Insurance Advocates – How they can work for you

Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task. Insurance companies are notorious for giving claimants the run-around, delaying claims, and even denying legitimate claims. This is where insurance advocates come in. Insurance advocates are professionals who help policyholders navigate the insurance claim process, ensuring that they get the coverage and compensation they deserve. This article will give you an in-depth understanding of insurance advocates and how they work to help you.

Who are Insurance Advocates?

Insurance advocates are professionals who help policyholders with their insurance claims. They work on behalf of the policyholder and not the insurance company. They are also known as public adjusters or insurance adjusters. They help clients with various types of insurance claims, including property damage claims, business interruption claims, and personal injury claims. Their primary responsibility is to make sure that policyholders receive a fair settlement from their insurance companies.

What are the Qualifications of a Good Insurance Advocate?

A good insurance advocate should have a valid license to operate in your state. They should also have a lot of experience dealing with insurance claims. It is important to ask for references and check if they have a good reputation in the industry. They should be trustworthy, reliable, and have excellent communication skills. They should also be knowledgeable about insurance laws and regulations.

It is also important to note that some states require insurance advocates to carry a surety bond. This bond ensures that the advocate will protect the policyholder’s interests and follow ethical standards.

How do Insurance Advocates Work?

When you hire an insurance advocate, they will first assess your insurance policy and determine the amount of coverage you have. They will then investigate the claim, including interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence. They will also work with experts, such as engineers and appraisers, to determine the extent of the damage or loss.

Once they have gathered all the necessary information, they will prepare the claim and negotiate with the insurance company. They will work to get the best possible settlement for the policyholder. If necessary, they will also represent the policyholder in court.

It is important to note that insurance advocates work on a contingency basis. This means they only get paid if they successfully negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. Their fee is usually a percentage of the settlement amount.

When should you Consider Hiring an Insurance Advocate?

There are several situations where it is beneficial to hire an insurance advocate:

Complicated Claims

If your claim is complicated, it may be challenging to get the settlement you deserve without the help of an insurance advocate. Complicated claims may involve multiple parties, extensive damage, or disputed coverage. An insurance advocate has the experience and expertise to navigate these complex situations.

Denied Claims

If your claim has been denied, an insurance advocate can help you appeal the decision. They can review your policy and provide evidence to support your claim.

Underpaid Claims

If the insurance company has offered you a settlement that is much lower than what you expected, an insurance advocate can help you negotiate a better settlement. They can review the damage or loss and provide evidence to support a higher settlement amount.

Time Constraints

If you are unable to devote the time and energy needed to handle your insurance claim, an insurance advocate can take care of everything for you. They can handle all aspects of the claim, from filing paperwork to negotiating a settlement.

FAQs

Q1. Will hiring an insurance advocate increase my chances of getting a settlement?

A1. Yes, an insurance advocate can greatly increase your chances of getting a fair settlement. They have the experience and expertise to negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.

Q2. How much does it cost to hire an insurance advocate?

A2. Insurance advocates work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. Their fee is usually a percentage of the settlement amount.

Q3. Will hiring an insurance advocate delay my claim?

A3. No, hiring an insurance advocate should not delay your claim. In fact, they can help expedite the process by handling all aspects of the claim for you.

Q4. Are insurance advocates licensed?

A4. Yes, insurance advocates are licensed professionals who are regulated by the state. It is important to check that your advocate has a valid license to operate in your state.

Q5. Can insurance advocates help with personal injury claims?

A5. Yes, insurance advocates can help with personal injury claims. They can work with medical experts to determine the extent of the injuries and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.

Conclusion

Insurance advocates can be a valuable resource for policyholders who are dealing with insurance claims. They have the experience and expertise to navigate the complexities of insurance claims and help clients get the compensation they deserve. If you are facing a complicated or disputed claim, or if you do not have the time or energy to handle your claim, consider hiring an insurance advocate to represent you.