Commercial properties can sustain devastating damages in a tornado, even without a direct hit by a funnel cloud. Properties outside the direct path of a tornado can still suffer costly damages from the accompanying wind, hail, and rain. Anyone who has ever lived through a tornado and submitted an insurance claim for property damages may wonder how an insurer can get away with denying or underpaying claims after such a catastrophe.
Attorney Bill Voss has worked with numerous businesses after major weather disasters, and the truth is that “bad faith” insurance companies often get away with underpayments because policyholders don’t pursue their rights when they’ve been treated unfairly. Before you decide to accept a payment that doesn’t meet your expectations or cover your commercial property losses, make sure you know your rights as a policyholder and what you can do to protect your business’ recovery from a disaster.
Your Rights in Disputing a Partial Payment or Underpayment After a Tornado
When insurers deny valid claims or pay only for part of the covered damages, they are participating in unscrupulous behaviors. If your business sustained tornado damages and you haven’t received a fair claim settlement, here’s what you need to know:
- A denial, partial payment, or underpayment isn’t necessarily the final answer. If your claim has been unfairly denied or underpaid, you may still have options for disputing the insurance company’s decision.
- When your claim is approved for less than what you need to repair or rebuild, be careful about cashing the check. This action may stop you from collecting more compensation down the road.
- Insurance companies interpret the policy language to benefit them. However, in disputes, courts tend to side with the property owner.
Your insurance company may not take your concerns seriously without legal counsel or the threat of a lawsuit. If the insurance claim for your property has been mysteriously delayed, or if you feel you’re getting a lot of “red tape,” it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced attorney.
Litigation might be necessary to resolve your dispute with the insurance company and receive the full value of your claim. However, with skilled legal counsel and careful preparation, litigation doesn’t necessarily have to be an arduous process.
If you have received partial payment on a commercial tornado damage claim, it makes sense to talk with an attorney who will stand up for you against “bad faith” insurers to get you the full amount you deserve. Start a live chat now or call the Voss Law Firm directly for a complimentary case consultation and answers to your questions.
