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How to File an Auto Accident Claim
In states where there is no fault your insurance company will cover medical care and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the incident. They'll also want to gather evidence and review documents (photos witness testimony, photographs medical records, as well as expense reports).
The amount of compensation you receive depends on the severity of your injuries as well as the cost of your injuries. This article will help you understand the steps involved in filing an auto accident law firm accident claim.
Report the Accident
If you're involved in a car crash it's crucial to report the crash away. In many states, you'll have make this report to the local police department or county sheriff, the state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.
If you can, take photos of the crash scene. This can help you recall what happened, and it could be beneficial for your insurance claim. For instance, photos could show skid marks, vehicle damage weather conditions, and other important details.
You should also collect the information of the other driver, for instance their name and the insurance company they use. If you can, also ask to see the driver's licence and vehicle registration.
It is also essential to record your own account of the accident as well as what you saw and what transpired. If you don't document what happened, you could be held accountable for injuries or damages that later become apparent. If you fail to notify your insurance company, they may decline to pay for injuries that result from the incident. Check your policy or contact your agent to inquire whether you have to file an accident report.
Get Medical Attention
One of the first things you must do after a car accident is to seek medical attention so that you can be examined for injuries. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible will allow you to avoid any further issues, and it can also make your claim stronger when it's time to negotiate with the insurance company.
It is recommended to visit a hospital emergency room, whenever possible, after a car accident. This is because hospitals have access to the top surgeons, doctors, and medical supplies. Defense lawyers and insurance companies might have a difficult time trying to minimize injuries treated in a hospital.
Injuries in car accidents can range from minor bruising up to severe internal injuries, including the traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if there aren't any symptoms immediately such as discomfort or stiffness it is essential to see a physician. These medical records will be critical evidence in proving your claim that you sustained injury-related injuries as a result of the crash.
Our Denver car accident attorneys will make use of these records to prove that the actions of the at-fault motorist caused your injuries and that you are entitled to fair compensation for your injuries.
Take Photos
Take pictures of the accident scene as soon as possible, ideally before the police arrive. If you can capture images of the damage to each vehicle from different angles. It is also essential to take close-up pictures of the vehicles and any other evidence that could be crucial (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) in the event that you are able to do this. If you're unable capture close-ups, you can try placing an object, like coins, in the picture to see how it scales. It's also helpful to shoot photos with and without a flash, as different lighting conditions could reveal the hidden details.
It's also recommended to capture any injuries you may have sustained during the accident. Bruises, cuts and scrapes will fade with time, so the pictures will serve as valuable evidence of your injuries later. It is also a good idea to capture as many other pertinent details about the accident as possible (such as street signs, traffic lights and weather conditions, as well road debris), as these can aid in constructing a more precise picture of what happened.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contacting your insurance company is essential, whether or not you are planning to file a claim in the event of an auto accident. Your policy may require you take this step, but even in the event that it doesn't, your attorney will require records of your losses (like medical bills and repair costs) to prove your claims.
Luna suggests that you gather all relevant information about the scene. This includes the information about your vehicle and any other drivers involved. You should ask for the other driver's insurance card and ensure you have their name address, number, and address as well as the details of their car insurance (company, policy number). If witnesses are present, obtain their names and phone numbers.
While the most important thing you don't want to do following a car crash is argue with insurance companies it is essential to remain calm. The statements you make when you are emotional can be used to your disadvantage in the future. This is why it's best to have an attorney manage negotiations. They will be able to ensure that you don't mention something that could later be used against you.
Contact an Attorney
An experienced lawyer can assist you in negotiations with the insurance company in order to get an equitable settlement. They will look over all of your medical records and bills and auto accident consult with doctors to determine the extent and severity of your injuries. If you do not provide them with accurate and complete evidence, they will not give you a fair value.
You may be entitled non-economic damages like pain and suffering, in addition to the economic loss. If the other driver was found to have acted with a degree of gross inattention or recklessness the court could award additional compensation, referred to as punitive damages.
You'll need to notify the police if the driver who was at the fault fled the scene. You must also get an original 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 governing auto accident lawsuit accidents and these rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.