It’s amazing how quickly the tides turn, and how fast a business relationship can change when one side is about to lose a substantial amount of money, or is worried about fraud. When you purchase insurance, everything is geared completely around you as the consumer—and gaining your business. With a smile and a handshake, you are on your way as the new owner of one or more policies, looking forward to having the peace of mind in knowing that the insurance company will protect you if something goes wrong (assuming it is not excluded from the policy). Unfortunately, that may be the best experience you ever have with your insurance company. On filing a claim, there is the potential for frustration and disappointment.
Although insurance agents are there to provide you with a necessary product and usually do so with charisma and promises, they are not your friends. And insurance companies don’t report billions of dollars in profits each year without being tough; so, if you are filing a large claim, there could be some pushback before it is finally paid. You may be forced to jump through a lot of hoops you were not expecting either. Perhaps you are trying to collect on a homeowner’s claim after a fire, for instance. While you were completely innocent of any wrongdoing, you may suddenly find yourself at the mercy of the insurance company and investigation units, being interviewed by adjusters who want to record the conversations and retrace steps where the fire began, and more. While the process may seem very intense, it may just be routine.
You should worry, however, if tactics begin to seem abusive. Are you being asked for excessive amounts of documentation—and personal information such as tax returns? Are you being subjected to accusations or are the adjusters or service reps taking on an intimidating attitude toward you in interviews or on the phone? While it is possible that they could suspect fraud, and at least are spending an inordinate amount of time ruling it out, the insurer could be acting in bad faith. Along with abuse regarding intimidation techniques and requests that overwhelm policyholders, bad faith insurers often delay claims, delay investigations, offer ridiculously low settlements, and deny claims outright.
If you suspect this is happening to you, it is not the time to go it alone. If you need help reviewing your insurance policy, or if you suspect your insurance company may be denying your claim in bad faith, contact the attorneys at the Bolender Law Firm. If a dispute over a claim cannot be easily resolved through a call or written communication, our attorneys will advocate on behalf of policyholders through litigation, arbitration, or non-binding mediation. Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients in state and federal courts, at both the trial and appellate level. Call us at 310-320-0725 now or submit an easy consultation request online. We are here to help!