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Insurance Claims Disputes |
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 | | Insurance policies are contracts between an insurance company and the individual or business that purchased the policy. When insurance companies refuse or fail to pay a claim that is within the terms of a policy, the policyholder has a right to file suit against the insurance company to recover their losses. Successful suits often result in payment by the insurance company in an amount that is equal to the terms of the policy. In some cases, additional compensation may be awarded to cover additional damages and losses created by the breach of the contract and the necessity for taking legal action. |
While many law firms are hesitant to confront large insurance companies, Spohrer & Dodd attorneys have the commitment, experience and resources to successfully represent clients in this type of case. Our attorneys have obtained outstanding outcomes for clients related to homeowner policies (fire, storm damage, etc.) and motor vehicle insurance (truck and automobile accident-related claims). We have also successfully handled cases involving disability, health and life insurance claims. With unwavering concern for the best interests of our client, we go the distance to bring the case to a favorable conclusion, whether by trial or settlement.
Insurance Company Obligation: “Good Faith and Fair Dealing” All insurance policies contain an implied obligation of the insurance company to render "good faith and fair dealing" towards its insured. This obligation means that when a claim is made, an insurance company can not simply look for reasons not to pay. Instead, they are required to make a thorough investigation of the claim and to consider all the reasons and circumstances that might support the claim. When an insurance company refuses to pay a claim that is within the terms of the policy, denies a claim without adequate investigation, or offers a settlement in an amount that is less than it knows the claim is worth this may give rise to what is known as a “bad faith” claim by the insured – a claim that he company has breached its obligation for “good faith and fair dealing.” Some of the behaviors engaged in by insurance companies that result in legal action being initiated by the insured include: | | 
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- Unreasonable delays in claim processing
- Refusing to pay claim or offering discounted payment on a claim
- Requiring excessive documentation or verification of a claim
- Requiring the insured to resubmit information or collect information on previously established circumstances
- Delays due to switching adjusters during claim process or requiring multiple adjusters and quotes
- Failure to pay a claim when a judgment is made against the policy
- Fraud or misrepresentation related to appraisals and adjustments
Protecting Consumers’ Rights To Fair Insurance Claims Settlement  | | One example of Spohrer & Dodd’s work in this area of the law is our representation of a Florida family who was in a dispute with their insurance company related to their claim for hurricane storm damage. Our legal team investigated and reached a confidential settlement favorable to our clients. |
To see the results of representative Insurance Claims Disputes cases handled by Spohrer & Dodd attorneys click here: For additional information on Insurance Claims Disputes, click on any one of the links below: Insurance Information Institute Office of Insurance Regulation
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