I have dealt with auto insurance companies for the past 35 years since I began practicing law. I
Because of my longtime experience, I recognize the importance of having the right coverage. Too often, I encounter situations in which clients purchase the minimal legal insurance at the lowest possible price with substandard companies. On its face, it is understandable.
Of course, you want to pay as little premiums as possible, but the less expensive option is not always the right one. Having inadequate coverage may end up costing you more money if you are involved in an accident.
Add Auto Insurance to Your Holiday Shopping List
Now that holiday shopping is over, it is the perfect time to shop for the right auto insurance.
You should re-evaluate your insurance periodically and whenever certain changes occurs, such as your teen reaches driving age or you purchase a new car rated for safety. If you haven’t done so in a while, you may be paying more than you have to in premiums or may not have the right coverage.
While shopping for the right auto insurance, keep in mind these helpful tips:
- Minimum liability coverage is often not enough
You could be held personally liable if you are found at fault for accident injuries that exceed your policy limit. Considering the high costs of medical care, a seriously injured person can quickly reach the legal minimum liability coverage of $30,000, or $60,000 for a carload of injured people.
- Buy sufficient PIP
Personal Injury Protection pays medical expenses and lost wages resulting from car wreck injuries regardless of who is to blame. PIP can also provide you coverage if you are in a single-car crash.
- Uninsured motorist coverage is a good call
Insure yourself for injuries caused by an uninsured driver. This policy is crucial in Texas where at least 20 percent of drivers are uninsured.
- High deductibles can be costly
Lower premiums may be tempting, but can result in substantially higher out-of-pocket expenses when you file a claim. Do the math to determine whether this makes sense.
- Your risk category may have changed
If you drive less or have an impeccable driving record, you may be eligible for lower cost insurance. Ask your insurance agent whether you are eligible for a discount.
In addition to pursuing the maximum possible damages from insurance companies, I also often negotiate with medical providers to reduce bills to doctors, hospitals and diagnostic testing facilities. This is particularly helpful if your insurance policy does not fully cover your damages.
Our law firm guides you through the often difficult process of fighting the other driver’s insurance company. We answer all of your questions, file claims, work with your medical providers, obtain critical evidence, negotiate settlements, reduce subrogation (health insurance reimbursements), pursue bad faith claims and try cases against insurance companies.
Call my Dallas-Fort Worth personal injury office to schedule your free claims evaluation if you have been injured in a car or truck accident in North Texas.