Motor vehicle accidents have many causes: inattentive drivers, intoxicated drivers, dangerous weather conditions and even poor road maintenance. No matter what the cause, the impact can be devastating. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and case evaluation with an attorney.
Chattanooga Accident Injury Attorneys
A car accident can change your life in a second, and even a low-speed collision can leave you and your family facing serious physical, emotional and financial challenges. When you are trying to decide how to move forward, it is important that you have all the information you need to make the right decision.
At the law office of Stulce & Yantis our attorneys offer more than 60 years of combined legal experience and a proven record of service. Our lawyers work with clients throughout Southeastern Tennessee and North Georgia, to make sure people have the counsel, guidance and advice they need to successfully pursue full and fair compensation.
Below you will find some basic information about motor vehicle accidents and personal injury claims. To get specific advice on your case, contact our office today.
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Our attorneys are Board Certified Trial Specialists — a title given only to legal professionals that have consistently produced significant results for clients in the courtroom over a career of legal practice. It means that we have the knowledge, resources and ability to fight for you.
Contact the Chattanooga office of Stulce & Yantis to schedule a free initial consultation and case review. Call us locally at 423-933-1504, toll-free at 888-820-7541 or contact us online to set up an appointment.
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 Stulce & Yantis in Chattanooga, Tennessee, 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 Stulce & Yantis in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to discuss your situation.
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