Personal injury claims can be daunting for those involved, especially when considering the many variables in play. From legalities to medical expenses and insurance negotiations, the complexity can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed. This is why it's important to clearly understand the different factors involved in personal injury claims, including the role of insurance companies.
In this blog post, we will dive into various aspects of the insurance process, including the most common types of policies people have and the most common issues that arise in dealing with insurance companies after an accident. By understanding these important topics, you'll be better informed and equipped to navigate the insurance and personal injury claims processes with greater confidence.
Different Types of Insurance Used in Injury Cases
Insurance can play a vital role in the personal injury claims process. If you are injured in an accident, your own insurance policy may cover your medical bills and lost wages. However, if someone else's negligence caused the accident, you will generally need to file a claim against their insurance company to receive compensation.
Two main types of insurance are most often involved in personal injury claims:
- Liability insurance: Liability insurance protects the insured party from financial liability for injuries or damages caused by their negligence. For example, suppose you are involved in a car accident and found to be at fault. In that case, your liability insurance will cover the other driver's medical bills, property damage, and other damages.
- Medical payments coverage: Medical payments coverage is a type of insurance that pays for your medical expenses, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This type of coverage is part of car insurance policies in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Laws About Auto Insurance Coverage
In New Hampshire, drivers are required to have a certain minimum amount of insurance coverage. Specifically, drivers must have liability coverage that includes at least $25,000 per person for bodily injury or death, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury or death in accidents that involve two (2) or more injured parties, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. This coverage is designed to protect both drivers and passengers in the event of a car accident.
New Hampshire also requires motorists to purchase a minimum of $1,000 worth of medical payments and uninsured motorist coverage.
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it's important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney right away. We can help you explore your legal options and determine the best course of action. This may include filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, negotiating with insurance companies regarding coverage, or negotiating with healthcare providers for reduced medical bills.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies After an Accident
When dealing with insurance companies after an accident, it's important to remember that insurers are primarily interested in limiting their own financial liability. Unfortunately, this means that they may not offer the full compensation you deserve, forcing you to take legal action. This is where hiring a personal injury attorney can be beneficial.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in recovering the fair compensation you deserve after an accident. When you work with an experienced attorney, they can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Additionally, they can represent you when communicating with insurance companies and healthcare providers, or help prepare and file your legal paperwork, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, call Douglas, Leonard &Garvey, P.C., for guidance. Our New Hampshire law firm is well-versed in all aspects of dealing with a personal injury claim, and we are standing by to help you with your case today.