Insurance Delay Tactics: What You Need to Know
Did you know that 5,250,837 accidents resulting in 35,000 fatalities occur in the United States every year? Hello, I’m Ziad Youssef, the principal, and founder of Bellingham Injury Law, PLLC. For nearly 20 years, I have been helping drive justice home for victims of auto accidents. Each client I’ve represented has had their own journey and unique story, but they all share one thing in common: They want just compensation for the life-changing experience that comes from being involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. In my blog, and on my “Monday Morning Legal Minute Podcast”, I discuss the unique lessons I’ve learned in nearly 20 years of representing victims of serious auto accidents.
In the aftermath of a serious car accident, most people expect the insurance company of the at-fault driver to step up and handle the claim fairly. However, a growing trend in personal injury law tells a different story. Instead of timely resolutions, many injured parties are being met with calculated stalling and delay tactics.
The “Good Faith” Duty
Insurance companies have a legal obligation to act in good faith during negotiations. This means they should process claims efficiently and provide fair compensation based on the evidence. Unfortunately, when companies prioritize their bottom line over their duty, they often resort to “bad faith” behaviors designed to wear you down.
Common Stalling Tactics
If you are navigating a claim, be on the lookout for these red flags:
Excessive Documentation Requests: The insurer may repeatedly ask for “extra details” or documents that are irrelevant to proving your specific case.
Re-requesting Information: Asking for the same records multiple times under the guise of “missing paperwork.”
Unreasonable Delays: Taking weeks or months to respond to simple inquiries or settlement offers.
The goal of these tactics is simple: to frustrate you into accepting a lower settlement than you deserve just to end the process.
Know Your Rights
You do not have to navigate these hurdles alone. If you feel an insurance company is stalling or asking for unreasonable documentation, it is important to understand your legal standing. Protecting your rights ensures that “good faith” isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a requirement.
