Don’t Wait: Why Timely Insurance Claims Matter in New York
When something goes wrong—whether it’s a car accident, property damage, or another covered event—you expect your insurance company to step up. After all, you’ve paid your premiums faithfully. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work that way.
Hi, I’m Scott Peterson. Today, I want to talk to you about something many New Yorkers don’t realize until it’s too late: your insurance company is not necessarily your friend.
Insurance Companies Aren’t in the Business of Paying Claims
It’s important to understand this hard truth: insurance companies make money by limiting payouts. They’re legally obligated to provide coverage according to the policy, but they also have an entire legal team and claims department trained to look for ways to reduce or deny claims.
One of the most common reasons for denial? Late notice of a claim.
What Counts as “Late” in New York?
Under New York law, most insurance policies require prompt or timely notice of a claim or potential claim. But here’s the catch: what’s considered “prompt” to an insurance company may be very different from what seems reasonable to you.
We’ve seen cases in New York where insurers tried to deny coverage after only a short delay—just a few days—in notifying them of a claim. Even if your delay was unintentional or you weren’t sure yet whether you’d pursue a claim, they may still use it as a reason to deny coverage.
This is especially true in liability claims where someone else is filing a claim against you, such as in a car accident or injury on your property.
What You Should Do
If you’re involved in an incident that might lead to an insurance claim:
- Notify your insurance company immediately, even if you’re unsure of the full extent of the damage or injuries.
- Document everything—take notes, photos, and keep a record of any communication.
- Do not delay—time is critical, and even a short wait could give your insurer a reason to deny coverage.
Know Your Rights in New York
New York has specific rules that govern insurance policies and bad faith claims. If your insurer wrongfully denies your claim or delays payment without justification, you may have legal recourse. But timing and documentation are crucial.
Need Help with an Insurance Claim in New York?
If you believe your insurance company is acting unfairly or if you’ve already been denied coverage, we’re here to help. Insurance law can be complicated, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
📞 Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. Let’s make sure your rights are protected.