Filing an auto insurance claim is stressful enough. Having it denied can be financially devastating. A new study from Anidjar & Levine reveals the states where drivers are most likely to face that frustration — and offers actionable tips to protect yourself.

The States with the Most Denials

The study found that 5% to 15% of auto insurance claims are denied each year. California leads the nation with 4,800 denial complaints, followed by Texas with 4,200, and Florida with 3,800.

California

Drivers here face not only high denial rates but also delayed payments and disputed settlements. Heavy traffic, complex accident investigations, and strict state regulations all contribute to the problem.

Texas

In Texas, policyholders often report low settlement offers and poor claim handling in addition to outright denials. Disputes over repair costs and coverage limits are common.

Florida

Florida’s challenges include fraud, uninsured drivers, and slow settlements. These issues can make it harder for legitimate claims to be processed quickly and fairly.

Why Insurers Say No

According to the Anidjar & Levine analysis, the most common reasons for denial include:

• Missing or incorrect information on the claim form.
• Policy lapses from missed payments.
• Exclusions for certain drivers or uses of the vehicle.
• Waiting too long to report the accident.
• Disputes over who was at fault.
• Coverage that doesn’t match the damage claimed.

How to Reduce Your Risk

The study offers a checklist for drivers:

• Automate your premium payments to avoid lapses.
• Read your policy carefully to understand exclusions.
• Report accidents immediately — within 24 hours if possible.
• Document everything: take photos, get police reports, and collect witness statements.
• Keep your insurer informed about changes in drivers or vehicle use.
• Follow traffic laws to avoid violations that could void coverage.

Beyond the Top Three

The rest of the top ten states for claim denials are New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio, and North Carolina. While denial rates are lower than in the top three, drivers in these states still face significant challenges.

If You’re Denied

Don’t give up. You can request a written explanation and file an appeal. Provide additional documentation if possible, and consider seeking legal advice if you believe the denial was unjustified.

The Bottom Line

The Anidjar & Levine study makes it clear: understanding your policy, acting quickly after an accident, and keeping thorough records are your best defenses against a denied claim.

About the Study: This research was conducted by Anidjar & Levine, a Florida-based personal injury law firm that advocates for accident victims and policyholders. The firm regularly publishes studies to help consumers navigate complex insurance processes.