Claims Handling Violations and Hostile Work Environment

This page summarizes publicly available court filings regarding allegations against Bridger Insurance Services and CEO Gary Winterbottom. Plaintiffs allege that they were subjected to retaliation and a hostile work environment while advocating for lawful insurance claims practices. Many former and current employees reportedly have experienced similar issues.

Whistle-blower Retaliation and Compliance Allegations

Plaintiffs allege that, in violation of California Labor Code §1102.5(b) and/or (c), Bridger Insurance Services retaliated against them because the company believed the plaintiffs disclosed, or might disclose, information to a government or law enforcement agency, or to an employee with authority to investigate, discover, or correct violations.

Specifically:

• Plaintiffs repeatedly and explicitly opposed wrongful denial of insurance claims.
• They insisted that Bridger follow all relevant laws, statutes, rules, and regulations governing insurance claims handling.
• Plaintiffs claim that Bridger retaliated and discriminated against them for opposing illegal activity and attempting to ensure lawful claims practices were followed.

Hostile Work Environment Allegations

According to filings:

• Plaintiffs were allegedly subjected to a severe and pervasive hostile work environment by Bridger Insurance Services, its agents, employees, and CEO Gary Winterbottom.
• Mr. Winterbottom, in the course of his employment, reportedly yelled, screamed, and cursed at employees, causing extreme stress.
• Despite plaintiffs’ repeated efforts to uphold legal and ethical standards, they were allegedly in a constant struggle with Mr. Winterbottom, who sought to overlook or bypass relevant California rules, regulations, and laws.
• Filings describe ongoing harassment and abusive behavior, creating a work environment that plaintiffs claim was both hostile and intolerable.
• Plaintiffs report that many other employees experienced similar retaliation and harassment, suggesting these issues were systemic.

Resources

For official case information, consult the Superior Court of California, County of Alameda online case portal.

Case: Harter et al. v. Bridger Insurance Services, et al.

Court: Superior Court of California, County of Alameda
Case Number: 23CV047412
Filing Year: 2023
Plaintiffs: John Harter, Katherine Hebert, Nancy Salas (individuals)
Defendants: Bridger Insurance Services (business entity, form unknown), Gary Winterbottom (CEO/individual)

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Disclaimer

This page summarizes information from public court filings and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as legal advice, commentary on the merits of any party, or a statement regarding the final outcome of the case.