For most of your adult life, buying insurance has probably been pretty cut and dry, black and white, consisting of the insurer helping you protect your property—and you writing checks in exchange for such services, never expecting to be subjected to something like an examination under oath. This is often the case with car insurance, and even homeowner’s insurance, if you have been lucky enough never to have damage or to have to file a claim. And while no one enjoys making endless payments to protect a risk that in the end never had a claim filed on it, the bottom line is that you never know what could happen. If the worst does occur, it means everything to know that you are dealing with an insurer who will handle a claim expediently and honestly. It also means everything to know you will not lose your property or business or medical care.
If you are concerned that you are running into trouble with an insurer though, it is time to get out the insurance policy and read it from beginning to end, if you have not done so previously— along with making an appointment to meet with a skilled insurance attorney from an office like the Bolender Law Firm.
There can be much more to an insurance policy than you may realize, which is why it is critical to read every word, although realistically that may be a long and boring endeavor. You are protecting yourself in understanding everything the insurance company could ask of you in the event of a claim, along with what provisions they have in place to protect themselves.
If you have been handling a claim on your own, you may be surprised to find that the insurance company has asked you to participate in an examination under oath (EUO). This could seem very intimidating, and the insurance company may be putting you through aggressive motions so that they can get out of paying a claim; however, most insurance policies do outline the possibility of such measures, also making it clear that your claim could be denied if you do not agree.
Unfortunately, the EUO usually emerges as part of the claim process when the insurance company is investing fraud. During the EUO, which can be a formal proceeding, there is usually someone responsible for transcription, recording the process, and all your answers to what intricate legal questions. At this point you need strong legal expertise to guide you, and especially if a large insurance claim is at stake.
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!