How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states with no-fault insurances, your insurer will pay for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who's responsible for the accident. They'll also be looking over documents and gather evidence (photos witnesses' testimony, medical records and expense reports).

The amount you receive is contingent on the severity of injuries and the amount of expenses. This article will guide you through the steps of filing an auto accidents accident claim.

Report the Accident

It's important that you report a crash promptly. In many states, you'll have to do this to the local police department or county sheriff, state police, or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you are able, take photographs of the scene of the crash. You can use these photos to help you remember the accident and to file a claim for insurance. For example, 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 such as their name and insurance company. If you can, ask for the driver's licence and vehicle registration.

It's also important to record your personal report of the incident as well as what you saw and what happened. If you fail to record the incident, you could be held responsible for injuries or damage that later becomes apparent. If you do not report the accident your insurance company could decline to cover any damages caused by it. Review your policy or call your agent to determine the requirements for filing an accident report.

Seek medical attention

After a car crash you must seek medical treatment and be examined to determine if there are any injuries. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible can help you avoid any future complications and can increase your claim when it comes time to negotiate with the insurance company.

It is recommended to visit a hospital emergency room, should you be able to following a car crash. Hospitals have access top-quality surgeons, doctors and medical supplies. It can be difficult for insurance companies and defense lawyers to downplay injuries treated at hospitals.

Injuries sustained in car accidents could range from bruising and tearing to severe internal injuries, such as brain injuries that are traumatic and even paralysis. Even if there aren't any symptoms immediately such as discomfort or stiffness, it is important to see a doctor. The medical records will serve as essential evidence to prove your claim that you suffered 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 motorist caused your injuries, and that you deserve fair damages for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Take pictures of the scene of the accident as quickly as possible, ideally before the police arrive. If you're able capture photos of the damaged vehicle from various angles. If you are able to, take photographs of vehicles in close-ups and other evidence (such broken glasses or deployed airbags). If you're unable to capture closeups of the vehicles then place something like a penny inside the photo to give it a scale. You can also snap photos with or without a flash to reveal hidden details.

It is also important to take photos of any injuries you suffered in the accident. Bruises, cuts and scrapes will fade with time, and the photos can be used as evidence of your injuries later on. It is also an excellent idea to snap pictures of other things that may be relevant to the accident (such as traffic signals, road signs weather conditions, road debris) as they can aid in the creation of a clearer picture of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance provider is crucial regardless of whether or not intend to file a claim due to an Auto accident lawsuits accident. You might be required to do so 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 repair and medical bills).

Luna advises that you gather all relevant information about the scene. This includes information about your vehicle and any other drivers involved. Ask to see the insurance card of the other driver and ensure that you have their name, address, phone number and insurance details for the car (company or policy number). If there are witnesses, try to get their names and contact numbers as well.

It's important to stay calm, even although the last thing you would like to do after an accident in the car is to argue with insurance companies. Anything you say when you're emotional can be used against you later. This is why it's often recommended to hire an attorney to deal with negotiations. They will be able to ensure that you don't mention anything that could later be used against you.

Contact an attorney

A seasoned attorney can assist you in negotiating with the insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. They will look over all medical records and bills, and consult with your doctor to determine the extent and severity of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with accurate and complete documentation, they will not give you a fair estimate.

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

You must inform the police if the driver who was at blame fled the scene. You should also request an original crash report from the precinct or online. This will be needed to bring a lawsuit or a no-fault lawsuit. New York has very specific rules that govern automobile accidents. These rules are best explained by an experienced attorney.