It’s hard to make an accurate prediction about the outcome when a liability claim first comes to your attention. Some incidents resolve simply, while others do not. However, for those that delay the reporting of a claim to their insurer, the outcome is almost always worse than it otherwise could have been with prompt reporting.
The timing of a liability claim resulting from an alleged mistake, accident or injury is often inconvenient. But the importance of prompt claims reporting cannot be overstated. The longer you wait, the more difficult, costly and stressful it may be to resolve. Here is how early claim reporting can help minimize your exposure.
Why Every Day Counts When You Have a Claim
When an incident that could result in a legal liability claim happens, every day counts. It is critical to alert your insurance provider of the potential claim so that your provider can assist you through the process, if needed.
The more time that passes, the higher the likelihood that the involved will retain counsel. Once a legal representation begins, a liability claim can take an average of 58% longer to resolve. A longer process can increase the stress of dealing with the claim and may lead to additional or unnecessary costs.
The passage of time also impacts the assistance your insurance program can offer to protect you. Memory of the incident fades, evidence is lost and verifying facts becomes more difficult.
Delayed claims reporting may also impact outcomes in the event of a successful claim against you. The other party may hire a lawyer, seek out expert opinions or incur additional damages, all of which could increase the total claim cost.
The sooner you report an incident, the better. You may be able to settle the claim sooner, and without the other party hiring a lawyer. Memories will be fresh and evidence will be available to help your case. And in the event of a successful claim, a quick resolution will minimize the stress and cost.
In short, prompt claims reporting leads to better outcomes for you, including:
- Time saved
- Money saved
- Your interests protected
- Less worry and stress
Why It’s Important to Report Every Incident
It can be difficult to gauge which incidents will amount to nothing and which ones will lead to a costly settlement. This is why generally the best course of action is to err on the side of caution and report every incident to your claims specialist at the first indication of a claim, potential claim or lawsuit.
It is important not to ignore or conceal a claim. Commonly, there may be concern about the cost of defending against a potential claim or a belief that an incident will be forgotten and not pursued by the injured party. However, any such incident has the potential to result in a claim, leaving you unprepared.
It’s good practice to contact your carrier even in the case of an “incident only” report. You will be able to make a formal report of the incident in question while it is still fresh in your mind, ensuring that your insurance company has the information it needs to help protect you and your organization in the event the incident progresses to a claim.
How to Report a Claim to Your Insurance
To report a claim for your Lockton Affinity Outdoor policy, visit the claims page to fill out and submit our brief online form. We will follow up to gather additional information and answer questions, if necessary.
If you have additional questions about claims, we’re here to help! Call (844) 401-9444 to speak to one of our knowledgeable representatives. Phones are answered Monday through Friday, 7 A.M to 5:30 P.M. (CST).
Visit LocktonAffinityOutdoor.com to learn more.