Tampa Insurance Bad Faith Attorney
Insurers owe a duty to their insureds to pay valid first party claims, or to settle or defend third party claims. Yet insurance companies also have a duty to their shareholders to operate prudently and efficiently. Fulfilling these duties means that all claims should be thoroughly investigated, with benefits paid only where coverage and liability are clear and the amount involved is accurately established. HD Law Partners represents insurance carriers whenever there is a good faith dispute over coverage, liability or damages. Additionally, the firm provides defense of claims alleging insurance bad faith or plaintiffs seeking extra-contractual liability, contact our Tampa insurance bad faith defense attorneys today.
Coverage Disputes
HD Law Partners represents clients from filing through appeal across a range of insurance lines, including commercial general liability, bodily injury, uninsured motorist, homeowners and other property damage policies. Our practice includes first party, third party and subrogation claims. In determining whether coverage exists, we conduct a thorough review of the policy as well as the facts underlying the claim to determine:
- Is the policyholder in good standing?
- Did the policyholder comply with the terms of the policy in providing proof of loss and a timely notice of claim?
- Is the policy coverage applicable to the claim at hand?
The firm issues opinion letters and offers advice regarding coverage, to assist decision makers in loss mitigation and risk management assessments. We can help determine potential exposure and possible trial strategies, as well as the likely settlement value of the claim. Where a dispute over coverage remains, we represent clients in declaratory judgment actions and/or litigation under a reservation of rights. The firm’s representation extends from claims investigation and examinations under oath (EUO) to trial and appeals.
Extra-Contractual Liability
Refusing to settle when liability is clear, or refusing a reasonable settlement demand that is within policy limits, can expose an insurer to liability for any excess verdict over policy limits in the event the carrier loses at trial. We fight to make sure insurers are not penalized for acting reasonably and in good faith in their interpretation of obligations under the policy and attempt to represent their insured’s best interests.
Bad Faith Defense
Implicit in any insurance policy is the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. Plaintiff’s lawyers are quick to ascribe evil intent to any denial of benefits or disclaimer of coverage, or even to assume bad faith in a “lowball” settlement offer or delay in processing a claim. HD Law Partners stands up for the rights of the insurer and strives to prevent good faith contractual disputes from being twisted into tort claims alleging improper motives on the part of our client.
Seek Experienced Legal Representation in Central Florida Insurance Disputes
HD Law Partners has decades of combined experience litigating insurance coverage disputes and bad faith insurance claims across a range of insurance lines throughout the state of Florida. Our Tampa insurance bad faith attorneys can help you assess the claim’s settlement value, understand available claims and defenses, and fashion an appropriate litigation strategy. For assistance, call 813-253-5333 (Tampa, Sarasota) or 800-876-3392 (Orlando, Gainesville).
