Does something about your insurance claim process feel wrong? Maybe your calls aren’t being returned, or the adjuster denied your claim with a vague explanation that doesn’t make sense. Perhaps they offered a settlement so low it wouldn’t even cover your initial medical bills. These aren’t just annoyances; they are major red flags that your insurer may be acting in bad faith. Insurance companies have a legal duty to treat you fairly and honestly, and when they fail, they can be held accountable. Trust your instincts. If you suspect you’re being treated unfairly, it’s time to learn about your rights and explore your options with qualified bad faith attorneys.
Key Takeaways
- Know What Bad Faith Looks Like: An insurer’s bad faith goes beyond a simple claim denial. Be alert for specific red flags like unexplained delays, vague reasons for rejection, or pressure to accept a lowball offer, as these are signs they aren’t upholding their legal duty to you.
- Create a Detailed Paper Trail: Your best defense is meticulous documentation. Save every email, bill, and policy document, and keep a log of every phone call. This organized record is the critical evidence needed to prove the insurer acted unreasonably.
- Don’t Face the Insurer Alone: Insurance companies have legal teams dedicated to protecting their profits. Hiring an experienced bad faith attorney levels the playing field, protects you from missing crucial deadlines, and ensures you have a powerful advocate fighting for the full compensation you deserve.
What Is Insurance Bad Faith?
When you buy an insurance policy, you’re entering into a contract. You agree to pay your premiums, and in return, the insurance company promises to be there for you when you need them most. This relationship is built on a principle of “good faith and fair dealing.” But what happens when they don’t hold up their end of the bargain? That’s where the concept of insurance bad faith comes in.
In simple terms, bad faith is when an insurance company unreasonably and without proper cause fails to pay a legitimate claim. It’s more than just a disagreement over the value of a claim; it’s a failure to act fairly and honestly. After a serious personal injury, you rely on your insurance coverage to help you handle medical bills and lost income. When an insurer acts in bad faith, they aren’t just breaching a contract—they’re breaking a promise, often leaving you in a difficult financial and emotional position.
What Your Insurance Company Legally Owes You
Your insurance company has specific legal duties to you as a policyholder. They can’t just take your premium payments and disappear when it’s time to pay a claim. Under the law, they are required to treat you fairly. This includes several key responsibilities.
First, they must conduct a thorough and prompt investigation into your claim. They can’t ignore evidence or drag their feet hoping you’ll give up. Second, they need to communicate with you and provide a reasonable explanation for their decisions, especially if they deny your claim. Finally, they have an obligation to offer a fair settlement in a timely manner for a valid claim. These aren’t just suggestions; they are legal requirements designed to protect you.
What Does Bad Faith Look Like in Practice?
Bad faith isn’t always obvious, but certain actions are clear indicators that an insurer isn’t playing by the rules. It can take many forms, from outright denial of a valid claim to subtle delay tactics designed to wear you down.
Some common examples of bad faith practices include intentionally misinterpreting the language in your policy to avoid paying, failing to process your claim in a timely manner, or refusing to settle a case and forcing it to trial without a good reason. If you were in a car accident and the at-fault driver’s insurance company offers you a ridiculously low settlement that doesn’t even cover your initial medical bills, that could be a sign of bad faith. They are hoping you’re desperate enough to accept an unfair offer.
How Bad Faith Practices Can Affect You
The impact of an insurer’s bad faith can be devastating. When you’re already dealing with the physical pain and emotional trauma of an injury, the last thing you need is a financial battle with a company you trusted to protect you. Delays in receiving the benefits you’re owed can lead to a cascade of problems.
Medical bills can pile up, and without compensation for lost wages, you might struggle to pay for basic living expenses. This added financial pressure can cause immense stress and anxiety for you and your family, hindering your recovery process. The feeling of being treated unfairly by a large corporation can also be incredibly frustrating and isolating. You shouldn’t have to fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Warning Signs That Your Insurer Isn’t Playing Fair
It’s important to recognize the red flags that might indicate your insurance company is acting in bad faith. Being aware of these warning signs can help you protect your rights and know when it’s time to seek legal help.
Pay close attention if your insurer denies your claim without providing a clear, written explanation referencing your policy. Other warning signs include unnecessarily delaying the claims process, failing to conduct a proper investigation, or refusing to return your calls. If an adjuster pressures you to accept a quick, lowball offer or tries to discourage you from hiring an attorney, you should be on high alert. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, it probably is.
