What Happens When a Car Accident Claim Exceeds Insurance Limits?

When a claim exceeds insurance limits, insurers cover up to the set limit; however, victims may pursue the at-fault party for the remainder.

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A car accident can be a distressing experience, and the aftermath can become increasingly complex, especially when damages surpass the insurance limits. As experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers, we often guide clients through these intricate situations. Let’s delve into what occurs when a car accident claim exceeds those insurance boundaries.

Decoding Insurance Limits

Insurance is essentially a safety net, a commitment that, in the event of an accident, the insurer will cover damages up to a predetermined limit. But sometimes, severe accidents can result in damages that exceed this threshold.

Navigating Beyond Insurance Limits

1. Insurance Covers Up To The Agreed Limit: If your policy limit is set at $50,000, but the claim comes in at $70,000, your insurance provider will cover their commitment of $50,000.

2. Potential for Legal Proceedings: Should you be found at fault and your insurance doesn’t fully cover the damages, the aggrieved party may take legal action to recover the outstanding amount.

3. Allocating the Payout: In scenarios involving multiple parties, the car accident settlement might need to be divided among the victims, adding another layer to the process.

Your Legal Path Forward

As the injured party, if the at-fault driver’s insurance doesn’t cover the full extent of the damages, you still have avenues to pursue:

• Engaging in Negotiation: Often, matters can be settled amicably outside of court.
• Initiating Legal Action: If negotiations aren’t fruitful, it might be necessary to file a lawsuit to recover the remaining amount.

The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating these waters can be daunting. This is where a car accident lawyer can ensure your legal rights are protected by:

• Providing Legal Guidance: We help you understand the intricacies of car accident claims, ensuring you’re well-informed at each stage.
• Overseeing Negotiations: Acting on your behalf, we seek to secure fair compensation.
• Court Representation: If it is necessary to take your case to court, we’re there to advocate for your rights.

Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer 24/7

Facing a situation where car accident damages exceed insurance limits can feel overwhelming. The Hoffmann Law Firm in St. Louis brings over 25 years of experience and a track record of handling thousands of cases. And our commitment is clear: you won’t pay unless we secure compensation for you.

Insurance is vital, but there are moments when it doesn’t fully cover the gravity of an accident’s impact. When confronted with claims that overshoot insurance limits, it’s essential to know your rights and have a dedicated team by your side. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we’re ready to guide, advise, and represent injured car accident victims, ensuring the path forward is as smooth as possible.