When you need to make an auto insurance claim, you should proceed with care. Your actions may have a significant influence on the amount of compensation you receive. The Chiozza Law Firm, to schedule a consultation with a personal injury attorney to learn more.
Please understand that the insurance companies one and only goal is to make money and given the choice they would prefer to pay nothing. Some representatives are specifically trained on how to minimize claims or deny claims outright.
Following an accident we recommend that you review your insurance policies to find out what is covered and what is excluded.
Always notify your insurance company right away after you are in a car accident so that they can begin the claims process and investigating you matter.
If possible, take pictures of the vehicles before they are moved from the scene of the accident and also document any injuries you may have sustained.
Always tell your insurance company the truth. If you are not honest with your insurance company this could exclude your coverage.
Keep the receipts for money you've spent and out of pocket expenses on items such on car rental, medical bills and other purchases made in connection with the motor vehicle accident.
Regarding the property damage to your vehicle, make sure you're aware of the difference between the replacement value of your car and what you actually owe on the car. If the car is totaled, most car insurance will cover only the cash value of your car at the time of the accident. You may owe more than that, however, on the loan or the lease of the car. Gap coverage makes up for this difference. Additional coverage is usually necessary for things like a special sound system in your car.
Before you accept the insurance company's estimate of your losses and damages until you take the time to fully explore your options. There are many helpful resources on the internet that can guide you in determining a vehicles value.
An insurance company will always ask for a recorded statement from you following the accident in question. We would recommend that you contact an attorney first so that you know what to expect, not giving the insurance company a way to deny the claim. Insurance adjusters will gladly use any information you give them to build a case against you.
Do not sign a release or waiver until you have obtained reliable legal advice. You may feel pressure to sign from your insurance company, but it is your right to explore your options.
Never accept a check from your insurance company — especially one that says "final payment" — unless you have obtained legal advice and carefully weighed your options.
Remember, it does not cost you a dime to contact The Chiozza Law Firm, where we will do our best to explain your options and rights following a personal injury or automobile accident.
Your insurance company is legally obligated to follow through on the terms of its contract with you. You have the right to make sure that happens, and a lawyer can offer you the support, guidance and advocacy you need. Contact Scott & Cain, Attorneys at Law in Knoxville, Tennessee, to schedule a consultation with a personal injury attorney to discuss your situation.