Insurance is meant to provide peace of mind during life’s uncertainties. If you have found yourself in the frustrating situation of having your insurance claim denied, delayed, or unfairly settled, you’re not alone. Many individuals in Sacramento face the same hurdles every day. That is where we come in, as your dedicated Sacramento bad-faith attorneys.
At Kantor & Kantor, we are people helping people, and we know that behind every case, there is a person with a story, and we are here to listen, understand, and fight for your rights.
We recognize that every situation is unique and approach each case with the care and attention it deserves. Our client-centric approach means you are not just a case file but an individual facing real challenges. We are here to listen, understand, and guide you through the legal process, providing clear communication and unwavering support along the way.
Contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation. Let us be the bridge between you and the resolution you deserve, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Contact Kantor & Kantor at 818-886-2525 to book a free phone, video, or in-person consultation.
What Is Insurance Bad Faith?
Insurance Bad faith is a colloquial term that describes violations of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The covenant of good faith and fair dealing is an implicit, foundational principle in contract law, requiring that parties to a contract act honestly and fairly toward each other, and that they do not undermine or undercut the purpose of the agreement. This covenant is not usually explicitly stated in the contract but is implied by law in all contracts.
Bad faith broadly refers to an insurance company’s unethical or unlawful conduct in handling claims made by policyholders. When an individual purchases an insurance policy, they enter into a contractual agreement with the insurer. In this agreement, the insurer agrees to provide benefits and financial protection in exchange for the payment of premiums by the policyholder. Central to this agreement is the principle of good faith and fair dealing. Insurers are legally required to take extra steps to not commit bad faith by complying with insurance regulations, which is a higher duty than that owed by two equal parties in a non-insurance contract.
What Are Examples of Bad Faith?
Bad faith insurance practices can manifest in various forms, adversely affecting policyholders who rely on their insurers for protection and support in times of need. Recognizing the signs of bad faith is crucial for policyholders to assert their rights and seek legal recourse. Here are common examples of bad faith in insurance:
- Lack of Reasonably Prompt, Improper, or Thorough Investigation: Insurance companies must promptly and thoroughly investigate claims filed by policyholders. However, some insurers may fail to conduct a proper investigation or intentionally delay the process in an attempt to avoid paying out claims. This can result in unnecessary hardships for policyholders who are left waiting for resolution.
- Denial Based on Incomplete or Inaccurate Justification: A denial of an insurance claim must be supported by valid reasons and evidence. Unfortunately, some insurers may deny claims based on incomplete or inaccurate information, without thoroughly reviewing the facts. This can leave policyholders feeling unjustly denied benefits and without recourse.
- Underpayment of Claims: Insurance companies must fairly evaluate the value of a claim and offer a settlement that reflects the true extent of the policyholder’s losses. However, some insurers may intentionally underpay claims, offering settlements far below the claim’s actual value. This can leave policyholders struggling to recover financially from their losses.
- Denial of Valid Claim for Benefits: One of the clearest signs of bad faith is when an insurance company denies a valid claim for benefits without a reasonable basis. This can occur despite clear evidence supporting the policyholder’s claim for benefits. Our attorneys meticulously analyze the facts of each case to determine whether the denial of benefits was unjustified.
- Unreasonable Conduct by the Insurer: Insurance companies are required to handle claims promptly, fairly, and reasonably. Any conduct by the insurer that deviates from these standards may constitute bad faith. This can include unjustified delays in processing claims, inadequate investigation of the claim, or failure to communicate effectively with the policyholder. We closely scrutinize the actions of insurers to identify instances of unreasonable conduct.
- Damages Resulting from the Insurer’s Conduct: In bad faith insurance cases, it is not enough to demonstrate that the insurer breached its duty of good faith and fair dealing. It must also be shown that the policyholder suffered damages due to the insurer’s conduct. These damages can take various forms, including financial losses, emotional distress, and other adverse effects. Our attorneys work diligently to quantify and prove the damages suffered by our clients due to the insurer’s wrongful actions.
If you believe your insurance company is not fulfilling its obligations but your situation does not fit the categories above, contact our Sacramento bad faith insurance lawyers. There are numerous other instances beyond those listed where you may still be entitled to compensation under a bad faith claim.
We are people helping people, and we are ready to fight for you.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor?
When facing the complexities of a bad-faith insurance claim in Sacramento, you need experienced and dedicated legal representation. Here is why Kantor & Kantor should be your trusted partner:
Successful History of Holding Bad Faith Insurers Accountable
We have a proven track record of success. We have established ourselves as a formidable force in bad-faith insurance litigation. We have consistently achieved favorable outcomes for our clients, holding insurance companies accountable for their wrongdoings and securing the compensation our clients deserve.
Extensive Experience Litigating Bad Faith Cases
Our team of attorneys possesses extensive experience in litigating bad faith cases in Sacramento and throughout California. We have a deep understanding of the intricacies of insurance law and a keen ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we have the skills and resources to advocate for our clients’ interests effectively.
We Put Our Clients First
We understand the emotional and financial strain of a bad faith claim. We prioritize personal attention, clear communication, and unwavering support for each client we represent. You will not be treated as a case number – you will have a dedicated legal team by your side, actively fighting for your rights.
Aggressive Advocacy
When it comes to fighting for our clients, we are relentless. We are not afraid to take on even the largest insurance companies and their teams of attorneys. Our aggressive advocacy approach means we will stop at nothing to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients. We will fiercely advocate for your rights and interests, whether negotiating a settlement or presenting your case in court.
Do you need a bad-faith insurance attorney in Sacramento? Contact Kantor & Kantor at 818-886-2525 to book a free phone, video, or in-person consultation.
