Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents
The aftermath of a motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming. At Orzoff Law Offices, our Chicago area attorneys are here to answer your questions and listen to your concerns. In the meantime, please see some answers to frequently asked questions.
What If The Other Driver’s Insurance Company Is Attempting To Contact Me After The Accident? Should I Speak With Them?
No. Many people make critical legal mistakes when speaking directly with the insurance company. If you give a statement to the insurance adjuster without the benefit of legal counsel, you may say something that will be used or twisted by the insurance company for the purposes of denying your claim. Sometimes, the mistake is so critical that even an experienced attorney afterward cannot undo the damage done. You will be best served and protected if you immediately contact an experienced personal injury lawyer, who will then be able to return the call of the insurance company on your behalf.
What If The Insurance Claims Adjuster Promises Me That I Will Be Well Taken Care Of? Should I Still Exercise My Right To Consult With An Attorney?
Yes. Insurance companies train their adjusters and investigators to gain your confidence and make you feel like you do not need an attorney or that if you contact an attorney, it will result in delays or a reduced recovery. This strategy is designed and tested to work to the benefit of the insurance company and not to your benefit. Beware of the insurance company’s “nice guy” approach. Contact our experienced attorneys immediately so that your legal rights will be properly protected.
If I Was Involved In A Car Accident And Did Not Have Health Insurance, How Can I Pay For My Medical Bills?
The negligent driver’s insurance company will not pay your medical bills until you settle your case. Your own automobile insurance policy may have medical payment coverage, which will pay a certain amount of your medical bills regardless of fault. There may also be other possible coverage. You should consult with your experienced attorney to explore all of the payment options that may be available to you.
If I Was Involved In A Car Accident And The Negligent Driver’s Insurance Company Is Delaying Payment For The Damages To My Vehicle, What Are My Options?
In many situations, your attorney will be able to work out a property damage-only settlement while your personal injury claim is pending. If this cannot be done, it is recommended that you use your own collision coverage to have your vehicle repaired. You will be responsible for paying your deductible. However, your insurance company will eventually reimburse your deductible when it recovers money from the responsible party.
If I Was Involved In A Car Accident And My Car Is Considered A Total Loss, Is The Negligent Driver’s Insurance Company Responsible For Paying The Balance Of My Car Payment?
No. The insurance company is only responsible for paying the fair market value of your car. Any debt you may owe in excess of the fair market value of your car is your responsibility. When purchasing and financing a car, it is recommended that you look into purchasing “GAP” insurance. This type of insurance will pay the balance of your car payment after you have received a settlement for the vehicle’s fair market value.
Can I File A Personal Injury Claim If The Responsible Driver Did Not Have Automobile Insurance?
Yes. As part of your own automobile insurance policy, you have “uninsured motorist” coverage. This coverage basically requires that your own insurance company becomes the insurance company for the responsible party for the purposes of adjusting and settling your personal injury claim. There are many legal considerations to be made in prosecuting this type of claim. Therefore, it is highly recommended that an experienced personal injury attorney represent you. Over the years, our firm has handled many uninsured motorist claims with excellent results.
Helping Injured People For 55 Years, Let Our Experience Work For You
For over 55 years, injured clients in the greater Chicago area have trusted us to provide tailored and compassionate personal injury representation. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact us. Call our personal injury attorneys at 847-780-2356 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.