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What You Need To Know
What Is An Insurance Coverage Dispute?
In North Carolina, an insurance dispute arises when there’s a disagreement between the insurance provider and the policyholder over a claim or policy terms. These disputes commonly occur when an insurance company denies a claim, offers a settlement amount lower than expected, or cancels a coverage without apparent justification. The insurance dispute process can be complex due to the intricate language of insurance policies and the various laws governing insurance practices in the state. This is why having an expert insurance coverage dispute lawyer is so necessary.
North Carolina law provides significant protection for policyholders, including provisions against bad faith and unfair and deceptive trade practices by insurance companies. When these are violated, policyholders may be eligible to receive punitive damages over and above the actual damages. It’s vital for policyholders facing these disputes to understand their rights and consider seeking legal representation to ensure they receive the benefits they’re entitled to under their policies.
Duties Of Insurance Companies To Policyholders
Your Rights Matter
In North Carolina, insurance companies owe several important duties to their policyholders. Firstly, they have a duty to defend, meaning they must defend a claim or lawsuit even if some, or most, of the lawsuit is not covered by the insurance policy. Next, they have a duty of indemnification, which requires them to pay a judgment against the policyholder up to the limit of coverage, provided that the judgment is for a covered act or omission. Furthermore, they have a duty to pay a claim for loss if it falls under the policy coverage.
These duties extend to good-faith dealings with the policyholders. Insurance companies in North Carolina are expected to act in good faith when working with their policyholders. If they fail to uphold this duty, the policyholder has the right to sue the insurance company for insurance bad faith. Notably, North Carolina state law also permits punitive damages against insurance companies as a means to deter future bad behavior. Moreover, the North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance can penalize insurance companies under the State’s Unfair Claims Practices Act if they demonstrate unfair behavior in handling claims.
Insurance Bad Faith and Unfair Claims
What Is Bad Faith?
Insurance bad faith and unfair claims practices refer to a variety of actions or omissions taken by an insurance company that are contrary to their obligations to their policyholders. These unethical practices can include an intentional delay in processing claims, refusal to defend a lawsuit, inadequate investigation of a claim, or deliberately delaying payment even when the claim is legitimate and fully documented.
Other forms of bad faith can involve making false accusations against the policyholder, engaging in unprofessional or disrespectful communications, or making unreasonable interpretations of an insurance policy to avoid payment. The refusal to make a reasonable settlement offer or to fully reimburse a policyholder for their losses, even when these are covered under the policy, also falls under bad faith practices. These actions can result in significant financial and emotional distress for the policyholder, who has faithfully paid premiums with the expectation of support in times of need.
What Can An Insurance Coverage Lawyer Do For You?
Miller Law Group Is Here For You
An insurance coverage lawyer, like our experienced team at Miller Law Group, performs a wide range of duties to protect the rights of policyholders and ensure fair dealings with insurance companies. They can thoroughly examine your insurance policy to understand its intricacies, guiding you through the complex language to clarify your coverage. They can evaluate your claim and help you through the process of filing it correctly. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, advocating for the maximum settlement you are entitled to.
In instances of bad faith insurance practices, an insurance coverage lawyer can file a lawsuit against the insurer, aiming to secure your rightful benefits. Moreover, they can represent you in court, building a solid case to defend your rights as a policyholder. Ultimately, an insurance coverage lawyer’s duty is to fiercely advocate for you, ensuring that insurance companies uphold their responsibilities.
Business Litigation Practice Areas To Explore
An Advocate For Policyholders
Experienced Attorneys On Your Side
Miller Law Group, PLLC, is a trusted and reputable law firm dedicated to representing policyholders in a wide range of disputes with insurance companies. Our experienced team specializes in handling claims that frequently arise from homeowner’s insurance, business liability coverage, property and casualty coverage, insurance fraud, and various denied claims.
We understand that as a policyholder, you have invested a significant amount of money to secure protection through your insurance company. It is your right to receive all the benefits outlined in your policy, especially considering your timely premium payments. Navigating the language of insurance policies can often be complex and confusing. At Miller Law Group, we have a proven track record of meticulously reviewing every term and condition in insurance policies. Our team is committed to fighting on your behalf to ensure that you receive the full extent of the benefits you rightfully deserve.
If you find yourself in a dispute with your insurance coverage, we encourage you to reach out to us for a free consultation. Located in Raleigh, our dedicated insurance coverage dispute attorneys are ready to provide you with personalized and comprehensive legal assistance. Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your insurance coverage dispute and explore your options.
About Miller Law Group
Raleigh Based Skilled Attorneys
Miller Law Group is based in Raleigh, North Carolina, dedicated to championing the rights and freedoms of individuals. Our firm comprises a team of highly skilled and experienced insurance coverage lawyers. We are driven by a commitment to justice and are passionate about representing clients facing insurance coverage disputes. With over 150 years of combined experience, our award-winning attorneys have a proven track record of tackling insurance coverage cases. Our firm is not just about work; we have a deep love for our community and invest time and resources in serving and uplifting Raleigh. At Miller Law Group, our aim is to provide exceptional service and to partner with our clients in navigating their legal journeys.
