How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states that have no-fault insurances, your insurer will pay for medical costs and lost wages regardless of who was at fault for the accident. They will also want to gather evidence and review documents (photos witnesses' testimonies, photos medical records, photos, and expense reports).

The amount you receive depends on the severity of your injuries and the amount of expenses. This article will walk you through the steps to file an auto accident lawsuit accident claim.

Report the Accident

It is crucial to report a car crash immediately. In many states, this will be carried out by local police or county sheriffs. In some states, it's the state police, or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If possible, take pictures of the scene of the crash. This can help you remember what happened, and could be useful for your insurance claim. For instance, auto Accidents photos could show skid marks, vehicle damage weather conditions, and other important details.

It's also a good idea to get the other driver's details, including their name and insurance company. You should also ask for their driver's licence and car registration, if they are available.

It is also essential to write down your own account of the accident as well as what you saw and what happened. Remember, memory is unreliable and if you fail to record what happened, you could be accountable for damages or injuries that are not obvious later. If you fail to notify your insurance company, they could refuse to cover any injuries that result from the accident. Go through your policy, or contact your agent to inquire whether you have to file an accident report.

Get Medical Attention

After a crash, you should seek medical attention and be assessed to determine if there are any injuries. You can stay clear of future complications by visiting an expert as soon as you can. It can also strengthen your case when you negotiate with the insurer.

It's best to visit a hospital emergency room, if at all possible after a car wreck. This is because hospitals have access to highest quality physicians, surgeons and medical equipment. Defense lawyers and insurance companies may have difficulty attempting to limit the severity of injuries that are treated in hospitals.

Car accidents can cause injuries ranging from minor bruising, up to severe internal injuries, such as the traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Even if you do not feel any symptoms immediately like discomfort or stiffness it is imperative to consult a doctor. These medical records will be the most important evidence you can use to support your claim that you sustained injuries related to your injury as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will make use of these records to establish a convincing case that the actions of the at-fault driver caused your injuries and you are entitled to fair compensation for your injuries.

Take Photos

Take pictures of the scene of the accident as soon as you can, but ideally before the police arrive. If you are able capture images of the damages on each vehicle from various angles. It is also crucial to take close-up pictures of the vehicles and any other evidence of importance (such as shattered glass or airbags deployed) in the event that you are able to do so. If you're unable take closeups, try placing an object, such as a coin, inside the image to gauge. You can also snap pictures without or with flash to reveal the hidden details.

You should also take pictures of any injuries you suffered from the accident. The scrapes, scratches and bruises will fade with time, so the pictures can serve as a valuable proof of your injuries later. It is also a good idea for you to take photos of other items which are relevant to the accident (such as traffic signals, road signs weather conditions, road debris) since they can help you get a better understanding of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Whether or not you plan to file a car accident claim, it's essential to contact your insurance company as quickly as possible. You may be required to file a claim under your policy, but even if you are not, your attorney will require the details of your losses in order to back up your claim (such as repairs and medical bills).

Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information on the scene. This includes details about your vehicle as well as any other drivers involved. You should ask for the insurance card of the other driver and ensure that you have their name, address, phone number, and car insurance details (company and policy number). If there are witnesses, you should try to get their names and contact details too.

While the last thing you want to do after a car crash is fight with insurance companies it is essential to remain calm. Any statements you make while emotions are high could be used against you in the future. It is best to have an attorney manage 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 help you navigate the insurance company and obtain a fair settlement. They will go over your medical records and bills, and often consult with a doctor to provide their opinion as to the full extent of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with complete and accurate documents, they won't give you a fair value.

You could be entitled to non-economic damages like suffering and pain, in addition to the economic losses. If the other driver was found to have acted with a degree of gross recklessness or negligence the court could award additional compensation, referred to as punitive damages.

If the at-fault driver fled the scene, you'll have to report it to the police. Also, you should get an original crash report from the precinct or online. You'll need it to make a no-fault claim or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws governing auto accidents. These laws are best explained by an experienced attorney.