When you have been involved in a collision, the last thing you worry about is getting paid. You worry about whether the other driver is ok and whether you are ok. It is only later that you think to exchange insurance information and gather information about the accident.
Smyth & Cioffi, LLP is a law firm dedicated to helping people recover just compensation from their own insurance policies when the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. We dedicate our time, energy and resources to helping our clients secure their claims.
However, we welcome assistance from our clients. In the modern age of digital cameras and camera phone capability, our attorneys urge accident victims to take photographs at the scene of the accident to combat false representations made by the other driver or his/her insurance claims representatives. We also urge accident victims to seek medical treatment and to get checked for internal injuries. Our goal is to get you compensated for any injury you suffer.
1. Report the other driver's insurance, or lack thereof, to your own carrier. But remember, even if you are covered against uninsured and underinsured motorists under your own insurance policy, the insurance company only pays out on your claim when the other driver is technically at fault for the accident or injury.
2. Find out if you have stacked coverage. At the time you selected your auto insurance policy, it is likely that you elected to have uninsured and/or underinsured motorist coverage. If it is stacked, the policy limit depends on the dollar figure of the coverage times the number of vehicles covered under the policy.
3. Find out if you are covered for bodily injury and property loss. Many states require auto policies require your uninsured and/or underinsured motorist policy to reimburse you for lost wages, medical bills and other legal damages caused by the at-fault driver. If the other driver is partially insured, your insurance will make up the difference between the at-fault driver's coverage and your existing claim. Ask your insurance agent if you are covered for bodily injury and property loss.
4. Make sure you speak with your lawyer before accepting any insurance settlement offer. Once you accept a settlement offer, you waive your right to future lawsuits. It is important to make sure you are getting a fair deal in the final resolution of an insurance claim.
During more than two decades in personal injury and insurance law practice, the attorneys at the law office of Smyth & Cioffi have demonstrated a track record of litigation success. We take on some of the toughest cases and we see them through to the point of settlement, litigation or appeal. Our lawyers know the law and are committed to getting just results. Put our experience to work for you when you call or email us today. The initial consultation is free and there is no legal fee until you collect a settlement or money judgment.