How a Bad Faith Attorney Can Help
When you realize your insurance company isn’t on your side, it can feel like a profound betrayal. You’ve paid your premiums faithfully, expecting them to be there when you need them most. Facing off against a massive corporation alone is daunting, but you don’t have to. A bad faith attorney steps in to level the playing field, acting as your dedicated advocate to hold the insurer accountable for their legal and contractual duties. They manage the complexities of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
What a Bad Faith Attorney Does for You
Think of a bad faith attorney as your personal champion. Their job is to take the entire weight of the legal battle off your shoulders. They handle every detail, from filing paperwork to communicating with the insurance company, so you don’t have to. With an expert in your corner who understands the tactics insurers use, you have a powerful ally who knows how to fight back effectively. They will work to protect your rights and ensure your voice is heard, guiding you through every step of your personal injury claim and demanding the fair treatment you were promised.
Investigating Your Claim and Gathering Evidence
A strong bad faith case is built on solid evidence, and documentation is your most powerful tool. An experienced attorney knows exactly what to look for and how to get it. They will meticulously gather all relevant records, including your policy documents, medical bills, correspondence with the adjuster, and detailed notes of every phone call. By systematically tracking every interaction and broken promise, your attorney builds a comprehensive timeline that clearly demonstrates the insurer’s unreasonable conduct. This thorough investigation forms the foundation of your claim and is critical for proving the company failed to honor its obligations.
Handling Negotiations with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is often to protect their bottom line by minimizing payouts. They have teams of lawyers and adjusters trained to deny or devalue claims. When you have a bad faith attorney, you counter their resources with your own expert negotiator. Your lawyer will handle all communications, preventing the insurer from using confusing language or intimidation tactics against you. They understand the true value of your car accident or other injury claim and will fight tirelessly to secure a settlement that is fair and just, refusing to let the insurance company bully you into accepting less than you deserve.
Developing a Strong Legal Strategy
Winning a bad faith claim requires more than just showing you were treated unfairly; it requires proving the insurer acted dishonestly or unreasonably without a proper basis. This is where legal strategy comes in. Your attorney will analyze every aspect of your case, from the specifics of your underlying claim to Arizona’s insurance laws. They will identify the insurer’s specific failures—whether it was an inadequate investigation, an unjust denial, or an unreasonable delay—and build a compelling argument around them. This strategic approach, backed by the firm’s deep experience and knowledge, is designed to expose the insurer’s misconduct and hold them accountable.
The Types of Compensation You Can Pursue
If your bad faith claim is successful, you may be able to recover more than just the original amount of your insurance claim. Arizona law allows victims of bad faith to pursue several types of compensation. This can include the full benefits owed under your policy, interest on delayed payments, and even reimbursement for your attorney’s fees and court costs. In some cases, you may also be entitled to damages for the emotional distress, anxiety, and financial hardship the insurer’s actions caused you and your family. Your attorney will help you understand what you may be owed and fight for every dollar.
When Should You Call an Attorney?
Deciding when to contact a lawyer can feel like a big step, especially when you’re already dealing with the fallout from an accident and a difficult insurance company. The simple answer is: the sooner, the better. As soon as you suspect your insurer isn’t treating you fairly, it’s time to get a professional opinion. Waiting too long can weaken your case and even cost you your right to compensation.
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their bottom line; you deserve to have an expert on your side, too. An attorney can help you understand your rights, deal with the insurer’s tactics, and ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines. Getting legal advice early on doesn’t commit you to a lawsuit, but it does give you clarity and a strategic advantage. It’s about protecting yourself and your family’s future. If your gut is telling you something is wrong with how your claim is being handled, it’s worth listening to. A quick consultation can help you figure out your next steps and give you peace of mind.
Red Flags to Watch for from Your Insurer
Trust your instincts. If your interactions with the insurance adjuster feel off, they probably are. Insurers are legally required to handle your claim in good faith, but sometimes they prioritize profits over policyholders. Watch out for common red flags like denying your claim without providing a clear, valid reason in writing. Other warning signs include unnecessary delays in the claims process or a failure to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation. If they make a settlement offer that is insultingly low or pressure you to accept it quickly, it’s a major red flag. These tactics are designed to wear you down, but you don’t have to face them alone.
