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How to File an Auto Accident Claim
In states that have no fault your insurance company will cover medical costs and lost wages, regardless of who was responsible for the incident. They'll also be looking over documents and gather evidence (photos witnesses' statements medical records and expense reports).
The amount of compensation that you receive depends on the severity of your injuries as well as expenses. This article will guide you through the steps to filing an auto accident claim.
Report the Accident
It's essential to report a crash as soon as possible. In many states, you'll have to report the incident to the local police department, county sheriff, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.
If possible, take pictures of the scene of the crash. You can use this to aid in remembering the accident and for your insurance claim. For instance, pictures can show skid marks, vehicle damage, weather conditions and other important details.
It's also a good idea to collect the other driver's information including their name and insurance company. You should also ask for the driver's license and vehicle registration, if you can.
It's also crucial to record your personal report of the incident as well as what you saw and what happened. Remember, memory is unreliable and if you don't document what occurred, you could be accountable for damages or injuries that are not apparent later on. In addition, if fail to report the incident and your insurance company is not aware of it, they may decline to cover any damages that result from it. You should check your policy or talk to your agent to determine the requirements for filing an accident report.
Seek medical attention
After a car crash, you should seek medical care and be examined to determine if there are any injuries. You can avoid future complications by visiting an expert as soon as possible. It can also strengthen your case when you negotiate with the insurance company.
If you can, it's best to visit a emergency room of a hospital following a car crash. This is because hospitals have access to the best surgeons, physicians and medical equipment. Insurance companies and defense lawyers may find it difficult to minimize injuries treated in a hospital.
Car accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor bruising, up to severe internal injuries like the traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Even if you don't feel any symptoms initially in the form of stiffness or pain it is imperative to see a doctor. These records will be vital in proving that you have sustained injuries in connection with the crash.
Our Denver car accident lawyers will make use of the medical records to create a strong case showing that the driver at fault caused your injuries, and that you are entitled to an equitable amount of compensation for your injuries.
Take Photos
Photograph the scene of the accident as quickly as possible, ideally before police arrive. If you are able, capture all the damage to the vehicle from various vantage points. It is also crucial to capture closeup photos of the vehicles and any other critical evidence (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) in the event that you are able to do so. If you're unable to get closeups, try placing something, such as coins, in the picture for scale. auto accident attorneys topeka 's also beneficial to take pictures with and without flash as different lighting conditions may reveal hidden details.
You should also take pictures of any injuries you suffered in the accident. The photographs will be useful evidence later on. The bruising and cuts will fade with time. It is also a good idea for you to capture photos of other aspects that may be 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
No matter if you're planning to file a claim, it's crucial to contact your insurance company as quickly as you can. You might be required to do so under your policy, but even if you are not the case, your lawyer will need evidence of your losses to support your claim (such as repairs and medical bills).
Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information regarding the scene. This includes details of your vehicle and any other drivers involved. Request to see the insurance card of the other driver and ensure that you have their name, the address, number, and information about their car insurance (company or policy numbers). If witnesses are present, obtain their names and contact numbers.
While the last thing you want to do following a car accident is argue with insurance firms it is vital to remain calm. If you're emotionally charged, any statements you make can be used against you later on in the process. It's best to let an attorney handle the negotiations. They will be able to make sure that you don't say anything that could be later used against you.
Contact an attorney
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the insurance company to get a fair settlement. They will look over all of your medical records and bills, and talk to doctors to determine the totality and severity of your injuries. Insurance companies won't give you a fair amount when they haven't been supplied with full and accurate documents.
In addition to seeking compensation for your economic losses, like medical bills and lost wages, you could be entitled to non-economic damages for suffering and pain. If the court finds that the other driver was negligent, reckless or acted with a high degree of, recklessness or malice it could award punitive damages.
If the driver at fault fled the scene, you will need to report that to the police. You can also get an original copy of the crash report from the precinct or on the internet. This will be required to bring a lawsuit or a no-fault lawsuit. New York has specific laws that regulate automobile accidents. An experienced attorney can explain these rules.
