Whether you’re a policyholder dealing with insurance coverage disputes related to personal insurance, commercial insurance, or bad faith practices, the right legal representation can make all the difference in your insurance claim.
At Richman Law Firm PLLC, we have represented hundreds of New Yorkers dealing with insurance coverage disputes, and we are committed to offering insightful legal strategies to protect your interests. Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding New York Insurance Law
New York insurance law is constantly changing. At Richman Law Firm PLLC, our NYC insurance claim disputes attorneys always provide clients with reliable legal representation. Whether you’re dealing with personal or commercial insurance issues, our knowledge of New York law gives us the edge in fighting for your rights against insurance providers.
Types of Insurance Disputes We Handle
Our law firm has extensive experience in insurance disputes, including:
Personal Insurance
Personal insurance claim disputes can arise from many circumstances, including property damage, liability, and loss of use. When these disputes occur, it is essential to have a seasoned attorney on your side.
Property Damage
When your personal property is damaged due to unforeseen circumstances, you expect your insurance company to cover the losses as stipulated in your policy. However, disputes can arise when insurance companies undervalue the damage or deny the claim altogether. At Richman Law Firm PLLC, we meticulously review your applicable policies to increase your chances of reaching the compensation you deserve.
Liability
Liability insurance is a type of coverage designed to protect you from financial losses when you are held legally responsible for causing damages or injuries to another party. Insurance companies may fail to offer the appropriate protection to their policyholders. Our experienced attorneys understand the nuances of liability insurance and work tirelessly to uphold your rights.
Loss of Use
Loss of use coverage compensates for living expenses when you cannot use your home, a place of business, or a vehicle due to covered damages. Disputes may arise regarding what constitutes “additional living expenses” or the duration of coverage.
If your insurance company isn’t providing the compensation you are entitled to as per the terms of your policy, don’t hesitate to take action. Our experienced attorneys have experience in taking on insurance companies in New York.
Commercial Insurance
In the realm of business, commercial insurance is a crucial safety net. However, when disputes arise over property damage or liability, you need an experienced lawyer. Richman Law Firm PLLC is well-versed in commercial insurance law and litigation and is prepared to protect your business interests.
Property Damage
Commercial property insurance covers your business against losses from unforeseen damages. However, insurance companies may undervalue the damage or deny claims outright. Our team meticulously analyzes your policy and the specifics of your insurance claim, increasing your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Liability
Commercial liability insurance should protect your business from financial losses from lawsuits and other legal actions. Disputes occur when commercial insurance providers refuse to defend or indemnify policyholders. Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of commercial liability insurance and work relentlessly to uphold your rights.
Renter’s Insurance
Renter’s insurance provides a critical layer of financial protection for tenants. Coverage typically includes personal property, liability, and sometimes additional living expenses if the rental unit becomes uninhabitable.
Property Damage
Renter’s insurance covers the cost of replacing your personal belongings in case of unforeseen damage or theft. However, disputes can arise when insurance companies undervalue the damage or deny claims for no valid reasons.
Liability
Renter’s liability insurance protects you from financial loss if you are held legally responsible for injury to another person or damage to their property, or in cases where renters damage a neighbor’s property. Disputes often occur when insurance companies refuse to defend or indemnify their policyholders.
Declaratory Judgment Actions
Declaratory judgment actions can play a pivotal role in resolving insurance disputes. These legal actions determine the rights and obligations of parties under an insurance policy or other written contract.
For instance, if there’s a dispute over the interpretation of an insurance policy, a declaratory judgment action can be used to resolve the issue. However, a declaratory judgment differs from other forms of judgment as it doesn’t provide any enforcement or order for either party to take action, such as paying damages.
In the context of insurance disputes, declaratory judgment actions can be beneficial. They can help clarify the rights and obligations of both the insurer and the insured, preventing further disputes.
Broker Liability Claims
Brokers play a critical role in the insurance process, acting as intermediaries between policyholders and insurance companies. However, disputes can arise when brokers fail to fulfill their duties, leading to financial loss for the policyholder.
For instance, a broker may be held liable if they fail to procure the appropriate coverage for a client, misrepresent the terms of a policy, or prioritize their interests over those of their client. These situations may give rise to broker liability claims.
Third-Party Claims
When you’re involved in an accident or suffer damage due to someone else’s actions, you may have the right to file a third-party insurance claim. This type of claim allows an individual to seek compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company rather than their own.
Common scenarios include car accidents, slip and falls, and construction accidents, In these cases, you would file a claim against the responsible party’s insurance policy to cover your losses.
