Unfair Claims Practices
Unfair Claims Practices Acts (UCPAs) are state statutes that prohibit specific insurer behaviors — failing to acknowledge claims promptly, refusing to investigate, denying without reasonable basis, etc. Most states have a UCPA modeled on the NAIC's template.
Related terms
Good Faith / Bad Faith
All US insurance contracts contain an implied duty of Good Faith and Fair Dealing. When an insurer unreasonably denies a claim, lowballs valuations without justification, or delays settlement, that may constitute Bad Faith — and can expose the insurer to extra-contractual damages.
Appraisal Clause
An Appraisal Clause is a provision in most US auto insurance policies that lets either you or the insurer demand an independent appraisal when you disagree on the value of a totaled vehicle. Each side selects a competent, independent appraiser; the two appraisers select an umpire; and the resulting valuation is binding.
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