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.
Attorneys for Auto Accident Victims in New York City
From our offices in Queens, the capable personal injury trial lawyers of Ginsberg & Katsorhis help people who have suffered serious injuries in car, truck, motorcycle and other motor vehicle accidents recover.
Our team has the extensive trial experience to protect your rights against insurance companies that are very good at convincing accident victims to make damaging statements or give up important rights. The insurance companies are not on your side. We will be.
The following in formation is designed to help you understand some of the more important general concepts involved in motor vehicle accident and injury cases. If you have questions or need help to protect your right to seek recovery, we invite you to contact our offices today to schedule a free consultation.
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Following a car, truck, motorcycle or other motor vehicle accident, you should seek medical treatment immediately. Even if it seems you were not badly hurt, you could still be suffering a serious injury. Don't make the mistake of talking to an insurance adjuster before you've seen a competent physician and consulted an attorney who can advise you of your rights. Contact us for more information.
At the Queens law firm of Ginsberg & Katsorhis, we are a team of trial lawyers. That means that we have the skill and experience to fight for your rights and your recovery in court. Not every auto accident case goes to trial — many of the cases we have handled have settled quickly and for a fair amount. But if it takes going to trial to get you the care and compensation you need to recover, we will fight for you all the way.
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 Ginsberg & Katsorhis, P.C. in Flushing, New York, 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 Ginsberg & Katsorhis, P.C. in Flushing, New York, to discuss your situation.
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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.