Navigating third-party claims can be complex, and having an experienced NYC insurance claim attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Insurance Coverage Disputes
Insurance coverage disputes are unfortunately common, often arising when an insurance company denies a claim or offers a settlement amount that is less than what the policyholder believes they are entitled to. These arguments frequently include disagreements over the extent of coverage provided by the policy, the valuation of losses, or the applicability of exclusions and conditions.
These disputes can be incredibly stressful and complicated, especially when you are already coping with the aftermath of an accident, injury, or other loss. They require a strategic approach that incorporates both laws and insurance industry regulations.
Common Insurance Company Bad Faith Practices
Insurance companies have a responsibility to act in good faith when dealing with policyholders. Unfortunately, some insurers engage in bad faith practices to avoid paying claims or to minimize payouts. Our law firm is committed to holding insurance companies accountable for bad faith. If you believe your insurance provider is acting in bad faith, contact our experienced attorneys for a free consultation.
Prolonging the Settlement Process Beyond the Required Time Frame
Insurance companies must settle claims within a reasonable time frame. However, some insurers deliberately delay the settlement process to pressure policyholders into accepting lower payouts. If your insurance company unnecessarily prolongs the settlement process, our attorneys can help you take legal action.
Underpaying Rightful Compensation
Insurance companies sometimes undervalue the amount of compensation owed to policyholders. This practice violates the insurance policy terms. Our attorneys meticulously review policies and contract specifics to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Misinterpretation of Insurance Policy Coverage
Some insurance companies take advantage of policy language and contractual complexities by misinterpreting policy coverage in their favor. Our experienced attorneys understand the nuances of insurance law and can help ensure that your insurance company interprets your policy accurately and fairly.
Altering the Conditions of Insurance Agreements Without Notifying the Policyholder
Insurance companies must notify policyholders of any changes to their insurance agreements. However, some insurers alter the conditions of the agreement without informing policyholders, potentially resulting in reduced coverage or denied claims.
In any dispute involving bad faith practices, you need an experienced attorney who can effectively advocate for your rights and work on fair resolutions for insurance disputes.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Whether you’re dealing with personal, commercial, or title insurance disputes or even a case involving bad faith practices by an insurance company, we are your go-to insurance dispute lawyers in New York.
At Richman Law Firm PLLC, we are committed to building tailored strategies aligned with your expectations and contractual rights, ensuring you understand your legal options and insurance coverage terms. Contact us for a free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is insurance bad faith?
Insurance bad faith happens when an insurance company unreasonably denies claims, underpays compensation, or fails to investigate claims. In New York, insurance providers have a legal obligation to act in good faith when addressing claims. If you suspect your insurance company is acting in bad faith, contact an experienced NYC insurance claim disputes attorney.
Can I sue my insurance company for denying my claim?
Yes, you may sue your insurance company if they wrongfully deny your claim. However, it’s crucial to have a skilled New York insurance law attorney review your case.
How long do I have to file an insurance claim in New York?
The time limit for filing an insurance claim in New York varies depending on your policy and the type of claim. However, it’s best to file as soon as possible after the incident. If your claim is denied, you typically have six years to file a lawsuit against your insurance company for breach of contract.
What should I do if my health insurance claim is denied?
If your health insurance claim is denied, first review your policy and the reason for denial. You may appeal the decision with your insurance provider. If the appeal is unsuccessful, consider seeking legal advice from an experienced New York insurance dispute attorney.
Can a law firm help with property damage insurance claims?
Yes. Law firms experienced in insurance disputes can provide valuable assistance with property damage insurance claims. Richman Law Firm PLLC can help you understand your policy coverage, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive fair compensation for your property damage.
What is the difference between personal and commercial insurance disputes?
Personal insurance disputes typically involve individual policyholders and cover home, auto, or life insurance. Commercial insurance disputes involve businesses and can include property damage, liability, or business interruption claims. Both types of disputes can benefit from insurance dispute attorneys.
How can I protect myself from bad faith practices in insurance?
To protect yourself from bad faith practices in insurance, always read and understand your policy, keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, and don’t hesitate to seek legal advice if you suspect your insurer is acting unfairly. An experienced NYC insurance claim disputes attorney can help fight for your rights.
What compensation can I receive in an insurance dispute case?
In an insurance dispute case, you may be entitled to the original claim amount and additional damages for bad faith practices. The specific compensation will depend on the details of your case and the insurance company’s actions.
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Meet Mr. Richman
SCOTT B. RICHMAN, ESQ.
Mr. Richman is the Managing Member and Founder of Richman Law Firm PLLC. In his role as Managing Member, Mr. Richman oversees the day-to-day operations of the firm and handles the litigation of the most complex legal matters across a vast array of practice areas and disciplines.