How to File an Auto Accident Claim
In states with no fault, your insurance company will cover the cost of medical treatment and lost wages, regardless of who was responsible for the incident. They will also want to gather evidence and read documents (photos witnesses' testimonies, photos medical records, witness testimony, and expense reports).
The amount you receive depends on the severity of injuries and expenses. This article will walk you through the steps involved in filing an auto accident claim.
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If you're involved in a car accident it is crucial to report the crash right away. In many states, this will be done by the local police county sheriffs, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.
Take pictures of the scene of the accident if you are able to. This can help you remember the incident and also to support your insurance claim. Photos can be used to show specifics like skid marks and vehicle damage, weather conditions, and other vital details.
It is also important to obtain the information of the other driver, such as their name and insurance provider. If you are able, also request to see their driver's license and car registration.
It is also important to record the things you observed, and the events that occurred. If you don't document the details of what transpired, you could be held responsible for injuries or damages that are later discovered. If you do not notify your insurance company, they may decline to pay for damages that result from the incident. You can find out if your policy requires an accident report by examining your policy or calling your agent.
Get Medical Attention
After a car crash you must seek medical attention and be examined to determine whether there are any injuries. You can avoid future complications by seeing the doctor as soon as possible. It can also strengthen your case when you negotiate with the insurance company.
It is recommended to visit an emergency room in a hospital whenever possible, after a car accident. This is because hospitals have access to highest quality physicians, surgeons, and medical supplies. It can be challenging for insurance companies and defense lawyers to deny injuries sustained in hospitals.
Injuries in car accidents can range from bruising to severe internal injuries like traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if you don't feel any symptoms initially, such as stiffness or pain it is essential to consult a doctor. The medical records will serve as critical evidence in proving your claim that you suffered injuries related to your injury as a result of the crash.
Our Denver car accident attorneys will make use of these records to establish a convincing case that the actions of the driver at fault caused your injuries and that you should be awarded fair damages for your injuries.
Take Pictures
Photograph the scene of the accident as soon as you can, and ideally before police arrive. If you are able, capture all the damage to each vehicle from different angles. It is also important to capture closeup photos of the vehicles and any other evidence that could be crucial (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) when you are able to do so. If you're unable to get closeups, try placing an object, like coins, into the picture to see how it scales. It's also helpful to capture photos using and without flash as different lighting conditions may reveal hidden details.
You should also take pictures of any injuries you have suffered during the accident. The scrapes, scratches and bruises will fade with time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later on. Additionally, it is important to capture as many other pertinent details of the accident as you can (such as street signs, traffic lights or weather conditions, as well as road debris) in order to help paint a more detailed image of what transpired.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contacting your insurance company is essential regardless of whether you are planning to file a claim due to an auto accident. Your policy could require you to do this, and even if it does not, your attorney may require documentation of your losses (like medical expenses and repair costs) to prove your claims.
Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information on the scene. This includes the details about your vehicle as well as any other drivers involved. You should ask to see the insurance card of the other driver and make sure you have their name and address, contact number, and information about their car insurance (company, policy numbers). If there are witnesses, try to get their names and contact numbers as well.
It's essential to remain calm even although the last thing you'd like to do after a car accident is to argue with insurance companies. The statements you make when you're feeling emotional could be used to your disadvantage later on. It is best to have an attorney handle the negotiations. They can ensure that you don't say anything that can later be used against you.
Contact an attorney
An experienced lawyer can assist you in negotiating with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement. They will examine your medical records and bills and will often consult with a physician to give their opinions on the extent of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with accurate and complete evidence, they will not give you a fair value.
You could be entitled to non-economic damages, like suffering and pain in addition to your economic losses. If the other driver was found to have acted with a degree of gross inattention or recklessness and the court awards additional compensation, also known as punitive damages.
You must inform the police if the motorist at responsible fled the scene. You can also request the copy of the crash report at the precinct, or online. This is needed to start a lawsuit or file a no-fault case. New York has very specific laws that govern automobile accidents. These rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.