After an accident—whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or another unexpected incident—you naturally turn to your insurance provider for support. You’ve paid your premiums, followed your policy terms, and in return, you expect a fair and timely claims process. Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always act in good faith. Some delay or deny valid claims, offer unfair settlements, or misrepresent policy details. When this happens in Florida, it may constitute bad faith—a serious violation of an insurer’s legal duties.
At DR Law Center, we help individuals and businesses throughout the Tampa Bay Area and across Florida understand and respond to these situations. Our firm routinely sees the damage caused when insurers put profits ahead of policyholders. If you’ve experienced a lack of cooperation from your insurer following an accident, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you can take.
What Constitutes Bad Faith in Florida?
In Florida, insurance companies are legally required to act in good faith when handling claims. This means they must investigate claims thoroughly, communicate openly, and settle claims fairly and promptly. When an insurer neglects these duties without justification, it may be acting in bad faith under Florida Statute § 624.155.
Bad faith can take many forms. Some insurers wrongfully deny claims without properly reviewing the evidence. Others delay payment, refuse to explain their decisions, or make offers that are significantly lower than what the claim is worth. In liability claims, an insurer might refuse to settle within policy limits, exposing the policyholder to personal financial liability. These practices are not just unfair—they may be illegal.
At DR Law Center, we focus on both first-party and third-party bad faith claims. First-party bad faith refers to your insurer mishandling a claim you filed under your policy, for example, a denied car accident or property damage claim. Third-party bad faith applies when your insurer fails to protect you from liability to others, such as refusing to settle a lawsuit within your policy’s coverage limits.
The Legal Process for Pursuing a Bad Faith Claim
Under Florida law, policyholders must first file a Civil Remedy Notice with the Florida Department of Financial Services before they can bring a lawsuit for bad faith. This notice gives the insurance company 60 days to “cure” or fix the issue. If they fail to take corrective action within that time, the policyholder may move forward with legal action.
The bad faith claims process can be complex, especially when insurance companies use technical language, legal defenses, or delay tactics to avoid responsibility. That’s where experienced legal representation becomes essential. At DR Law Center, we take a detailed, analytical approach to each case. Attorney David Rummell, a cum laude graduate of Albany Law School and holder of an advanced law degree in taxation from Boston University, is well equipped to dissect insurance policies and develop strong legal arguments based on policy language, case law, and statutory protections.
Our team offers the responsiveness and personalized service of a small firm, with the sophistication and legal skill found in much larger practices. We aim to deliver thoughtful, results-oriented strategies for clients facing bad faith conduct from insurers.
Businesses Are Also Affected by Bad Faith
Bad faith is not limited to personal injury or individual claims. Florida businesses are also vulnerable to insurers who fail to honor their obligations under commercial insurance policies. Whether it’s property damage, general liability coverage, or business interruption insurance, a denial or delay can be catastrophic to business operations.
At DR Law Center, we understand the impact bad faith has on your company’s bottom line and reputation. We regularly assist businesses with legal action against insurers that refuse to pay covered claims. Our business law experience—including contract negotiation, formation, and dispute resolution—gives us the tools to evaluate complex commercial policies and pursue accountability when coverage is unjustly denied.
The stakes are high for businesses, which often rely on insurance to cover major risks. If your company is facing an insurer that won’t pay what it owes, don’t accept it as the cost of doing business. There may be strong grounds for a bad faith claim, and our team is prepared to take action.
Why Choose DR Law Center?
Clients across the Tampa Bay Area choose DR Law Center because of our dedication to integrity, responsiveness, and legal excellence. We don’t just process cases—we deeply engage with each client’s legal situation, examine every angle, and fight for fair treatment under Florida law. Our practice is built on long-term relationships, word-of-mouth referrals, and a reputation for professionalism. We also offer flexible fee arrangements to make high-quality representation accessible.
Whether you’re an individual recovering from a serious accident or a business owner protecting your investment, we deliver the attention, experience, and strategy your case deserves. Bad faith insurance behavior can create significant stress and financial burden, but with the right legal help, you don’t have to face it alone.
If you believe your insurer is acting in bad faith, take steps now to protect your rights. Keep copies of all communication with the insurer, review your policy carefully, and consult with an attorney who understands this area of law. Prompt action can preserve your legal options and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
Call for a Consultation now.
If you’re dealing with an uncooperative or unfair insurance company after an accident or loss, reach out to DR Law Center today. Attorney David Rummell has the legal knowledge and experience to help you navigate the complexities of Florida bad faith insurance law. Call us at +1 (813) 951-1164 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Your insurer had a duty to act in good faith. When they fail you, DR Law Center is here to help you fight back.