With our ever expanding database of known and suspected "players" in the industry, we are able to assist claims handlers identify inter-relationships between claimants, insureds, attorneys, medical clinics, chiropractors, medical doctors, administrators, auto body shops, cappers and others. We also work closely with NICB, state and local law enforcement, including the Los Angeles District Attorney's Insurance Fraud Division, and the California Department of Insurance in both the investigation and prosecution of suspect claims and the perpetrators of fraudulent conduct.

We have developed creative means to assist claims handlers obtain valuable information necessary to an fraud investigation including the Examination Under Oath of the insured(s), claimants, doctors and others involved in the claim. We have also developed techniques that allow the firm to take depositions, propound discovery, inspect property, vehicles, and other facilities before litigation commences. We constantly strive to use the tools, investigation and other nonprivileged information gained by the firm in other investigations to assist in the handling of the investigation of our clients' claims.

Often fraud investigations languish or remain "open" without a satisfactory resolution for too long. Palumbo Bergstrom's SIIF Department strives to bring all claims to final and conclusive resolution as quickly as possible. We have developed strategies to obtain court ordered dismissals, orders, and decrees which permanently close a claim. We can obtain these results based upon the failure of the insured or claimants to cooperate in the investigation. Sometimes we "turn the tables" and prosecute the claim by filing complaints for declaratory judgment, or other proceeding. Palumbo Bergstrom has extensive experience in all aspects of insurance fraud claims arising from automobile accidents, property damage/loss, and uninsured/underinsured motorists claims. We are able to investigate and litigate liability issues using experienced accident reconstruction and bio-mechanical experts, as well as defend our clients against fraudulent billing practices by medical care providers (i.e., fraudulent medical billing). We also serve the interests of our clients by monitoring and litigating insurance coverage issues on behalf of the company. Sometimes this involves intervening in litigation against the insured, assisting in preparing reservation of rights letters and advising the company regarding its rights and obligations as well as its exposure in these situations. Palumbo Bergstrom also serves our insurance company clients by representing them in Bad Faith litigation. Gone are the days of thinking of these types of cases as appropriate for the Big Firms at exorbitant fees and costs which ultimately cripple the company's ability to effectively fight these cases. Using the firm's vast resources, trial experience and litigation muscle, Palumbo Bergstrom is not only capable of defending the company against these claims, but at reasonable costs which often make it worthwhile to fully and completely defend the action.

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