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Copyright 2003 Michael J. Gallagher - All Rights Reserved |
Other Types of Coverage “What if I have Uninsured Coverage?” Owners and registrants of cars or trucks must carry liability insurance, which protects them from a Lawsuit if they are at-fault in an accident and someone is seriously injured. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore the Law and do not carry insurance. Or, the at-fault driver may leave the scene of the accident and never be caught. If the at-fault vehicle/owner is not covered by insurance (or is unknown), you may file an “uninsured motorist” claim with your own insurance company. It will pay for what you would have collected from the at- fault driver/owner if that person had liability insurance coverage. Your claim will be limited by the amount of uninsured coverage you carry. “What if I have Underinsurance Coverage?” Many driver/owners carry only the minimum amount of liability insurance, which is $20,000 per victim. This amount will not be enough if you are seriously injured. More often than not, the at-fault driver/owner is unable to pay you beyond their insurance liability limits. In these situations, the at-fault driver is “underinsured.” Some No-fault insurance companies offer additional coverage called “underinsurance coverage.” If you bought “underinsurance” coverage, you may file a claim with your own No-fault insurance carrier to make up the difference between the amount paid by the other driver’s insurance and the value of your injuries. Your claim will be limited by the amount of “underinsurance” coverage you carry. There are usually strict requirements for making underinsurance claims that, if not followed, may prevent you from recovering anything from your own policy. Your No-fault carrier will require proof of the seriousness of your injuries and the inadequacy of the at-fault driver/owner’s liability insurance. It must also consent to settlement with the at-fault party and generally receives a “credit” for all money you obtained from the at-fault driver/owner of the other vehicle. Although you are dealing with your own No-fault insurance carrier in making an “underinsurance” claim, these are often difficult and complex claims. The assistance of an attorney may be needed. “How long do I have to notify my insurance company of my accident?” You must notify your insurance company within one year of your accident or else you may lose your benefits. Your insurance company is not required to pay for any wage loss, medical or replacement service benefits that are more than one year old. To avoid losing benefits, send written proof of all expenses and losses to your insurance carrier as soon as you have them. Keep a copy for yourself. The insurance company has 30 days after receiving written notice of the claim to make payment, request additional information or deny the claim. All insurance companies are different. A few insurance companies try to pay all of the benefits to which you are entitled. Some insurance companies will not tell you about all of your benefits. You may want to consult with an attorney to see if your company is paying you all of the benefits you are entitled to receive under Michigan Law. Often there is no charge for this service. If you have any questions, please contact me: Michael J. Gallagher, Personal Injury Attorney mike@lawyerinjuryexpert.com 1-877-445-4446 |
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