Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 5/25/2010

Question
over 90 days ago my truck caught on fire, i had mior burns to face and hands,my insurance company has done nothing but aggrivated me, first they wanted fire dept report,then they wanted proof of residency(i live in il. but was in texas where this happened).after asking for all kinds of rediculous things now they want.a sworn statement in person.should i get a lawyer and if so is there someone i can go to that is reasonable .because this has drained me.

Answer
Hi Anthony,

It does sound like the insurance company is dragging their feet. First you should file a complaint with your state insurance commissioners office. Explain in detail everything that is going on. They will then demand an explanation from the insurance company.

Whith everything they are putting you through it sound like they think you may be involved in setting the truck on fire. These are some of the tactics insurance companies use to try to scare you into dropping your claim. If you had nothing to do with it, then you need to stand your ground.

If you do need to find an attorney, you should contact your state Bar Association for a referral to an insurance bad faith attorney.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh