Videos

If you’re ever involved in a car wreck, you may hear the term policy limits. So what are policy limits? A policy limit is the maximum amount that an insurance policy will pay out on a certain claim. You get paid because you’re hurt, not because you were hit. Simply put, if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid. I’m Riah Greathouse from Greathouse Trial Law. Contact us to discuss your case.

So you’ve just been involved in a collision and you find out that the other driver doesn’t have insurance. What do you do? Who’s going to put your life back together? Who’s going to pay your medical bills, who’s going to pay back your lost wages? That’s why it’s very important to have UIM coverage or underinsured motorist coverage. You may also see this as you um, add on to your policy. What this is, this is a policy under your insurance that you can add that will be supplemental to the insurance of the other driver that way for instance, if they have 25,000, you have 25,000. There’s a total of $50,000 in insurance coverage to compensate you for your injuries. You get paid because you’re hurt not because you were hit. Simply put, if you don’t get paid, we don’t get paid. I’m Riah Greathouse from Greathouse Trial Law. Contact us to discuss your case.

You need to go to the doctor to not only get the necessary treatment you need, but also to prove that you were injured. Once you go to the doctor, you will receive the necessary documentation that you need to file a claim through your insurance company.

After you have been in a car crash, your back and neck may hurt. The pain may be so severe that you need to take time off of work. To reclaim wages that you have lost from work, you can have your employer verify that you have missed days of work.

UIM coverage, which is also known as Underinsured Motorist insurance can pay for your medical bills if a driver who crashed into you either is uninsured or doesn’t have enough insurance coverage to pay for your medical bills.

You should not give your insurance company a recorded statement. Insurance companies are well-versed in ways to resolve your claim as quickly as possible rather than looking out for your best interests.

You may be entitled to punitive damages when you have been hit by a driver who was under the influence. Punitive damages are awarded to the victim of a car crash to punish a defendant who was driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

Riah describes Med Pay in detail, discussing limits and how to add Med Pay to your insurance.

Riah walks you through how Med Pay works after an accident.

Riah discusses Med Pay, what it covers, provides examples, and who it covers.

One of the scariest things a parent can go through is an accident involving a child. Be sure to secure help for yourself and then make sure your child is OK. Ask doctors, nurses, and others what the plan is for your child. Document everything!

Who is responsible for Uber/Lyft accidents? How are rideshare drivers different than other drivers? Who is liable? Who’s insurance policy is responsible?

What is the negotiation process after an accident? Why is it important? Most personal injury cases never go to court, so there is a great chance you settle out of court. What can you expect in the process?

Get a look inside the event Greathouse Trial Law sponsored and listed to Riah talk about what drives him.

Summary

This source outlines the legal procedures involved when a personal injury lawyer in Georgia initiates a settlement demand against an insurance provider. State regulations require these companies to receive at least 30 days to evaluate and respond to the formal request. The attorney clarifies that a successful payout is not guaranteed, as insurers may choose to deny responsibility or request additional time for review. Furthermore, the response might include a settlement offer that falls well short of the victim’s initial expectations. Ultimately, the video serves as a guide for clients on the unpredictable outcomes that can follow the submission of a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does an insurance company have to respond to a settlement demand in Georgia?

Under Georgia law, insurance companies must be given at least 30 days to respond to a demand for settlement. This specific timeframe is a legal requirement that allows the insurer sufficient time to process the request.

Is an insurance company required to offer a settlement after receiving a demand?

No, insurance companies are not legally obligated to respond to a demand with a settlement offer. While they must respond within the required timeframe, their answer may involve a refusal to settle or a denial of the claim.

What are the possible responses from an insurance company regarding a demand?

Typical responses from insurance providers include requests for more time, denials of liability, or lower settlement amounts than requested. They may also state that they are not interested in pursuing a settlement at that specific time.

What happens if an insurance company denies liability in a Georgia claim?

If an insurance company denies liability, they are formally asserting that they are not responsible for the claim. This is one of the several standard legal responses an insurer may provide after a demand is submitted.

