Dealing With a Denied Claim After an Injury on Your Property in Fort Lauderdale

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), about two percent of all insurance losses in the United States are related to liability, including bodily injury. Although this might represent a rare occurrence for homeowners in Florida, it can become a very real threat when you face a major personal injury lawsuit. While you may be able to turn to your insurance provider for help in this situation, they could always deny your claim. What can you do if you’re facing this type of denied property insurance claim in Fort Lauderdale?

Understand the Insurer’s Role in Defending Against an Injury Claim 

Your insurer has a legal duty and strong financial incentive to help you defend against an injury claim on your property. Generally speaking, insurers attempt to resolve these claims outside of the courtroom through methods like mediation, collaborative law, and arbitration. Often, insurers and their adjusters can help all parties reach a favorable outcome. This generally ends with a financial settlement offer to the injured individual. If they accept the offer, then there is no need for legal action.

What Does an “Obligation to Defend” Mean?

Insurers may have a legal obligation to defend against personal injury claims associated with your property. This is something that the insurer is contractually obliged to honor, since it is in your insurance contract. Both the insurer and the policyholder (you) sign this contract, and it is legally binding.

If your insurer is refusing to help you defend against the claim, this may represent a breach of contract. Consider speaking with an experienced denied claims lawyer in Fort Lauderdale to assess your next move. If the insurer has no legitimate reason to deny your claim or fails to defend you, they may face legal action. If this lawsuit is successful, your insurer could be forced to defend you by the court.

Read the Wording of Your Policy Carefully

As with any case involving a denied insurance claim, it is important to read the fine print of your policy in this situation. Insurers may try to take advantage of various loopholes to avoid defending you or paying the injured party. Your lawyer can review the policy in detail and determine whether your insurer actually has a legitimate reason to deny coverage.

While an average homeowner’s insurance policy should cover most types of accidents and injuries, there are certain exceptions to consider.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Property Insurance Lawyers Today

At Geyer Fuxa Tyler, our legal team is made up of a diverse combination of attorneys who are well-positioned to protect the legal rights and financial interests of policyholders. If your property insurance claim was denied, we can help. For a free consultation, please call us today at (954) 990-5251. With an office in Sunrise, we represent policyholders in Broward County and throughout the state of Florida.

Sources:

 iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-homeowners-and-renters-insurance

progressive.com/answers/liability-insurance/