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How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim
If your vehicle is damaged during an accident, it is necessary to make an insurance claim. It's important to understand how this process is carried out.
An adjuster will be dispatched by the insurance company to examine the damage to your vehicle. It's not always required to be present during the inspection, but you should bring your insurance policy along with any other documentation that is relevant.
Take Photos
Ever watch a crime show where investigators comb over every square inch of the scene and take photos of the tiniest of details, from footprints to chocolate wrappers that have been tossed away? Make use of the same level scrutiny when examining the scene of your accident. It is important to capture as much of the incident as you can during the time it occurs, so that you have evidence to support your case later.
Photographs of the damage to both cars is essential and you should consider taking close-ups of the areas damaged. These photos can help insurance companies and experts witnesses as they determine the dimensions of different objects. Record reference points, such as the location of traffic lights or stop signs in your photographs. These could be later linked to the at-fault driver's actions which led to the crash.
Take photos of the other drivers and their passengers, as well as witnesses. You may be in a position to take a picture of their license plate. Take photos of emergency responders, their vehicles, and any person who is placed on a gurney, or into an ambulance.
Make sure to submit the photos to the insurance company only if directed by your attorney or required to do so by a court. You could accidentally provide evidence that is against your claim if you do not. If motor vehicle accident attorneys huntington beach alter the date on your photos the insurance company might question your claim.
Seek medical attention
When an accident occurs, the first thing you need to do is seek medical attention. This is not only important for your own health however, it also ensures that any injuries you have are documented. In many personal injury claims there is a demand for compensation for medical bills and damages. This is why medical records are crucial to the success of your claim.
If there aren't any symptoms you can observe, you should make an appointment to see your primary health care provider or an emergency room. Your doctor will provide you with an evaluation of your injuries, and also perform an entire medical examination. Additionally they'll give you the needed treatment.
Follow the doctor's treatment plan will help you recover faster and help strengthen your case. This includes taking your prescribed medications and any over-the counter medications as well as participating in a physical therapy program complying with the doctor's orders regarding time off work, and attending any subsequent appointments.
It is crucial to avoid saying anything that an insurance adjuster could misinterpret. The insurance company may try to discredit the damage that you've sustained in order to reduce or deny your compensation. This is why it is recommended to not talk to any insurance adjuster unless you have your attorney present with you.
Contact an attorney
Having access to legal representation is critical for those injured. Lawyers can assist injured parties manage their stress, and know where to concentrate their efforts. Attorneys can also consider evidence and facts to determine if a case is worth fighting in court.
Insurance companies are businesses first and foremost. Their mission is to collect the highest amount of money from their insureds, while giving out the least amount of money they can (in the sense of). It's tempting, when you are on the scene of an incident to accept a flimsy settlement offer since it's the simplest way to go. This could lead to disastrous consequences in the future.
If you file a claim with your insurance company, an adjuster will come to your home to assess the damage caused to your vehicle. They will also go over receipts for medical bills, as well as personal property damage. They may also interview witnesses and look over police reports. Before meeting with an adjuster it is helpful to obtain estimates for repairs from local auto shops or contractors. This will allow them to be aware of what to expect in terms of repairs.
An experienced motor vehicle lawyer can ensure that all the necessary information is provided and that the proper documents are given to the insurance company. They can offer advice and make recommendations on how to deal with the claims adjuster, how to deal with a settlement, as well as what to do in the event that an insurance company is unresponsive or acting in a way that is unethical.