How Insurance Companies Evaluate the Value of a Claim

If you have ever rented a car, you have probably been asked a familiar question at the counter: “Do you want to add our coverage?” Many people decline, assuming the rental company’s insurance automatically protects them in a wreck. Others believe that if a rental car is involved in a crash, the rental company is automatically responsible. In most cases, both assumptions are wrong. Understanding how rental car insurance actually works and how the Graves Amendment affects liability can protect you from unexpected financial exposure after a serious accident. Who Pays After a Rental Car Accident? After a rental car crash, insurance coverage usually applies in a specific order. This often surprises drivers. 1. Your Personal Auto Insurance Is Usually First In most rental car accidents, your own auto insurance is the primary coverage, even though you are driving a rented vehicle. Your policy may cover: Bodily injury liability Property damage to others Damage to the rental vehicle This also means a rental car accident can still impact your premiums just like any other wreck. 2. Credit Card Coverage Is Often Limited If you used a credit card to rent the vehicle, your card may offer secondary coverage, but this is often: Limited to vehicle damage only Excludes bodily injury claims Subject to strict rules and exclusions Many people only discover these limitations after a claim has already been denied. Shape 3. Rental Company Coverage Only Applies If You Purchase It Rental companies typically offer optional coverage at the counter, often called: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) If you decline this coverage, the rental company’s policy usually does not protect you. If you purchase it, that coverage may: Limit or eliminate responsibility for vehicle damage Reduce personal liability exposure Still include exclusions and coverage caps Skipping that coverage to save money up front can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs later. The Hidden Costs Many Renters Do Not Expect Even when injuries are minor, rental companies often pursue additional charges such as: Loss of use while the vehicle is being repaired Diminished value of the rental vehicle Towing and storage fees Administrative and processing charges These expenses add up quickly and are not always fully covered by insurance. Why the Rental Company Is Usually Not Automatically Responsible Understanding the Graves Amendment One of the most common myths about rental car accidents is that the rental company is automatically responsible because it owns the vehicle. Federal law changed that. The Graves Amendment, passed in 2005, generally protects rental car companies from liability based solely on ownership of the vehicle. In simple terms: The rental company usually cannot be sued just because it owns the vehicle The driver is typically the legally responsible party The rental company may only be liable if it was independently negligent, such as: Failing to properly maintain the vehicle Renting to a driver it knew was unsafe or unqualified In most routine rental car crashes, the Graves Amendment shields the rental company from responsibility, even when serious injuries occur. What If You Are Injured by Someone Driving a Rental Car? If another driver operating a rental car causes your injuries, your claim usually proceeds against: The driver’s personal auto insurance Any applicable credit card coverage Any optional rental coverage they purchased The rental company itself is often protected under the Graves Amendment unless its own negligence can be proven. If the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough insurance, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may become critical. What to Do After a Rental Car Accident If you are involved in a crash while driving a rental vehicle: Do not assume the rental company will handle everything Avoid giving recorded statements before understanding coverage Gather all rental agreements and insurance paperwork immediately Seek medical attention right away if you are injured Rental car claims become complicated very quickly, and early mistakes can impact both your medical bills and your financial recovery. Final Thoughts on Rental Car Accidents and Insurance Coverage Rental cars create a false sense of protection for many drivers. The reality is: Your personal insurance is usually first in line Optional rental coverage plays a major role Federal law often shields rental companies through the Graves Amendment If you or someone you love has been injured in a rental car accident, getting clear legal guidance early can make a real difference in both your recovery and your financial protection. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and celebration. From office gatherings to neighborhood parties, many of us open our homes to guests this time of year. One topic that often gets overlooked is what responsibility a host may have if alcohol is served and someone leaves impaired. Mississippi law does not generally hold a social host liable for the actions of an adult guest who drinks too much. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t risks, and it doesn’t mean hosts should ignore their role in keeping everyone safe. A few thoughtful steps can prevent a holiday celebration from turning into a serious problem. Serving Alcohol: Use Common Sense Overserving isn’t just a bar or restaurant issue. Even in your home, it’s smart to keep an eye on guests who may already be impaired. A simple offer of food, water, or coffee can help slow things down and give people time to regroup. If someone looks unsteady, confused, or overly emotional, they may not need another drink. Absolutely No Alcohol for Minors This is one area where Mississippi law is crystal clear. Allowing minors to drink—even one sip—can create legal trouble for the host. Beyond the legal risk, underage drinking increases the chances of injuries and accidents. The rule is simple: if they’re under 21, no alcohol. Plan for Safe Rides Home Not every impaired guest will recognize that they shouldn’t drive. As a host, you can make this easier by offering: Rideshare options A designated driver A guest room or couch A call to a family member or friend Most people are grateful for the suggestion, especially if approached kindly and without judgment. When a Guest Shouldn’t Be Driving You don’t have to physically prevent anyone from leaving, but stepping in when someone is clearly impaired can make all the difference. A calm conversation is often enough. Offer alternatives and reassure them that you’re simply trying to keep them safe. A Safe Celebration Helps Everyone While Mississippi does not typically impose liability on social hosts for adult guests, being proactive protects the people you care about and helps keep the roads safer for everyone. If someone you know is injured during the holiday season—whether in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident—the Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. We can walk you through your options and help you understand your rights. Enjoy the season, celebrate safely, and take care of the people around you. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation

