How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states that have no-fault insurance, the insurer will cover medical expenses as well as lost wages regardless of who's responsible for the accident. They'll also be looking to collect evidence and look over documents (photos witness testimony, photographs medical records, as well as expense reports).

The amount of compensation that you receive depends on the extent of your injuries and the cost of your injuries. This article will walk you through the steps of filing an auto accident attorneys accident claim.

Report the Accident

It's crucial to notify a crash with a car immediately. In many states, this is handled by local police or county sheriffs, state police, or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you can, take photos of the crash scene. This can help you recall what happened, and auto accidents could be useful for your insurance claim. For instance, photos can show skid marks, damage to vehicles weather conditions, and other important details.

It's also a good idea to collect the information of the other driver including their name and auto accidents insurance company. Also, you should request their driver's licence and car registration, if they are available.

You should also write down what you saw, as well as what happened. Remember, memory isn't reliable and if you fail to write down what happened then you could be at fault for damages or injuries that aren't evident later on. If you don't inform your insurance company, they may refuse to cover any damages resulting from the incident. You can determine if your policy requires a report of an accident by reviewing your policy or by contacting your agent.

Seek medical attention

One of the first things you need do after a car accident is to seek medical attention so that you can be assessed for injuries. You can prevent future complications by visiting your doctor as soon as you can. It will also help your case when negotiating with the insurer.

If you can, it's best to go to the emergency room in a hospital after an accident. Hospitals have access surgeons, doctors and medical supplies. It isn't easy for insurance companies and defense attorneys to minimize the severity of injuries that are treated at the hospital.

Car accidents can cause injuries that range from minor bruising, to severe internal injuries, such as traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Even if the symptoms, like stiffness and pain do not manifest right away it's crucial to visit a doctor. The medical records will serve as the most important evidence you can use to support your claim that you sustained injury-related injuries as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will utilize these medical records to construct a strong case showing that the actions of the driver responsible for the accident caused your injuries, and that you are entitled to an equitable amount of compensation for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Photograph the scene of the accident as soon as possible, ideally before the police arrive. If you're able take pictures of the damaged vehicle from different angles. It is also essential to take close-up photographs of the vehicles as well as any other evidence that could be crucial (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) if you can safely do so. If you are unable to get close-ups of the vehicles put an object such as a penny inside the photo to give it a sense of scale. You can also take pictures without or with flash to reveal the hidden details.

It's also recommended to capture any injuries you may have sustained during the accident. These photos will provide valuable evidence later on. The bruising and cuts will fade over time. It's also a good idea for you to snap pictures of other things that relate to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals, weather conditions, and road debris) as they can help you get a better understanding of what happened.

Contact Your Insurance Company

If you're planning to file a claim, it's essential to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your policy may require you do this, and even in the event that it does not, your attorney will require documentation of your losses (like medical bills and repair costs) to support your claims.

Luna advises that you collect all relevant information regarding 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 ensure you have their name and address, phone number and details about their car insurance (company or policy numbers). If there are witnesses, get their names and contact numbers.

The last thing you want to do following a car accident is argue with insurance firms It is crucial to remain calm. Any statements you make while emotions are high could be used to your disadvantage in the future. It is best to let an attorney handle the negotiations. They can make sure that you do not say anything that could be used against you later on.

Contact an attorney

An experienced lawyer can assist you with navigating the insurance company to get an appropriate settlement. They will go through all medical records and bills, and talk to doctors to determine the extent and severity of your injuries. Insurance companies will not give you fair value if they aren't provided with accurate and complete evidence.

In addition to seeking compensation for your economic losses, like medical bills and lost wages, you could also be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the other driver was found to have acted with a degree of gross inattention or recklessness, the court may award additional compensation, known as punitive damages.

You must inform the police if the motorist at blame fled the scene. You can also obtain an original copy of the crash report from the precinct, or online. This will be needed to make a claim in a lawsuit, or a no-fault case. New York has very specific laws that govern auto accidents. These laws are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.