When you purchase an insurance policy, it’s with the expectation that should a covered event occur, the provider will reimburse you for the resulting losses. Likewise, when you file a third-party claim against someone else’s insurance company, it’s reasonable to expect the insurer to treat you with honesty and integrity.

Unfortunately, many accident victims learn the hard way that providers aren’t always willing to cooperate. When an insurance company refuses to pay for a covered loss without a reasonable cause or excuse, the claimant has the right to bring an insurance bad faith claim.

If you were hurt or lost a loved one in an accident but the insurance company has denied your claim without a valid reason, contact Gump & Faiella to discuss your case. We are passionate about helping people stand up to unethical insurance providers and recover the compensation they deserve. Call 800-264-3455 to schedule a free case evaluation with an insurance bad faith attorney in Missouri.

Read on to learn the types of damages you may be able to recover in an insurance bad faith claim:

  People file bad faith claims when the insurance company refuses to pay the benefits they are owed. A successful case will end with the claimant receiving those benefits.  

General damages are non-economic losses the claimant incurred due to the insurance bad faith. These damages might include emotional distress and mental anguish. General damages do not have an objectively verifiable dollar value, but a seasoned attorney can help you calculate a fair amount based on the facts of your case.  

Any financial losses incurred as a direct result of the insurance bad faith may be recoverable. For example, if you were forced to declare bankruptcy because of mounting medical bills that the insurer refused to cover, you might be entitled to compensation for all the costs associated with the bankruptcy proceedings.

If you have to sue the insurance company to enforce your rights and you prevail, your final payout will include your attorneys’ fees. This ensures that insurance companies do not engage in unethical practices simply because many claimants cannot afford quality representation.

In certain scenarios, plaintiffs may be awarded punitive damages. Unlike compensatory damages, which reimburse plaintiffs for economic and non-economic losses, punitive damages are intended to punish defendants for egregious behavior. If the insurance company acted with a conscious disregard for your rights, you may be awarded punitive damages.  

If you were hurt in a serious accident but the insurer wrongfully denied your claim, turn to Gump & Faiella. Our insurance bad faith lawyers represent clients in St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, Hannibal, and throughout Missouri.

We have recovered more than $250 million for clients in successful settlements and verdicts. Call 800-264-3455 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation.

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