The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and have a huge impact on all aspects of your life. On top of that, you will have to deal with the insurance company, which might be one of the most difficult things that you have ever endured. This is especially true if you believe that the insurance company is offering less than you deserve for your claim.

Many individuals will find that insurance companies do not want to pay what may be owed to you after an accident that is not your fault. With the support of your insurer, you may be able to compensate for aspects like medical expenses, lost wages, and many other factors. However, when an insurer acts in bad faith, you may not receive the reimbursement that is expected.

Bad Faith in Insurance Claims 

Bad faith insurance occurs when an insurance company does not uphold its obligations to a policyholder. In most cases, this happens when companies do not uphold a legitimate claim or they fail to fully investigate a claim. Here are the ways that bad faith usually occurs:

Unjustified Denial: Some individuals will receive a letter for an insurance claim denial in the mail for no reason. The insurer must explain why they are denying your claim. If they fail to do so, they are acting in bad faith. 

Delays: Insurance companies are also expected to confirm or deny claims in a reasonable amount of time. If they do not respond within a certain time limit, this is seen as bad faith.

Communication Failure: Your insurer is supposed to always keep up with communication and let you know about any information that is useful in your claim. If they are ignoring you or your inquiries, they could be acting in bad faith. 

Lack of Proper Investigation: Insurance companies must investigate your claim as thoroughly as possible so, if they deny your claim without an investigation, this means that they have acted in bad faith. 

Unreasonable Demands: Some insurers will attempt to delay the insurance claims process by making unreasonable demands and asking for documents that you may have little to no information about. If you cannot provide these documents in a short amount of time, they may claim that they are denying your insurance. 

Undervalued Claim: The insurance company may offer you a lot less than you deserve. 

Policy Alteration: Insurance companies will sometimes change or alter the policy without letting you know. After you file your claim, they will attempt to cite new terms and deny your claim even though you weren’t aware of these ‘changes.’

Threats: In the most severe cases, insurance companies may threaten you or use scare tactics on you so that you don’t file a claim.

How an Accident Attorney Can Help 

Insurance companies owe you legal obligations and must always obey the law when it comes to your policy and the promises they have made you. If you believe that you are being treated unfairly, it is important that you start working with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Florida immediately. Our personal injury attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are dedicated to helping you through this challenging time and will ensure that your rights are protected. Please contact an accident attorney in Florida at (904) 569-6025 for the help you deserve.