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Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

Motor vehicle accidents have many causes: inattentive drivers, intoxicated drivers, dangerous weather conditions and even poor road maintenance. No matter what the cause, the impact can be devastating. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and case evaluation with an attorney.

Hurt in a Motor Vehicle Accident in New York City? We Can Help.

If you suffered a serious personal injury or the loss of a loved one in a car, truck, motorcycle, bus, taxi cab or other auto accident in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn or anywhere in New York City, the experienced attorneys at the Meyers Law Firm can help you seek maximum financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

To discuss your case with an accomplished personal injury trial lawyer at our Midtown offices on Broadway, please call 212-252-1212 or contact us by e-mail now to schedule an appointment for a free consultation.

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Even a seemingly minor auto accident like a low-speed collision can cause serious injury to the neck, back and spine. The symptoms of some of these so-called "soft tissue" injuries can take time to develop. These injuries may require surgery or other expensive treatment, and yet insurance companies routinely deny claims related to soft tissue injuries. Don't let them keep you from getting the care and compensation you need. Contact The Meyers Law Firm for help.

The Meyers Law Firm represents auto accident and personal injury clients on a contingent-fee basis. That means that if we take your case, there will be no up-front legal fees for you to pay. We only charge for our personal injury work when we are successful in obtaining financial compensation for our clients in the form of insurance settlements or jury awarded damages. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

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 The Meyers Law Firm in New York, New York, 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 The Meyers Law Firm in New York, New York, to discuss your situation.

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