You may be surprised at how complicated and contested your claim for compensation following a car accident can be. Even the most basics—such as how much insurance coverage the negligent driver has—can be difficult to learn. Believe it or not, some insurance adjusters do not want to provide this information to injured victims of auto wrecks—especially if they have not retained an experienced car accident attorney. However, knowing the negligent driver’s policy limit is crucial information you need before settling your claim.
Options for Learning the Insurance Liability Coverage When the Adjuster Won’t Tell
You never want to settle your car accident claim without knowing the other driver’s insurance coverage because this could result in you accepting less than you are owed. In addition, this knowledge could impact whether you need to file an underinsured motorist claim with your own insurance company and your medical decisions if you have no other insurance. The bottom line is that you need, and have a right to, this information. Here are ways to obtain it:
- Ask the driver. You may be able to easily find out the policy limits by contacting the negligent driver. Especially if you contact him soon after the wreck. The driver may voluntarily provide this information because the adjuster may not have yet instructed him not to talk to you.
- Send a demand letter. You may want to send a letter to the insurance company demanding proof of the policy limits. The adjuster may take your request more seriously if you send a formal written letter.
- Retain an attorney. Your best option is to hire an experienced car accident attorney if you cannot readily find out the policy limits. This difficulty suggests more problems down the road when you try to settle your claim. An attorney can send a more effective demand letter and can file a lawsuit for you if necessary to obtain this information.
- Ask your insurance company. If you file a claim with your own insurance company, your adjuster may be willing to contact the other adjuster to learn this information for you. He may be more successful in getting it than you.
If you or a family member were hurt in a car accident, our experienced legal team is here to help you learn the other driver’s policy limits and negotiate the settlement of your claim so that you receive what you deserve. To take the next steps in filing your claim, call our office today to schedule a free consultation.
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