Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Fort Lauderdale Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance Attorney

Assisting Clients With Accidental Death & Dismemberment Matters in South Florida

Accidental death & dismemberment insurance (AD&D) insurance provides coverage in which the policyholder is accidentally killed or seriously injured due to circumstances outside their control. This unique type of policy can supplement a life insurance policy or short-term and/or long-term disability insurance.

Insurance carriers will sometimes attempt to deny payment by incorrectly insisting that a policyholder’s tragic death or disfiguring accident is not covered by the policy’s language. If you or your loved one’s AD&D claim has been inappropriately denied, our Fort Lauderdale accidental death & dismemberment insurance lawyer can help.

Our team at Martin J. Sperry, P.A. has over 45 years of legal experience and has recovered millions for clients with inappropriately denied claims.

To discuss your AD&D insurance case with our accidental death & dismemberment insurance attorney in Fort Lauderdale, contact us online or call (954) 324-2340 to schedule your free initial consultation!

Understanding AD&D Insurance Coverage

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance will generally cover accidental deaths and disfiguring injuries that occur as a result of extraordinary circumstances. The “accidental death” component is designed to pay out to designated beneficiaries should the policyholder die of non-natural causes beyond their control.

An accident does not necessarily have to kill a policyholder instantly within a validity window set by each policy. This can range from a few months to more than a year.

Typical Scenarios Covered by AD&D Insurance

Common examples of accidental deaths generally covered by AD&D insurance include:

  • Accidental falls
  • Automobile accidents
  • Drowning
  • Homicide
  • Industrial accidents

The “disfiguring injuries” component of AD&D insurance applies to situations where an accident disfigures the policyholder but does not kill them. In these situations, policyholders will typically be awarded a portion of their maximum benefit amount commensurate with the severity of the injury.

Common Disfigurements Covered by AD&D Policies

Common disfigurements generally covered by AD&D insurance include:

  • Loss of a limb
  • Loss of hearing
  • Loss of sight
  • Loss of speech
  • Paralysis
    “I consider Martin Sperry a consummate professional, one of the most experienced and preeminent insurance attorneys in this area.”
    “Marty was always reachable, always returned calls, consistently achieved good results in those cases, and the clients were always very satisfied.”
    - C.N., Esq.
    “Consistent Communication and Professionalism”
    “Martin Sperry is the type of attorney who sees everything through from start to finish with consistent communication and professionalism.”
    - P.W.
    “I found him to be experienced, responsive, knowledgable and honest.”
    “I would highly recommend Martin Sperry to anyone seeking legal representation that is fair, honest and will keep your best interest and unique needs at the forefront.”
    - J.E.
    “Mr. Sperry is the smartest.”
    “Mr. Sperry is the smartest attorney I have ever spoken with.”
    - Luiz. P
    “Professional and Experienced”
    “Top-notch responsiveness and customer service.”
    - Timothy P.
    “Skilled disability attorney.”
    Skilled disability attorney. Highly recommended.
    - Scott E.

Our Settlements & Verdicts

  • $350,000 Lump Sum Settlement on Individual Disability Policy
  • $135,000 Recovery ERISA Disability Benefits
  • $5,000,000 Recovery for Delayed Payment of Insurance Benefits
  • $800,000 Recovery for Delayed Payment of Insurance Benefits
  • $520,000 Recovery of Accidental Dismemberment Benefits
  • $260,000 Recovery of Disability Benefits

AD&D Versus Life and Disability Insurance: Key Differences

While AD&D insurance is similar in some ways to life insurance and disability insurance, these types of policies differ in several important ways. AD&D insurance coverage is generally more limited than life insurance, which typically pays out in a wider range of scenarios.

For example, life insurance policies will almost always cover natural causes and health conditions, including:

  • Heart attacks
  • Strokes
  • And cancer

AD&D insurance does not cover any of these natural ailments. Both short- and long-term disability insurance policies cover a significant portion of your paycheck if a disability results in your being unable to work.

Conversely, AD&D insurance will only cover up to a “face amount” that will likely be insufficient in covering you or your beneficiaries’ expenses if you pass away or are permanently unable to work. The bottom line is AD&D insurance is often no substitute for robust life insurance and disability insurance policies. However, AD&D insurance can be useful if your employer offers it as part of your benefits package.

