PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — A jury in Florida ruled that State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company acted in bad faith by not settling a wrongful death claim linked to a fatal car accident in 2021. The verdict came in the case of James R. Saner, II, representing the estate of Kira Lynn Saner, whose death was caused by an insured driver, Jeffrey Schnierle.
The ruling underscores an increasing judicial intolerance for practices within the insurance industry that can delay justice for policyholders. The jury’s decision, reached on August 7, 2025, will likely influence how insurers handle claims moving forward.
Kira Lynn Saner lost her life in a car crash, and her husband, Russ Saner, pursued a wrongful death claim, which could have been settled within the limits of the insurance policy. Despite several opportunities to resolve the matter, State Farm failed to act. As a result, the case extended into prolonged litigation, exposing Schnierle’s estate to a significant financial judgment and leaving the Saner family in distress.
Fred A. Cunningham, the lead attorney for the plaintiffs from Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa, remarked on the importance of the case. He indicated that it serves as a strong warning to insurance companies about the ramifications of bad faith practices. Cunningham’s trial team included Gregory M. Yaffa, serving as second chair, along with Matthew T. Christ and Halley B. Lewis IV, who presented the case in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
According to Florida law, insurers are obligated to act in good faith toward their clients. This includes timely claims evaluation, clear communication, and settling within policy limits when warranted. The jury’s verdict confirms that State Farm did not uphold these legal responsibilities, indicating a shift in accountability for insurance firms in the state.
Cunningham expressed confidence that the jury recognized the harmful tactics employed by the insurer. “The verdict reaffirms that the public expects insurance companies to honor their commitments and that when they fail to do so, legal accountability is not just anticipated, it is necessary,” he stated.
Next steps include a separate proceeding to determine the damages owed. State Farm is currently weighing its post-trial options in light of the jury’s findings.
Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa is a civil trial firm based in Palm Beach Gardens, known for its focus on serious injury, wrongful death, and bad faith insurance litigation. The firm is dedicated to advocating for individuals and families seeking justice in challenging legal circumstances.
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