Under Massachusetts law, what could happen if a policyholder fails to provide timely notice of a claim?

Under Massachusetts law, if a policyholder fails to provide timely notice of a claim, the claim may be denied. This is based on the principle that timely reporting allows the insurer to conduct a thorough investigation, assess the validity of the claim, and minimize the risk of loss. When policyholders delay in reporting their claims, it can hinder the insurer's ability to gather essential evidence and could affect the overall claims process. Therefore, insurers are generally within their rights to deny a claim if proper notice is not given within the specified timeframe outlined in the policy. Proper communication and adherence to the terms of the insurance contract are crucial for maintaining coverage and ensuring claims are processed efficiently.