David Hollan - Lawrenceville, Georgia

MY ALLSTATE HORROR STORY

I had insurance on my trucks for many years and never had a claim.

On August 23, 1999, my 1993 Chevrolet Silverado was stolen from under my carport. I called Allstate as soon as possible. I was told that they would conduct a "fair and quick" investigation and that I would be paid a fair price for my loss.

During the time in which Allstate was conducting their "investigation", I found several vehicles similar to the one that was stolen. The average price for this replacement was about $14,000.00 I then informed Allstate that the least I would accept would be $13,140.00.

Thirty days thereafter, I was contacted by an arrogant claims adjuster that stated "Allstate will not pay anything close to $13,000.00 for your loss." I then retained an attorney which brought the negotiations to a halt. I then released the attorney and then, Allstate and myself hired "independent" appraisers. Allstate's appraiser stated that my vehicle was worth $9,300.00. Of course I told Allstate to go to hell. Then, my appraiser stated that my vehicle was worth $13,250.00.

Allstate still refuses to pay, so, I am in the process of preparing a lawsuit against Allstate, not only for the cost of the vehicle but also for "Bad Faith" damages. This is allowed in Georgia if you give your insurance company a Demand For Payment and they refuse to pay you a fair price within 60 days after they receive notice of this demand.

"There is no incentive for insurance companies to do what is right, such as live up to the promises made in their policies. Tort reformers fueled by insurance money think big business and the insurance industry need to be protected against "runaway juries." It's the other way around. Big business and the insurance industry have always been able to take care of themselves. The little people need protection from them. This country was founded on the common law right of the little guy to get into court with his hired gun to fight the oppressor, be it big government or big business. Take that away and we have nothing left. Look around. It's being whittled away, bit by bit, caps on damages here, restrictions on jury trials there. It won't end until we recognize the enemy and join together to take a stand against them. It will take the little people to do this together".

Louis G. Fazzi, Esq. Attorney & Counselor At Law