Common Reasons for AD&D Claim Denials

Language in AD&D insurance policies can often be highly specific and should be carefully reviewed. Some policies might include industrial accidents, for example, even if the policyholder is not at fault. Other policies may only cover accidental death and will exclude disfigurement coverage.

Many AD&D claims are denied because an insurer will claim the death or disfigurement was not accidental. Beneficiaries may be expected to prove the policyholder’s death was the result of an accident and not because of some other medical condition.

Claims can also be denied if the insurer believes the death or disfigurement resulted from an intentional act, such as suicide or murder. Many policies will have convoluted exclusions that can be exploited to deny coverage, and some carriers will even attempt to argue that insufficient medical care led to the policyholder’s death and precludes their beneficiaries from receiving benefits.

How Our Accidental Death & Dismemberment Lawyer Can Help You

We can assist you by:

  • Thorough Policy Review and Clarification: We specialize in AD&D cases and will examine your policy thoroughly, clarifying terms and coverage limitations. A lawyer can anticipate and counteract denial tactics by identifying loopholes and terms that insurers may attempt to exploit.
  • Assistance with Complex Claim Documentation: Proper documentation is crucial in proving an AD&D claim. Legal guidance helps ensure that all necessary medical reports, accident records, and other supporting documentation are correctly compiled and submitted. This thorough preparation is invaluable in countering insurer claims of insufficient evidence.
  • Challenging Denials Based on Policy Exclusions: Insurance companies frequently deny claims based on exclusions for specific risks or activities. Legal representation can contest these exclusions by proving that the cause of death or injury falls within the policy’s coverage. We can interpret complex policy language to your advantage, arguing for the full benefits you deserve.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We are well-versed in negotiating with insurers and will advocate on your behalf to secure fair compensation. Negotiations can often resolve disputes without prolonged litigation, resulting in a faster resolution for you and your family.
  • Litigating Unfair Claim Denials: A dedicated AD&D lawyer will not hesitate to take your case to court if an insurance company refuses to pay. Litigation may be necessary to enforce your rights and hold insurers accountable for bad faith practices. With skilled legal representation, beneficiaries can have a much stronger case in court, making it more challenging for insurers to continue unjust denial tactics.
  • Fighting Bad Faith Insurance Practices: Insurance companies are legally obligated to process claims fairly and in good faith. When insurers intentionally delay or deny legitimate claims, they may engage in bad faith practices, which can open them up to penalties and additional liability. We can help identify and address these practices, working to hold insurers accountable and secure additional compensation when warranted.
Continue Reading Read Less

Contact Us Today

No matter the reason for your claim’s denial, our Fort Lauderdale accidental death & dismemberment insurance attorney is prepared to fight for you. At Martin J. Sperry, P.A., we do everything possible to secure swift and favorable resolutions in AD&D insurance claim disputes.

We understand you are already experiencing an impossibly challenging moment, whether your loved one has passed away as a result of an accident or you are now struggling with a debilitating disfigurement. Our accomplished team will provide the one-on-one attention and legal guidance you need to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Our firm serves clients throughout the state of Florida. Call (954) 324-2340 or contact us online to explore your options with our Fort Lauderdale accidental death & dismemberment insurance lawyer today.

  • Personalized Legal Services

    All clients work directly with Attorney Sperry to discuss their unique case.

  • Cost-Efficient Approach

    No fee unless we reach a resolution and recovery on your case.

  • Experience on Your Side
    Our Attorney brings more than 45 years of experience to every case that we take on.
  • Free Consultations
    Don't wait, contact our firm to schedule your free consultation today.
  • Seeking Justice for Denied Insurance Claims in South Florida?

    Get the compensation you deserve with Martin J. Sperry, P.A.! Our experienced Disability Attorney has recovered millions for clients.

  • Need Results for Your Insurance Claim in Fort Lauderdale?

    Count on Martin J. Sperry, P.A.! Our Disability Attorney has a proven track record, securing millions for clients.

  • Seeking Trusted Representation in Fort Lauderdale?

    Discover why clients trust Martin J. Sperry, P.A.! Our Disability Attorney is backed by rave reviews for our dedicated advocacy.