In North Carolina, ask your insurer in writing for duplicate copies of your uninsured motorist (UM) demand and the denial letter. Insurers must give a reasonable written explanation for a denial and may resend it on request. If you are represented by an attorney, the insurer will usually send documents only through your lawyer. If the insurer will not cooperate, you can involve the North Carolina Department of Insurance or obtain the documents through discovery after filing a UM action.
You want to know whether, in North Carolina, you can get copies of your UM demand and the insurer’s denial letter, and how to do it if the adjuster will not send them. You are the insured making a UM claim and need the documents as proof of what was requested and how the claim was denied.
Under North Carolina law, your UM claim is a first-party claim under your auto policy. Insurers must fairly investigate and provide a reasonable written explanation for any denial that references the policy provisions. You may request duplicate copies of communications in your claim file, including your demand and the company’s denial letter. If you file a lawsuit or proceed under a policy arbitration clause, you can use discovery to obtain the documents.
Apply the Rule to the Facts: Because this is a first-party UM claim, you can ask your insurer for duplicate copies of your demand and the denial letter. The company should provide a written explanation for any denial that cites policy language. If you have counsel, route the request through your attorney. If the insurer refuses or delays, you can escalate with the Department of Insurance or, once a case is filed, obtain the letters through Rule 34 discovery.
In North Carolina, you can request duplicate copies of your UM demand and the insurer’s denial letter. Insurers must give a reasonable written explanation for a denial tied to policy terms, and you can obtain the documents directly, through your attorney, via a Department of Insurance complaint, or through discovery if litigation begins. Next step: send a written request to your adjuster with your claim and policy numbers asking for copies of the demand and denial letter.
If you’re dealing with a UM claim denial and need your demand or denial letter, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.