Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

A motor vehicle accident can have a devastating impact on you and your family. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact our firm to schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Car and Truck Accident Attorneys in Belleville, Illinois

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car, truck or other automobile accident in Illinois or Missouri, you need to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to provide the counsel and representation you deserve. Located in Belleville, the law firm of Ripplinger & Zimmer, L.L.C., can protect your rights and interests through dedicated legal service.

Since 1970, our firm has obtained large verdicts and settlements, including several worth more than a million dollars, for personal injury clients. Contact our firm by e-mail or by calling us toll free at 888-810-8209 to schedule a free consultation. We take all personal injury cases on a contingency basis.

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After a motor vehicle accident in Missouri or Illinois, it can be difficult to know what your rights are and how to obtain the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Get the answers you need by contacting us for a free consultation.

The law firm of Ripplinger & Zimmer, L.L.C., in Belleville, Illinois, provides experienced representation to the victims of car, truck and other motor vehicle accidents. If you or someone you love has suffered a serious injury, contact us to learn more about your rights to recovery.

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 Ripplinger & Zimmer, L.L.C. in Belleville, Illinois, 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 Ripplinger & Zimmer, L.L.C. in Belleville, Illinois, 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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