Black Friday marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, and with it comes packed parking lots, early-morning rushes, and a level of chaos that can catch anyone off guard. While most people worry about crowds inside the stores, many of the season’s most preventable injuries actually happen outside—in the parking lot. From low-speed collisions to pedestrian injuries, these incidents spike every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas. A little awareness can go a long way toward keeping you and your family safe. Why Parking Lots Become More Dangerous This Time of Year Holiday shopping brings a perfect storm of risk factors: Drivers competing for limited spaces People backing out quickly without checking their surroundings Shoppers walking between cars with bags in both hands Distracted drivers looking for open spots Early sunsets and poor visibility Higher foot traffic than almost any other time of year Even at low speeds, these situations can lead to serious injuries. Simple Safety Tips for Drivers If you’re behind the wheel, a few practical steps can help you avoid trouble: Slow down. Holiday frustration leads to rushed decisions. Stay off your phone. Parking lot distractions are a major cause of low-speed crashes. Use your headlights. Even during the day, they help others see you. Watch for pedestrians. People often step out from between parked cars without warning. Be patient when reversing. Don’t rely solely on your backup camera—turn and look. Park in well-lit spaces. Visibility matters when shopping early or late. Smart Tips for Pedestrians Shoppers on foot face their own risks. Keep these in mind: Stay alert and avoid walking behind moving vehicles. Don’t step between parked cars. Drivers can’t see you. Hold onto your cart. A rolling cart can damage cars or knock someone down. Walk in main aisles whenever possible. These areas are more visible to drivers. What to Do If You’re Involved in a Parking Lot Accident Parking lot crashes may seem simple, but liability isn’t always straightforward. Multiple parties may share fault, and insurers often treat these claims differently than roadway collisions. If you’re involved in a wreck: Take photos of every vehicle from multiple angles Get the other driver’s information Call law enforcement if anyone is hurt Look for witnesses or store cameras Seek medical care even if you feel okay Contact an attorney before giving statements to insurance adjusters These steps can protect your rights from the start. We’re Here When You Need Us At Stutzman Law Firm, we handle parking lot collisions and pedestrian injury cases throughout Mississippi. If you or someone you love is injured in a holiday shopping incident, we’re here to help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Shop smart, stay alert, and enjoy your holiday season safely. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

