Oklahoma City Bad Faith Insurance Attorney

Insurance is a reality of living in today’s age. You can’t finance a home, drive a car, or go to the doctor without it. That is, unless you are independently wealthy and can pay cash for the financial consequences of things such as a tornado, car wreck, or catastrophic illness. Since most of us do not have that ability, we rely on insurance policies to protect us from the devastating financial impact something like this may cause.

Insurance companies have endlessly lobbied to prevent federal oversight, and with severe budget limitations to most state agencies, they are able to handle claims with virtually no accountability other than through the courts. We are the last line of defense to fight back against insurance companies and protect your rights. We take pride in being bad faith insurance attorneys and serving the residents in OKC.

How Do Insurance Policies Work

An insurance policy is a contract that binds both parties to a set of terms — the insured pays premiums in exchange for the insurance company’s promise to pay benefits under the policy terms when a covered loss occurs. In other words, we pay for the insurance company’s promise to financially protect us if something happens. However, when a loss occurs, the insured is vulnerable. While the insured may be trying to heal from physical injuries or clean up from a devastating storm, they must also deal with their insurance company to get the benefits they paid their insurance premium.

Because of this vulnerability and the fact that the insurance company wrote the policy and is deciding on whether it will pay benefits, Oklahoma law places certain obligations on insurance companies to ensure insurance consumers are not taken advantage of and are paid benefits promptly. This is an “insurer’s duty to handle claims with good faith and fair dealing.”

Common Insurance Company Bad Faith Acts

• Unreasonable delays in paying benefits when the insurance company has all the information necessary
• Failing to notify insureds that coverage may exist for a loss or explaining how the coverage may apply to the loss
• Denying the validity of a claim regardless of whether the claim is valid under the terms of the policy
• Delaying an investigation of a claim and/or dragging out an investigation by transferring your claim to multiple adjusters
• Interpreting policy language to find ways to deny your claim, contrary to Oklahoma law
• Failing or refusing to thoroughly investigate the claim
• Making lowball offers to settle a claim quickly
• Assuring that a claim will be paid, then later refusing to do so

Steps to Take if You Suspect Bad Faith Insurance Practices

If you think your insurance company is engaging in bad faith practices, it is crucial to act promptly. Here are steps to consider:

1. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all communications with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and letters. Note the dates, times, and the names of the representatives you speak with.
2. Gather Evidence: Compile any evidence related to your claim, such as photographs, repair estimates, medical records, or any other documentation that supports your case.
3. File a Complaint: Consider filing a complaint with your state’s insurance department. This can help bring attention to your situation and may prompt an investigation into your insurance company’s practices.
4. Consult an Attorney: Pursue legal advice from an attorney experienced in bad faith insurance claims. They can guide you on the best action and help you understand your rights.
5. Know Your Rights: Educate yourself with the laws and regulations governing insurance practices in your state. This knowledge can empower you in discussions with your insurer and your attorney.

These steps can help protect your interests and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your bad faith insurance claim.

The Role of Expert Witnesses in Bad Faith Cases

In bad faith insurance litigation, expert witnesses can play a pivotal role in establishing the claim’s validity and demonstrating the insurance company’s failure to act in good faith. These experts may include industry professionals, such as former insurance adjusters or claims managers, who can provide insights into standard practices within the insurance industry. Their testimony can help clarify whether the insurer acted reasonably and by industry norms. Additionally, medical experts may be consulted in cases involving health or disability claims to assess the appropriateness of the insurance company’s claim evaluation. Utilizing expert witnesses can strengthen a lousy faith case by providing compelling evidence that supports the policyholder’s claims and highlights the insurer’s misconduct.

The Importance of Adhering to Insurance Claim Deadlines

It is crucial to keep in mind that there are strict deadlines that must be met in the insurance claims process and deadlines for suing an insurance company. Missing one of these deadlines can mean that an insurance company can deny your claim and that a court can dismiss your case without any recovery. It is important to consult with experienced attorneys when you have a concern about your claim.

The Responsibilities of Insurance Companies and the Need for Skilled Legal Representation

Essentially, an insurance company must thoroughly investigate your claim, fairly evaluate the results of its investigation, and promptly pay the benefits it owes you. Unfortunately, this is not the case all too often. In our decades of representing individuals and businesses, we’ve seen firsthand how far insurance companies will go to avoid paying claims. Because of this, victims of bad faith tactics by insurance carriers must find attorneys with an in-depth knowledge of the insurance industry to represent their interests.

Notable Verdicts and Settlements in Bad Faith Insurance Cases

Our firm has secured significant verdicts and settlements for clients facing bad faith insurance denials. These outcomes reflect our commitment to fighting for justice and holding insurance companies accountable for their actions. Here are some key examples of our recent successes:

• $4,100,000 – Settlement for a client with a bad faith denial of heart attack insurance policy benefits.
• $2,750,000 – Settlement obtained from a client involved in a bad faith denial of an Uninsured Motorist claim.
• $2,400,000 – Settlement for a client involved in a bad faith denial of life insurance benefits.
• $1,500,000 – Settlement for a client with a bad faith denial of Uninsured Motorist Coverage.
• $1,400,000 – Settlement on behalf of a client involved in a bad faith denial of health insurance benefits.

Contact Our Oklahoma City Bad Faith Insurance Attorney Today

Dealing with insurance companies can be a complex and often frustrating experience, particularly when faced with bad faith practices. It’s essential to understand your rights and the obligations of insurance carriers under Oklahoma law. At Fulmer Sill, our dedicated team of bad-faith insurance attorneys advocates for your interests and holds insurance companies accountable for their actions. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you believe you have been mistreated or had your claims unjustly denied. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate the path toward justice and the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is insurance bad faith?

Insurance bad faith occurs when an insurance company unreasonably denies a claim, fails to properly investigate a claim, or fails to act in the policyholder’s best interests.

What laws govern bad faith claims for insurance in Oklahoma?

Insurance bad faith claims in Oklahoma are primarily governed by case law and statutes such as Title 36 of the Oklahoma Statute, which outlines insurance practice regulations.

What damages can I recover in an insurance bad faith claim in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, if you prevail in an insurance bad faith claim, you may be entitled to recover damages, including the original claim amount, consequential damages, emotional distress damages, attorney’s fees, and sometimes punitive damages.

Is there a time limit for filing a bad faith insurance claim in Oklahoma?

Yes, a statute of limitations exists for filing a bad faith insurance claim in Oklahoma. Typically, the deadline is within two years from when the bad faith conduct occurred or was discovered.

Can I sue my insurance company for bad faith without first filing a complaint with the Oklahoma Insurance Department?

While it’s not a strict requirement, it’s generally advisable to exhaust administrative remedies by filing a complaint with the Oklahoma Insurance Department before pursuing legal action against your insurance company for bad faith.

Do I need an attorney to file a bad faith insurance claim in Oklahoma?

While you’re not required to have an attorney, seeking legal representation experienced in handling insurance bad faith claims is highly recommended. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and work to maximize your chances of success.

Can I file a bad faith claim against any type of insurance company in Oklahoma?

You can file a bad faith claim against any type of insurance company, including health, auto, homeowners, and commercial insurance providers, if you believe they have acted in bad faith.

What steps should I take if my insurance company acts in bad faith?

Document all communications with your insurance company, gather evidence supporting your claim, consider filing a complaint with the Oklahoma Insurance Department, and consult an experienced attorney to explore your legal options.