The purpose of article is to explain the basic elements of a car insurance policy. All too often, we discover that a client’s insurance policy doesn’t adequately cover the injuries they sustain due to someone else’s negligence, especially in car accident cases.
Don’t let this happen to you!
Since we first recorded the video referenced below, Virginia law has changed. We are in the process of updating the video to accurately highlight these beneficial changes.
Using a sample “declarations page,” we walk you through the coverage you should have to protect you and your family fully. We explain what is covered, who is insured, what the terms are, and how coverage is applied.
These are the areas covered in the video:
- Coverage period – this is when the policy is in effect.
- Names of the insured and additional drivers under the policy.
- Bodily injury liability – if you cause an accident and are subsequently sued – this is the coverage that will protect you.
- Property damage coverage.
- Medical expense – this is a second source of coverage for the insured listed on this policy, regardless of who caused the accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM/UM) – If the person who causes the accident doesn’t have insurance, your own insurance will cover you. This coverage is ESSENTIAL FOR PROTECTING YOURSELF and, unfortunately, is often overlooked.
- Deductibles – the amount you must pay upfront for property damage or collision before you are reimbursed to your policy limit.
- Transportation – covers expenses when your vehicle is being repaired.
Stay tuned for our updated video on this subject.
The bottom line is it’s better to have more insurance and not need it than not having enough insurance when you desperately need it.
