Being involved in a car accident in Tennessee can quickly become stressful when you have to deal with a large insurance company like GEICO. While you may expect the insurer to handle your claim fairly, the process is often more involved than it appears on the surface. Learning about how GEICO accident claims work in Tennessee can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes after a crash. Our auto accident attorney in Nashville can help if you require assistance following a collision.
How Geico Accident Claims Work in Tennessee
Tennessee follows a fault-based insurance system. This means the at-fault driver, and usually their insurance company, is responsible for paying the damages they cause in an accident. If the other driver is insured by GEICO, you will likely file a third-party claim with that company.
GEICO will typically open an investigation to determine liability and evaluate your losses after you file a claim. They may then make a settlement offer to you after reviewing all of the available information. Keep in mind, however, that GEICO does not have your best interests in mind and wants to limit its liability, not pay you the full value of your claim.
It is important to be cautious when speaking with an insurance adjuster. If you hire an attorney early on in the process, they can handle all of the communications and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf.
Tennessee’s Modified Comparative Fault Rule
Tennessee uses a modified comparative fault system. Under this law, you can still recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you are found 15% at fault, your total compensation would be reduced by that same percentage. If you are 50% or more responsible, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely.
This rule often plays a major role in GEICO accident claims. Since the insurance company just wants to make a profit, they’ll likely try and blame you even if you were the victim of the crash.
Challenges You May Face With a Geico Claim
Insurance companies handle claims every day, and their adjusters are trained to protect the company’s financial interests. Common issues in GEICO accident claims include:
- Disagreements about who caused the crash
- Questions regarding the severity of your injuries
- Requests for extensive documentation
- Settlement offers that do not reflect your long-term losses
Although insurance adjusters are professional negotiators, so are personal injury lawyers. Your attorney can help you level the playing field and set you up for a successful outcome as best as possible under the law.
Contact Woodard Injury Law for Help With Your Claim
If you were injured in a crash involving a GEICO-insured driver, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Contact Woodard Injury Law for help determining your legal rights and options at (615) 880-6126. We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only receive attorney’s fees if we successfully handle your case.