Why You Can’t Afford to Miss Legal Deadlines
In Arizona, you have a limited amount of time to take legal action against an insurance company. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, and if you miss it, you could lose your right to file a lawsuit and recover any compensation permanently. Insurance companies are well aware of these deadlines and may intentionally drag out the claims process, hoping you’ll run out of time. That’s why it’s so important to act quickly. An experienced personal injury attorney can ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time, protecting your right to pursue the full compensation you deserve. Don’t let the clock run out on your claim.
Assessing the True Financial Impact
When an insurance company acts in bad faith, the financial damage can go far beyond the original value of your claim. A successful bad faith lawsuit can help you recover not only what you were initially owed but also additional damages. This can include interest you had to pay on bills because of delayed payments, your attorney fees, and court costs. Furthermore, you may be entitled to compensation for the emotional distress, frustration, and anxiety the insurer’s actions have caused you. An attorney can help you assess the full financial and emotional toll of the situation to ensure you demand a settlement that truly covers all of your losses.
What to Expect in Your First Consultation
Your first meeting with a bad faith attorney is a straightforward, no-pressure conversation. The goal is for you to get information and for the lawyer to understand your situation. You should bring any documents you have, including your insurance policy, photos, and all communication with the insurer. An experienced attorney will review these details, listen to your story, and assess the insurance company’s actions. They will then explain your legal options in plain language so you can make an informed decision. This initial consultation is your chance to ask questions and find out how a legal team can help. You can contact us today to schedule a free, confidential review of your case.
How to Choose the Right Bad Faith Attorney
When your insurance company lets you down, it can feel like you have nowhere to turn. But you don’t have to face them alone. Choosing the right attorney is the single most important step you can take to hold your insurer accountable and get the compensation you deserve. The right legal partner will not only manage the complexities of your case but will also be your advocate, fighting for your best interests every step of the way. Think of this as hiring a specialist for a critical job—you want someone with the right tools, experience, and dedication to see it through.
What to Look for in an Attorney
When you’re searching for a bad faith attorney, you’re looking for more than just a law degree. You need a dedicated advocate. By hiring an experienced bad faith attorney, you have someone on your team who can handle all the details of the case and who knows how to fight. Look for a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and insurance bad faith claims. They should be a clear communicator, ready to explain complex legal concepts in a way you can understand and keep you updated on your case. A great attorney is also compassionate; they understand the stress you’re under and are committed to easing your burden, not adding to it.
Why Experience Is Non-Negotiable
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers dedicated to minimizing payouts. You need someone with the specific experience to counter their tactics. An attorney who has gone head-to-head with insurers knows their playbook—from unreasonable delays to lowball settlement offers. This experience is critical for building a strong case, accurately calculating your damages, and negotiating effectively on your behalf. A seasoned lawyer won’t be intimidated and will be prepared to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to get a fair outcome. Don’t entrust your case to a generalist; you need a specialist who lives and breathes Arizona insurance law.
Understanding Legal Fees and Costs
Many people hesitate to call a lawyer because they worry about the cost. One of the biggest myths is that hiring an attorney to fight a bad faith insurance claim is prohibitively expensive. The reality is that most reputable personal injury and bad faith attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront fees. Your lawyer’s payment is “contingent” on them winning your case, either through a settlement or a court verdict. They receive a percentage of the final amount. This arrangement allows you to get expert legal help without any financial risk, ensuring you can contact an attorney for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Key Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
Your initial consultation is your chance to interview a potential attorney and see if they’re the right fit. Come prepared with questions to help you make an informed decision. Start with their experience: How many bad faith cases have you handled? What were the outcomes? Describe your process for investigating a claim. You should also ask about their communication style: How will you keep me updated on my case? Who will be my primary point of contact? Finally, discuss their assessment of your situation. Based on the details you’ve shared, do they believe you have a strong case? Their answers will give you a clear sense of their expertise and approach.
Finding a Reputable Local Firm
While a large national firm might seem appealing, there are significant advantages to working with a local Arizona attorney. A local lawyer will have an in-depth understanding of state-specific laws and court procedures. They are also familiar with the local legal community, including judges and opposing counsel, which can be a strategic advantage. If you have to go to court, having a reputable local attorney can make a significant difference. A firm that is invested in the community, like AZ Law Now, is more likely to provide the personalized attention your case deserves, treating you as a neighbor, not a case number.
