After a crash that someone else caused, most of your claim runs through the at-fault driver’s insurance company. That company’s job is to protect its policyholder and pay as little as the law allows. Knowing a few Georgia rules before you talk to an adjuster can protect your claim.
Hurt by a driver whose insurer won’t call back?
Our Macon office at 544 Mulberry Street, Suite 319, handles car accident claims across middle Georgia. Consultations are free, and there is no attorney’s fee unless we recover for you.
Your First Steps With the Other Driver’s Insurer
- Get the insurer’s name from the crash report. Georgia crash reports list each driver’s insurance company and policy number. The name on the report is the company you need to notify.
- Put the insurer on notice in writing. Send written notice of your claim to the company, and keep proof of when it was sent. See how to provide notice of a claim.
- You do not have to give a recorded statement. You have no duty to give the other driver’s insurer a recorded statement, and anything you say can be used to reduce your claim.
- Don’t sign a release early. A release ends your injury claim, and many injuries are not fully understood in the first weeks.
- Notify your own insurer too. Your policy likely requires prompt notice, and your uninsured motorist coverage may matter later.
How Much Insurance Is Available?
Georgia requires drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage. Many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not cover serious injuries. Learn more in how much insurance is available for a car accident claim.
When the At-Fault Driver’s Coverage Isn’t Enough
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage can pay when the at-fault driver has no insurance, not enough insurance, or an insurer that denies coverage. Georgia UM claims have their own notice and service rules, so involve a lawyer early. Read how uninsured motorist coverage works in Georgia.
If an Insurance Company Becomes Insolvent
If an auto insurer is declared insolvent and placed in liquidation, covered claims against its policyholders may be handled by the Georgia Insurers Insolvency Pool, subject to its limits and filing deadlines. Your UM coverage may also apply. A lawyer can check the insurer’s current status and the right place to file.
Questions About Specific Insurance Companies
- Claims against a driver insured by 1st Choice Advantage Insurance Company
- Claims against a driver with Acceptance Insurance or Village Auto Insurance
For help with a crash in Macon or Bibb County, see our Macon car accident lawyer page.
