Accident Lawyer Tips Dealing with Insurance Companies 2

Question 1

What is the difference between a 'first-party' and 'third-party' insurance claim after an accident?

Accepted Answer

First-party is a claim against your own insurer; third-party is against the at-fault driver's insurer

Answer

First-party is filed in court; third-party is filed directly with the insurer

Answer

First-party covers medical bills; third-party covers property damage only

Answer

First-party is for drivers; third-party is for pedestrians

Question 2

When can you sue the at-fault driver's insurance company directly?

Accepted Answer

Generally you cannot sue the insurer directly; you sue the at-fault driver instead

Answer

Anytime the insurer denies your claim

Answer

Only in small claims court for property damage

Answer

Only if the at-fault driver is deceased

Question 3

What is 'med-pay' (medical payments) coverage in an auto insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

Coverage that pays your medical expenses regardless of fault

Answer

Coverage that only applies if you are not at fault

Answer

A government subsidy for uninsured accident victims

Answer

Coverage that pays the other driver's medical bills

Question 4

What should you do if the at-fault driver was uninsured at the time of the accident?

Accepted Answer

File an uninsured motorist (UM) claim with your own insurance company

Answer

Accept that you cannot recover any compensation

Answer

Sue the driver personally in criminal court

Answer

File a claim with the state government insurance pool

Question 5

What is an insurance company's duty to defend in an accident lawsuit?

Accepted Answer

The obligation to provide legal defense to its insured against covered claims

Answer

The insurer's duty to pay all damages awarded by a jury

Answer

An obligation to negotiate settlements on behalf of accident victims

Answer

A requirement to appear at every court hearing

Question 6

How does PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage differ from liability coverage?

Accepted Answer

PIP pays your own medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault; liability covers damages you cause to others

Answer

PIP only applies to pedestrians; liability covers drivers

Answer

PIP pays property damage; liability covers bodily injury only

Answer

PIP requires fault determination; liability does not