Are you having a hard time getting the insurance company to pay your claim, or have they denied your claim for no valid reason in Indianapolis, IN? If so, contact Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers at (317) 920-6400 for a free consultation with an Indianapolis bad faith insurance lawyer.
Our team has 124 years of combined experience helping accident and injury victims get the justice they deserve. We understand just how difficult these situations can be, and we are here to help you through every detail of the process. Let us help you hold the insurance company accountable and get the compensation you deserve.
How Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers Can Help With a Bad Faith Insurance Claim in Indianapolis
The time after an accident is tough when you are dealing with injuries and unexpected expenses in Indianapolis, Indiana. However, things can be even more difficult when the insurance company decides not to play by the rules. Instead of compensating you for your claim, they may choose to deny your claim or even ignore your communications.
You may be wondering where you can turn for help. Thankfully, the team at Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers has the experience you need on your side during this difficult time.
Our Indianapolis personal injury lawyers are ready to:
- Investigate the details of your original claim
- Review all your insurance coverage and policy details
- Investigate the adjuster’s actions and communications
- Interview insurance company employees to help prove your case
- Gather additional evidence necessary to prove your claim
- Pursue compensation for all your damages
- Negotiate a top-dollar settlement for your bad faith claim
- Take the insurance company to court when negotiations stall
If your claim has been wrongly denied, contact us today and let us help. Schedule your free consultation with our Indianapolis bad faith insurance attorneys to get started.
What Is Considered Bad Faith by Insurance Companies?
Insurance companies have a legal duty to deal in good faith when handling claims. This is an implied requirement of your insurance contract. Some insurance companies violate this requirement due to poor practices or procedures, while others may deliberately act in bad faith to protect their bottom line.
There are many examples of behavior that may be considered bad faith. Indiana law specifies many types of conduct that the state considers unfair claim settlement practices.
Some examples include:
- Misrepresenting facts about your coverage
- Failing to acknowledge or respond to your communications
- Refusing to pay your claim without a valid investigation
- Offering substantially less than your claim is worth and forcing the insured to take legal action
- Failing to approve or deny claims within a reasonable period of time
- Failing to promptly settle a claim after liability has been clearly established
- Changing the terms of your coverage after a claim is filed
When insurance companies decide to act in bad faith and delay or deny claims, the accident victims are the ones who suffer.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Victims of Bad Faith by Insurance Companies?
You may be left with extensive bills and other expenses that you cannot pay without compensation from your insurance claim. When you can prove the company’s bad faith, you are entitled to recover both economic damages and non-economic damages.
Some common examples of damages available in bad faith insurance claims include:
- The amount of your original claim
- Additional financial losses, such as late fees and interest charges
- Damage to your credit history
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Loss of reputation
- Anxiety
- Depression
In some cases, you might also be entitled to recover punitive damages. These are damages intended to punish the insurance company for its behavior. Punitive damages are only available in cases involving fraud, malice, gross negligence, or oppressive behavior. In these situations, you must prove the insurance company’s conduct by clear and convincing evidence.
Our Indianapolis personal injury attorneys can help you understand which of your losses might qualify for compensation.
How Long Do I Have To File a Bad Faith Insurance Lawsuit in Indiana?
In Indiana, you typically have two years to file a claim for bad faith insurance practices. However, your insurance policy may dictate additional deadlines or time restrictions. Missing the filing deadline may completely bar you from pursuing your claim and recovering compensation.
Since there are many exceptions and special cases that may exist, you should always consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible to get the help you need.
Contact Our Indianapolis Bad Faith Insurance Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you suspect that an insurance company has acted in bad faith, contact the team at Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers for help today. You should not have to go through this difficult time alone, and our experienced team is here to help. Call us now to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis bad faith insurance attorney and let us help you get justice.