When you file an insurance claim, you expect the process to be straightforward and fair. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Some insurance companies may deny legitimate claims, delay payments, or fail to communicate effectively.
Insurance companies have a legal obligation to act in good faith. That means handling claims honestly, fairly, and promptly. When they fail to do so, they can—and should—be held responsible.
Filing a lawsuit against an insurance company is no easy feat. Our team has spent years helping people just like you stand up to big insurance companies. We know their tactics, and we know how to fight back. Whether your claim was denied without a valid reason, delayed for no justifiable cause, or mishandled in any way, we are ready to step in and advocate for you.
When you are up against an insurance company acting in bad faith, time is critical. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of holding them accountable. If you’re struggling with insurance bad faith, contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
We are people helping people and we are here to fight for you every step of the way.
Washington Bad Faith Insurance Law
In California, policyholders benefit from the protections outlined in the Unfair Insurance Practices Act, also called the California Insurance Code INS § 790.03. This law explains unfair and deceptive behaviors by insurance firms and mandates that they refrain from engaging in actions including:
- Misrepresenting important information to claimants
- Neglecting to establish reasonable investigation protocols
- Failing to sincerely try to expedite just and equitable settlements of claims
- Needlessly prolonging the investigation or payout process for claims
- Advising claimants against seeking legal counsel.
Bad Faith Tactics Used by Insurance Companies
Some insurers engage in tactics that can be classified as bad faith. Insurance companies are profit-driven entities, and, unfortunately, some may resort to bad faith tactics to protect their bottom line at the expense of policyholders. At Kantor & Kantor, we have seen firsthand the tactics insurance companies employ to deny, delay, or underpay valid claims.
Here are some common bad faith tactics used by insurance companies:
Delayed, Improper, or Absent Investigation
Insurance companies are obligated to promptly and thoroughly investigate claims made by their policyholders. However, bad faith may arise when an insurer fails to conduct a proper investigation or unreasonably delays the process. This could involve:
- Ignoring crucial evidence related to the claim
- Failing to interview witnesses or obtain necessary documentation
- Disregarding medical reports or expert opinions relevant to the claim
- Dragging out the investigation process without valid reasons.
Denial Based on Incomplete or Inaccurate Justification
A hallmark of bad faith is when an insurance company denies a legitimate claim without providing adequate justification or reasoning. Examples of this include:
- Rejecting a claim without providing a clear explanation or citing ambiguous policy language
- Denying benefits based on incorrect interpretations of policy terms
- Using biased or misleading information to support the denial of a claim
- Failing to communicate the specific reasons for denial to the policyholder.
Underpayment of Claims
Another tactic used by insurers engaging in bad faith is underpaying valid claims, often in an attempt to minimize their financial obligations. This may involve:
- Offering a settlement amount far below the actual value of the claim
- Disregarding the full extent of damages suffered by the policyholder
- Employing tactics to undervalue medical treatments, property damage, or other losses
- Delaying payment of the claim in the hope that the policyholder will accept a lower settlement out of desperation.
Other Unreasonable Conduct by the Insurer
Beyond outright denial of valid claims, insurers can breach their duty of good faith and fair dealing through various forms of unreasonable conduct, including:
- Intentionally prolonging the claim process without valid reasons, causing undue financial strain on the policyholder
- Providing false information or misleading the policyholder regarding benefits or the claims process
- Attempting to dissuade or obstruct the policyholder from pursuing legal action against the insurer.
Any such behavior that demonstrates a lack of honesty, fairness, or diligence on the insurer’s part may constitute bad faith.
Steps to Take After Your Claim Has Been Denied Due to Bad Faith Practices
Start by reviewing your insurance policy to understand the coverage details and the insurer’s reasons for denying your claim. Look specifically for the terms that the insurer has cited as the reason for the denial.
Keep a detailed record of all communications with your insurance company. This includes saving copies of emails, letters, and detailed notes from phone conversations. Documenting these interactions can provide essential evidence if you need to escalate your dispute.
If the reasons for the denial are unclear or seem unjustified, contact your insurance company for clarification. Respond formally to the denial with a written request for a comprehensive explanation of their decision and the specific policy language they are relying on.
Consult with a bad faith insurance attorney. An attorney can offer you a professional evaluation of your case, advising on the legality of the denial and the best course of action.
If after consulting with your attorney it is clear that the insurance company’s denial constitutes bad faith, consider formally appealing the decision. Your attorney can help draft a detailed appeal letter that outlines why the denial was improper and what actions you expect from the insurer.
If the appeal does not resolve the issue, be prepared to take legal action. Your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit against the insurance company. Preparing for litigation involves gathering further evidence, possibly hiring expert witnesses, and developing a compelling case to present in court.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor?
Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in your case when you are up against large insurance companies. Here’s why Kantor & Kantor stands out as the best choice for your bad faith insurance claims in Tacoma:
Experienced Attorneys
Our team is comprised of professionals who have spent years practicing insurance law. This focus has equipped us with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate even the most complex of cases. We understand the tactics insurance companies may use to deny claims, and we are prepared to counteract them effectively.
Proven Track Record
Our attorneys have secured favorable outcomes for countless clients, through both settlements and trials. Our track record speaks to our commitment and effectiveness in dealing with insurance bad faith claims.
Client-Centric Approach
We genuinely care about the outcome of your case because we understand the impact it has on your life. Our team takes the time to understand your situation fully and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
Results-Oriented
Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, we prepare every case with the intention to win. Our track record speaks for itself—countless clients have benefited from our aggressive and strategic legal tactics.
How We Can Help with Your Case
Here is how our experienced team can help you through your legal challenges:
- Thorough Investigation: Our lawyers thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your insurance claim. We gather evidence, review policy documents, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Strategic Legal Representation: Once we have assessed your case, we develop a strategic legal plan tailored to your specific situation. We leverage our extensive insurance law knowledge and our experience handling bad faith claims to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Effective Negotiation: Insurance companies often use delay tactics and lowball settlement offers to minimize their financial obligations. We are skilled negotiators who will advocate for our client’s rights. We will work to achieve a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your losses.
- Litigation Strategy: If negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful, we will take your case to trial. Our trial-tested litigators have the courtroom experience to present a compelling case before a judge and jury. We will aggressively pursue your claim through every stage of the litigation process, fighting for the best possible outcome.
Contact Our Tacoma Bad Faith Attorney Today
We believe in justice, in fairness, and in the rights of individuals like you to receive what you are owed. Our history of dealing with bad faith insurance cases means that we know exactly how to challenge those who try to take advantage of the system at your expense. We are prepared to uncover and challenge every unfair tactic thrown your way, fighting for the settlement you deserve.
Our team will guide you from the initial consultation through to the resolution of your case, providing support and advice. We understand the emotional and financial toll a bad faith insurance claim can take on you and your family.
Our promise to you is simple: We will be transparent, communicative, and accessible throughout the process. When you work with us, you’ll have a team that truly listens, cares, and takes action.
We take the time to understand your situation, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the process. If you are tired of battling insurance companies who do not seem to care, let us help you take a stand.
Contact Kantor & Kantor at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation, and let us start the conversation about how we can put our expertise to work for you. Together, we can strive for a resolution that restores your stability.
Attorney Glenn R. Kantor
Glenn Kantor is a founding partner of Kantor & Kantor LLP. As a young attorney, Glenn saw the injustice of wrongful insurance denials and created a law firm to represent individuals seeking to obtain their rightful benefits. Glenn is committed to ensure that clients receive the benefits they are entitled to under their insurance policies or group health plans. [Attorney Bio]
