Auto Insurance Company Will Not Pay My Claim For Damages

Reader’s Question:

I was involved in a car accident last week. Fortunately, I only suffered minor injuries and it was not my fault. The law enforcement officer at that time gave a ticket to the other driver, since it was clearly his fault. However, the other driver’s auto insurance company in Augusta-Richmond County, Georgia is refusing to pay me for any damages. They thought that I’m still somewhat to be blamed for the accident. This is not right! Can’t the Insurance Department force them to pay for my damages? I mean, since it’s been established that it was the other guy’s fault.

Benny

Augusta-Richmond County, GA

It’s nice to know that you suffered just minor injuries.

Going back to your question, unfortunately it is not within the legal responsibilities of the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner to determine who is at fault in a vehicular accident. Thus, the said office cannot force auto insurance companies to pay or settle the claims made. The said office’s role regarding third party claims like what happened to you is in fact very limited. It is mainly restricted to making sure that the other party’s auto insurance company is handling a fair investigation.

It appears to me that you will need some legal help. So, I would suggest it is best to seek legal help for you to know what exactly is needed to be done. I hope it would end up favorable on your part. And I also hope for your speedy recovery.