Insurance coverage (and the related litigation) generally involves a dispute between an insurance company (insurer) and its policyholder (insured) regarding whether a loss suffered by the insured is covered by the insurance policy issued by the insurer.
Such coverage disputes may arise after the insured suffers a loss due to theft, fire, or other event—or when an insured (person or business) is served with a lawsuit and requests the insurer defend the insured in the lawsuit, but the insurer denies coverage or only agrees to defend the lawsuit under a reservation of rights (ROR).
Insurance contracts and insurance coverage issues are often complex and an insured is often well-served by promptly discussing these matters with an experienced insurance coverage lawyer.
In Maryland, insurance coverage disputes typically involve disagreements between the insurer and the insured about whether a particular loss is covered under the terms of the insurance policy. These disputes can occur after an insured party experiences a loss from incidents like theft or fire, or when the insured is named in a lawsuit and seeks defense from the insurer. If the insurer denies coverage or agrees to defend under a reservation of rights (ROR), it means the insurer may later contest its obligation to cover the claim. Maryland law, including state statutes and case law, governs the interpretation of insurance policies and the obligations of insurers. Insurance contracts can be intricate, with nuances in policy language and exclusions that can significantly affect coverage. Therefore, it is often advisable for individuals or businesses facing such disputes to consult with an attorney who specializes in insurance coverage to ensure their rights are protected and to navigate the complexities of filing claims, negotiating settlements, or pursuing litigation.