Auto Insurance Claims: Checks Checks Checks, personal injury lawyer, personal injury claim

Question
Hi Charlie my question is I have a car that is in repair at a body shop and my insurance company sent a check for repairs which I am still holding until work completed, but I got a call today that I also have a check coming for Diminished Value of vehicle made out to me now I also have a open claim in regards to my personal injury from the accident that has not been settled, if I cash the check for my DV will that cause a problem with my personal injury claim the insurance company won't try to pull a fast one and say since I cashed the check for the DV that they have closed my claim and I am not entitle to my personal injury award.

Answer
Mike,

Be sure not to sign a release of ALL CLAIMS arising from the accident. If you are unsure, check with a personal injury lawyer to be sure. Also, if the diminished value settlement is coming from the liability carrier that insured the other party, you may want to get your own DV assessment, as it is likely to be short.

Charlie