Car Insurance Policies: Liability and UM (Uninsured Motorist) Coverage Limits

Robert L. Mertig, Claims Consultant

Author: Claims Consultant Robert L. Mertig

Many states have minimum limits for automobile liability insurance.  In Virginia, this minimum is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.[1] Because car insurance can be expensive, many people are tempted to purchase only the minimum.  There are good reasons, however, to purchase  limits that exceed the 25/50 state minimum.

First, the insurance company’s responsibility is to pay the limits of liability… [ read more ]

Automobile Insurance: Comprehensive and Collision Coverage

Robert L. Mertig, Claims Consultant

Author: Claims Consultant Robert L. Mertig

I have read many articles recommending that consumers cancel the collision coverage on their vehicle’s car insurance policy once it reaches a certain age.  However, my many years spent in the field of insurance has shown me that this is almost always a bad idea.  Authors often present cancellation as a way to save money, arguing that there is no reason to… [ read more ]

Auto Insurance: Having “Full Coverage” Doesn’t Mean You Have Enough Insurance

Attorney Priscilla R. Woody

Author: Attorney Priscilla R. Woody

When I first meet a client who have been injured through no fault of their own, one of my first questions is: “How much insurance do you have?” Most clients answer, “I have full coverage.” However, when we review their declaration page and policy, the clients are surprised to learn that they have minimal insurance coverage on their vehicles. The confusion comes… [ read more ]

Myths about Virginia Auto Insurance

Attorney R. Clayton Allen

By Attorney R. Clayton Allen

While talking to a client today about their auto insurance, I was reminded of a number of misconceptions and misunderstandings many people have about motor vehicle insurance. Here are four of the most common ones I hear.

Myth #1. “The better known insurance companies offer better coverage, so it’s safer to be with one of those.”

The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) Bureau of Insurance issues… [ read more ]

“Stacking” The Insurance Coverage of Cars on the Same Policy: The Virginia Farm Bureau v. Williams Case

Author: Attorney Chris A. Meyer

Attorney Christopher A. Meyer

Very seldom do we discuss the details of Virginia Supreme Court decisions interpreting insurance contracts; these are true lawyer issues that can put normal folks to sleep.  But this recent case is important if you are in an automobile accident and are seriously injured.  So important that if you are seriously injured and don’t at least ask… [ read more ]

Look Out For The Other Guy – Uninsured and Under Insured Motorist Coverage

The economic news is going from bad to worse and we find ourselves looking over our shoulder for what comes next. What comes next could be an out of control car coming into your lane.

There’s not much you can do to prevent a car crash caused by someone else, but there is a lot you can do to protect yourself from the consequences of being hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.

The economic downturn… [ read more ]