New York Insurance Coverage Disputes

New York Insurance Coverage Frequently Asked Questions

•  Do you have tips for handling insurance claims?

  A. Dealing with insurance claims can be frustrating and time-consuming. These tips can help the process go more smoothly.

  • Read your policy. Know the types of coverage that you are entitled to under your policy and its declarations. Understand the "exclusions" to your coverage. Contact your insurance agent or broker if you need clarification.
  • If you are obligated to provide insurance, or if someone is obligated to provide insurance for you, read the agreements creating these obligations and make certain you understand each party’s responsibilities.
  • Do not delay. Your policy likely requires you to promptly notify your insurer about any loss. You also have a limited time in which to appeal claim denials.
  • Complete forms carefully. Be honest and accurate when filling out applications, proofs of loss, or other insurance forms. An insurer may seize upon even an innocent mistake to deny you coverage.
  • Put it in writing. Get it in writing. It is difficult to resolve issues over the phone, and you may not be able to hold the insurance company accountable to oral promises made by their representatives. If you do call to inquire about your claim, write down the information you were given along with the date and time of the call and the name of the representative who talked to you. Keep records of all claims, correspondence, and bills.
  • Be cautious about cashing insurance checks. Your insurance company might send you a refund of premiums paid in order to rescind your policy. Or, the insurer might send you a check to settle your claim. Cashing the checks may signify that you agree with the insurer’s decision.
  • Contact the state department of insurance. The New York State Insurance Department licenses the operation of insurance companies, brokers, agents, and adjusters in the state. Consumers are urged to file a complaint with the Department if any of these licensees fail to act in accordance with their policies or New York laws or regulations. Click here to file a formal complaint.
  • Contact the Law Offices of Jonathan D. Sands. Trust us to handle your insurance hassles. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to efficiently resolve insurance coverage disputes.
•  How does the Law Offices of Jonathan D. Sands help resolve insurance coverage disputes?

  A. Here is how we help:

  • Insurance policy review: We provide a comprehensive legal review of all pertinent insurance policies in order to give you an honest, objective assessment of your policy rights and obligations, as well as the rights and obligations of the insurance companies. We also explain how New York law applies to your rights and the insurer's obligations.
  • Investigation of the loss: We team up with engineers, accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and other technical experts to investigate and prove the cause of your accident, injury, or loss. We also consult with experts as necessary to determine the extent or dollar amount of your property damages or injuries.
  • Gather and preserve evidence: We collect accident reports, police reports, interview witnesses, subpoena documents, take photographs, and collect other evidence to support your insurance claims.
  • Claims Filing Assistance: We assist you in filling out and filing the appropriate claims with the insurance companies and their adjustors. We also help you prepare to give statements as may be required by the insurance policies.
  • Negotiate a settlement: As a former insurance company attorney, Jonathan Sands has the inside perspective and experience to effectively negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
  • Arbitrate or litigate for an award: We press hard to settle cases out of court. However, we prepare as if each case may go to trial. Jonathan Sands is a strong advocate with a proven track record of success in arbitration and the courtroom.
•  What kind of insurance coverage cases are handled by the Law Offices of Jonathan D. Sands?

  A. We have experience in representing policyholders and businesses in a broad variety of insurance matters. Contact us for help with the following kinds of insurance coverage disputes:

  Auto insurance Homeowners insurance Fire insurance Comprehensive general liability Commercial property

  Professional liability insurance Directors & officers insurance Business interruption Property damage Third-party liability claims