Driver sues insurance company after denial of claim

After settling a lawsuit with an under-insured driver, a Hardin County man sought additional compensation from his insurance company. When it refused to honor his requested claim, he fought back, filing a lawsuit.

Arthur C. Smith filed his complaint Dec. 3 in Jefferson County District Court against The Republic Group doing business as Republic Lloyd's.

Smith says he sought damages from his insurance company, Republic Lloyd's, after an under-insured driver, Mark Yosko, collided with his vehicle on Nov. 16, 2009. However, Republic Lloyd's has failed to compensate him for his damages, according to the complaint.

"Plaintiff secured the permission of the Defendant, The Republic Group, to settle his underlying lawsuit with Mark Yosko," the suit states. "The Defendant, The Republic Group, has refused to pay reasonable benefits to the Plaintiff despite written and reasonable demands made to settle by the Plaintiff."

Because of the insurance company's refusal to pay him, Smith claims he suffered mental anguish, lost his insurance benefits and lost his ability to enjoy life.

He seeks a judgment in excess of the minimum jurisdictional limits of Jefferson County District Court, plus pre- and post-judgment interest, costs and other relief the court deems just.

J. Trenton Bond of Reaud, Morgan and Quinn in Beaumont will be representing him.

The case has been assigned to Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court.

Case No. A188-915