How to File an Auto Accident Claim
In no-fault states your insurance company will pay for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault for the incident. They'll also be looking over documents and gather evidence (photos witnesses' testimony medical records and expense reports).
The amount of compensation you receive is contingent on the severity of your injuries and the cost of your injuries. This article will help you understand the steps involved in filing an auto accident claim.
Report the Accident
If you're involved in a car crash it's crucial to report the accident immediately. In many states, this is handled by local police or county sheriffs, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.
If possible, take pictures of the scene of the crash. You can use them to aid in remembering the accident and to file a claim for insurance. For instance, pictures can show skid marks, vehicle damage, weather conditions and other important details.
It is also important to obtain the information of the other driver, including their name and the insurance company they use. It is also advisable to request their driver's license and car registration, if they are available.
It is important to note down what you saw and the events that occurred. Remember that memory isn't always reliable If you don't write down what happened it could leave you responsible for damages or injuries that are not obvious later. If you do not notify your insurance company, they could not pay for any damage that results from the incident. Review your policy or call your agent to inquire whether you are required to file an accident report.
Get Medical Attention
After a car crash, you must seek medical care and be examined to determine if you are any injuries. You can stay clear of future complications by visiting your doctor as soon as possible. It will also help your case when negotiating with the insurance company.
It is best to visit an emergency room in a hospital in the event that it is possible, after a car accident. Hospitals have access top-quality surgeons, doctors, and medical supplies. Insurance companies and defense lawyers might have a difficult time trying to limit the amount of injuries that can be treated in hospitals.
Injuries resulting from car accidents can vary from minor bruising to serious internal injuries, such as paralysis and brain trauma. Even if there aren't any initial symptoms like discomfort or stiffness, it is important to consult a doctor. These records will be crucial in proving that you have suffered injuries related to the crash.
Our Denver car accident lawyers will make use of the medical records to create solid evidence that the negligence of the driver who was at fault for the crash resulted in your injuries and you are entitled to an adequate amount of compensation for the damages you sustained.
Take Photos
Take photos of the scene of the accident as soon as you can, ideally prior to police arrive. If possible, photograph all the damaged vehicles from different vantage points. It is also important to get close-up images of the vehicles as well as any other evidence of importance (such as shattered glass or airbags that have been deployed) when you are able to do this. If you're unable to take closeups, try placing objects, like coins, into the image to gauge. It is also possible to take pictures without or with flash to show hidden details.
auto accident lawyer oakland is important to take photographs of any injuries you have suffered in the accident. The scrapes, scratches and bruises will fade with time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later on. It is also recommended to capture photos of other aspects which are relevant to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals weather conditions, road debris) as they can help you get a better understanding of what transpired.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contacting your insurance company is essential regardless of whether or not are planning to file a claim for a car accident. Your policy may require you take this step, but even in the event that it doesn't, your attorney will need records of your losses (like medical bills and repair expenses) to prove your claims.
Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information on the scene. This includes information about your vehicle and any other drivers involved. You should ask to see the insurance card of the driver who was involved in the accident and make sure that you have their name, address, telephone number and details regarding their car insurance (company, policy numbers). If there are witnesses, you should try to get their names and contact numbers as well.
The last thing you want to do after a car accident is fight with insurance companies it is vital to remain calm. Any statements you make while emotions are high could be used against you later on. It is best to have an attorney handle the negotiations. They can ensure that you do not say anything that could be used against you in the future.
Contact an attorney
An experienced lawyer can assist you in dealing with the insurance company to get a fair settlement. They will look over the medical bills and records, and often consult with a doctor to give their opinion regarding the extent of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with complete and accurate documents, they won't give you a fair estimate.
You could be entitled to noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, in addition to your economic losses. If the court finds that the other driver acted with gross negligence or recklessness, it may decide to award punitive damages.
You will need to inform the police if the driver who was at blame fled the scene. You should also obtain a copy of the crash report from the precinct or online. You'll need this to file a no fault claim or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that apply to automobile accidents. These rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.