Trade Practices
Unfair claim settlement practices
Notes of Decisions
Insurance underwriter must exercise good faith and due care in the negotiations and settlement of claims in behalf of its insured. The insurer has duty to exercise at least the same degree of care as to the insured's interest as it exercises as to its own. Grumbling v. Medallion Ins. Co., 392 F Supp 717 (1975)
This section applies to settlement of claims filed against insureds by third parties, as well as claims filed against insurance companies by their insureds. Farris v. U.S. Fid. and Guar. Co., 284 Or 453, 587 P2d 1015 (1978)
Violation of section of this statute requiring insurers to settle claims promptly and in good faith where liability is reasonably clear does not give rise to tort action. Employers' Fire Ins. v. Love It Ice Cream, 64 Or App 784, 670 P2d 160 (1983)
Failure of insurer to attempt settlement after entry of adverse excess judgment may give insured cause of action against insurer. Goddard v. Farmers Insurance Co., 173 Or App 633, 22 P3d 1224 (2001), Sup Ct review denied