Auto insurance is a legal requirement for drivers in California. Car owners pay a premium to get some financial protection in the event of an accident. However, there are cases where insurance companies refuse to honor legitimate claims. In such cases, personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles can help individuals file a lawsuit to help them get the financial compensation they deserve.
An insurance policy is essentially a legal contract whereby the policyholder pays an insurance company a certain amount or premium in exchange for monetary compensation in the event of an accident. Insurance policies are very specific in terms of their coverage and can range from basic liability insurance to collision damage repairs and medical payments for injuries sustained in a car accident.
According to the California Highway Patrol Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 121 deaths and 4,683 injuries in vehicular crashes in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County in 2008 alone. Aside from the legal necessity of having auto insurance, due to the high rate of traffic accidents in Los Angeles, it simply makes sense to have the financial backing of an insurance company.
Unfortunately, insurance companies act in bad faith despite the availability of evidence to support a policyholder's claim. They may use unreasonable interpretations of the policy terms, deliberately withhold payments or simply refuse to settle - or even process - a policyholder's claim.
In some cases, a policyholder whose claim has been rejected by an insurer may appeal and be eligible for compensation for the damage or injury incurred. However, if an appeal to reverse the decision does not result in a favorable response from the insurer, the best course of action may be to contact a Los Angeles personal injury attorney experienced in handling claims in bad faith. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the claim, a lawyer may attempt to resolve the matter through mediation or arbitration. If the insurer still refuses to settle despite the clear legality of a claim, an attorney may recommend taking the matter to court.
Under California law, insurance companies are required to settle a claim promptly and fairly. However, the process can be complicated and confusing for those who have no legal background or knowledge of relevant laws. Los Angeles personal injury attorneys can provide the essential legal advice and resources needed to help victims of insurance bad faith get the financial compensation they deserve.
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