Can an insurer offer less money than what was requested in the demand?

Yes, insurance companies frequently respond to demands by offering amounts well below the requested settlement. This is a standard part of the negotiation process following the 30-day review period.

Transcription of the Video

It is now time to submit the demand for settlement in your case. This is the part where we sit back and wait. Under Georgia law, the insurance company must be given at least 30 days to respond to your demand. The kicker is that they do not necessarily have to respond with a settlement offer. There are several answers we could receive from the insurance company: we need more time to respond, we are not interested in settlement at this time, we are not liable for the claim, or they could offer you an amount much less than what we requested.

Summary

When an insurance provider refuses to agree to a settlement, it is typically due to disputes over legal responsibility or a belief that the monetary request is excessive. To address this, legal teams can either lower the requested payout to keep negotiations moving or escalate the matter to court for a final verdict. Law firms specializing in personal injury guide during these moments, helping clients decide whether to compromise on terms or pursue a formal trial. While waiting for a counteroffer, victims are encouraged to remain patient while their representatives handle the complexities of the dispute. This overview outlines the strategic options available when initial settlement talks stall, ensuring that the injured party’s rights remain protected throughout the litigation process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why might an insurance company refuse to settle my personal injury claim?

Insurance companies often decline settlements due to liability disputes or because they believe the settlement demand is too high relative to the injuries sustained. When an insurer questions who is at fault or the severity of the medical condition, they may be less inclined to agree to the initial terms.

What are the options if an insurance carrier rejects a settlement demand?

If a settlement demand is rejected, you may choose to lower the demand to continue negotiations or move the case into the court system for a trial. These options offer flexibility depending on the strength of the evidence and the insurer’s willingness to reconsider.

Can a personal injury case still be resolved after a settlement refusal?

Yes, a case can be resolved by either adjusting the demand to facilitate further discussion or by allowing a judge and jury to decide in court. A refusal to settle is a common hurdle in the legal process rather than a conclusion to the claim.

How does a liability issue affect my chances of settling?

A liability issue creates a dispute over who is responsible for the accident, often leading insurance companies to refuse to settle. Resolving these disputes usually requires a thorough review of the facts, and if an agreement is not reached, a trial may be necessary to decide the matter.

What happens when a personal injury case goes to court?

When a case goes to court, a judge and jury review the evidence and decide the claim. This path is pursued when negotiations fail to produce a satisfactory agreement between the claimant and the insurance provider.

Transcription of the Video

So what happens if the insurance company does not want to settle? Many times, when an insurance company doesn’t want to pay, it is because there is a liability issue in your case, or the demand is too high for what they believe the injuries to be. In either case, we have a couple of options: we can either reduce our demand and continue negotiations, or we can go to court and let a judge and jury decide. In either case, Greathouse Trial Law is ready to advise and to take on the challenge. For now, sit back and relax as we wait for a response. If you have any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Summary

This presentation clarifies the mediation process for clients involved in personal injury litigation. It frames mediation as a critical stage in negotiations, where attorneys seek a financial settlement with insurance providers. Clients are advised that initial offers from insurers are typically low starting points intended to spark discussion rather than final figures. The legal team emphasizes its commitment to securing maximum compensation through strategic bargaining. If these discussions fail to yield a satisfactory resolution, the case will likely proceed to formal court proceedings. Overall, the message serves to manage client expectations as they approach the final phases of their legal journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary goal of a mediation session?

Mediation is a formal opportunity to settle your personal injury case. It allows your legal team to negotiate directly with the insurance company using the previously submitted demand.

Why does the insurance company start with a low offer during mediation?

Initial low offers from insurance companies are a standard part of the negotiation process. These opening figures are less significant than the final amount reached at the conclusion of the mediation session.

How does the previous demand letter affect the mediation process?

The demand letter serves as the foundation for negotiations with the insurance carrier during mediation. Legal teams use the details and figures in that demand to advocate for the case’s value.

What are the next steps if a settlement is not reached in mediation?

