DO THE RIGHT THING: PAY $50,000.
Getting Insurance Companies to Pay the Policy Limits in Georgia
When you're injured due to someone else's negligence in Georgia, you might expect that the at-fault party's insurance company will readily provide the compensation you deserve. Unfortunately, insurance companies often prioritize their profits over your well-being. Personal injury lawyers, however, can be your staunch allies in getting insurance companies to do the right thing and pay the policy limits. In this blog, we'll explore how these legal experts navigate the complex terrain of personal injury cases in Georgia to ensure you receive the maximum compensation available.
Understanding Georgia's Insurance Policies
Before diving into how personal injury lawyers can help you get insurance companies to pay the policy limits in Georgia, it's essential to understand a few key aspects of the state's insurance policies:
- Minimum Insurance Requirements: Georgia law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance coverage. For instance, as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the minimum coverage limits were $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. These are often referred to as 25/50/25 coverage.
- Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies employ claims adjusters whose primary job is to evaluate claims and negotiate settlements. Adjusters work for the insurance company and aim to minimize payouts.
How Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
- Thorough Investigation: Personal injury lawyers will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident to gather evidence supporting your claim. This includes accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions. Building a strong case puts pressure on insurance companies to settle fairly.
- Understanding Policy Limits: Personal injury lawyers know how to identify all available insurance policies that may cover your claim. This can include not only the at-fault party's liability insurance but also additional coverages like underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage or umbrella policies.
- Effective Negotiation: Experienced attorneys have honed their negotiation skills over years of practice. They understand the tactics insurance adjusters use and can negotiate strategically to maximize your settlement. Lawyers can demand policy limits and back up their demands with compelling evidence.
- Litigation When Necessary: If insurance companies refuse to pay policy limits or engage in bad faith practices, personal injury lawyers can take your case to court. The prospect of costly litigation often incentivizes insurance companies to settle for policy limits to avoid potential financial losses in court.
- Leveraging Georgia Laws: Georgia has laws in place to protect accident victims. Personal injury lawyers are well-versed in these laws and can use them to your advantage when dealing with insurance companies.
- Keeping You Informed: Throughout the process, your attorney will keep you informed and advise you on the best course of action. Their expertise allows you to make informed decisions about whether to accept a settlement or pursue further legal action.
Insurance companies have a vested interest in minimizing payouts, but personal injury lawyers are your advocates who fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, including the policy limits in Georgia. By leveraging their expertise, experience, and knowledge of state laws, personal injury lawyers can navigate the complexities of your case and negotiate effectively with insurance companies.
When insurance companies refuse to do the right thing, these legal professionals are ready to take your case to court, if necessary, to secure the maximum compensation available to you. Don't underestimate the importance of having a personal injury lawyer in your corner when facing insurance companies.