Practice Areas

Bad-Faith Claim Handling

Insurance bad faith happens when an insurance company violates its legal duties to its policyholders. Bad faith can refer to any type of behavior that is unfair, unreasonable, or deceptive.

Our lawyers at Barcus Arenas provide legal assistance to help you deal with bad faith insurance claims. Insurance companies that are intentionally denying, delaying, and undervaluing a legitimate claim violates the trust and rights of policyholders. With us by your side, we will negotiate on your behalf and ensure that your insurance company fulfills its obligations in good faith and provides you with the fair treatment and compensation you rightfully deserve.

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What are Some Examples of Bad Faith?

Actions that constitute “bad faith” are usually determined on a case-by-case basis and depend on the facts of your specific case. Here are some examples of what may be considered bad-faith acts by insurance companies:

Failing to acknowledge receipt of a claim

Failing to inspect or investigate a claim promptly

Not conducting a thorough and/or reasonable investigation of a claim

Making unnecessary and irrelevant documentation requests

Withholding policy benefits without having a reasonable basis for doing so

Misrepresenting or misinterpreting the law or the insurance policy

Unreasonably denying insurance coverage

Refusing to provide a reasonable settlement

Unreasonably terminating a valid claim

Failing to notify you of alterations to your policy that may affect your claim

Delaying payments for an unreasonable amount of time, especially when liability is clear

Using threatening or intimidating language

Accusing you of fraud or other crimes

Refusing to provide routine documentation

An increase in premiums due to a claim in which the insured was not at fault

Offering an unreasonable settlement amount and refusing to negotiate

Modifying or canceling your insurance policy after you have made a claim

Different states have different laws that prohibit insurance companies from acting in certain ways. However, the goal of these statutes is generally to make sure that insurance companies treat their policyholders in good faith. When a policyholder fulfills their end of the contract, an insurance company is legally required to do the same.

How Can Barcus Arenas, PLLC help you?

Barcus Arenas, PLLC has helped thousands of policyholders resolve disputes with their insurance companies. Our bad faith insurance claim lawyer draw on this extensive first-hand experience to help determine whether an insurance company handled a claim appropriately. We also have in-depth knowledge of insurance industry practices and the always-evolving laws for what constitutes bad faith.

Our law firm represents corporate and individual policyholders in large and complex insurance disputes, and we have an established reputation for successfully litigating and resolving cases involving bad faith practices. We have litigated bad faith cases across Texas, Louisiana, and other states on behalf of individuals, small and midsize businesses, and national companies. Our bad faith insurance claim specifically handle bad faith cases involving a wide range of policies, including homeowners, condominium HOAs, and commercial properties.

At Barcus Arenas, PLLC we have a reputation for being aggressive litigators that get results for our clients. Whenever possible, we strive to resolve matters outside of court, but when that isn’t possible, we are always fully prepared to take the case before a judge or jury.

F.A.Q.s

What's the difference between a legitimate denial and a bad faith denial?

A legitimate denial is based on valid reasons outlined in the policy, while a bad faith denial lacks proper justification or is made with a reckless disregard for the facts.

What steps can I take if I believe my claim is being handled in bad faith?

Document all interactions with your insurance company, gather evidence of your claim's validity, and consult with your lawyer.

What legal remedies are available for bad faith insurance claim handling?

These can include compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney's fees, and potential policy enforcement.