If a case does not settle during mediation, the legal process typically proceeds to court. Mediation is often the final attempt to resolve the matter before entering formal litigation.

Is mediation considered the final stage of a personal injury case?

Mediation is frequently one of the final steps in the legal process before a case is resolved or sent to trial. It represents a significant milestone toward resolving the claim.

Transcription of the Video

So, you’ve been scheduled for mediation. Now is the time we’ve been waiting for. Mediation is an opportunity for us to try to settle your case. During this process, we will use the demand that we’ve already submitted and negotiate with the insurance company. I want to share some expectations as we enter this process. First, the insurance company is unlikely to pay the entire amount; if it were, it would have done so already. Secondly, it’s very likely the mediation will start with a low offer, but don’t be alarmed; this is all part of the negotiation process.
The most important part of mediation is not where they start, but rather where they end. One of our team members will contact you shortly to discuss this process and what you can expect during your mediation. Just know that we are fighting for maximum value in your case. If your case cannot be settled in mediation, we will likely have to go to court. We are almost at the end of the road, and we look forward to resolving your case shortly. Once again, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Summary

In this instructional video, a personal injury lawyer emphasizes that consistent medical treatment is the primary factor in determining the financial value of a legal claim. The attorney explains that missing appointments can severely damage a case because insurance companies often use gaps in care as evidence to deny that an injury actually occurred. While clients may face obstacles like transportation issues or work commitments, failing to follow a doctor’s plan ultimately results in lower settlements and unnecessary legal delays. By documenting the full extent of physical damage and the resulting high medical bills, victims provide their legal team with the leverage needed to seek maximum compensation. Consequently, the source serves as a warning that patient compliance is just as vital to a successful outcome as the legal strategy itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are medical bills important in an Atlanta personal injury case?

Medical bills constitute the primary basis for determining the financial value of the damages you have suffered following an accident. High medical expenses resulting from severe injuries typically lead to higher settlement values, whereas lower expenses often correlate with lower settlements.

How do gaps in medical treatment affect an insurance claim?

Gaps in medical treatment provide insurance companies with an opportunity to deny the existence or severity of an injury. Consistent attendance at appointments is necessary to verify that you are injured and that your condition requires professional care.

What are the common reasons people miss medical appointments?

Individuals often cite challenges such as lack of transportation, lack of insurance, financial constraints, or the inability to miss work as reasons for skipping medical visits. While these challenges are often valid, missing appointments can still negatively affect the outcome of a legal case.

Does attending medical appointments affect the timeline of a legal case?

Failing to attend scheduled medical appointments often delays the progression of a legal case. Staying on track with a recommended treatment plan helps the legal team move the claim forward more efficiently.

Can I stop going to the doctor if I feel like I am improving?

Stopping medical treatment because you feel better can jeopardize your case, as it may suggest to insurers that your recovery is complete. It is essential to follow the full course of treatment advised by medical professionals to ensure the case is properly documented.

Transcription of the Video

The medical bills determine a large part of the damages that you’ve suffered in the case. If your bills are high due to a serious injury, your settlement will likely be higher. If your bills are low, then your settlement will likely be lower. Why is this important? There are so many reasons that I hear for not attending medical appointments: “I don’t have a ride,” “I don’t have insurance,” “I can’t afford it,” “I can’t miss work,” “my boss won’t give me time off,” “I think I’m improving”.

Although many of these reasons could be valid, failing to attend medical appointments can ruin your case. It is essential to understand how medical treatment helps us achieve the maximum value for your case. Reason number one: they are the basis of determining the value of your case. Reason number two: a gap in treatment can cause the insurance company to deny that you are even injured in the case. Reason number three: Failing to attend appointments will delay your case. As a word of caution, I am sending this video. Please do not miss any appointments. If you have any more questions, reach out to our team, and we will address them. In the meantime, I wish you well on a speedy recovery. Thank you.

