Taking a look at examples of bad faith can illustrate how an insurance company may treat you unfairly. When you have been injured in an auto accident, bills will role in for additional expenses. You will have medical costs while potentially suffering from loss of earnings. In the case of serious injury, you may also need to modify your home.
An insurance claim can cover many of the costs associated with an auto accident – including vehicle repair. When an insurance company drags its heels, you are left coping with all your additional bills. However, if your claim is handled unfairly, you may not recoup some or any of those costs.
Claim Delays
Avoiding paying out claims is a common practice for insurance companies. Any delays will impact you financially. Any evidence that you have to support your claim can diminish in strength. It is for these reasons and more that insurance companies should complete claims within a reasonable time frame, according to law.
Inadequate Investigation
Insurance companies cannot legally or deliberately cut corners when investigating your auto accident claim. Not considering relevant evidence, ignoring key facts and discounting a medical diagnosis are some examples of bad faith. You have a right to a fair investigation in the state of Georgia.
Refusal to Defend a Lawsuit
When your insurance company refuses to engage with any legal claim involving liability, you are being misrepresented. This situation can result in you paying out-of-pocket expenses in a legal dispute. A court can determine that you are the at-fault party, even if the facts are technically on your side.
Diminished Value Claim
Another way that insurance companies can act in bad faith relates to diminished value claims. If your vehicle is not fairly assessed, you may receive a payout that is lower than what the vehicle is worth. You have a right to dispute the assessment, with the help of a diminished value appraiser.
If you are not receiving fair treatment from an insurance company, Wreck Check Atlanta can provide support. We will conduct an impartial diminished value assessment to confirm the true worth of your vehicle. Call today to learn more.
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