Why Have Insurance Then?
In an all too common occurrence a motorcyclist in Bonita Springs, Fl. was the victim of a hit and run accident Saturday January 3rd, 2014 as reported by the local NBC affiliate. According to the officers on duty, Robert Colantonio, a 49-year-old local resident was struck from behind by the driver of an unknown vehicle in an attempt to change lanes. Despite the fact that Colantonio was wearing a helmet he died due to complications after the accident. Colantonio is survived his wife and 3 children ages 18, 17, and 11.
According to USA Today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reporting a significant increase in fatal hit-and-run crashes year over year with a 13.7 percent increase in the 3-year period of 2009 to 2011 alone. While these statistics show an upward trend nationwide, the reality is for most people involved in a hit-and-run accident it is a once in a lifetime incident and the process for being properly compensated can be overwhelming and hard to navigate.
Is my insurance company required to compensate me for loss in a hit-and-run?
It is not always as easy as filing a claim with your insurance company and getting a check to cover loss or damage. Many factors can determine whether your insurance company in required to compensate and furthermore to what degree. Often when initially putting and insurance policy in place, the insured is not expecting to have to deal with a hit-and-run, and terms of the policy can be confusing with regard to rights and responsibilities.
Won’t my insurance company fight for my best interests?
The important thing to understand is that it is the insurance company’s best interest to limit their exposure to claims and will typically seek to negotiate payouts that are most lucrative to them. As with any accident it is best understand that long term injuries, loss of work, and emotional distress caused by a traumatic incident are hard to completely understand when you are in the middle of it. Seeking the advice of an unbiased 3rd party with professional experience will not only reduce the burden on you and your family, but will help you understand all your options.
East Aurora, NY Personal Injury Attorney
For over 80 years the experienced attorneys at Hall, Rickets, Schuller & Gurbacki, P.C. have been working to help clients with personal injury claims to limit exposure and maximize their benefit claims. To arrange a consultation to discuss your needs call (716) 652-0828 or contact us online.