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Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

Aggressive drivers are responsible for many of the deadly accidents on American roads. If you have lost a loved one due to the actions of an aggressive driver, contact our firm to learn about your legal rights and options.

Columbia, Missouri, Personal Injury and Car Accident Lawyers

If you have been seriously injured in an automobile accident or if you have lost a loved one in a car crash as a result of someone else's negligence, then you should consider consulting an experienced attorney about your options for compensation. Insurance companies have a vested interest in keeping costs low, and without strong representation you may not have the resources you and your family need to pursue full and fair compensation.

Our attorneys at Holder Susan Slusher provide strong, knowledgeable and client focused personal injury representation to families and individuals. We understand the burden that a serious accident can inflict on a family, and we will help you recover the compensation your family needs to move forward while holding the right people responsible.

Know your rights, and understand your options when you or a loved one has suffered in a serious motor vehicle accident.

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A car accident can lead to serious, life changing injury or even wrongful death, and the results can impact families for years to come on an emotional, physical and financial level. Our attorneys will review your case and help you understand how a personal injury claim can hold people accountable for the damage they cause.

Contact us at the office of Holder Susan Slusher in Columbia, Missouri, today for a free initial consultation and case review.

Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

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. Contact an attorney from Holder Susan Slusher in Columbia, Missouri, to learn more.

The Dos

DO consult an attorney for legal advice.

DO review your insurance policies to find out what is covered and what is excluded.

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 take pictures if you can: of your vehicle, the accident site and your injuries.

DO take notes when you speak with your insurance company. Make a record of the names, job titles and phone numbers of the representatives with whom you communicate. If you can, get the names of their supervisors, too. Note what you discussed and what you or the representative promised to do.

DO tell your insurance company the truth. Not only does this save everyone a lot of time and effort, but questions of legal liability can be complex. If you fail to be forthcoming with your insurance company, this could invalidate or reduce your coverage.

DO investigate whether you have additional insurance coverage. Depending on the circumstances, supplemental coverage may come from another auto insurance policy, a homeowner’s policy or umbrella coverage.

DO keep the receipts for money you’ve spent on car rental, medical bills and purchases made in connection with the motor vehicle accident.

DO 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.

The Don'ts

DON’T accept the insurance company’s estimate of your losses and damages until you have a chance to fully explore the matter yourself. An attorney’s help can be valuable in determining whether the insurance company’s estimate is fair.

DON’T give the insurance company a recorded or written statement until you have determined how you wish to proceed. It is important to be aware of the extent of your insurance coverage and your rights.

DON’T sign a release or waiver until you have gotten reliable legal advice. You may feel pressure to sign from your insurance company, but it is your right to explore your options. Just make sure that you take appropriate action within the time limit stated in your insurance policy.

DON’T accept a check from your insurance company — especially one that says “final payment” — unless you have obtained legal advice and carefully weighed your options.

DO Consult an Attorney

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. Contact an attorney who will offer you support, guidance and advocacy. Speak with a lawyer from Holder Susan Slusher in Columbia, Missouri, to discuss your situation.

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