Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

Even though laws requiring auto insurance can be strict, not every driver follows them. If you have been in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you may have more options than you realize. Before you settle with any insurance company, contact our firm to learn about your legal rights and options.

Experienced Montana Car Accident Lawyers

Anytime you are rear-ended or another driver runs into your car, serious injuries can occur. Many times, the other driver and their car insurance company will refuse to offer you fair compensation.

At Knight, Dahood, Everett & Sievers, our team of four attorneys is dedicated to helping car accident victims get payment for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering as well as other damages. If you or someone you care about was hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Montana, please learn more about how we can help you by visiting our Motor Vehicle Accidents page.

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When you have suffered because of another driver's negligence, it is important to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 406-565-4804 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Anaconda office.

Car accident victims often struggle to pay for medical bills and vehicle repair, especially if they have missed work because of the accident. At Knight, Dahood, Everett & Sievers, we have more than 90 years of experience fighting for personal injury compensation. We will work hard to obtain the payment you deserve.

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 Knight, Dahood, Everett & Sievers in Anaconda, Montana, 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 Knight, Dahood, Everett & Sievers in Anaconda, Montana, to discuss your situation.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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