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Take this step before you file for uninsured/underinsured motorist protection
A little-know rule called the Hamilton Rule factors into uninsured/underinsured motorist policies. Though very seldom used, it gives insurance companies the right to sue an at-fault driver before the victim would file a claim to recoup their losses. If you don't take this step in the right order, your insurance company deny your claim and pay you nothing. Click to watch this video by Bill Coats Law on taking this necessary step in the claims process.
What if the negligent driver hit you and doesn't have insurance? You have options.
It's yet another shock after someone crashes into you to learn that they don't have insurance at all, or not enough to pay for your losses. Yet about a quarter of drivers on Washington State roads don't carry insurance at all, even though it is a state law that they must. But this doesn't mean that you are stuck with the bills for an accident that wasn't even your fault. Click here to learn what to do when the negligent driver doesn't have insurance.
Will your lost wages be covered if the at-fault driver carries no insurance? Most likely, yes!
States like Washington require insurance companies to include uninsured/underinsured motorist protection to all policy holders unless they specifically opt-out of this coverage. This might come in handy if you've been hit in a car accident by someone who has no insurance or not enough, and you've had to take time off work - or can never work again. Click to learn more about your options for covering wage loss if the driver who hit you has no insurance.
Uninsured motorist coverage and wrongful death claims
It can be yet another devastating blow to learn that the person who killed someone you love in a car accident doesn't have a high enough policy to cover the wages your family will lose. But don't despair. There is a way to seek these damages. Click to learn more about uninsured motorist coverage in wrongful death claims.
Every auto insurance policy should have this kind of protection
It's called uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, and all policies in Washington state are by law supposed to include it unless the policy holder specifically opts out. If your injuries and losses are more expensive than the at-fault driver's policy can cover, it's a critical part of your financial recovery after a car accident. Click to learn more.
If you witnessed a fatal accident, how would you react?
How to prevent Christmas tree fires in the home
Even though most of the news is about holiday cheer (and sales) now and then we see stories about families coming home to a burned up house. The holiday season is not without its perils, and a dry tree and faulty strings of Christmas lights, plus luminaria and Menorrah candles can all present added dangers. Here's a story about preventing house fires during the holiday season.
And now for a little holiday humor, aka what not to do with a car + Christmas tree
Don't be like this driver, with a tree strapped to the roof that is larger than the car carrying it.
And now, for other tips on holiday safety, visit Bellingham lawyer Bill Coats' blog...
[VIDEO] A guide to using your uninsured/underinsured motorist protection
It's a step not everyone will have to take, but using your uninsured/underinsured motorist protection means some fairly complicated fine print can affect your claim. Insurers are skilled at looking for ways to reduce your compensation, as it saves their bottom line. Click here for a video series from Bill Coats Law on what you need to know about using your uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.
How to protect troopers helping disabled vehicles on highways
In Washington State, there is a law written to help protect State Troopers who stop to help disabled vehicles. Bill Coats, a personal injury and car collision attorney in Bellingham, writes about the Move Over Law and results of a recent "emphasis patrol" campaign that ticketed violators of the law.