Insurance Bad Faith Hits Poor Families the Hardest

Our firm has litigated numerous insurance bad faith cases representing clients across the board. In terms of property claims, these cases have ranged from multi-million dollar losses to corporate buildings, to million dollar losses to large wealthy homes, to minor losses to small private homes. Invariably, however, the smaller losses to indigent families are the most troubling.

Bottom line, insurance companies make money by denying claims or limiting payment on claims. For large companies and wealthy individuals, a denied insurance claim can be just a small headache. But for a single parent with two jobs whose roof is leaking and plumbing is not operational, the headache can turn into a debilitating nightmare.

If your insurance claim is denied or payment is minimal, it is important to have an attorney review your insurance contract and any communications from your insurance company regarding the denial. If the damage to your home is a covered loss, depending on your type of coverage, you are entitled to either the actual cash value of the damage or replacement value.

Additionally, Chapter 58 of the North Carolina General Statutes requires that all insurance companies operate in good faith with respect to claims made by their insureds. This includes requirements such as: affirming or denying coverage in a prompt manner; promptly investigating your claim; not denying a claim for an improper purpose; not providing justification as basis for denial of a claim, etc.

Do your homework any time you make an insurance claim. Insurance companies have a duty to their insured and the laws of North Carolina interpret insurance contracts in favor of the insured and in favor of coverage.

This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.