Eaton Fire Lawyers at The Wagner Law Group have announced an Insurance Bad Faith Hotline amid growing concerns over insurance carriers' handling of wildfire claims. Recent developments include local legislators advocating for immediate reforms due to State Farm and other insurers allegedly causing undue harm by refusing to process legitimate claims expediently and professionally.
The Wagner Law Group, which has handled wildfire cases and personal injury matters for over three decades, supports legislators' efforts. Butch Wagner, Founder of The Wagner Law Group, stated, "These legislators are definitely on the right track. Instead of helping their customers, State Farm and other insurance carriers are doing everything they can to delay the rebuilding process." The firm has observed similar patterns of insurance bad faith from State Farm in the past, noting that policyholders often face denials or underpayments despite timely premium payments.
Assemblyman John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) and other officials are urging Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to address alleged misconduct by insurers and halt a proposed rate increase for State Farm General. This follows an emergency rate hike of 17% approved in May, with the company now seeking an additional 11% increase. State Farm General, California's largest home insurance provider, has been singled out by legislators, including California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (D-Alhambra) and Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
In a supportive move, the Pasadena City Council unanimously voted to waive various fees for rebuilding efforts, including plan check, building permit, refuse, inspection, and utility service fees for eligible properties affected by the Eaton Fire. This decision, based on a recommendation from the city's Economic Development and Technology Committee, aims to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and expedite recovery for victims.
The Wagner Law Group has launched the Insurance Bad Faith Hotline to provide no-cost legal advice to affected individuals. Aaron of The Wagner Law Group emphasized, "Victims of the Eaton Fire and other fires that occurred in January need all of the help they can get." The hotline is available for those seeking compensation guidance. For more information, visit https://www.wagnerlawgroup.com.