Summary

This presentation by Greathouse Trial Law outlines their personalized approach to valuing personal injury claims. Unlike firms that rely on rigid mathematical formulas, this team focuses on the unique physical and economic consequences each client faces. They investigate various factors, including the loss of quality of life, future medical requirements, and the emotional strain placed on personal relationships. By analyzing how an accident impairs a person’s employment prospects and mental well-being, they aim to build a comprehensive account of the damage. This detailed strategy ensures that the final settlement demand accurately reflects the actual impact on the victim’s life. Ultimately, the firm prioritizes client satisfaction and thoroughness over a standardized, assembly-line style of legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is the value of a personal injury claim determined?

Law firms determine the value of a claim by performing a detailed analysis of the physical and financial impact on the injured individual. Rather than using a standard formula, the evaluation process focuses on the specific damages sustained and the strategy required to address them.

What factors influence the “quality of life” assessment in a legal case?

Quality-of-life assessments assess how an accident has affected a person’s mood, mental well-being, and personal relationships. Legal teams also consider the physical limitations that may prevent a person from engaging in activities they enjoyed before the incident.

How does a personal injury affect future employment opportunities?

An injury can affect future employment by preventing an individual from performing the same types of work or tasks they were capable of before the accident. Evaluating a claim includes assessing these professional limitations to understand the full economic impact of the injury on the individual’s career.

Why is future medical treatment necessary in a personal injury demand?

Future medical treatment is a critical component of the demand because it accounts for the ongoing care an injured person will require long after the initial incident. Attorneys ask specific questions about future care needs to ensure the demand reflects the full scope of physical damage.

What should I do if I have questions about my case valuation?

You should contact your legal team to receive answers regarding the evaluation process and how your specific damages are being calculated. Accessing information about your case can provide clarity and peace of mind as you focus on your physical recovery.

Transcription of the Video

Cases are not built on an assembly line; they are built with strategy and focus. Countless hours go into determining the case’s value. Many law firms simply use a mathematical formula as if every case has the same personal and economic impact on the injured party. At Greathouse Trial Law, we go through the painstaking process of determining precisely what the damage was to you both physically and financially. We ask questions like: how will this affect them in the future? What future treatment will be needed? What was the reduction in the quality of life? What types of employment are you prevented from doing now that you can’t work the same? And how has this affected your mood, your mind, and your relationships? All of these factors go into telling the story of how the accident has changed your life. Once we’re done, we submit a maximum demand that reflects your actual damage, and we don’t settle until you are satisfied. If you have any questions about how we are evaluating your case, please reach out to our team so we can answer them and give you the peace of mind as you continue your recovery.

Summary

This source explains the legal risks associated with a treatment gap following a personal injury. Legal experts say that delaying medical care or skipping appointments provides grounds for companies to devalue a claim. The industry assumes that a genuinely injured person will seek immediate and consistent professional help. If a significant amount of time passes between the accident and a doctor’s visit, insurers may argue the injury occurred elsewhere. To protect a case, it is essential to document all medical interactions and avoid long pauses in recovery. Consequently, maintaining a consistent treatment schedule is vital for proving the legitimacy of one’s physical damages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a gap in treatment in a personal injury case?

A gap in treatment is a term used by the insurance industry to describe a significant delay between the date of an injury and the first medical visit, or a long interval between subsequent appointments. Insurers often use this concept to challenge the validity or severity of a claim.

How do insurance companies view delays in medical care?

Insurance companies often interpret a delay in seeking care as evidence that the injury was not caused by the accident in question or that the condition is not severe enough to warrant immediate attention. They operate on the principle that a truly injured person would seek medical help as soon as possible.

How long of a delay is considered a treatment gap?

No fixed period constitutes a gap; instead, the determination often depends on the specific severity of the claimed injury. For example, waiting a month to treat a suspected broken bone is viewed much more critically than a shorter delay for a less visible injury.

Why can a gap in treatment lead to a denied claim?

Adjusters may deny a claim because they argue the injury likely occurred in a separate incident or that the individual would have sought immediate hospital care if the injury were genuine. This positioning allows the insurance company to question the causal link between the accident and the injury.

What should I do if I have to miss a medical appointment?