How We Can Help Your Case
Here is how we can assist you:
- Claim Evaluation and Strategy: Our first step is to thoroughly evaluate your insurance policy and the circumstances surrounding your claim. We analyze the facts to identify any signs of bad faith practices. With this information, we develop a strategic plan tailored to the specifics of your case.
- Litigation and Aggressive Advocacy: If negotiations fail to achieve a satisfactory resolution, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our litigators are experienced trial attorneys who approach each case with diligence and aggression. We present a compelling case in court, fighting for your rights and seeking the maximum compensation available under the law.
- Experience in Various Bad Faith Scenarios: Our legal team has successfully handled various bad faith insurance scenarios, including denials, delays, and underpayments. Whether your claim involves health insurance, disability insurance, life insurance, or any other type of benefits, we have the expertise to navigate the nuances of your specific situation.
What Damages Could You Receive for a Bad Faith Claim Against the Insurance Company?
If your insurance provider forces you to resort to legal action to obtain the rightful compensation owed under your policy, you may be entitled to recover damages well beyond the policy’s stated limits. These damages might include:
Contract Damages
Contract damages aim to put the policyholder in the position they would have been in if the insurance company had fulfilled its obligations under the policy. This may include the amount of money owed under the policy and any additional costs incurred due to the insurer’s breach of contract.
Consequential Damages
These pertain to the losses incurred directly due to the insurance company’s bad faith practices. For instance, if the insurer purposefully delayed the investigation or payment of your claim, you might be eligible to seek reimbursement for expenses such as temporary living arrangements.
Emotional Distress
We understand the immense strain of having your life put on hold while awaiting resolution from an insurance claim. If your insurer unjustly delayed or denied a legitimate claim, you may hold them accountable for the emotional toll, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD resulting from the ordeal.
Punitive Damages
These are granted only in exceptional cases where the court determines that the insurance company acted with malicious intent in bad faith. This implies that the insurer knowingly engaged in wrongful conduct despite being aware of its wrongdoing. Typically, substantial evidence is required to establish such malicious behavior.
Legal Fees
Pursuing legal action against your insurance company can incur significant expenses in terms of legal representation and court fees. Recovering these costs as part of the damages ensures that policyholders are not financially burdened by the need to seek what is rightfully theirs.
Without the prospect of facing significantly higher penalties for acting in bad faith, insurance companies would lack the incentive to behave reasonably. Therefore, the threat of substantial judgments is essential to encourage insurance companies to operate in good faith.
Long-Term Disability (LTD) Bad Faith
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance is designed to provide financial support to individuals who cannot work due to a qualifying disability. Unfortunately, insurance companies may wrongfully deny or terminate LTD claims, leaving disabled individuals without the crucial benefits they need to support themselves and their families.
Our attorneys understand the significant impact a denial or termination of LTD benefits can have on your life. Our experienced attorneys deeply understand the complex laws and regulations governing LTD insurance claims. We will thoroughly review your policy, gather supporting evidence, and aggressively advocate for your rights.
In cases of LTD bad faith, our attorneys can assist you with:
- Appealing denied claims and overturning wrongful termination of benefits;
- Gathering medical evidence and documentation to support your disability claim;
- Negotiating with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement;
- Pursuing litigation if necessary to hold the insurer accountable for bad faith practices;
- Seeking additional damages for emotional distress or punitive damages if the insurer’s conduct was particularly egregious.
Long-Term Care (LTC) Bad Faith
Long-term care (LTC) insurance is intended to cover the costs of nursing home care, assisted living facilities, and in-home care for individuals who require long-term assistance with activities of daily living. However, insurance companies may engage in bad faith practices such as unjustified claim denials, unreasonable delays in processing claims, or offering inadequate settlement amounts.
Pursuing a long-term care insurance claim can be overwhelming, especially when faced with a denial or termination of benefits. Our skilled attorneys have extensive experience handling LTC insurance disputes and can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Our attorneys can assist you with:
- Reviewing your LTC policy to determine your benefits and rights
- Appealing denied claims or benefit terminations through the insurer’s internal appeals process
- Presenting compelling evidence, including medical records and expert testimony, to support your claim
- Negotiating with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your long-term care needs
- Filing a lawsuit and pursuing litigation if the insurer refuses to uphold its obligations in bad faith.
Life Insurance Bad Faith
Life insurance provides financial protection for loved ones in the event of the policyholder’s death. However, some life insurance companies engage in bad faith practices, such as denying or delaying death benefit payments, alleging misrepresentation or fraud without evidence, or rescinding policies after the insured’s death. These actions can compound the emotional and financial hardship that grieving families face.
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling life insurance claims and will work diligently to hold insurance companies accountable for their actions. We are here to support and guide families grappling with life insurance disputes.
Our attorneys can assist you with:
- Reviewing the life insurance policy terms and assessing your rights to the death benefit
- Investigating the insurer’s reasons for denying or delaying the claim and challenging any unjustified actions
- Presenting evidence, such as medical records and policy documents, to demonstrate the validity of the claim
- Negotiating with the insurance company to secure a prompt and fair claim resolution
- Filing a lawsuit and pursuing litigation if the insurer engages in bad faith conduct or refuses to honor its contractual obligations.
Contact Our Bad Faith Insurance Lawyers in Sacramento Today
If you are facing the frustration of a bad faith insurance claim in Sacramento, contact Kantor & Kantor today and take the first step toward securing the justice you deserve. Our Sacramento bad-faith insurance attorneys are ready to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your legitimate insurance claim.
Contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
