When Insurance Companies Act in Bad Faith
Insurance companies have a legal duty to deal fairly with their policyholders. When an insurer unreasonably denies a valid claim, delays payment without justification, or offers a settlement far below the value of the claim, it may be acting in bad faith. Ohio law allows policyholders to sue for bad faith and recover damages beyond the policy limits in egregious cases.
Insurance coverage disputes arise in many contexts, including personal injury claims, homeowners insurance, business insurance, life insurance, and disability insurance. Our attorneys have the experience to evaluate your coverage, challenge wrongful denials, and hold insurers accountable.
Types of Insurance Disputes We Handle
Claim Denials
Wrongful denial of valid insurance claims based on improper coverage interpretations, misrepresentation of policy terms, or other bad faith tactics.
Underpayment of Claims
Insurers who offer settlements far below the actual value of the claim, or who use improper valuation methods to minimize payouts.
Uninsured Motorist Disputes
Disputes with your own insurance company over uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage when the at-fault driver had insufficient insurance.
Homeowners Insurance Disputes
Wrongful denial of property damage claims, disputes over coverage for water damage, fire, theft, and other covered losses.
Life and Disability Insurance
Wrongful denial of life insurance benefits, disputes over disability insurance coverage, and bad faith handling of long-term disability claims.
Business Insurance Disputes
Disputes over business interruption coverage, commercial general liability claims, and other business insurance coverage issues.
Bad Faith Damages
In Ohio, an insurer who acts in bad faith can be required to pay damages beyond the policy limits, including attorney fees and punitive damages in egregious cases.
Policy Language Matters
Insurance policies are contracts, and courts interpret ambiguous language in favor of the policyholder. We review your policy carefully to identify all available coverage.
Do Not Accept a Denial as Final
A denial letter is not the end of the road. Many wrongful denials are successfully challenged through the appeal process or litigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is insurance bad faith?
Bad faith occurs when an insurance company unreasonably denies a valid claim, delays payment without justification, or fails to properly investigate a claim. Ohio law allows policyholders to sue for bad faith and recover additional damages.
My insurance company denied my claim. What should I do?
First, review the denial letter carefully and request the insurer's complete claim file. Then consult an attorney who can evaluate whether the denial was proper and advise you on your options, including an appeal or lawsuit.
Can I sue my own insurance company?
Yes. If your own insurer acts in bad faith in handling your claim, including uninsured motorist claims, you can sue them for bad faith damages in addition to the policy benefits.
What is the difference between a coverage dispute and a bad faith claim?
A coverage dispute is a disagreement about whether the policy covers the loss. A bad faith claim is about how the insurer handled the claim, regardless of whether coverage exists. Both can be pursued simultaneously.
How long do I have to challenge an insurance denial?
The deadline depends on the type of insurance and the specific facts. Some policies have internal appeal deadlines, and Ohio's statute of limitations for contract claims is generally six years. Contact an attorney promptly after receiving a denial.