What are the legal requirements for an insurance claim?
When an individual makes an insurance claim in Washington they must ensure they meet the legal requirements. The insurance company has to receive a signed and dated written notice of the claim. This notice should include information such as the name of the insured, the policy number, a description of the incident, the date and time of the incident, the estimated cost of the loss, and any other pertinent information. The insured must provide the company with other required documents, such as proof of identity and ownership, photographs of the damaged property, documents verifying any estimate of the loss, documents verifying residence if applicable, and any other information that may be requested by the insurer. When the insurance company receives the claim and the necessary documentation, they must investigate the claim and provide a written decision within forty days. If there is an unreasonable delay, the insured may be able to take legal action. The insurance company can deny the claim, adjust the claim, or accept the claim and make payment to the insured. When a claim is denied, the insurance company must provide the insured with a written notice that includes the reasons for the denial, as well as the details of the coverage and how to appeal the decision if the insured does not agree with it. The insured has the right to file a complaint with the state insurance commissioner, if they are unsatisfied with the decision made by the insurance company.
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