Chino Bad Faith Insurance Lawyer

Chino Bad Faith Insurance Attorney

The entire reason insurance policies are bought is so that policyholders can rely on the payout when the worst happens. When a claim is denied or the insurance company acts suspiciously, policyholders should seek legal help from a Chino bad faith insurance lawyer.

Bad Faith Insurance

Contact Hobbs Law Group 24/7 to schedule a free case review with a bad faith insurance lawyer. You will not pay us anything unless you win.

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Hire a Bad Faith Insurance Lawyer Today

Since 2011, Hobbs Law Group has helped hundreds of California residents seek a brighter future after difficult times. Attorneys Kristin Hobbs and Timothy Hobbs understand the frustration that comes with insurance companies acting unfairly. We strive to make our clients feel heard and respected throughout the entirety of their case.

We offer free consultations to Chino residents. Our firm’s recent wins have secured our clients:

• $350,000 for a client whose insurance denied them after their sports memorabilia was stolen in 2023
• $2,500,000 for a client who won a bad faith insurance case involving a $1 million policy

What Is Bad Faith Insurance?

Insurance works simply. You pay premiums, and the insurance company promises to pay out valid claims. However, these companies are never on the policyholder’s side. Insurance companies often use a variety of tactics to avoid paying. This can feel frustrating when you’re paying a large amount in premiums. Americans are meant to rely on their insurance when they need it, but often face unfair denials.

When this happens, you may be able to file a claim against the company for acting in bad faith. These cases are typically filed at the San Bernardino Superior Court, located at 247 W. 3rd Street in San Bernardino.

Bad faith happens when an insurance company unreasonably fails to meet its legal duties. Examples of bad faith include:

• Denying valid claims without good reason
• Misrepresenting facts or policy terms
• Failing to investigate claims properly
• Refusing to settle when liability is clear
• Misleading claimants about deadlines

In 2022, property and casualty insurance companies in California collected about $90 billion in premiums and paid about $55.8 billion in claims.

How an Experienced Bad Faith Insurance Lawyer Can Help

It’s important to hire a bad faith insurance lawyer in Chino to help you navigate your legal case. They are well-versed in state laws and the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying. With years of experience with bad faith insurance cases, Hobbs Law Group will work tirelessly for justice in your case. Our lawyers can:

• Negotiate with the insurance company to pursue a fair settlement
• Present evidence on your behalf
• File a legal claim against the insurance company

During your free consultation at Hobbs Law Group, you can discuss the details of your situation with one of our attorneys. Our knowledgeable Chino bad faith insurance attorneys will then review your insurance policy and examine the details of your claim to determine if the insurer violated its duty to act in good faith.

The Duties of an Insurance Company in California

There are specific rules in California that must be followed by insurance companies when handling policyholder claims. Once a claim is filed, it must be accepted or denied within 40 days. If the insurance company denies your claim, they have to explain why in writing.

If they need longer than 40 days to make their decision, they must notify you in writing within that 40-day period. They must also continue to send you updates every 30 days until their final decision is made.

Insurance companies in California must:

• Investigate all claims thoroughly and fairly
• Warn claimants about any approaching deadlines that could affect their ability to file or continue a claim
• Pay accepted claims within 30 days, unless the policy specifies a waiting period

Insurance companies in California cannot:

• Pressure claimants to withdraw complaints to the Department of Insurance
• Deny claims based solely on undocumented phone calls
• Require unnecessary medical information or medical tests

FAQs About Chino, CA Bad Faith Insurance Laws

What Is Subrogation?

Subrogation is when an insurance company tries to get back the money it paid on your claim from the party who was responsible for your loss. For example, if someone else caused a car accident and your insurance company pays for your damages, they can try to recover that money from the other driver. In California, insurance companies have to inform you if they plan to pursue subrogation. If they’re successful, they must make sure your deductible is returned to you.

What Are the Signs That an Insurance Company Is Acting in Bad Faith?

There are several warning signs that an insurance company might be acting in bad faith. These include delaying a decision on your claim, repeatedly asking for the same documents, or failing to provide clear communication. Ignoring witness statements, overlooking key documents, or focusing on minor inconsistencies while disregarding clear proof of your loss are additional red flags.

What Types of Damages Can I Recover in a Bad Faith Insurance Case in Chino?

In a bad faith insurance case in Chino, there are several types of damages a person may be able to recover. Contract damages cover the amount that the insurance company should have paid under the policy, plus any interest. Extracontractual damages go beyond the policy and cover other losses caused by the insurer. This includes economic losses, such as interest on loans taken out to pay for expenses the insurance company should have covered. It can also include emotional distress.

What Are Punitive Damages in a Bad Faith Insurance Case?

Punitive damages are another type of damage that may be available in certain situations. Punitive damages are awarded when the insurer acts maliciously, fraudulently, or oppressively. They are not meant to compensate the policyholder directly, but to punish the insurance company for particularly harmful behavior. These damages are awarded to deter any similar behavior in the future.

Experienced Insurance Law Firm in California

Reach out to Hobbs Law Group today to learn how we can help you. We offer free consultations to those living in Chino and the surrounding cities. When you come in for your appointment, you’ll be able to describe your situation in detail. Our attorneys will offer transparent legal guidance so you can make informed decisions regarding your case.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t collect payment for our services until we secure compensation for your case.