Insurer Bad Faith Tactics and Car Accident Claims

 Posted on May 05, 2025 in Auto Accidents

Dealing with a combative insurance company in the wake of a devastating car accident can be a frustrating task. The adjusters assigned to investigate claims are typically expected to protect the company’s best interests – namely, its bottom line – and the more severe the accident and damages, the more likely you are to experience bad faith tactics. Learn more about how to recognize when an insurer is acting in bad faith, and contact an experienced Kane County, IL car accident attorney if you think it is happening with your claim.

How Do You Know if an Insurance Company Is Using Bad Faith Tactics?

Illinois's mandatory vehicle insurance requirements are designed to ensure that you have coverage for all possible damages through the at-fault party’s provider in the event of an accident. Ideally, you would file a claim, and the insurer would send you a check for an amount that meets the demands of your claim, covering all recoverable losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and sometimes the tactics adjusters use to avoid paying your claim are more subtle than others. 

Some common bad faith tactics insurance companies use include:

• Delaying the claims process unnecessarily by taking a long time to respond or investigate

• Denying your claim without providing a valid or clear reason

• Distorting the policy terms or misrepresenting the language to make it work in the company’s favor

• Conducting a biased investigation to undervalue your claim

• Offering an unreasonably low settlement that does not cover your losses

If you have experienced any of these issues, speak with an experienced attorney immediately to find out what you can do to protect your right to compensation.

What Is the Impact of Bad Faith Insurance Tactics in Illinois?

The financial impact of an uncooperative insurance provider can be steep. You could end up with extensive medical bills and costly vehicle repairs that compound while you are missing work to recover. The added emotional stress can also take its toll and severely impede your ability to physically and mentally recover from an already difficult situation. 

What Do You Do if You Suspect an Insurance Company of Using Bad Faith Tactics in Illinois?

If you suspect that you are a victim of an insurer acting in bad faith, the first step is to document every interaction. Record dates and points of discussion, noting how the company responded or failed to respond. Then, speak with a legal representative. Often, insurance providers are reluctant to use these tactics when dealing with an attorney, and it helps to have someone with professional experience working in your best interest.

Contact an Aurora, IL Car Accident Attorney Today for a Free Consultation

Insurance companies acting in bad faith can cause serious harm to auto accident victims. If you are facing physical, financial, and emotional damages caused by a negligent driver, an experienced Kane County, IL car accident lawyer at Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. will handle the insurance company so that you can focus on recovering. Call 630-907-0909 today to schedule your free consultation and let us relieve this heavy burden.