Every day, countless individuals become victims of personal injury or accidents in Missouri, leaving them with mounting medical bills and other expenses to deal with. Many of these individuals rely on their insurance policies to provide them with the necessary financial support to recover from their injuries. However, in some cases, the insurance company may engage in bad faith insurance practices, leaving the policyholder in turmoil. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of Missouri personal injury laws and how you can deal with bad faith insurance practices.
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Understanding Personal Injury Laws in Missouri
Personal injury law in Missouri is a set of legal rules that allow people who have been injured by someone’s negligent or intentional actions to seek compensation for their loss. Some of the most common types of personal injury claims include, but are not limited to, car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and product liability.
Missouri’s statute of limitations provides individuals with five years from the date of the injury or accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s essential to remember that some injuries may take time to manifest themselves, so it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Dealing With Bad Faith Insurance Practices
While your insurance policy can provide you with the necessary financial support to manage your expenses post-accident, insurance companies may engage in bad faith practices, leaving policyholders exposed and vulnerable. Insurers have a legal obligation to act in good faith and fulfill their contracts with policyholders objectively, honestly, and fairly.
Examples of Bad Faith Insurance Practices
Some of the most common examples of bad faith insurance practices include:
- Refusing to investigate a claim or delaying an investigation unreasonably
- Denying the claim without any valid explanation
- Failing to explain policy limits promptly
- Failing to communicate with the policyholder in a concise and timely manner
- Failing to provide reasons for the claim denial
- Delaying payments or only partially paying claims without justification
- Intentionally misinterpreting the policy to avoid the payment of legitimate claims
- Breaching the insurer’s duty to defend the policyholder
What to Do If Your Insurance Company Is Engaging in Bad Faith Practices
If you believe that your insurance company is engaging in bad faith practices, there are several steps you can take to protect your interests, such as:
Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced personal injury attorney can review your insurance policy, assess your case, and determine whether your insurer has acted in bad faith. They can also represent you in negotiations or litigation, ensuring that you receive fair compensation.
Gather Evidence: It’s essential to document any interaction with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, forms, or requests for information. Keep copies of all your policies, claim forms, and any other correspondence with the insurer.
File a Complaint: You can file a complaint with the Missouri Department of Insurance, which has the power to investigate allegations of bad faith insurance practices.
Consider Litigation: If the insurance company acts in bad faith, you may be entitled to take legal action and pursue a lawsuit against them. This can help you recover damages, including compensation for the denied claim, punitive damages, and attorney fees.
Conclusion
Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a personal injury victim in Missouri is crucial for dealing with bad faith insurance practices. If you believe that your insurer has acted in bad faith, consult with a personal injury attorney who can assess your case and help you fight for your rights. Remember, you have the right to receive fair compensation and protect your financial interests after an accident.