The holidays bring many good things—family gatherings, time off work, and travel across Mississippi to see the people we care about. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings something far less pleasant: a sharp increase in traffic, distracted driving, and crashes involving uninsured and underinsured drivers. If you’re hitting the road over the next few weeks, understanding your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage could make a real difference if the unexpected happens. Why Crashes Increase During the Holidays Between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, Mississippi roads stay busy. People are rushing, conditions vary, and holiday events often involve alcohol. Add in early sunsets and unpredictable weather, and the risk of a wreck climbs quickly. It’s not just the increased traffic that creates problems—it’s who’s on the road. The holidays traditionally see a rise in drivers who are impaired, distracted, or driving without proper insurance. What UM/UIM Coverage Does for You UM/UIM coverage is one of the most valuable parts of any auto insurance policy, and it protects you in two main situations: Uninsured Motorist (UM) — When the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) — When the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover your damages. In these cases, your UM/UIM coverage steps in to pay for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses your family shouldn’t have to shoulder because someone else failed to carry adequate coverage. In short, it ensures you aren’t punished because they weren’t responsible. Why It's Especially Important Right Now Mississippi historically has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. That problem tends to get worse around the holidays. Even if you drive carefully, you can’t control who’s behind the wheel in the next lane. UM/UIM coverage fills that gap and keeps your family financially protected, no matter what the other driver did—or didn’t do. What To Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver If you or a loved one are involved in a crash this season, here are a few immediate steps: Get medical attention right away Call law enforcement and document the scene Don’t give recorded statements without legal advice Contact an attorney who understands UM/UIM claims in Mississippi These claims can become complicated quickly, and carriers often push back hard. Having someone in your corner early makes a difference. We’re Here to Help At Stutzman Law Firm, we help Mississippi families every day who find themselves dealing with the fallout of uninsured and underinsured motorists. If you have questions about your coverage or need guidance after a wreck, we’re here to help you navigate the process. Stay safe this holiday season—and protect your family on every mile. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

If you’ve lived in Mississippi for any length of time, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. One day you’re scraping frost off your windshield, and the next you’re reaching for the A/C. Those constant temperature swings don’t just play tricks on your wardrobe — they can take a toll on your vehicle too. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we see firsthand how many accidents happen because of simple maintenance issues that could’ve been avoided. A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference between a smooth drive and a breakdown on the side of Highway 49. 1. Check Your Tire Pressure and Tread Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, sometimes by as much as 1 PSI for every 10 degrees. Low pressure reduces traction, especially on wet roads, and increases the risk of blowouts. Check your tires regularly and make sure the tread depth is at least 2/32 of an inch. 2. Test Your Battery When temperatures dip, your car battery has to work harder to start the engine. If it’s been a few years since you replaced it, have it tested. A weak battery might start fine on a warm day but fail completely when that next cold snap rolls through. 3. Inspect Wipers and Washer Fluid Visibility is everything. Replace worn wiper blades, top off your washer fluid, and make sure your defroster works properly. A streaky windshield in the morning glare is a recipe for danger. 4. Check Your Lights Shorter days mean you’re driving more often in low light. Walk around your car and check that every headlight, taillight, and turn signal is working. It’s a small step that helps everyone on the road see and be seen. 5. Keep an Emergency Kit Even with the best prep, unexpected things happen. Keep jumper cables, a flashlight, blanket, bottled water, and a phone charger in your vehicle. It’s peace of mind you’ll be glad to have if you ever need it. A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Mississippi weather changes fast, but being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated. Staying on top of routine maintenance helps protect not just your car, but everyone sharing the road with you.  If you or someone you love is injured in an accident, The Stutzman Law Firm is here to help. We’re proud to represent Mississippi drivers and families, standing up for their rights after a crash. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

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We’ve all seen it — a driver riding just a few feet off someone’s bumper, anxious to get around slower traffic. It’s easy to forget how dangerous that is until it’s too late. Tailgating doesn’t save time. It causes wrecks. Tailgating Is One of the Most Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions Rear-end crashes make up a large portion of all traffic accidents in Mississippi. They often happen because a driver simply doesn’t have enough time to react. Whether the car in front slows down suddenly or traffic backs up unexpectedly, that split-second delay can make the difference between a close call and a collision. At highway speeds, even one second of following distance isn’t enough. The general safety rule is to keep at least three seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. Double that in bad weather or low visibility. Why “Minor” Rear-End Collisions Aren’t Always Minor Many people assume a rear-end crash is just a “fender-bender.” But even low-speed impacts can cause serious injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, and soft tissue damage. These injuries often don’t appear right away — pain may set in hours or even days later. Beyond the physical injuries, victims may face car repairs, time off work, and fights with insurance companies that downplay the severity of their claims. Protect Yourself on the Road Keeping a safe following distance is one of the easiest ways to prevent a crash. The next time you find yourself creeping too close to the car in front of you, count: “One Mississippi, two Mississippi, three Mississippi.” If you pass the same landmark before you finish counting, you’re following too closely. That small habit can protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. Injured in a Rear-End Collision? Know Your Rights. If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end crash, don’t let an insurance adjuster minimize your injuries or rush you into a quick settlement. You have the right to full and fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we help Mississippi drivers hold negligent drivers and their insurers accountable. We understand the tactics adjusters use — and we know how to fight back. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

