Jump to Navigation
Decades of Experience & Care For Our Clients

Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

Aggressive drivers are responsible for many of the deadly accidents on American roads. If you have lost a loved one due to the actions of an aggressive driver, contact our firm to learn about your legal rights and options.

Personal Injury Legal Information in Corvallis and Albany

When you are dealing with a serious injury caused by a car accident, bike accident or other accident that was not your fault, you have a right to obtain compensation for your medical expenses, the damages to your vehicle, lost wages and for your hardship.

It is helpful for people hurt in personal injury accidents to retain an experienced personal injury lawyer. Our law firm has the skills, knowledge and commitment to protect your interests and provide your car accident case with the attention it deserves.

We are the law office of Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. Call our firm today to schedule a free initial consultation at 541-368-7816 or 888-437-2950. You may also e-mail to schedule your appointment and case evaluation.

Below you will find general legal information about Oregon personal injury law. We encourage you to read this information.

Thank you for contacting Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. Your message has been sent.

Call us now

or use the form below.

Free Initial Consultation With an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

Learn how Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C., can assist you in pursuing your personal injury or wrongful death claim by contacting the firm for a free initial consultation. Schedule your appointment with an experienced attorney by sending us an e-mail or by calling our Corvallis firm at: 541-368-7816 or 888-437-2950.

Get Skilled Help and Justice Now

Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. is an AV-rated* law firm. We can help you navigate through one of the most distressing times in your life by protecting your rights and supporting you every step of the way through a personal injury claim.

Send our law office an e-mail or call to schedule your free initial consultation today: 541-368-7816 or 888-437-2950.

*CV, BV, and AV are registered certification marks of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards, and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the Bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories - legal ability and general ethical standards.

Insurance Claim Dos and Don'ts

When you need to make an auto insurance claim, you should proceed with care. Your actions may have a significant influence on the amount of compensation you receive. Contact an attorney from Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. in Corvallis, Oregon, to learn more.

The Dos

DO consult an attorney for legal advice.

DO review your insurance policies to find out what is covered and what is excluded.

DO notify your insurance company right away after you are in a car accident, your car is stolen or damaged or another such covered event takes place.

DO take pictures if you can: of your vehicle, the accident site and your injuries.

DO take notes when you speak with your insurance company. Make a record of the names, job titles and phone numbers of the representatives with whom you communicate. If you can, get the names of their supervisors, too. Note what you discussed and what you or the representative promised to do.

DO tell your insurance company the truth. Not only does this save everyone a lot of time and effort, but questions of legal liability can be complex. If you fail to be forthcoming with your insurance company, this could invalidate or reduce your coverage.

DO investigate whether you have additional insurance coverage. Depending on the circumstances, supplemental coverage may come from another auto insurance policy, a homeowner’s policy or umbrella coverage.

DO keep the receipts for money you’ve spent on car rental, medical bills and purchases made in connection with the motor vehicle accident.

DO make sure you’re aware of the difference between the replacement value of your car and what you actually owe on the car. If the car is totaled, most car insurance will cover only the cash value of your car at the time of the accident. You may owe more than that, however, on the loan or the lease of the car. Gap coverage makes up for this difference. Additional coverage is usually necessary for things like a special sound system in your car.

The Don'ts

DON’T accept the insurance company’s estimate of your losses and damages until you have a chance to fully explore the matter yourself. An attorney’s help can be valuable in determining whether the insurance company’s estimate is fair.

DON’T give the insurance company a recorded or written statement until you have determined how you wish to proceed. It is important to be aware of the extent of your insurance coverage and your rights.

DON’T sign a release or waiver until you have gotten reliable legal advice. You may feel pressure to sign from your insurance company, but it is your right to explore your options. Just make sure that you take appropriate action within the time limit stated in your insurance policy.

DON’T accept a check from your insurance company — especially one that says “final payment” — unless you have obtained legal advice and carefully weighed your options.

DO Consult an Attorney

Your insurance company is legally obligated to follow through on the terms of its contract with you. You have the right to make sure that happens. Contact an attorney who will offer you support, guidance and advocacy. Speak with a lawyer from Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. in Corvallis, Oregon, to discuss your situation.

Copyright ©2009 FindLaw, a Thomson Business

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

Back to Main

PRACTICE AREAS

The Law Offices of
Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock

Location
Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C.
605 SW Jefferson Ave.
Corvallis, Oregon 97339
Phone - 541-368-7816
Fax - 541-753-0884
Toll Free - 888-437-2950
Map & Directions

Mail
Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C.
P.O. Box 1108
Corvallis, Oregon 97339

Visa MasterCard
IF YOU HAVE BEEN HURT

When You need someone who will understand your injury the experienced attorneys at the law firm of Ringo, Stuber, Ensor & Hadlock, P.C. know what it takes to get you compensated for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages related to the accident. Call now 541-368-7816.

MEET OUR TEAM
Larry W. Stuber

Larry W. Stuber
Has been practicing law in Oregon for 31 years and is a managing partner of the firm. He is dedicated to litigation which has earned him recognition as one of Oregon's Superlawyers. Larry is also dedicated to the community and has been an active leader in Corvallis.  More

Stephen R. Ensor

Stephen R. Ensor
A partner of the firm, focuses on criminal defense, domestic relations and personal injury work. Stephen is an experienced litigator, as well as a participant in the community serving Corvallis with planning, development and tourism. More

Patrick L. Hadlock

Patrick L. Hadlock
A partner of the firm, has been practicing law for 26 years with a focus on personal injury and appellate (appeals) work. Patrick has been an active member in both the legal community and to the arts in Corvallis. More

Keri J. Smith

Keri J. Smith
An associate of the firm, practices family law and criminal law and is a member of both the Oregon State Bar and Washington State Bar. More

Robert Ringo

Robert Ringo (Retired)
Retired Attorney.