Attorney Gary Martin Hays recently worked to turn a measly offer of $4,124 by the insurance company into a $1,000,000 settlement for an injured client.
Here’s how he did it.
Our client was involved in a rear-end car accident. A few hours after the wreck, she started to experience pain and went to the emergency room. She followed up with her personal physician, who referred her for physical therapy.
Over time, the healthcare professionals discovered the wreck aggravated a previous underlying medical condition in the client’s lower back. She eventually needed lower back surgery.
When she completed treatment, our law firm sent a demand letter to the insurance company seeking full payment of the insurance limits which were $100,000.
Instead of paying the demand however, the insurer only offered $4,124. The company claimed the client’s pre-existing injuries were the reason for the surgery — not the negligence of their defendant who rear-ended her.
After speaking with our client about her options, Attorney Hays recommended she reject the offer and allow him to file a lawsuit on her behalf. Attorney Hays felt the insurance company’s failure to tender the policy limits when demanded was in bad faith. This allowed the client, therefore, to seek a settlement or verdict in excess of the policy limits.
After the lawsuit was filed, the parties agreed to mediate the claim. At that mediation, the case was ultimately settled for $1 million — nearly 250 times the original settlement offer!
Two Important Takeaways
- Never try and take on the insurance company and their lawyers by yourself.
- Hire an experienced personal injury lawyer with a track record of success, one that will fight to get you all the benefits you deserve.
Don’t let the insurance company dictate what is “fair”, especially when they will sometimes handle these claims in bad faith.
We cannot guarantee similar results in your claim as the facts are typically different. However, you owe it to yourself to find out all of your legal rights and the insurance company’s responsibilities.
Attorney Hays specializes in personal injury and wrongful death claims. He’s lived and worked in Georgia for more than 35 years. His personal injury firm has helped thousands of people injured due to car accidents and work accidents receive full compensation for their pain and suffering.
Contact Gary Martin Hays & Associates for a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case.
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