If you're shocked by your rising insurance bill, you’re not alone—and attorney Walter Clark says you're right to be upset.
In a new interview on NBC Palm Springs, Clark called out State Farm, saying the insurance giant is “absolutely not” playing fair. He cited case after case of policyholders paying premiums for decades only to be dropped after a single claim.
“I hear it all the time,” Clark said. “People pay for 30 years and the moment they file one claim, they’re either denied or canceled.”
Clark also revisited State Farm’s controversial handling of claims after the 1994 Northridge earthquake, when a whistleblower exposed forged changes to policies—allegedly to avoid paying out damages. While the company eventually settled lawsuits, Clark notes no one went to jail, and the misconduct nearly stayed hidden.
In 2024, State Farm reported a $145 billion surplus, leading Clark to question the narrative that these rate hikes are necessary for survival.
His advice?
✔️ Shop your rates annually
✔️ Support consumer advocacy groups
✔️ Back the insurance commissioner’s regulatory efforts
✔️ Stay informed about legislation impacting insurance practices
“The bottom line,” Clark said, “is that insurance is still a highly profitable business. But the public must stay vigilant.”
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
April 5, 2025
