In many states, drivers are required by state law to have a minimum amount of liability coverage. State laws vary as to the amount of insurance a driver is required to carry. This is insurance to pay for damages to others if you cause an accident. You can pay for greater coverage if you wish. This may protect you from loss if you are found liable in a vehicular accident. Remember, liability insurance pays only to settle claims or pay judgments against you if you are found negligent.
To protect yourself against claims from other drivers or passengers in case of a vehicular accident, you can purchase a coverage known as “uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits”. This allows you to receive compensation from your own insurance company if a negligent driver has limited liability insurance. If the amount of your damages exceeds the negligent party’s coverage, you can make a claim under this coverage from your own company.
To cover medical bills, you will need to purchase an additional coverage called “medical payments”. Medical payments coverage may go by various names, but its intent is to pay for the medical needs of a driver or passengers. It only covers those who are in the insured car.
Collision coverage is another type of voluntary coverage you may wish to purchase. This covers repairs or replacement to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. There is usually a deductible on the amount paid. This allows you to have repairs on your vehicle if you are at fault, or if your car is damaged by someone who has no insurance or who flees the scene.
Insurance Adjusters & Accidents
At some point after an accident, you may be approached by an insurance adjuster who represents the insurance company of the person who caused the accident. No matter how friendly and caring, or aggressive and threatening, this adjuster may appear, he works for the insurance company and his job is to save that company money. He does that by reducing your claim. He may try to convince you that you should accept a lower settlement. He may try to convince you that you were at fault, partially or completely. He may try to convince you that you do not need a lawyer. At no time will he be working on your behalf. His sole job is to protect the insurance company and he will use every technique he knows to do so.
Although you should always be courteous, you are not required to give any oral statement to the other side’s insurance company. Listen to what he says and note the questions he asked, but do not enter into a dialogue with him. Tell your lawyer what was said and have him evaluate your case. He will be able to direct you as to necessary communications with the defendant’s insurance company.
What Should I Do If I’m Asked By An Insurance Adjuster To Make A Recorded Statement?
Do not make any statement to an insurance adjuster without your attorney present. You have the right not to give a recorded statement. Additionally, be sure not to sign anything until it is reviewed by counsel.