How to File an Auto Accident Claim

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

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

Report the Accident

If you're involved in a car crash it is crucial to report the crash right immediately. In many states, auto accident claim this is 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 crash scene. This will help you remember what happened, and it could be beneficial for your insurance claim. For instance, pictures can show skid marks, damage to vehicles, weather conditions and other important details.

It's also a good idea to obtain the other driver's information including their name and insurance company. If you are able, also request a copy of their driver's license and car registration.

You should also write down what you saw, as well as what happened. If you fail to record the details of what transpired, you could be held accountable for injuries or damages that later become apparent. If you fail to notify your insurance company, they could refuse to cover any damages that result from the accident. You can determine if your policy requires a report of an accident by looking up your policy, or calling your agent.

Get Medical Attention

After a crash, you must seek medical attention and be examined to determine if you are any injuries. You can avoid any future problems by seeing your doctor as soon as you can. This can also help your case when you negotiate with the insurer.

If possible, it's best to visit a emergency room at a hospital after a car crash. This is because hospitals have access to the best surgeons, physicians, and medical supplies. It can be challenging for insurance companies and defense lawyers to downplay injuries treated at the hospital.

Injuries sustained in car accidents could range from minor bruising up to severe internal injuries like traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if symptoms, such as stiffness or pain, don't show up right away it's essential to see a doctor. These records will be vital in proving that you have suffered injuries as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car auto accident lawyers lawyers will make use of these records to build a solid case that the actions of the driver at fault caused your injuries and that you should be awarded fair compensation for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Take photos of the site of the accident as fast as possible, but ideally before police arrive. If you're able capture photos of the damage on each vehicle from different angles. If you are able to, take close-up photos of vehicles and other evidence (such shattered glasses or deployed airbags). If you can't get closeups of the vehicles put an object like a penny inside the photo to give it a sense of scale. You can also take photographs without or with flash to reveal the hidden details.

You should also take pictures of any injuries you have suffered from the auto accident law. Scrapes, bruises and cuts will fade with time, so your photos will be a great proof of your injuries later on. It is also recommended to capture photos of other details that relate to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals, weather conditions, and road debris) because they will aid in forming a more clear picture of what happened.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance provider is crucial, whether or not you intend to file a claim for a car accident. You may be required to file a claim by your policy, but even if you are not legally required, your attorney will need the details of your losses in order to back up your claim (such as repair costs and medical bills).

Luna advises that you take all relevant information from the scene. This includes information about your vehicle and any other drivers involved. Make sure you get the insurance card of the other driver and make sure you have their name, address, phone number as well as the details of their car insurance (company or policy number). If witnesses are present, obtain their names and numbers.

It's important to stay calm even while the last thing you would like to do following a car accident is to fight with insurance companies. If you are emotional your statements could be utilized against you later in the process. It is best to let an attorney handle the negotiations. They will be able to ensure that you don't say anything that can later be used against you.

Contact an Attorney

An experienced attorney can help you in negotiating with the insurance company in order to get an equitable settlement. They will review the medical bills and records and will often consult with a physician to provide their opinions on the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies won't offer you a fair price if they aren't provided with complete and accurate documentation.

In addition to pursuing economic losses, such as medical bills and lost wages, you may be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the other driver was found to have acted with gross carelessness or negligence the court could award additional compensation, known as punitive damages.

You must inform the police if the person at the fault fled the scene. You must also get the crash report from the police station or online. You will need this to file a no-fault claim or a liability lawsuit. New York has specific laws that regulate automobile accidents. An experienced attorney will explain these rules.