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.
Effective Florida Auto Accident Lawyers
Attorneys at The McLeod Firm, in St. Augustine, Florida, have the skill, the experience and the resources needed to effectively handle even the most complex car and motorcycle accident cases. We strive to settle cases whenever possible, but we are also realistic and begin preparing for trial as soon as we accept cases. This sends a strong message to defendants and their insurance companies: settle for a reasonable amount now or risk facing our lawyers in court.
If you or a family member of you family has been seriously injured in a Florida car accident, we can help. Call or contact The McLeod Firm today.
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At The McLeod Firm in St. Augustine, Florida, we provide effective, results-oriented legal representation on behalf of people injured in car crashes and other types of motor vehicle accidents. Contact our attorneys today for a free initial consultation and find out whether we are the right firm for you.
If you have been injured in any type of car accident or truck accident, it's important that you get appropriate medical care right away. It's also important that you not make statements about the accident to anyone until you've talked to a lawyer. To do that now, call The McLeod Firm at 904-471-5007.
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 The McLeod Firm in Saint Augustine, Florida, to schedule a consultation with an attorney 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, and an attorney can offer you the support, guidance and advocacy you need. Contact The McLeod Firm in Saint Augustine, Florida, to schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss your situation.
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