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Insurance Claims- Do's & Don'ts

There are certain precautions that you must take when filing an auto insurance claim. Depending on the action you take, the compensation allotted to you may be positively or negatively impacted. If you have any questions about dealing with the insurance company after an accident, call Los Angeles car accident attorney George Gallegos today for a free consultation. Below is some basic information.

The Dos

DO review your insurance coverage and provisions.

DO consult with legal counsel.

DO obtain and maintain records of the accident, i.e. pictures of the accident site and your injuries.

DO notify your insurance company right away after you are in a car accident, your car is stolen or damaged or another such covered event takes place.

DO maintain a journal or diary of your interactions with the insurance company. If possible try to obtain the names of supervisors or analysts assigned to your claim.

DO tell the insurance company the full story. Your coverage can be significantly reduced and even nullified if you fail to be forthcoming.

DO research any supplemental coverage you may have. This coverage may come from a homeowner’s policy, another auto insurance policy, or blanket/umbrella coverage.

DO maintain receipts for all expense with regards to the auto accident, i.e. medical bills, rental car, as well as any other purchases related to the motor vehicle accident.

DO understand the difference between replacement value and your auto loan balance. If the car is considered salvaged, the maximum cash value is what its worth at the time of the accident. There are circumstances where you may owe more than the vehicle’s value. The difference is usually supplemented by gap coverage.

The Don'ts

DON’T accept any offer for settlement from the insurance company until you have a chance to research your options. Utilizing legal counsel in these circumstances can guide you through the insurance claim process and help validate any estimate provided to you by the insurance company.

DON’T provide a recorded or written statement to the insurance company until you have thoroughly reviewed your options. It is imperative that you are aware of your rights and legal options with regards to the auto accident.

DON’T sign any documents until you have consulted with legal counsel. There is a time frame to initiate the claim process per most insurance policies but it is even more important that you understand your rights before taking action. Contact the Law Offices of Reuben J. Donig today to explore your rights.

DON’T negotiate a check from your insurance company. Often times the check will be marked “final payment”. It is important that you reviewed your options with legal counsel before cashing any settlement check from your insurance company.

DO Seek the Advise of an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney

Your insurance company is legally bound to the contract it has with you, i.e. your insurance policy. As an auto accident victim, you have rights and options. Call the Los Angeles auto accident attorneys at the Law Office of George Gallegos today for expert legal guidance and support.