Fall is here, and for many families that means afternoons at the ball field, evenings under the Friday night lights, and weekends packed with tournaments. Football, soccer, cheerleading, and other youth sports bring kids together, build confidence, and teach teamwork. But with the excitement of competition also comes the risk of injury — especially concussions and other head trauma. Why Concussion Awareness Matters Concussions aren’t always obvious. A child may walk off the field looking fine but develop symptoms later. Warning signs can include: Headaches or dizziness Blurred vision or sensitivity to light Confusion or difficulty concentrating Nausea or vomiting Unusual mood changes If your child shows any of these symptoms after a hit, they should be evaluated by a medical professional before returning to play. The Role of Coaches and Schools Coaches and schools have a responsibility to prioritize safety. This includes providing the right equipment, enforcing safety rules, and making sure injured players sit out until cleared by a doctor. “Playing through the pain” may sound tough, but in reality, it can make the injury much worse. What Parents Can Do Parents can help by staying alert, asking questions, and encouraging kids to speak up when something doesn’t feel right. No game or practice is worth risking a child’s long-term health. When Negligence Is a Factor Most youth sports injuries are just part of the game. But when a child is hurt because of unsafe conditions, poor supervision, or negligence, parents deserve answers. Legal action may be necessary to hold organizations accountable and to ensure the injured child receives proper care and support. At Stutzman Law Firm , we know how important your child’s safety is — both on and off the field. If your child has been injured due to unsafe conditions or negligence, our team is here to help guide you through your options.  Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.

September 20th is National Care for Kids Day , a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting children’s health and safety. At The Stutzman Law Firm, we see firsthand how preventable accidents can change a family’s life. That’s why we want to use today as a reminder of some simple, practical steps you can take to help keep children safe at home, on the road, and in the community. Why Child Safety Matters Children are naturally curious and active, which makes them especially vulnerable to injuries. According to the CDC, unintentional injuries are one of the leading causes of death and disability among children in the United States. Many of these accidents can be prevented with a few extra precautions. Safety Tips Every Parent and Caregiver Should Know Car Safety Car crashes remain one of the leading causes of injury for children. Using the right car seat, booster seat, or seatbelt for your child’s age and size is critical. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, and check that the seat is tightly secured. Home Safety The home should be a safe space, but hidden hazards exist: Anchor heavy furniture and televisions to prevent tip-over accidents. Store cleaning supplies, medicines, and sharp objects out of reach. Install outlet covers and use safety gates when needed. Playground Safety Playgrounds are a great place for kids to run and explore, but they can also be risky. Inspect equipment before playtime, watch for broken or hot surfaces, and encourage children to use age-appropriate areas. Supervision makes all the difference. Street Safety As children grow, teaching them about pedestrian safety is essential. Remind them to use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and never assume a driver sees them. Slowing down around schools and neighborhoods is just as important for drivers. When Accidents Happen Even when parents do everything right, sometimes accidents happen because of someone else’s negligence — whether that’s a careless driver, a property owner who failed to maintain safe conditions, or a defective product. When a child is hurt, families deserve answers and accountability. Our firm is committed to helping parents protect their children’s rights and ensuring they get the care and support they need. We’re Here for Mississippi Families On National Care for Kids Day , let’s all take a moment to recommit to keeping children safe. If your child has been injured because of negligence, The Stutzman Law Firm is here to help you explore your options. Call us today at (769) 208-5683 for a free consultation.