Whenever a small business or individual files an insurance claim, it often turns into a battle between the claimant’s adjuster and the insurance company’s adjuster. In many ways, it’s a fight between David and Goliath due to the difference in resources available to each side. As a result, you would think that our government would do a better job of leveling the playing field. However, whenever David does something wrong he is often punished by state officials. On the other hand, when Goliath mishandles a claim, the chances of a crack down are very slim.
Here is a very telling fact that shows the amount of power insurance companies have in Florida: when there’s a complaint against an insurance company’s adjuster there’s a less than 16 percent chance the adjuster will be disciplined; however, whenever there’s a complaint against a public adjuster, representing a home owner, or business owner, there’s a 75 percent chance the state will discipline that person.
On both sides there are certainly adjusters that need to be investigated and disciplined. By and large, most adjusters approach their jobs with honesty and complete professionalism. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared to file a complaint against an insurer’s adjuster for mishandling a claim.
During the claims process make sure to request and keep all documents related to the claim. Also, keep a journal noting phone calls and the dates and people you spoke to. Make sure to check the licenses for any adjuster, contractors or roofers helping with your claim. This can be done at www.myfloridacfo.com. Lastly, if you feel that your claim is being mishandled, don’t hesitate to immediately contact the Department of Financial Services.
The insurance claim process is often daunting and time-consuming. At Alvarez & Barbara, LLP, we have the resources and expertise to properly help you with your insurance claim especially if your claim is being mishandled by your insurance company, or the adjuster hired by your insurance company.
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Before opening our law firm in 2006, our attorneys worked for some of the state’s, and nation’s, largest law firms, and worked representing the insurance companies for years. Our attorneys are now uniquely positioned to use that experience to assist individuals and businesses alike throughout Florida with their insurance claims. As a result, our attorneys are well versed in the impact insurance has on businesses, condominiums, and individuals alike. Our insurance litigation practice group is prepared to tackle your insurance claim.
Given our extensive experience litigating for, and against, insurance companies, our insurance litigation practice group is prepared to provide aggressive, efficient and effective representation on a broad spectrum of insurance claims in Florida for local, national, and international clients. We are prepared to advocate insurance claims at the pre-suit stage, trial, appellate and arbitration levels.
If you are facing a dispute over an insurance claim in Florida, contact Alvarez & Barbara, LLP, for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
Call us today toll free at 1-866-518-2913 or at 305-263-7700.
About the Author – Gabriel de las Salas is an attorney with the law firm of Alvarez & Barbara, LLP. His practice is focused on general civil and commercial litigation, including personal injury, insurance claims and real estate disputes. Mr. de las Salas received his B.A., cum laude, from the University of Florida, and his J.D., from Stetson University College of Law.