When an insurance company engages in bad faith practices, policyholders can face significant challenges in obtaining the coverage and benefits they deserve. In Florida, there are legal remedies available to hold insurers in Florida accountable for their actions. As a leading insurance bad faith law firm in Florida, Swope, Rodante P.A. has extensive experience in handling bad faith claims. With so much at stake, it is important to understand the legal remedies available to policyholders in Florida who have been or may become victims at the hands of insurance carriers.
Breach of Contract Claim:
A breach of contract claim is one of the primary legal remedies available to policyholders in Florida. When an insurance company fails to fulfill its contractual obligations, such as unreasonably denying a valid claim or undervaluing losses, policyholders can pursue a lawsuit to seek the benefits and coverage promised under their insurance policy.
Statutory Insurance Bad Faith Claim:
In Florida, there are specific laws that address bad faith. Under Florida’s Bad Faith Statute (Section 624.155, Florida Statutes), policyholders can file a statutory bad faith claim against an insurer. This claim asserts that the insurance company acted in bad faith by unreasonably delaying or denying a claim without proper cause. Successful statutory bad faith claims can result in additional damages, including punitive damages, to deter future misconduct by the insurer.
Unfair Claim Settlement Practices:
Florida law also prohibits unfair claim settlement practices by insurance companies. These practices include intentional delays, inadequate investigations, and unfair settlement offers. Policyholders who believe they have been subjected to such practices can file a complaint with the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) or seek legal recourse.
Regulatory Complaints:
Policyholders have the right to file complaints against insurance companies with regulatory authorities such as the Florida Department of Financial Services or the OIR. These complaints can trigger investigations into the insurer’s conduct and potentially result in penalties or corrective actions.
Insurance Bad Faith Legal Representation and Litigation:
When faced with insurance bad faith, policyholders can benefit greatly from seeking legal representation. Experienced bad faith attorneys, like those at Swope, Rodante P.A., can assess the details of the case, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and, if necessary, litigate the matter in court. Having skilled legal advocates on your side can significantly increase the chances of a successful resolution and fair compensation.
In Florida, policyholders have legal remedies available to them when they encounter insurance bad faith. Breach of contract claims, statutory bad faith claims, and pursuing unfair claim settlement practices are among the avenues through which policyholders can seek justice. Filing regulatory complaints and seeking legal representation are also crucial steps in holding insurance companies accountable for their actions. At Swope, Rodante P.A., we are dedicated to protecting the rights of policyholders in Florida and fighting for fair treatment. If you think an insurance carrier has acted in bad faith, consult our experienced bad faith attorneys who can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Remember, you don’t have to face the process alone—legal remedies exist to level the playing field and ensure policyholders receive the coverage and benefits they are entitled to.
