Couple sues when Farmers refuses claim

A Beaumont couple is suing Famers Insurance Co. for refusing to pay their claim.

Mary and Ben Wheeler submitted a written claim to Farmers on March 13, 2006, for losses to their family home that are covered by a homeowner policy issued by the insurance company, the lawsuit stated.

Farmers refused to pay the Wheelers' claims in full. The lawsuit does not state how the home was damaged or what was damaged.

"Defendant has failed to make timely payment of plaintiffs' claims as required by the Texas Insurance Code," the suit stated. "As a consequence, plaintiffs continue to suffer damages, including, but not limited to, actual and consequential damages as may be proved at trial."

The couple is also suing for interest, court costs and "further relief as to the court may seem just and proper."

The Wheelers are represented by John Werner of Reaud, Morgan & Quinn, a Beaumont law firm located at 801 Laurel St.

The lawsuit was filed on April 4 with the Jefferson County District Court. Case assignment is pending.

Case No. E179-066