Building a Strong Bad Faith Case
If you suspect your insurance company is not treating you fairly, you can’t just rely on a gut feeling. Building a strong bad faith case requires a methodical approach centered on evidence and clear communication. The goal is to create an undeniable record of the insurer’s unreasonable behavior. This process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re also recovering from an injury, but taking these steps protects your rights and lays the groundwork for holding the insurance company accountable. It’s about shifting the power back into your hands by being prepared, organized, and strategic from day one.
The Documents You Absolutely Need to Keep
When you’re up against an insurance company, documentation is your best friend. Think of yourself as a meticulous record-keeper for your own case. Start by gathering every piece of paper and digital file related to your accident and your claim. This includes your full insurance policy, the declaration page, and any official correspondence from the insurer. Keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses. If you have photos or videos of the accident scene or your injuries, save them in a secure place. It’s also smart to keep a simple log of every phone call with the insurer, noting the date, time, who you spoke with, and a summary of the conversation. This paper trail is the foundation of any successful personal injury claim.
How to Communicate with Your Insurer
How you talk to your insurance company matters. The best practice is to keep as much communication in writing as possible. Emails create a clear, time-stamped record that prevents “he said, she said” disputes later on. If you do need to speak on the phone, send a follow-up email summarizing the key points of the conversation and asking them to confirm its accuracy. Always remain calm and professional, even if you’re frustrated. Stick to the facts of your case and avoid speculating or apologizing. Most importantly, never give a recorded statement without first speaking to an attorney. The adjuster’s questions are designed to protect the company’s interests, not yours, and anything you say can be used against you.
Methods for Collecting Strong Evidence
A strong case goes beyond the documents you have on hand. You also need to gather evidence that supports your version of events and demonstrates the full extent of your losses. If there were witnesses to your accident, get their names and contact information. Obtain a copy of the official police report as soon as it’s available. It’s also incredibly helpful to keep a personal journal detailing your daily pain levels, medical appointments, and the ways your injuries are affecting your daily life. This provides a powerful, personal account of your suffering that medical bills alone can’t show. Compiling this evidence helps build a comprehensive picture of your experience for your legal team and the insurer. You can find more information on our Resources page.
Common Defenses Insurance Companies Use
Insurance companies have a playbook of common arguments they use to deny or devalue claims. Being aware of these tactics can help you prepare. They might argue that your specific injury isn’t covered by your policy or that you missed a critical filing deadline. A frequent defense is to claim you were partially or entirely at fault for the car accident, which can reduce or eliminate their payout under Arizona law. They may also dispute the severity of your injuries or question whether your medical treatments were truly necessary. They might even conduct surveillance to try and “catch” you doing something that contradicts your injury claims. Knowing these defenses allows you and your attorney to build a proactive strategy to counter them with solid evidence.
What to Consider Before Accepting a Settlement
The first settlement offer from an insurance company is rarely its best. It’s a starting point designed to see if you’ll accept a low amount and close the case quickly. Before you even think about signing, you must have a complete understanding of your total damages. This includes not just your current medical bills and lost wages, but also any future medical care, long-term loss of earning capacity, and compensation for your pain and suffering. Once you accept a settlement, you forfeit your right to seek any more money for the incident, even if new medical issues arise later. It is always a good idea to have an experienced attorney review any offer. Don’t let the fear of legal fees stop you; a good lawyer can often secure a settlement that far exceeds what you’d get on your own. If you’ve received an offer, contact us for a free consultation.
Know Your Rights as a Policyholder
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, the last thing you want is a fight with your insurance company. You pay your premiums with the understanding that they’ll be there for you when you need them most. Knowing your rights is the first step in making sure they hold up their end of the bargain. It empowers you to spot unfair practices and take action to protect your interests.
How to Understand Your Policy Coverage
I get it—insurance policies can feel like they’re written in another language. But taking the time to review your policy is crucial. This document is your contract with the insurer, and it outlines exactly what they’ve promised to cover. Look for the declarations page, which summarizes your coverage limits, and pay close attention to the sections on exclusions and duties after a loss. Understanding these details helps you know what to expect and gives you a solid foundation for your personal injury claim. If you’re unsure about any of the terms, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. It’s better to ask questions now than to be caught off guard later.
