Chicago Litigators Standing Against Bad Faith Insurers
Norman J. Lerum, P.C., in Chicago advocates for policyholders when an insurance company is operating in bad faith. Attorney Norman J. Lerum worked as an insurance company defense lawyer early in his career. His knowledge of the tactics insurers use to deny claims, as well as what records are necessary to support a claim fully, allows us to build strong cases on behalf of our clients.
Bringing Bad Faith Claims For Unwarranted Denials
Insurance companies, like any other business, are intent on maximizing profits. Unfortunately, the focus on their bottom line can lead insurance companies to deny claims, refuse to defend their insureds, refuse to provide insurance coverage when a claim is made against an insured or to pay a claim fairly. An insurance policy is a contract between an insurer and you, the policyholder. When an insurance company does not live up to that contract, the policyholder can bring a breach of contract lawsuit against the company.
Insurance policies are complex contracts that are loaded with legalese and industry terminology. Illinois courts have held that if an insurance contract is ambiguously worded, it will be construed in favor of the insured.
When Can You Act In An Insurance Coverage Dispute?
The most common lawsuits against insurance companies occur when an insurance provider refuses to pay a claim made by a policyholder or when an insurance company refuses to defend a policyholder who is named as a defendant in a lawsuit. An example is the handling by Mr. Lerum of a claim against an insurance company based on a breach of its duty to defend: Country Mutual Insurance Company v. Thomas Olsak, which resulted in a $3.0 million judgment against Country Mutual after a ten-day trial. See Opinion of Judge Michael Mullen. The Judgement was upheld on appeal for our client.
Insurance companies have the resources and the experience to engage in a prolonged dispute over a claim. If you are struggling with an insurance company regarding a claim that you think has been wrongly denied, it is critical to work with an experienced bad-faith insurance attorney who will put you on equal footing – an attorney like Norman J. Lerum.
Protecting The Rights Of The Insured
Our commercial litigators and contract dispute attorneys represent both individuals and commercial entities in insurance disputes, which may involve property insurance, including homeowners insurance, errors and omissions, director and officers insurance, business liability and business interruption insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bad Faith Insurance
Dealing with a denied insurance claim or a lack of coverage when you need it most can feel frustrating and unfair. Below are answers to common questions about bad faith insurance practices and what your options are under Illinois law.
What is insurance bad faith?
Bad faith in insurance occurs when an insurance company violates its legal obligation to act honestly and fairly in handling claims made by its policyholders. This could involve unreasonably delaying payment, denying a valid claim without adequate investigation, failing to provide a defense in a lawsuit or not communicating properly with the insured.
Insurance companies have a duty to honor the terms of the contract in good faith—when they don’t, they may be held accountable through a bad faith lawsuit. Illinois law allows policyholders to recover damages beyond the value of the original claim, including attorney fees and, in some cases, punitive damages.
Is it worth suing an insurance company in Illinois?
If you believe your insurer acted in bad faith, it can absolutely be worth pursuing legal action, especially when significant losses are involved or your financial future is at risk. Illinois courts recognize the imbalance of power between individuals and large insurance companies, and the law provides strong remedies for policyholders who’ve been wronged. Suing an insurance company for breach of contract or bad faith may result in compensation not just for the original claim but also for damages caused by the denial itself.
In many cases, the threat of litigation alone can prompt insurers to reassess their position. An attorney experienced in insurance litigation, like Norman J. Lerum, can evaluate your claim and explain your options clearly.
What can I do if my insurance claim was denied?
If your claim has been denied, the first step is to review the denial letter and your policy carefully to understand the reason provided. Sometimes, the denial may be based on misinterpreted facts or unclear language. Keep copies of all communications and supporting documentation related to your claim. Then, speak with a knowledgeable bad faith insurance attorney.
A lawyer can help determine whether the denial was legally justified or if the insurer may have breached its duty. If bad faith is suspected, your attorney can help you file a lawsuit and pursue full compensation.
Speak With A Chicago Litigator About Your Claim Denial
Are you battling against an insurance company? Do you believe that your insurance claim was unfairly denied? If so, we invite you to email us or call 312-487-2154. We will be happy to answer your questions and tell you more about how we can help you with your case.