Most state laws require drivers to carry car insurance. However, many drivers do not have insurance or carry insufficient insurance to cover personal injuries in the event of an accident. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects insured parties when they are injured by another driver who does not have insurance or whose insurance is insufficient to cover cost of any injuries. If you've been injured in a car accident, contact an insurance law attorney today to discuss how uninsured or underinsured motorists coverage can help pay for your injuries.
Legal Information About Insurance Defense
Successful defense of insurance claims requires a diverse set of skills.
At Trullinger & Wenk, PLLC, our insurance defense practice is based on discipline and our knowledge of the law. We have the ability to quickly grasp the essential elements of medical and technical issues in a case, and communicate them in negotiation, arbitration or in front of a jury.
Some information about the defense of insurance suits appears below. You probably have questions about your case. In a free consultation, a lawyer at our firm can review your case and discuss what we can do to defend your rights and interests.
Contact an Attorney Today
For a free initial consultation with an attorney at Trullinger & Wenk, PLLC, call 602-343-1860 or send us an e-mail.
We serve clients in the West Valley and the Phoenix, Arizona, metropolitan area.
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In addition to representing insurance companies, Trullinger & Wenk, PLLC, defends medical professionals in cases involving alleged medical malpractice.
Our extensive experience and reasonable rates enable Trullinger & Wenk, PLLC to provide extraordinary value to insurance companies and insured people in insurance defense cases.
Filing Claims with Your Insurance Company
Notice and Timeliness
Typically, an insurance policy includes specific requirements insured individuals must follow to receive any proceeds from their insurance policies. First, insurance companies usually require the insured party to give notice of any loss immediately to the insurer. Generally, an insured must inform the insurance company of his or her loss within a reasonable time. The insurer can then investigate the claim and gather information while the circumstances surrounding the loss are fresh and recent, and the insurance company can take additional steps to prevent future loss.
In addition, some insurance policies include time limitations, often set out by state statute. These restrictions disallow an action to be brought against the insurance policy after a specific period of time, such as one year, after the date of loss.
Proof of Loss
Insurance policies also generally require insured parties to file a "proof of loss" document with the insurance company. This document is usually a written statement, specifically describing the details of the loss. Insured parties must often swear and sign that the "proof of loss" document they create is truthful and accurate.
Appraisal
Often, particularly with damaged property, the property loss or damaged remaining property must be appraised, especially if the insurance company and insured cannot agree on the value of the property.
Subsequent Damage
Generally, property insurance policies disallow coverage for further damage to the property that results from the insured's failure to take reasonable steps to prevent additional loss. This limitation typically only applies if the insured has been negligent in protecting his or her property.
Maintain Good Records
It is important to keep good records of any major purchases or expenses related to insured products or claims. Examples of records to keep include receipts, appraisal documents, warranties, proofs of purchase, proofs of authenticity, and other proofs of ownership.
Know Your Policy: Read the Fine Print
Many people never read their insurance policies, only to be surprised later to find out they did not follow the required procedure to file a valid claim or that their coverage was not as comprehensive as they thought. It is important to read your policy when you receive it and to make sure you understand the fine print and the steps you must take if you file a claim. If you have questions about your insurance policy or about how to file a claim to recover the compensation you deserve, contact your insurance company or call the attorneys at Trullinger & Wenk, PLLC in Arizona.
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