Accidents Happen: Don’t Cheap Out When it Comes to Auto Insurance

There is never a good time for a car accident, that’s for certain. However, what’s even worse than getting into a crash is finding out that – for maybe only a few bucks more – you could have had far more insurance coverage.

• New Jersey has minimum motor vehicle insurance requirements. It’s never a good idea to buy the minimum when it comes to insurance. The coverage isn’t adequate in most situations. Ask your carrier about all levels of coverage and compare the premiums. Remember, you get what you pay for so pay attention to the fine print.
• Personal Injury Protection coverage, or PIP, is what you need to make sure your medical bills will be covered by your insurance. Drivers have the option, for a bit less money, of choosing to make their own healthcare insurance the primary go-to resource for medical coverage following an accident. Bad idea is most cases. Many healthcare policies will not cover injuries sustained in [nl_link id=’194′]motor vehicle accidents[/nl_link]. After you’ve been injured, the last thing you need are mounting medical bills and a big fight with the insurance company. Choose PIP.
• Don’t give up your right to sue. Many insurance carriers, in an effort to try to “save you money” will offer a lawsuit limitation clause. If you choose this, you give up your right to file a lawsuit to get paid for pain and suffering and other more minor injuries suffered in an accident. You would only be able to sue if you suffer very serious and permanent injuries. The savings is usually hardly worth the risk.
• Rely on yourself, not the other driver, for insurance coverage. In New Jersey, UM/UIM (uninsured and underinsured coverage) is not mandatory. However, this is one option you want to buy. If you get into a crash with a driver who doesn’t have any or enough insurance, you will be out of luck when it comes to getting your bills paid.

With warm weather just around the corner, it’s a good time to review your car insurance policy to make sure you have the full coverage. Make a phone call to your carrier and ask what a bit more money might buy you. You’ve got nothing to lose and peace of mind to gain.
If you or someone you love gets into a car, motorcycle or truck accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who will fight for your right to maximum compensation for your injuries. We are not afraid to take on insurance companies and we will fight hard for you. [nl_link id=’143′]Contact Lombardi & Lombardi[/nl_link] today for a free consultation.