After an accident, it’s normal to report the claim, provide the requested documents, and wait for a response. But even then, the process can sometimes feel like a maze: there’s always “one document missing,” “we need you to send the same thing again,” “we’re still reviewing,” “it’s not approved,” and other similar messages, without a clear explanation. At that point, it’s common to think something is being done wrong. But no, this is often referred to as “bad faith”.

 

Bad faith happens when an insurance company fails to handle a claim properly or fairly, even though it has a duty to do so. This isn’t about a simple mistake or a normal delay. It’s about practices that, taken together, can stall the claim, wear down the injured person, or pressure them into accepting less than what they deserve.

 

Common signs of bad faith or to play dirty

Not every delay means bad faith on its own, but if these things keep happening, it’s worth paying attention:

• Unreasonable delays: weeks or months with no real progress, no timelines, and no concrete answers.
• Denials without explanation: a denial based on vague reasons or without clearly citing the policy and supporting evidence.
• Underpayment or lowball offers: quick offers that don’t cover real expenses, treatment, or lost income.
• Repeated requests for the same information: duplicate paperwork demands used as a tactic to exhaust people.
• Poor investigation: decisions made without properly reviewing records, reports, or key information.
• Changing the story: confusing policy interpretations or inconsistent explanations from different adjusters.

 

Important note: not every delay is bad faith

Sometimes delays happen because of missing information, medical processes, expert evaluations, or administrative procedures. The difference is usually clear when there’s transparency: clear explanations, verifiable steps, and consistent communication.

 

What to do if something doesn’t seem right

• Document everything: dates, names, emails, calls, what was requested, and what was provided.
• Ask for written reasons: what is being denied, why, and what part of the policy they’re relying on.
• Request a timeline: “What is the next step, and by what date?”
• Don’t sign or accept blindly: especially if there are broad releases or a final closure of the claim.
• Get guidance: a consultation can help clarify whether the claim handling has been fair and what options may exist.

 

At Pesek Law, the first consultation is completely free. We can review the situation and help determine whether this may be bad faith  by the insurance company, or whether the process has been delayed for other reasons.

 

To contact Pesek Law, simply click here:

and send us a message, or visit our office at 4826 S 24th St, Omaha, NE 68107, USA.

 

Pesek Law, together toward justice.

 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.