Proving the Insurer Acted Unreasonably
Filing a bad faith claim isn’t just about being unhappy with a settlement offer. You need to show that the insurance company acted unreasonably or dishonestly while handling your case. This could mean they denied your claim without a valid, stated reason, refused to conduct a proper investigation, or intentionally delayed payments. To prove bad faith, you’ll need clear evidence of their misconduct. This is why documenting every phone call, email, and letter is so important. Strong evidence shows that the insurer didn’t just make a mistake; they failed to fulfill their legal and contractual obligations to you without a good reason.
What Damages You Can Recover in Arizona
If an insurance company has acted in bad faith, you may be able to recover more than just the original value of your claim. Arizona law allows victims to pursue compensation for the financial and emotional harm caused by the insurer’s actions. This can include the benefits that were wrongfully denied, interest on delayed payments, and other out-of-pocket expenses you incurred because of their behavior. In particularly outrageous cases, you might also be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the insurance company for their misconduct and discourage them from treating other policyholders unfairly in the future.
Arizona’s Specific Bad Faith Laws
You should know that Arizona has specific laws in place to protect you from unfair insurance practices. The state’s Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act outlines a list of actions that are considered bad faith, such as misrepresenting facts or failing to act promptly on communications about a claim. These laws are designed to hold insurance companies accountable and ensure they treat policyholders fairly. Having an attorney who is deeply familiar with Arizona’s bad faith laws is essential. They can identify when an insurer has crossed the line and use these statutes to build a strong case on your behalf.
What to Expect from the Legal Process
Facing off against a big insurance company can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Understanding the legal process can help demystify the steps and give you confidence as you move forward. While every case is unique, most bad faith claims follow a similar path from the initial consultation to a final resolution. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect when you work with an attorney to hold your insurer accountable.
The Initial Review of Your Case
The first thing we’ll do is sit down with you for a thorough case review. This is our chance to hear your story and dig into the details. We’ll ask you to bring all your documentation, including your insurance policy, any letters or emails from the adjuster, and evidence related to your original personal injury claim. We will carefully review your policy to understand exactly what coverage you were entitled to and pinpoint where the insurer fell short. This initial investigation is crucial for determining if the company’s actions meet the legal definition of bad faith and for building a strong foundation for your claim.
Filing Your Bad Faith Claim
Once we’ve established that you have a valid case, the next step is to formally file a bad faith claim. This isn’t just sending a letter; it’s a legal action that puts the insurance company on notice. The process involves drafting and filing a complaint with the court, which outlines the insurer’s obligations, how they breached their duty to you, and the damages you’ve suffered as a result. Filing a claim officially begins the legal battle and sends a clear message that you won’t accept unfair treatment. It’s a critical step toward proving the insurer acted unreasonably in handling your case.
The Negotiation Stage
After the claim is filed, we enter the negotiation phase. It’s important to know that most bad faith cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will present the evidence to the insurance company’s legal team and begin negotiations for a fair settlement. This is where having an experienced lawyer really makes a difference—it shows the insurer you are serious and prepared to go to trial if necessary. Our team at AZ Law Now will handle all communications, fighting for the full compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way and advise you on any settlement offers.
What Happens if Your Case Goes to Court
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement during negotiations, we will be fully prepared to take your case to court. While going to trial is less common, it’s sometimes the only way to achieve justice. This stage involves a formal process of discovery, where both sides exchange information, as well as pretrial motions and hearings. If the case proceeds to trial, we will present your evidence to a judge or jury. Insurers often want to avoid the courtroom because a verdict against them can result in significant financial repercussions and damage to their reputation, which can be a powerful motivator during settlement talks.
How to Work Effectively with Your Legal Team
Think of your relationship with your attorney as a partnership. To build the strongest case possible, we need your active participation. Your most important role is to be open and honest with us and to keep meticulous records. As one legal expert notes, documentation is your strongest ally. Make sure to save every email, letter, and note from conversations with the insurer. Keep a journal of how the insurer’s denial has impacted your life. By providing us with timely information and staying engaged in the process, you help us fight more effectively on your behalf. Always feel free to contact us with any questions or updates.
