Denied and Delayed: How to Force Your Insurance Company to Pay Up
When Your Own Insurance Company Works Against You
You pay your insurance premiums every month—on time, every time. Then one day, you’re in a car accident in Georgia. You file a claim, expecting your insurance company to have your back. But instead of help, you get excuses, delays, and outright denials.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you have legal rights. Here’s how to fight back when your insurance company refuses to pay what you’re owed.
Why Do Insurance Companies Deny or Delay Claims?
Insurance companies are for-profit businesses. The less they pay out, the more they make. Common reasons for claim denials or delays include:
- Blaming you for the accident
- Claiming your injuries are not related to the crash
- Arguing your treatment was unnecessary or excessive
- Saying your policy doesn’t cover the damages
- Using fine print to deny claims based on technicalities
Some insurers even delay payments intentionally—hoping you’ll give up or accept a lowball settlement out of desperation.
Step 1: Know Your Rights Under Georgia Law
Georgia law requires insurance companies to:
- Investigate claims promptly and fairly
- Respond to claims within a reasonable timeframe
- Pay valid claims without unnecessary delay
If your insurer is dragging its feet or denying your claim without justification, they may be acting in bad faith—which is illegal.
Step 2: Document Everything
To fight back effectively, keep detailed records of:
- All correspondence with your insurer (emails, calls, letters)
- Your claim number and policy number
- Every bill, medical record, and repair estimate
- The timeline of what you’ve submitted and when
This paper trail can be critical evidence if you take legal action.
Step 3: File a Formal Complaint
If you suspect bad faith, you can file a complaint with the:
- Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
Sometimes, this pressure alone is enough to get the insurer to move.
Step 4: Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve
Insurance adjusters may offer you a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover all your damages. Don’t fall for it.
You are entitled to full compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
Step 5: Hire an Attorney to Level the Playing Field
Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working against you. You need someone in your corner.
A Georgia personal injury lawyer can:
- Review your policy to determine coverage
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Prove your damages and fight denials
- File a bad faith insurance claim if necessary
In many cases, hiring an attorney results in higher payouts—and faster resolutions.
Signs of Bad Faith Insurance Practices
Watch for red flags like:
- Unexplained delays
- Changing stories or inconsistent responses
- Pressuring you to accept a quick settlement
- Ignoring your calls or emails
- Requesting unnecessary documentation repeatedly
These could indicate the insurer is acting in bad faith, and legal action may be warranted.
Final Thoughts
You paid for coverage. You followed the rules. You deserve to be treated fairly. If your insurance company is dragging its feet or wrongfully denying your claim, you don’t have to take it lying down.
Denied or Delayed by Your Insurer?
At Car Wreck Cowboys, we’ve seen every bad faith insurance tactic in the book—and we know how to fight back. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you force the insurance company to pay up.