Unsure how to find the right auto insurance? There are countless insurance options available for Georgia drivers. While liability coverage comes standard, there are other add-ons that can greatly impact your rights during a crash. The type of insurance coverage you purchase will directly impact your ability to file a claim following an accident. While more robust insurance coverage might offer better benefits, it also leads to much higher premiums. Finding the right balance between premium prices and coverage is ultimately up to you.
It is important to keep in mind that auto insurance is only one way a driver can protect themselves from the consequences of an automobile crash. If you are in an auto collision with a negligent driver, you also have the right to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault motorist. To learn more about pursuing a legal claim, contact an experienced attorney immediately. In the meantime, consider these factors when shopping for auto insurance.
LIABILITY COVERAGE
Under state law, motorists must carry a minimum amount of liability coverage. Liability insurance protects a driver from third-party negligence claims when the covered driver is responsible for an accident. This could include anything from bodily injuries to property damage.
In Georgia, drivers must maintain at least $25,000 in coverage for the injury or death of another person. These policies must also cover at least $50,000 in death or injury coverage for accidents with more than one injury victim. Finally, the state also mandates at least $25,000 in property damage coverage.
It is worth noting that these are only minimums. Given the severity of auto accidents and the cost of medical treatment, it is not unusual for these limits to be insufficient to cover an accident. Any amount above and beyond the policy limits is the at-fault driver’s responsibility. This means purchasing more than minimum coverage levels could be a good idea.
COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE
Liability insurance only covers the losses a driver causes to another person through their negligence. The policyholder cannot pursue compensation for their own injuries on their liability policy. For that, they will need comprehensive coverage.
Comprehensive coverage not only protects a motorist from negligence claims; it also provides benefits for any injuries or property damage experienced by the insured driver. This is true no matter who was at fault for the crash.
Comprehensive coverage is not mandatory under state law, and it can cost more than basic liability policies. It is up to the insured motorist to purchase this additional coverage.
UNINSURED MOTORIST COVERAGE
Finally, every driver should consider uninsured motorist coverage (UIM) when finding the right auto insurance policy. UIM coverage protects drivers in very specific situations. It functions like comprehensive coverage, but not in every accident. A claim through these policies is only available if the at-fault driver in the crash was uninsured or lacked an adequate amount of liability coverage.
TALK TO AN ATTORNEY AFTER AN ACCIDENT
Finding the right Georgia auto insurance policy is an important decision to make before a car accident ever occurs. After an accident, an attorney represents your best chance of recovering compensation for your injuries.
Not every attorney will be able to assist you with your claim. Contact a skilled personal injury attorney immediately to get started.
