About 95% of personal injury cases are settled out of court. One of the first steps in this process is talking to an insurance adjuster. These individuals will investigate the incident and reach a conclusion based on the evidence, including what you say to them.

When filing insurance claims, effective communication with the insurance adjuster can be the key to a successful claim. However, certain phrases can hinder the claims process and lead to delays or even denials.

You need to be mindful of what you say during your interactions with the adjuster to avoid making statements that could negatively impact your claim. Let’s take a closer look at some phrases you should avoid saying, along with examples of why they can be problematic.

When you have a car, whether paid in full, lease-to-own, or anything in between, you’re required in every state to have it properly registered and get it inspected by a licensed state inspector. While most states have yearly inspection requirements, each state is different.

According to West Virginia law, all vehicles, including motorcycles, trailers, semi-trailers, and pole trailers registered in the Mountain State or displaying a temporary registration plate, are required to be registered and must be inspected and a valid inspection sticker or tag placed in clear view on the vehicle.

As someone navigating the roadways here in the Mountain State, you’ve likely heard that using hands-free devices is permitted among drivers here. However, what type of technology actually falls into this category?

Below, we’ll share what counts as a hands-free device in West Virginia so that you can make sure you don’t end up on the wrong side of the law or become involved in a distracted driving crash.

Windshield wipers might not seem that important, especially in comparison to other auto parts like seat belts, brakes, and engines. But without properly functioning wipers, it can be hard to operate your vehicle safely. Understanding the basics of windshield wiper maintenance can help you protect yourself from accidents and related legal actions.

The oil inside of your car’s engine plays a vital role in keeping metal parts lubricated, which prevents them from rubbing against each other. However, over time, engine oil will break down and transform from a smooth liquid into a thick gooey mess. If you don’t change the oil on a regular basis, it can clog the engine and increase the risk of serious damage to your vehicle.

How Often Should Engine Oil Be Changed?

You may have heard that you’re supposed to change your engine’s oil every 3,000 miles. However, that is largely outdated advice that only serves to help your local service station make more money. Generally speaking, you can go at least 5,000 miles before you need an oil change. Your owner’s manual will likely mention how often the oil should be changed as part of an overall vehicle maintenance schedule.

As you’re well aware, auto accidents can take on many shapes and forms. As a passenger car operator, you can become involved in crashes with pedestrians and then different vehicles like bicycles, motorcycles, and trucks. You can even become involved in a single-car accident. And then these crashes may result in no property damage or injuries at all, or cause catastrophic injuries (including death). If you were involved in a crash while driving here in Charleston or elsewhere in our state, it’s only natural to wonder how long you have to report a car accident in West Virginia. Our firm, DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, shares what you need to know so you minimize your chances of ending up on the wrong side of the law.

As a parent of a child, you don’t likely need any reminding that there are requirements in place for restraining your child when you’re transporting them in an automobile. And, it’s likely that you understand that such laws exist for good reason. However, if you’re a first-time parent or new to West Virginia, or perhaps an occasional caregiver, you may be unaware of the ins and outs of child seat belt laws in West Virginia.

Below, our lawyers at DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC share what you should know about ages, weights, placement in the vehicle, and many other factors that dictate how and when a child must be restrained by a seat belt when traveling on our state’s roadways. So, continue reading what these requirements are to not only minimize the chances of receiving a citation but, more importantly, unnecessarily avoid endangering the life of a minor.

Owning a motor vehicle is a big responsibility, and not just because you’re financially accountable for making monthly auto loan payments and maintaining insurance coverage. As a vehicle owner, you’re responsible for maintaining a road-safe vehicle that won’t endanger you or the lives of those around you.

Not everyone takes vehicle maintenance as seriously as they should, though. Here are 5 common mechanical problems leading to car accidents in West Virginia.

We rely on our personal motor vehicles for everything from getting to work and dropping kids off at school to running errands and traveling for vacations. When an accident leaves you without a working car, you need a replacement, and you need it fast. So, how do car insurance companies calculate total loss value, and how can you make sure they’re paying you what you’re owed?

If you don’t know what to expect, you’re at a greater risk of being taken advantage of. That’s why our team of Charleston car accident attorneys ensures that every client we work with understands their rights and what they are entitled to.

We’ll Answer Questions Like…

• How do I know if my vehicle is totaled after an accident?
• How does the insurer determine the fair market value of my vehicle?
• What can I do to receive full compensation for the loss of my vehicle after a crash?

Exploring a new area can be an exciting adventure—or it can be terrifying and stressful. The Charleston car accident attorneys from DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC talk tips for safe road travel in unfamiliar territory.