More Insurance shenanigans: Insurers Say They Never Promised Rate Reductions

At least seven insurance companies selling medical malpractice insurance to doctors in Georgia raised their rates within 16 months after a law was passed that severely restricts a person's right to sue for medical mistakes and dangerous errors, including death. Insurance lobbyists said rates would go down if SB 3 would be passed. "However, the result is that people have been stripped of their rights, while insurers continue to gouge doctors." Since February 2005, medical malpractice policies have increased from 3 to 57.5 percent. A spokesman for the American Insurance Association said, "We have not promised price reductions with tort reform." Also, a Georgia law requires some plaintiffs who win in court to pay the loser's legal costs. Macon Telegraph, Georgia, 06/24/2006