When Accidental Death Isn’t “Accidental”: How Insurers Use Policy Language to Deny AD&D Claims
Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance promises financial protection after an unexpected tragedy. These policies are marketed as straightforward—if a person dies or suffers a serious injury due to an...
Understanding the Timeline: What Happens After You File a Long-Term Disability Claim?
Filing a long-term disability (LTD) claim is a significant step toward securing the benefits you need to maintain financial stability during a serious medical challenge. But what happens next can...
How to Respond to a Request for Additional Documentation During the LTD Review Process
If you’ve filed a long-term disability (LTD) claim, receiving a request for additional documentation from the insurance company can feel both stressful and confusing. You may wonder what’s missing, whether...
I was so scared when my disability insurance company denied my claim. I had no idea how to prepare an appeal. I thought I would lose my house. They walked...
Former Client
I contacted Disability Insurance Law Group and they have been taking care of me since that first call. Alicia and her staff fought for me and kept me informed at...
Ms. B.
As a practicing general dentist for 35 years I did all the right things I was told to do by advisors. When I became unable to practice dentistry after a...
Dr. S.
My experience being a client of Ms. Mindy Chmielarz of Disability Insurance Law Group: I contacted Mindy from an advertisement after reviewing her AV rated status from her legal peers on...
Dr. JM
I realized one year ago I was going to need to file my disability claim and was urgently in need of expert legal counsel. My claim was extremely complicated and...
Dr. FM
am very grateful to Mindy Chmielarz for helping me with my disability claim. She is extremely experienced and knowledgeable in disability law. She was a tremendous asset and it was...
BT
I worked as a teacher for 15 years. I was in a car accident and despite 3 surgeries, I remained in constant pain. I filed my claim for disability insurance...
Paula R.
I struggled to continue to practice as a dentist after I was diagnosed with MS. After I developed a tremor in my hands, I knew I could no longer treat...
Dr. G.
I never imagined that I would have to discontinue my medical practice due to a disability. Unfortunately it happened, but I had appropriate disability insurance coverage. I knew that proper...
When the company isn’t marketing to the public, it is touting how they have “made it easy for employers to offer benefits that help retain skilled workers and help businesses grow” for 80+ years. Most group policies are governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), millions of which Colonial underwrite. ERISA policies include stringent claim filing procedures and timelines that many policyholders cannot navigate independently.
In addition, Colonial’s website claims the insurer ranks #2 in whole/universal life insurance and short-term disability policies. However, many policyholders are met with resistance when filing a claim.
That is why we are here. Our national disability insurance attorneys represent Colonial policyholders nationwide — no matter where they live or work in the U.S. — with their best interests and true success in mind so our clients can pursue the benefits they are entitled to from their employer-provided coverage or personal policies. Contact us today to learn more.
What are My Rights as a Colonial Disability or Life Insurance Policyholder?
As a Colonial disability or life insurance policyholder, you have certain rights and protections outlined in your insurance contract and, in some cases, by your applicable state laws. Awareness of these rights is essential to ensure you receive fair treatment throughout the policy lifecycle.
Here are some fundamental rights that policyholders typically have:
Right to Policy Information
You have the right to receive a copy of your insurance policy, including all terms, conditions, and exclusions. Reviewing this document is crucial to understanding your coverage and obligations.
Right to Privacy
Insurance companies are generally required to respect your privacy. They must adhere to privacy laws and regulations when collecting, using, and disclosing your personal information.
Right to Non-Discrimination
Insurance companies are prohibited from discriminating against policyholders based on race, gender, religion, or disability. Your policy should provide coverage based on the terms and conditions outlined in the contract.
Right to Timely Claim Processing
You have the right to expect your insurance company to process your claims promptly. Delays without valid reasons may be subject to regulatory scrutiny.
Right to Appeal Denied Claims
You generally have the right to appeal the decision if your claim is denied. The insurance company should provide a transparent appeals process, including submitting additional information or evidence.
Right to Fair Investigation
If your claim is under investigation, the insurance company must conduct a fair and thorough review. You have the right to be treated fairly and to provide any necessary information to support your claim.
Right to Receive Benefits
If you meet the conditions outlined in your policy, you have the right to receive the benefits specified in the contract. This includes disability benefits or life insurance payouts in the event of a covered loss.
Right to Cancel or Change Coverage
In many cases, policyholders have the right to cancel or change their coverage. However, specific terms and conditions may apply, including any penalties or fees.
Right to Know Premiums and Charges
You have the right to know how premiums are calculated and any charges associated with your policy. This transparency helps you understand the cost of your coverage.
Right to Legal Recourse
If your insurance company violates the terms of your policy or engages in unfair practices, you have the right to seek legal recourse. This is why we are here. With over 50 combined years of experience, our Colonial disability insurance attorneys know that understanding the definition that dictates your coverage is critical to winning and maintaining your disability benefits.
Whether you are considering applying for benefits, are waiting for a claim’s decision, or have been denied, we are available to assist you with your Colonial disability claim anywhere in the country, starting with a free consultation.
We are fully dedicated to providing transparent legal services that allow us to pursue real results for real people who need our help — no matter where they live or work in the U.S.
If you are receiving resistance from Colonial for your U.S. disability or life insurance claim, or if your claim has already been denied, contact our dedicated disability insurance attorneys nationwide at 954-989-9000 or online to schedule a free, confidential case assessment without delay.
Do You Need Legal Counsel? We Invite You To Contact Us For A Free Consultation.
Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch with you shortly, or call us now at 954-989-9000.