If you must miss a visit, notify your legal team so they can document the specific reasons for the delay and prepare a response for your case. Proactive documentation helps explain the circumstances of the gap and addresses potential concerns from the insurance carrier.

Transcription of the Video

You may have seen my last message to you, where I referenced the treatment gap in your case. The Gap in treatment is one of the three reasons why missing your medical appointments can ruin your case. But what is a gap in treatment? Well, that’s a great question. There is no defined period of time. A gap in treatment is insurance industry lingo; it means there has been a long period between an injury and when you go to the doctor or hospital, or a long delay between one medical visit and the next.

Is it one day, two days, or one month? The answer comes down to the severity of the injury. It is industry-accepted that a person who is severely injured will not delay seeking medical treatment. An effective way I can explain this principle is by giving you an example: if you claim you have a broken foot, it is unlikely you will wait a month to go to the doctor.

Therefore, if you’re trying to receive compensation for a broken foot injury and it takes you a month to go to the doctor from the time of the accident, the insurance company is going to deny that claim for a gap in treatment. Why? Because it is the insurance company’s position that you likely broke your foot somewhere else, not in the accident, you would have gone directly to the hospital or a doctor. The bottom line is this: if you have been injured, do not delay in getting treatment. If something truly arises and you need to skip some time, reach out to our team so that we can document any issues related to the Gap and be prepared to respond in your case.

Summary

In this instructional video, a personal injury attorney outlines the essential components of a legal settlement demand. To maximize compensation from insurance adjusters, the speaker recommends a five-step framework that includes presenting the facts of the accident and a thorough account of all accrued damages. The process also requires a specific monetary request, a firm deadline for a response, and the necessary statutory language to support the claim. Beyond these technical requirements, the firm emphasizes client transparency by reviewing the final document with the victim before submission. Ultimately, this resource serves as a professional guide for navigating the final stages of a personal injury lawsuit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the five parts of a settlement demand?

A comprehensive settlement demand includes a statement of facts, a detailed list of damages, a specific settlement request, a deadline for response, and necessary legal language. These elements ensure the insurance company has a clear understanding of the claim and the legal basis for the request.

How are damages documented in a settlement demand?

Damages are documented by providing a thorough accounting of the physical, emotional, or financial losses resulting from the incident. This detailed documentation serves as the primary justification for the settlement amount requested by the legal team from the insurance adjuster.

Why is a response time included in the demand letter?

The demand letter specifies a timeframe for the insurance adjuster to respond to the settlement request. Setting this timeline helps manage the case’s progression and ensures the process continues toward a potential resolution.

Do clients see the demand letter before it is sent?

Legal teams inform clients of what is being submitted and allow for a review of the documents before sending the demand to the insurance company. This collaborative approach ensures accuracy and keeps the client fully informed of the status of their case as it approaches the finish line.

What is the role of legal language in a demand?

The final component of a demand is the inclusion of specific legal language and statutes that authorize the request for a settlement. This formalizes the demand and provides the essential legal framework required for the insurance adjuster to process the claim under Georgia law.

Transcription of the Video

“Today, I want to talk to you about how lawyers write demands. There are five parts to writing an effective demand: number one, state the facts of the case; number two, detail the damages suffered; number three, request an amount for settlement; number four, let them know how much time they have to respond; number five, state the legal language that allows you to request a demand. Do those five things, and you will have adjusters pay full value in your case. As we prepare your request, we will let you know what we are submitting before sending it off. If you have any questions at that time, please do not hesitate to let our team know. We are so close to the finish line, and I want to thank you once again for entrusting us to represent you in your case”.

Summary

This source features a legal professional explaining the fundamental nature of a deposition within a personal injury lawsuit. It clarifies that this procedure provides an individual with the opportunity to give sworn testimony regarding their experiences to the opposing insurance provider. The process involves a court reporter and defense counsel, yet it is held outside a courtroom. The primary objective for the participant is to offer an honest account of events based on their own recollections. Throughout the meeting, the individual is supported by their legal representation to ensure they are comfortable. To facilitate a smooth experience, attorneys typically contact their clients beforehand to provide specialized preparation and answer any lingering concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a deposition in an Atlanta personal injury case?

