FAILURE TO INVESTIGATE A CLAIM

When an insurance company fails to investigate a claim, it means that they have not conducted a thorough and proper examination of the claim as required by law. This can include not gathering enough evidence, not interviewing witnesses, or failing to assess the damage adequately. Such actions can be considered bad faith, as they may lead to wrongful denial or undervaluation of a claim.

Signs that your insurance company may not be properly investigating your claim include:

• Delayed responses to your inquiries
• Lack of communication regarding the investigation process
• Sending unqualified representatives instead of licensed adjusters
• Only inspecting specific areas without a comprehensive review
• Providing vague reasons for denying or undervaluing your claim

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with an attorney to protect your rights.

If you suspect your insurance company has failed to properly investigate your claim, you should document all communication and evidence related to your claim, and seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced insurance attorney can help you understand your rights and the obligations of the insurance company and can assist in holding the insurer accountable for their actions.

Yes, you may have grounds to sue your insurance company if they fail to investigate your claim properly. This can be considered an act of bad faith. Florida law requires insurance companies to conduct thorough investigations and share pertinent information with policyholders. If they fail to do so, you may be entitled to compensation for damages resulting from their negligence.

If an insurance company is found to have acted in bad faith by failing to properly investigate a claim, the policyholder may be entitled to various remedies. These can include the payment of the full value of the claim, compensation for additional damages suffered as a result of the insurer's actions, and possibly punitive damages. The specific outcome will depend on the facts of the case and the extent of the bad-faith conduct.

The timeframe to take action against an insurance company for failing to investigate a claim can vary depending on the specifics of the case and state laws. In Florida, there is a statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit against an insurance company. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines.

A proper investigation involves a comprehensive review of all relevant evidence, timely communication with the policyholder, and a fair assessment of the claim based on all available information. A failure to investigate occurs when the insurance company does not fulfill these duties, leading to an unjust denial or undervaluation of a claim.

At Murray Law Group, our attorneys specialize in handling insurance disputes and bad faith claims. We can help you by reviewing your case, providing legal advice, and representing you in negotiations or court if necessary. With over 150 years of combined experience, we have the expertise and resources to hold insurance companies accountable and ensure that your rights are protected. If you need help with a failed-to-investigate claim, contact us today.