along with an appeal letter.  Other reasons for refusal, like the absence of proof, can be rectified by submitting missing information (like accident reports, repair appraisals, or medical records).

If your attorney believes the reasons for denial were unacceptable, you may be entitled to damages in addition to compensation for your original claim.

Collect Supporting Evidence

Submitting an appeal letter without including evidence to support your request can be a futile effort.  You must provide tangible proof that your claim should have been paid.  Your attorney can skillfully connect the attached supporting evidence to the reasons why the denial is wrong.

Examples of evidence that may be valuable include photos and videos of the accident and damage to your vehicle, copies of the police report, detailed medical bills, records and physician statements, and repair estimates for damages.

You want to do everything you can to encourage the company to review, reconsider, and pay your claim.

File Your Appeal

Once your appeal letter is complete and signed and all appropriate documentation is attached, you must formally submit the packet to your insurance company, making sure you do this in accordance with their requirements.

Your insurance policy should detail their process.  Some companies want information to be uploaded to a portal, while others require appeals to be mailed.  In all cases, keep copies of everything you send, noting time and date of submission.  If you need to send a hard copy, consider utilizing certified mail which provides signed proof of delivery.

Don’t Blindly Accept Your Auto Insurance Company’s Refusal to Pay

Contact Doug Terry Law for Help with Your Appeal

Vehicle repairs and medical treatment necessary after an automobile accident are expensive. If you believe your insurance company wrongfully denied your claim, taking action to appeal their decision is critical.  It is your avenue to receiving the compensation you need and deserve.

For decades, founding attorney Doug Terry has led a team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals as they vigorously advocate for their clients throughout the automobile insurance appeal process.  These professionals are not only well-versed in insurance law, they understand the objectives of insurance companies and the tactics they take to maximize profits.

They appreciate that vehicular accidents are traumatizing and recognize that receiving a denial letter can be more than just frustrating — for many it is devastating.  By providing compassionate communication and hands-on service, the Doug Terry firm has earned an outstanding reputation. For many in Oklahoma, Doug Terry Law is their first phone call when dealing with denied insurance claims.

Taking action quickly is critical.  You need your reimbursement check to pay your accident expenses, and there are filing deadlines for appeals to which you must adhere. Doug Terry Law is well aware of this and is ready to go to work for you immediately.  Reach out to them today at 405-463-6362 to schedule your free consultation.  An insurance appeal is not a road you want to travel alone.