Life Insurance Lawyer Burlington Vermont

There are several reasons why an insurer may deny a life insurance claim, including:

1. Material misrepresentation or non-disclosure on the application: If the insured person provided false information or failed to disclose important information on their application, such as a history of alcohol abuse or addiction, the insurer may deny the claim.

2. Suicide or self-inflicted injury: Many life insurance policies have a suicide clause that excludes coverage if the insured person takes their own life within a certain period after the policy is issued, typically two years. Additionally, some policies may exclude coverage for self-inflicted injuries, including those that result from alcohol abuse.

3. Accidental death: If the death was the result of reckless or criminal behavior, such as drunk driving, the insurer may deny the claim.

4. Lapsed policy: If the insured person fails to pay their premiums and the policy lapses, the insurer may deny the claim.

If an insurer denies a life insurance claim, a life insurance lawyer can challenge the denial in several ways, including:

1. Reviewing the policy: The lawyer can review the policy to determine if the denial was in compliance with the terms of the policy.

2. Gathering evidence: The lawyer can gather evidence to support the claim, such as medical records, witness statements, or police reports.

3. Negotiating with the insurer: The lawyer can negotiate with the insurer to try to reach a settlement that is favorable to the claimant.

4. Filing a lawsuit: If negotiations fail, the lawyer can file a lawsuit on behalf of the claimant to challenge the denial and seek compensation.

Overall, the best course of action is to be honest and accurate when applying for life insurance and to disclose any relevant information, including alcohol consumption or alcoholism. This will help ensure that the policy remains valid and that the claim will be paid out in the event of the insured person's death.