Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

Aggressive drivers are responsible for many of the deadly accidents on American roads. If you have lost a loved one due to the actions of an aggressive driver, contact our firm to learn about your legal rights and options.

Learn About the Law on Motor Vehicle Accidents

While the Internet has a great deal of information about motor vehicle accident lawsuits, the best way to learn how the law may apply in your situation is to talk with an attorney about your options. Contact the lawyers at Friedman, Domiano & Smith by calling us at 866-636-8367 or completing our online contact form. Our main office is located in Cleveland. We also operate additional offices in Ohio.

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Motor vehicle accidents, like car accident, motorcycle accidents and truck accidents, cause serious injuries on Ohio roads every day. People who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident can take action. A personal injury lawyer can help an injured person receive compensation for medical bills and lost wages, and so they can receive resources to move forward with their lives.

For more information about the law on motor vehicle accidents, contact the trial lawyers at Friedman, Domiano & Smith by calling us at 866-636-8367 or completing our online contact form. Initial consultations are free and confidential.

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 Friedman, Domiano & Smith Co., L.P.A. in Cleveland, Ohio, 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 Friedman, Domiano & Smith Co., L.P.A. in Cleveland, Ohio, 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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Car Accident Lawyer in Ohio | Cleveland Law Firm

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The main law office of Friedman, Domiano & Smith Co., L.P.A., is located in Cleveland, Ohio, with satellite offices in other parts of Ohio. We represent motor vehicle accident victims in locations including Akron, Canton, Elyria, Painesville, Jefferson, Chardon, Cuyahoga County, Summit County, Stark County and Lorain County.

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

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