We’ve all been there: In a fight with our insurance company to get paid for something it says isn’t covered.
From medical bills to car repairs, Fox Four Problem Solver Linda Wagar gets some expert advice from attorney Robert Clarke who goes to battle with insurance companies every day.
So what’s Clarke’s advice to avoid becoming a victim of a stingy insurance company?
First, read your policy. That way you won’t think you have better coverage than you actually have. When it comes to health insurance, Clarke said patients should ask their doctor to help them obtain written pre-authorization from the insurance company before going in for an expensive procedure.
If all you are able to get is approval over the phone, Clarke said be sure to take lots of notes, including who you talked to and what day and time you made the call.
When it comes to car insurance, Clarke says if you get hit by another driver don’t expect a lot of help from the other driver’s insurance company
“Their obligation is to their insured,” said Clarke.
Here’s another piece of advice from an attorney who handles insurance claims: Buy a lot of insurance. Clarke said he has seen the problems from being underinsured. He said everyone shoudl have at least $100,000 in liability coverage, not just the $25,000 required by the state. Also stock up on uninsured motorist coverage. It doesn’t cost much, but could save you a bundle if you ever get hit by a driver with no insurance.