After filing a claim, insurance companies will at times request a substantial amount of information, leaving many Coloradans feeling overwhelmed. However, a failure to respond to the requests (aka “failure to cooperate”), could cost an insured their owed insurance claim benefits. Recently the United States District Court, District of Colorado, discussed this issue in its … Continue Reading
Most policyholders usually do not know what to expect when they submit a claim to their insurance company. Some simply expect to fill out a claim form, maybe answer a few questions, and then receive a claim check from the insurer compensating them for the loss. Most policyholders are usually taken back when the insurance … Continue Reading
Recently, it seems like I have been privy to a relatively high number of insureds asked by their carrier, following a loss, to submit to an examination under oath (commonly referred to as an EUO). The most common question I received was, “Can I just choose not to answer or attend?” Although the choice is … Continue Reading
Earlier this week, I was in Austin, Texas, attending a deposition with Chip Merlin on a hail damage claim. Texas is known for their barbeque so we decided to try out The County Line BBQ on Lake Austin. If you are in Austin, I highly recommend it. This led me to today’s blog topic – … Continue Reading
When arguing with an adjuster over the value of your personal property claim, receipts can be an invaluable tool. But who keeps receipts? When dealing with theft or loss of property, you may actually have receipts; however in a total loss situation such as a fire, often the receipts are destroyed along with the property. … Continue Reading
Insurance policies have certain provisions that must be complied with in a property insurance claim. These are called duties after loss, and if reasonably requested by the insurer, they must be complied with. Recently, an insurer in New York became involved in litigation over whether the policyholder had shown it the damaged property following a … Continue Reading
"Maybe if we think and wish and hope and pray it might come true" –The Beach Boys A recent Florida case that involves examinations under oath demonstrates that insurers should cooperate with policyholders and not try to use technicalities to prevent payment. In First Home Ins. Co. v. Fleurimond, 3D09-2034, 2010 WL 2178839 (Fla. … Continue Reading
While it is true that a policyholder's failure to cooperate with the investigation of a claim can result in a denial of coverage, it is important to note that the cooperation clause was not intended to enslave the policyholder and leave them at the mercy of a carrier's overly burdensome and unreasonable requests....… Continue Reading
When dealing with insurance claims, it is important for there to be ongoing communication and cooperation between the policyholder and the insurer. This relationship is generally to share and obtain information necessary for the insurer to make a fair and prompt determination....… Continue Reading