How to Protect Yourself from Bad Faith
Dealing with an insurance company after an accident can feel like a full-time job. While you can’t control an insurer’s actions, you can take steps to protect your rights and build a strong foundation for your claim. Being proactive and organized from the very beginning is your best defense against unfair practices. It shows the insurance company that you’re serious and prepared, which can make all the difference in how they handle your case. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead.
The Importance of Good Record-Keeping
Think of yourself as the lead detective in your own case. Your most powerful tool is documentation. Every piece of paper, every email, and every photo helps tell the story of what happened and what you’ve been through. If an insurer tries to downplay your injuries or delay your claim, a detailed record is your best evidence to counter them. Start a dedicated folder (physical or digital) and save everything related to your personal injury claim. This includes medical bills, police reports, receipts for prescriptions, and photos of your injuries or property damage. This organized approach creates a clear timeline that is difficult for an insurance adjuster to ignore or dispute.
Tips for Interacting with Your Insurance Company
When you communicate with your insurance company, aim for clarity and keep a record of every conversation. It’s best to communicate in writing, like through email, so you have a timestamped log of what was said. If you must speak on the phone, follow up with a brief email summarizing the call to create a paper trail. Always write down the date, time, the name of the person you spoke with, and the key points of the discussion. Be polite but firm, and stick to the facts. Avoid giving a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney, as your words can easily be taken out of context. If you feel pressured, it’s okay to say you need time to think or seek advice before responding.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid After an Accident
It’s easy to make mistakes when you’re stressed and recovering from an injury, but some missteps can seriously harm your claim. A common misconception is that any denied claim automatically equals bad faith. Insurers can deny claims for legitimate reasons, so it’s important to understand why your claim was rejected. Watch for red flags like a denial without a clear explanation, unreasonable delays in processing your claim, or an offer that is far below what you need to cover your losses from a car accident. Don’t accept a quick, lowball settlement out of desperation. Insurance companies sometimes offer a small amount upfront, hoping you’ll take it before you realize the full extent of your damages.
Choosing the Right Insurance Policy in the Future
While it won’t help your current situation, you can protect yourself from future headaches by being a savvy insurance shopper. The cheapest policy isn’t always the best one. Before you buy, research the insurance company’s reputation for handling claims. Read reviews from other customers and check their complaint records. Take the time to understand what the policy actually covers, including the limits for different types of damages. Don’t be afraid to ask questions until you feel confident you know what you’re paying for. A slightly higher premium with a reputable company that has a history of treating its policyholders fairly is a worthwhile investment in your peace of mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a denied claim and actual bad faith? It’s a great question, and the distinction is important. An insurance company can deny a claim for legitimate reasons based on the terms of your policy. Bad faith isn’t about the denial itself, but about how and why the company denied it. If they deny your claim without conducting a proper investigation, misrepresent your policy’s language, or can’t give you a valid reason for their decision, they may be acting in bad faith. It’s about their unreasonable and dishonest conduct, not just an unfavorable outcome.
How much does it really cost to hire a bad faith attorney? Most people are surprised to learn that you don’t need any money upfront to hire a bad faith attorney. Reputable firms, including ours, work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we win your case, either through a settlement or a court verdict. Our fee is a percentage of the amount we recover for you. This approach ensures that everyone has access to expert legal help, regardless of their financial situation.
How long do I have to file a bad faith claim in Arizona? Arizona has a strict legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a bad faith lawsuit. If you miss this window, you lose your right to seek compensation forever. Insurance companies know this and sometimes use delay tactics, hoping you’ll run out of time. Because the exact deadline can depend on the specifics of your case, it is critical to speak with an attorney as soon as you suspect a problem.
What are the first steps I should take if I suspect bad faith? If your gut tells you something is wrong, start by documenting everything. Keep all emails and letters, and take detailed notes of every phone call, including the date and who you spoke with. Do not give a recorded statement or sign any documents without legal advice, and don’t feel pressured to accept a quick, low offer. Your next step should be to contact an experienced attorney who can review your situation and explain your options.
Can I recover more money than what my original claim was worth? Yes, in a successful bad faith lawsuit, you can potentially recover more than just the benefits you were originally owed. Arizona law allows you to seek compensation for the additional harm the insurer’s actions caused. This can include damages for emotional distress, financial losses you suffered due to the delay, interest on the unpaid benefits, and even your attorney’s fees.