An insurance agent may be able to help a client get coverage for an initially denied claim. (Photo: Shutterstock)

The general public assumption is that once an insurance company has denied a claim the issue is dead, but independent agents can, with help, be extremely influential in getting initially denied claims covered. There are two important dispute resolution doctrines: First, the purpose of insurance is to insure. Second, the best way to resolve claim disputes is to prevent them.

The purpose of insurance is to insure

Numerous courts have opined that the purpose of insurance is to insure. People don't buy insurance not to have coverage, though when purchasing directly on the basis of "fast, easy and cheap," that's all too often the result.

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