When an insurance company acts in bad faith, they are not fulfilling their obligations to you as a policyholder. This can include wrongfully denying a claim, delaying payment, offering an unreasonably low settlement, or failing to investigate your claim properly. Insurance companies are legally required to act in good faith and deal with claims honestly and fairly. However, when they fail to do so, you may need the help of a Columbus, OH insurance claims lawyer to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how a lawyer from Brenner Hubble LLC can help:
The first step a lawyer will take is to assess the details of your case. Insurance policies are often complex, and understanding the terms and conditions is crucial for determining whether the insurance company has breached its duties. A lawyer will review your policy to ensure you are entitled to the coverage you claim. They will also evaluate the circumstances surrounding your claim and determine if the insurer is acting improperly.
If the insurer is delaying payment without valid reasons, offering an unfairly low settlement, or refusing to pay altogether, your lawyer can help you understand whether these actions violate the terms of your insurance contract or if the insurer is engaging in bad faith.
One of a lawyer’s primary roles is to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If the insurer is not acting in good faith, they may offer a low settlement or attempt to avoid paying what they owe. A lawyer can handle these negotiations, ensuring that the insurance company provides a fair settlement reflecting your claim’s full value.
Lawyers have experience negotiating with insurance adjusters, and they know the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. Having legal representation ensures that your interests are prioritized, and the lawyer will work to hold the insurer accountable for any unfair practices.
If your insurance company refuses to pay or offers an inadequate settlement, a lawyer can help by gathering the necessary evidence to build a strong case. This may involve obtaining medical records, police reports, repair estimates, or expert opinions demonstrating the extent of your damages.
In some cases, the insurer may dispute the validity of your claim or the amount of compensation you are entitled to. Your lawyer will gather the evidence needed to counter these arguments and show that your claim is legitimate. This might involve conducting investigations, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts in relevant fields. A strong case can pressure the insurance company to provide a fair settlement or avoid litigation.
If the insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith or continues to deny your claim unfairly, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. This is often necessary when an insurer engages in extreme bad faith practices, such as denying a legitimate claim without cause or purposefully delaying payments.
A lawyer can file a bad faith lawsuit on your behalf, a legal claim against the insurance company for failing to honor its contractual obligations. In a bad faith lawsuit, the court may award the full amount of the original claim and additional damages for the insurer’s wrongful conduct. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the insurer and deter future misconduct.
Insurance companies often have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests and minimize their financial liability. Without proper legal representation, it can be difficult for an individual policyholder to stand up to these tactics. A lawyer can level the playing field, ensuring that your rights are protected and you are not taken advantage of during the claims process.
If your insurance company is acting in bad faith, a lawyer can also help you determine the best course of action to secure the compensation you deserve. They can advise whether you should accept a settlement offer, continue negotiating, or pursue legal action.
When your insurance company is acting in bad faith, it can be frustrating and overwhelming. If you believe your insurer is acting in bad faith, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you take the necessary steps to hold the insurance company accountable and ensure that your interests are protected. Call Brenner Hubble LLC to schedule a confidential consultation and find out what legal recourse you may have.