Birmingham Denied Insurance Claims Attorney
Many people have trouble dealing with their insurance companies. When they file an auto or homeowners insurance claim, they may get the runaround from their insurer. Their insurance company may delay or even deny valid claims for no apparent reason.
This is called bad faith and it is against the law. When a consumer has an insurance policy and files a valid claim against it, the insurer has the obligation to pay that claim in accordance with the policy.
However, not all insurance companies follow this law. Some will go out their way to deny claims because they want to save money. After all, a company loses money when they have to pay out claims.
Insurance companies are bound by good faith. They are required to treat policyholders reasonably or else they can be held liable and required to pay significant monetary damages. If your claim has been denied unfairly, a Birmingham denied insurance claim attorney can help you get the desired outcome from your claim.
Examples of Bad Faith
How do you know that your insurance company is acting in bad faith? Here are some common tactics they may use:
- Denying a claim without giving a reason. If your insurance company denies your claim, they must give a reason for doing so.
- Delaying payment of a valid claim. If your agent keeps delaying payment for unnecessary reasons, they are likely stalling in hopes you’ll give up. Sue them for bad faith.
- Refusing to pay a valid claim. Insurance companies have obligations set forth in their policies. If your claim meets the requirements but the insurance company refuses to pay it, this is considered bad faith.
- Failing to conduct a prompt investigation. An insurance company must investigate all claims promptly and thoroughly. Denying a claim without a full investigation is considered bad faith.
- Offering much less money than a claim is worth. Your insurance company should pay you based on the value of your claim. If you spend $10,000 on medical expenses, your insurer should not offer you $2,500 as compensation.
- Making threatening statements. Your insurance agent should never threaten you, call you names, or make inappropriate claims. If they do, they can be accused of bad faith.
- Misrepresenting policy language. Your insurance company must be truthful when it comes to policies and laws. When they purposely misinterpret the law to deny your claim, they can be charged with bad faith.
Contact a Birmingham Bad Faith/Denied Insurance Claims Lawyer Today
Insurance can be very costly, so as a consumer, you want to ensure you are being treated fairly and getting the benefits you’re paying for. If your claim is being delayed or denied, you want to make sure there is a valid reason.
If you believe your insurance company is acting in bad faith, seek legal help right away. The Birmingham bad faith lawyers at Goldasich, Vick & Fulk can assess your situation and ensure you are being treated fairly. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (205) 731-2566.
