When you become a homeowner, buying insurance is an important step that helps protect your investment in the event of a disaster. You might assume that you’re covered as long as you pay your premiums every month. Unfortunately, insurance companies sometimes offer customers low payouts to minimize their losses. If you need to file an insurance claim, hiring a lawyer is the best way to ensure you get the reimbursement you deserve. Here are a few scenarios in which you should hire a lawyer when filing an insurance claim. 

When to Get Legal Help for an Insurance Claim

1. There’s Conflict Over Liability 

In some instances, an insurance company may assert that the client is fully or partially to blame for the loss. This could give them justification to reduce or completely deny the payout. If there is a question over your liability, but you are sure that you weren’t to blame, a lawyer can help gather evidence that proves this. 

2. Your Claim Was Denied

If your claim is denied without a justifiable reason, your insurance company could be violating the law. Insurers are legally required to act in good faith when handling claims; if they deny a claim, they must provide a legitimate reason for doing so. If you feel your claim was denied without proper justification, a lawyer will fight for the benefits you deserve and file a lawsuit against your carrier for wrongfully denying your claim. 

3. You’ve Received a Settlement Offer

Insurance companies can be quick to make low settlement offers to policyholders in an attempt to pay less than a claim is worth. If you are presented with an offer, it’s wise not to accept this offer before reviewing it with a lawyer. They will determine if it’s a reasonable amount or if you should continue negotiations.  

If you are having trouble receiving payment for a valid insurance claim, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer with Williams, Hall & Latherow, LLP. For nearly two decades, they have provided the residents of Ashland, KY with effective legal representation. Call (606) 393-4790 to arrange a consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their background in law.