Have you felt a sinking feeling while dealing with an insurance claim?

Bad faith claims are more than minor hiccups in the process. They represent a severe breach of trust between policyholders and insurers. Identifying what rises to the level of bad faith is crucial. It could be the difference between a swift conclusion and an extensive battle.

Take the first step toward protecting your interests by reading our quick guide today. We will review your legal options and share tips that will help you take the next steps with confidence.

Understanding Bad Faith Insurance Claims 

Bad faith insurance claims occur when insurers disregard their duty to treat policyholders fairly. It does not refer to poor service or mistakes. The law makes this issue about insurers intentionally rejecting, delaying, or underpaying claims. Failing to investigate a claim properly or offering unreasonably low settlements are paramount examples.

Other instances of bad faith actions include one or more of the following:

• Lack of clear communication
• Denying a claim without providing valid reasons
• Lack of investigation
• Twisting policy language to the insurer’s advantage
• Avoiding payouts
• Pressuring policyholders to accept low settlements
• Changing policy terms after a claim

What Can You Do About a Bad Faith Insurance Claim?

You can start with a thorough review of your policy. Your coverage details and the insurer’s responsibilities are critical to what happens next.

Additionally, keep a comprehensive record of all interactions with your insurance company. These particulars should include dates, times, names, and conversational details. They may play a vital role if the situation escalates to a lawsuit.

Promptly comply with any requests from your insurer and track the materials you provide. Maintaining professional communication is vital to tackling this situation. Stay courteous and practice open communication to allow for a better outcome. Next, write an email or letter that records your discussions.

Signs of a Bad Faith Insurance Claim

Identifying red flags is central to protecting your interests as a policyholder. One of the most frequent signs is poor communication. You should not be in the dark, enduring delays, or receiving unclear responses.

Furthermore, be cautious of excessive documentation requests that seem more obstructive than helpful. The insurance adjuster may want to find something that justifies a denial or lowball offer. They may also hunt for details that legal counsel would not want you to share.

Spotting these signs early can avoid lengthy disputes that drain your resources and income. A quicker intervention means you can resolve any issue more efficiently.

Legal Remedies and Options

There are several legal paths available to policyholders. You can start with a formal complaint to your state’s insurance commissioner. This document must lay out your reasons for suspecting bad faith actions.

If this approach doesn’t yield results, you can consider legal action. Taking an insurer to court for bad faith means proving their behavior was purposeful or neglectful. Your representation will present a compelling case that they caused delays or underpaid without legitimate grounds.

Adhering to your state’s specific protocols is crucial. If you lean toward a lawsuit, consult an attorney. They can evaluate your case’s viability and steer you in the proper direction. Then, they will advocate on your behalf in court if necessary.

Preventing Bad Faith Insurance Claims

There are proactive steps that can help avoid bad-faith insurance claims. The first is to study your coverage, limits, exclusions, and claims process. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, especially when purchasing an agreement. This foresight can help you spot potential issues that could escalate later.

It is easy to forget, but keep a meticulous record of your interactions with your insurer. Log all phone conversations, archive emails, and file physical documents. This preparedness can help avoid misunderstandings and make civil complaints smoother to file.

Do your utmost to nurture a positive relationship with your insurance provider. Maintain consistent communication, ensure timely payments, and report any changes that could impact your coverage. Approach any issues that arise calmly and professionally.

Talk to a Local Attorney About a Bad Faith Insurance Claim

Getting through bad faith claims can be challenging, but it is possible to protect your rights. Reviewing your policy, recognizing the signs, and knowing the steps help.

Nonetheless, you may be in a position to take legal action today. We can connect you to a local insurance claim lawyer who can review your case and offer advice.

Our representatives stand by 24/7 to refer you to local legal help. Contact them today by calling (866) 345-6784 or completing this online form.