On April 8, 2013, Gerri Koch was rear ended at a stop sign by an uninsured motorist. Ms. Koch, 50 years old, sustained a permanent spinal injury. Ms. Koch, who had coverage with Allstate for up to $250,000 in the event she was hit and injured by an uninsured driver, filed a claim with the company. Allstate denied the claim. Ms. Koch filed suit.
Ms. Koch’s attorney has stated that when she sued, Allstate offered $50,000 to settle her claim. The offer was denied. In court, Allstate’s attorney then argued that Ms. Koch should receive nothing. A jury later determined that her injuries made her eligible to receive $1.2 million in damages from Allstate.
Ms. Koch’s attorney has explained that Ms. Koch will likely not receive that amount and will likely receive far less. According to her attorney, “The judge afterward has to mold the verdict to reflect her policy and the $250,000 [uninsured motorist benefits]…What she’s got is Allstate’s $250,000. The rest of it is sort of gone.” At this point, the judge is now determining whether Allstate acted in bad faith in forcing Ms. Koch to go to trial. Such determination could add to the amount she receives.
When someone is injured or dies in a collision, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover.
Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for such injuries or fatalities.