Many drivers pay monthly to have insurance on their vehicles. This insurance is a safety net in case they get into an accident. When their car suffers damage from an uninsured driver or if they cause a crash, they can turn to their own policy to help pay for that damage. While this sounds good in theory, many drivers are reluctant to use this insurance when they do get into an accident. This reluctance is caused by the fear that their insurance policy premiums will skyrocket.
If you purchased Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist insurance coverage (UM/UIM), you can turn to this policy when the “at-fault” driver’s insurance policy fails to adequately cover all your expenses and damages. This insurance is significant and can keep you and your family from suffering significant financial burdens after an accident.
However, many injured accident victims in Atlanta do not turn to this UM/UIM policy after a crash. They’re fearful that their own policy will go up. However, this occasion is the whole reason you purchased this coverage in the first place. If you don’t use it – you’re missing out on the benefits you deserve.
The insurance companies have raked in record profits over the last several decades, partly by scaring consumers from making claims on their own policies. However, it is important to know that legally, insurance companies cannot increase premium rates because you’re using your own insurance benefits.
In fact, Georgia law prohibits insurers from canceling policies or charging higher rates when consumers use their own insurance benefits in an accident that was not their fault (O.C.G.A. § 33-9-40). Consumers are allowed to make two or fewer claims on their own policy for accidents that were not their fault, comprehensive coverage, towing, or uninsured motorist claims within a 36-month time frame. If you make more than two claims, insurance companies may take action at that time and decide not to renew your policy.
For some consumers in Atlanta, a single accident could trigger a non-renewal by the insurance company. For example, suppose you were involved in a car accident that was not your fault. This single accident may lead to UM/UIM, comprehensive, and towing claims. This would be over the 2 incident limit and could trigger a nonrenewal. In this situation, it is best to speak to an insurance agent or a lawyer to determine your options. You may be able to AAA to take care of your towing needs, while still preserving the rights to use UM/UIM coverage without worrying about policy premiums rising.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Atlanta
If you are concerned about using your insurance benefits to help you after an Atlanta car accident, it is important to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. Your Atlanta car accident lawyer can review your policy details and help you file the necessary claims, so you can get full use of your benefits and all that you pay for.
Insurance companies typically do not help you get the most out of your policy after an accident – even when you’re their policyholder. To get the benefits you deserve, you need to have a strong legal advocate on your side from the very start. That’s why so many injured accident victims turn to our law firm to help them after a crash.
Let’s face it, dealing with insurance companies is not easy. No one wants to make a mistake that will cost them higher insurance premiums down the road. That’s why we work with you to get the most out of your policy and protect your rights to legal compensation along the way.
Contact Our Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers
For years, the Kim Law Team has helped injured car accident victims after accidents. We know how to fight insurance companies, and we can help you get the most out of your own policies and benefits. From the very start, you can rest easier knowing that you have a team of experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers on your side.
If you got into a car accident in Atlanta, we can help you pursue maximum compensation. Our law firm offers FREE initial consultations and reviews, so you can get the answers you need – when you need them. Call 404-587-8946 or fill out our confidential contact form. Just call and JUST WIN.
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