A deposition is a formal meeting where you explain your side of the story under oath to the insurance company’s representatives. This process is a standard part of discovery that allows both parties to understand the facts of the case from the perspectives of the parties involved.

Who will be present during my deposition?

Typically, a court reporter and an attorney for the insurance company will be present during your deposition to record and ask questions. Your own legal counsel will also be by your side to provide support and guidance throughout the entire session.

Do I need to prove my case during the deposition?

No, you do not have to prove your case during a deposition; your only role is to state what happened to the best of your memory. The goal is to provide an accurate account of the facts for the legal record, not to give a final legal argument.

Is a deposition the same as a court appearance?

A deposition is not a court, although it involves providing testimony under oath for the legal record. It is a step taken during the litigation process, usually in an office setting rather than before a judge or jury.

How should I prepare for my upcoming deposition?

Your legal team will reach out to you directly to prepare you for the deposition and answer any questions you may have about the process. Preparation involves reviewing the facts of your case so you can provide clear and honest answers based on your memory.

Transcription of the Video

Now it’s time for a deposition, and you’re probably wondering what a deposition is. A deposition is an opportunity for you to explain your side of the story under oath to the insurance company. During this time, there will be a court reporter and an attorney for the insurance company who will ask you questions about what happened in the case. This is not a court; you do not have to prove your case. You simply have to state what happened to the best of your memory, and don’t worry, we will be with you during this part of the process. One of our attorneys will reach out to you soon to prepare you for this deposition. If you have any questions about this process during that time, please feel free to reach out to our team.

Summary

This presentation details the legal procedures that follow the filing of a personal injury lawsuit after an insurance provider refuses to settle a claim. The litigation process is broken down into five primary stages: initial pleadings, discovery, pre-trial motions, trial, and potential appeals. A critical component of this timeline is the deposition, where the insurance company’s counsel questions the plaintiff to establish the facts of the case. Despite the transition to a courtroom setting, the source notes that negotiations may continue, offering opportunities for a settlement before a jury reaches a verdict. Throughout these steps, legal counsel remains available to guide the client and manage communications regarding upcoming requirements. Overall, the information serves as a procedural roadmap for plaintiffs navigating the complexities of a contested insurance dispute.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the stages of a personal injury lawsuit in Atlanta?

A personal injury lawsuit consists of five primary stages: pleadings, discovery, pre-trial proceedings, trial, and appeals. These steps provide the framework for proving a case in court when a settlement cannot be reached initially.

Why is a lawsuit filed after an insurance claim is denied?

A lawsuit is filed when an insurance company refuses to settle, requiring the claimant to prove the facts of their case in court. This move shifts the dispute from informal negotiations into a formal legal proceeding.

What happens during the discovery phase of a lawsuit?

During the discovery phase, the legal team initiates a process where the insurance company takes a deposition to gather the facts of the case. This is a standard procedure for collecting evidence and testimony after a lawsuit is officially filed.

Can a case settle after a lawsuit has already been filed?

Yes, a case can frequently settle at any point during the litigation process before it is presented to a jury. Filing a lawsuit does not preclude a mutual agreement between the parties.

What is a deposition in a personal injury case?

A deposition is a formal process during the discovery stage where the insurance company’s representatives question the claimant to gather factual information. Claimants are typically notified by their legal team when it is time to schedule and attend this proceeding.

Transcription of the Video

“We’ve just filed a lawsuit, and you’re probably wondering what happens next. The insurance company decided not to settle, and now they want you to prove your case in court. There are five steps to a lawsuit: pleadings, discovery, pre-trial proceedings, trial, and appeals. Once the case is filed, we will initiate a process called discovery. At that point, the insurance company will take your deposition to gather the facts. During this time, up until your case goes before a jury, there’s still a chance that your case may be able to settle. So hang in there; you have us, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. In the meantime, know that the case has now been filed. You will receive another message from our team when it’s time for that deposition. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our team immediately.”