Insurance Claims Dos and Don’ts
When you are involved in a motor vehicle accident in Texas, you will need to make a claim with your insurance company and you should be cautious. Your actions may limit the amount of compensation you receive to pay for the costs associated with your accident. Contact an experienced Houston auto attorney lawyer to learn more about your legal rights when making a claim with your insurance company. With nearly a decade of experience, Brian White is a Houston automobile accident attorney who knows the ins and outs of auto insurance claims and will get you the monetary compensation you deserve after an automobile collision. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when dealing with car insurance claims.
The Dos
DO find out your rights by contacting an experience Houston car accident attorney
DO seek medical treatment for your injuries and keep your receipts, if you don’t get medical treatment the insurance company may assume you weren’t injured
DO review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is excluded in your policy
DO notify your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident, your car is stolen, damaged, or other such event that is covered by your specific insurance policy
DO gather as much information as possible about the accident, including, names, phone numbers, witnesses, driver’s licenses, and insurance information/details
DO take pictures of the accident, damage to all cars involved, the location of the accident, and the injuries suffered
DO take notes when you speak to your insurance company. Take down the names of the people you talk to, their job titles, phone numbers, supervisors and note what you discussed with each person.
DO keep a daily log of how the car accident has effected you and your family’s lives
DO tell your insurance company the truth. Dishonesty with your insurance company may invalidate or reduce your coverage.
DO try to find out if you have additional insurance coverage. In certain circumstances additional coverage may come from a spouse’s auto insurance policy, homeowner’s policy, or umbrella coverage.
DO keep your receipts for medical bills, car rentals, and any other purchases made in connection with the automobile accident.
DO be aware of the difference between the replacement value of your car and the amount of money you still owe on your car. If you owe more money than the replacement value of your vehicle you may need addition insurance coverage.
The Don’ts
DON’T accept an insurance company’s estimate of your damage without first doing your homework. The help of an auto accident lawyer can determine the amount of damages you are entitled to.
DON’T admit any degree of fault to anyone, just give the facts without giving your opinions, it is not your job to determine who is at fault and your claim could be negatively affected.
DON’T give the insurance company anything in writing or an admission of guilt until you are fully aware of your insurance policy coverage and rights.
DON’T sign a release of liability until you have consulted an attorney. Your insurance company may pressure you to sign such a document before you have had a chance to explore your options. Make sure your actions are appropriate for you and taken within the time limit stated by your policy.
DON’T accept a final payment check from your insurance company without first considering all possible outcomes. Seek legal advice and carefully weigh all your options.
DO Consult an Attorney
Your insurance company has a legal obligation to meets the terms of its contract with you. Brian White is a Houston automobile accident lawyer who used to work for the insurance companies and knows how they will try to minimize your compensation despite such a contract. But now he works for you, has a unique insight into how insurance companies operate, and will aggressively maximize the compensation you will receive. Contact the Law Offices of Brian White now for your free consultation. There is no charge until your case is won. Brian White will get the compensation you and your family deserve.
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