New York Personal Injury News & NYC Legal Current Events

Things to Do In the New Year: Getting Automobile Insurnace in Order

"As we look to start a new year, not only should we look to ensure our cars are in proper working order, but we also need to understand that one's automolibe liability policy is in proper working order too," says Terrence James Cortelli, a New York accident lawyer known for his experience in personal injury law. "Drivers should understand their coverage, liability, and their auto insurance policy as a whole."

According to Mr. Cortelli, the best way to ensure that a driver’s auto insurance will protect them in the event of a motor vehicle accident is for the policyholder to take the time to talk to their insurance agent or a representative from their insurance company so that they can better understand their policy. 

Even a quick call to your personal injury attorney can be a major help in understanding your policy.  Mr. Cortelli explains that he is always looking to help people understand their policies and even offers his email address (tcortelli@lsinjurylaw.com) to anyone who needs help, free of charge.

“We find it is generally not in one's best interest to talk to the defendant’s insurance representative without first consulting an attorney because it often jeopardizes the monetary award that victim is entitled to.”  "Having auto insurance coverage is not only the law, but it is essential in the event that a driver is in an accident," says Mr. Cortelli. "Ninety-nine percent of the money that is awarded to our clients comes from the defendant’s insurance company."

Mr. Cortelli says that, depending on the nature of an auto accident, victims may be eligible for compensation from the other driver’s insurance company.  However, when a person is seriously injured in a car accident, he stresses that it is important for victims to consult an auto accident attorney before talking to an insurance company representative.

"If a person or their loved one has been injured in an automobile accident, they must consult a personal injury lawyer before talking to the insurance company that represents the individual that caused the accident," says Cortelli.

According to Cortelli, unrepresented victims of auto accidents that offer statements to a defendant’s insurance company, are examined by an insurance company doctor, or sign a release, often give information to the insurance compnay that they do not even realize will destroy their case even in those situations where they are truly hurt and not at fault for the accident.  That is why, he says, it is important to consult a personal injury lawyer first. Personal injury attorneys are experts at dealing with insurance companies and getting right and just results.  "Insurance companies never take advanage of me or my clients because I know the law," Cortelli adds.  

"The victim has nothing to lose," says Cortelli, "because a quality accident attorney will offer a free consultation."

If you or a loved one have been in a car accident, or just have a simple question about your insurnace policy, Mr. Cortelli says that his firm is always looking to help.

Terrence James Cortelli works for the firm Lever & Stolzenberg, LLP, a personaly injury firm that helps those involved in serious automobile accidents.  For a free consultation, do not hestiate to call at 1-877-288-9191

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