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 was at fault for an accident. They'll also be looking to gather evidence and Auto Accidents read documents (photos witnesses' testimonies, photos medical records, photos, and expense reports).

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of injuries and expenses. This article will walk you through the steps involved in making a claim in the event of an auto accident.

Report the Accident

It's crucial to report a car crash as soon as possible. In many states, this is performed by the local police or county sheriffs, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.

Take pictures of the scene of the accident if are able to. You can use them to help you remember the accident and to file a claim for insurance. Photos can be used to illustrate specifics like skid marks, damage to your vehicle weather conditions, skid marks and other crucial details.

It's an excellent idea to get the information of the other driver, including their name and insurance company. You should also ask for their driver's license and car registration, if you can.

It is also important to record the things you observed, and what happened. If you fail to record what happened, you may be held liable for injuries or damages that later become apparent. If you do not notify your insurance company, they may not pay for any damages that result from the incident. Review your policy or call your agent to inquire the requirements for filing an accident report.

Get Medical Attention

After a car crash you must seek medical attention and auto accidents have your body examined to determine if you are any injuries. Making an appointment with a doctor as quickly as possible can help you avoid any future issues and can make your claim stronger when it comes time to negotiate with the insurance company.

If you can, it's best to go to the emergency room in a hospital after an accident. This is because hospitals have access to the highest quality physicians, surgeons, and medical supplies. Insurance companies and defense lawyers may find it difficult to limit the severity of injuries that are treated in the hospital.

Injuries resulting from car accidents can vary from minor bruising to serious internal injuries, such as the traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if there aren't any symptoms initially such as discomfort or stiffness, it is important to consult a physician. These medical records will be essential evidence to prove your claim that you suffered injuries related to injury as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will use these documents to prove that the actions of the at-fault motorist caused your injuries and that you should be awarded fair damages for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Photograph the scene of the accident as fast as possible, ideally before the police arrive. If you're able take pictures of the damage on each vehicle from various angles. It is also crucial to take close-up photographs of the vehicle and any other critical evidence (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) as long as you are able do this. If you aren't able to take close-ups of the vehicles, place an object like an empty penny in the photo to give it some scale. You can also capture photos with or without flash to reveal more details.

It is also important to take photos of any injuries you suffered in the accident. Scrapes, bruises and cuts will fade with time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later. It's also a good idea for you to capture photos of other things which are relevant to the accident (such as traffic signals, road signs weather conditions, road debris) as they can aid in forming a more clear picture of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance company is important regardless of whether or not you plan to file a claim due to an auto accident. Your policy may require you to take this step, but even in the event that it isn't, your attorney will require records of your losses (like medical bills and repair costs) to prove your claim.

Besides getting your own vehicle's information and identifying any other drivers involved in the accident Also, you should collect any other relevant information at the scene, suggests Luna. Inquire about the insurance card of the driver who was involved in the accident and ensure you have their name and address, telephone number as well as information about their vehicle insurance (company or policy numbers). If there are any witnesses, try to get their names and contact numbers as well.

The first thing you'll want to do following a car crash is argue with insurance companies it is vital to remain calm. If you are emotional, any statements you make could be used against you later in the process. It's best to let an attorney handle the negotiations. They will be able to make sure you don't say something that could later be used against you.

Contact an Attorney

An experienced attorney can assist you in negotiating with the insurance company to obtain a fair settlement. They will review your medical records and bills and will often consult with a doctor to provide their opinion regarding the extent of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with accurate and complete evidence, they will not offer you a fair price.

You could be entitled to non-economic damages, for example 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 may award additional compensation, known as punitive damages.

If the driver who was at fault fled the scene, you'll be required to report the incident to the police. Also, you should get an original crash report from the precinct or online. This will be needed to bring a lawsuit or a no fault case. New York has very specific laws that apply to auto accidents and these rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.