Various types of insurance policies have a provision within them that gives the policyholder the right to have an attorney (who is appointed and paid for by the insurance company) represent them in the event that they are named as a defendant in a lawsuit. Read on for 4 ways to improve the odds of the case being settled or decided in your favor.
Call the Insurance Defense Lawyer as Soon as You Are Given Their Information
If you’re named as a defendant in a lawsuit related to an insurance claim, you’ll get a letter in the mail that provides you with the name and contact information of the attorney appointed to represent you. Once you receive that information, call the lawyer to discuss your case. Not only will they have some questions to ask you, but they may need you to provide them with some documentation. The sooner you call, the sooner your insurance defense lawyer can begin exploring defense options.
Provide the Insurance Defense Attorney with All Requested Documents and Information
Do not presume that because the lawyer was appointed by the insurance company that they’ve been given everything they need. If your lawyer asks you to send over a copy of an accident report or any other documentation, do it right away. Helping the insurance defense attorney by providing documents and requested information in a timely manner helps your case.
Understand the Purpose and Limitations of Insurance Defense
The purpose of an insurance defense lawyer is to help you (and the insurance company) avoid a monetary loss that may result if you are named in a lawsuit as a defendant. The cost of the attorney is part of the premium that you pay for the policy. The insurance defense lawyer has the job of not only defending you, but also looking to settle in the best interest of you and your insurance company.
There are limits related to insurance defense. Your insurance policy is designed to pay out up to a certain amount. So, if the plaintiff is awarded an amount that is higher than your policy limits, you will be required to pay the difference between the two. The insurance defense lawyer may not be obligated to help you appeal the verdict and they may not represent you for free in any future collections efforts filed against you.
The Insurance Defense Lawyer Owes You Duties
The insurance defense lawyer is contracted by your insurance company, but still must act in your best interests. If you do not feel the attorney is properly representing you, speak up and contact the insurance company. Just because the insurance company is paying his fee does not mean you must accept his advice or recommendations.
For more information on how to handle an insurance dispute, contact experienced attorney Drew E. Pomerance today.
