Have you ever wondered if your insurance company is really on your side? While insurance can offer valuable protection, many policyholders don’t realize that their carriers often put profit above everything else.

At Banafshe Law Firm, we’ve seen how some insurance companies may use complicated terms, hide important facts, or downplay your right to privacy. Below, we’ll reveal some of the key things they don’t want you to know—and why being informed can make all the difference when you need to file a claim.

Why Don’t They Tell You About Your Right to Privacy?

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 1985.3, if your insurance company is subpoenaed for information about you, they must let you know so you can protect your records. This is not always well-advertised.

Insurers are supposed to follow strict guidelines, like Cal. Ins. Code § 791.13, which limits when they can share your personal data. Yet, many people are left in the dark about how much control they actually have over their own information.

Are They Really Explaining “Duty to Defend”?

When you buy a policy, your insurance carrier typically has a “duty to defend” you against covered claims. This duty can be broader than many people realize.

Once any fact suggests your claim might be covered, your insurer should step up to help (see Dua v. Stillwater Ins. Co., 91 Cal. App. 5th 127). Some insurance companies, however, may minimize or delay this help to cut costs. Knowing your policy terms can stop them from denying the defense you’re owed.

Could They Be Hiding Other Policy Options?

Insurance agents generally don’t have to volunteer extra coverage details unless you directly ask or they’ve misled you. In Cal. Serv. Station Etc. Ass’n v. Am. Home Assur. Co., the court explained that an agent is only required to share additional coverage if you’ve specifically requested it or if the agent has claimed to be an expert with special knowledge. This means many consumers end up with only the bare minimum coverage because they never realized they had other options.

What About Personal Information You Didn’t Agree to Share?

Even though laws like Cal. Ins. Code § 791.13 prohibit revealing your private details without permission, insurers sometimes work with third parties who might see your info.

Always read your policy’s privacy terms and ask questions. If you notice the company disclosing your personal data without consent, you may have grounds to push back.

Contact Banafshe Law Firm Now for a Free Consultation

Don’t let your insurance carrier keep you in the dark. Call 855-761-8722 or contact us online now for a free consultation. It’s never a good idea to try to negotiate with the insurance company by yourself. It’s always better to have professional help on your side. We’ll help you understand your rights, stand up to unfair claims practices, and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to receive. Your peace of mind is worth it, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.