When you sign up for an insurance policy, you’re placing your trust in that insurer that they will take care of you when you need it most. You pay a premium on a consistent basis in order to make sure that when disaster strikes, you don’t have to worry about footing the full bill. However, it’s all too common that insurance companies try to wiggle their way out of paying what they owe, which can spell countless troubles for their customers.
Whether it’s health or homeowners insurance, it’s not unusual for insurers to find ways to avoid paying their policyholders. Read more below.
Rushing claims and settlements
Insurance companies reaching out immediately and wishing to settle a claim may on the surface seem positive, but sometimes that’s not the case. When this happens, particularly in personal injury cases, the long-term effects of the accident or damage are not completely apparent. For example, if someone suffers an injury that affects them down the road, the rushed settlement may not cover those effects.
Taking recorded statements
While it may seem like standard procedure and something that could help your claim, a recorded statement taken by your insurer can actually result in an underpaid claim. Sometimes, insurers will take a recorded statement knowing the claimant is not an expert and may say things that allow them to avoid paying the full amount they should. For example, making a statement in a personal injury case before the claimant can get a comprehensive diagnosis.
Only offering partial payments
By claiming that damages are not covered under a policy or even shifting blame onto a claimant, an insurer may only offer a partial payment. This is why it’s absolutely crucial to scour your policy and be fully aware of what it covers not only to protect you but to also spot if and when your insurer attempts to underpay you.
Another tactic insurers use is delaying claims, sometimes even until the statute of limitations runs out. Not only does this drag out the process and cause claimants stress, but it’s also completely unfair.
Telling you not to speak with an attorney
Astonishingly, sometimes insurance companies will point-blank advise or tell claimants to not speak with attorneys. They’re well aware that experienced insurance attorneys are passionate and highly skilled at getting clients their deserved compensation, so they’d rather claimants not seek their counsel. However, if your insurer is not holding up their end of the policy, it’s imperative to speak with an insurance attorney.
Brooke Boltz knows insurance
Brooke Boltz has fought for countless clients when they’ve experienced unfair treatment from insurance companies. She’s not afraid to go up against the largest of insurers in order to win the compensation her clients deserve to get their lives back on track. If you’re facing a dispute with your insurance company, Brooke is who you need to get in touch with.
Boltz Legal is here for you. Contact us today.