How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states where there is no fault, your insurance company will cover medical costs and lost wages, regardless of who is responsible for the accident. They'll also want to review documents and gather evidence (photos witnesses' testimony medical records, and expense reports).

The amount of compensation you receive is dependent on the severity of your injuries and the amount of expenses. This article will guide you through the steps to filing a claim for compensation from an auto accident.

Report the Accident

It's crucial to notify a car crash as soon as possible. In several states, you'll need make this report to the local police department county sheriff, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If possible, take pictures of the crash scene. You can use them to help you remember the accident as well as to help with your insurance claim. Photos can be used to display details such as skid marks, damage to your vehicle, weather conditions, and auto accidents other important information.

You should also get the details of the other driver, for instance their name, insurance provider and even their address. If you are able, ask for their driver's license and car registration.

It is also important to record the things you observed, and what transpired. If you don't document the incident, you could be held responsible for injuries or damages that are later discovered. In addition, if fail to report the incident, your insurance company may decline to cover any damages that result from it. You should check your policy or talk to your agent to determine whether you are required to file an accident report.

Get Medical Attention

One of the first things you need to do after a car accident is seek medical attention to be assessed for injuries. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible will allow you to avoid any further issues as well as strengthen your claim when it comes time to negotiate with the insurance company.

It is recommended to visit an emergency room in a hospital whenever possible after a car accident. This is because hospitals have access to the highest quality physicians, surgeons and medical equipment. It can be difficult for insurance companies and defense attorneys to downplay injuries sustained in a hospital.

Car accidents can result in injuries that range from minor bruising, to serious internal injuries like paralysis or traumatic brain injury. Even if symptoms, like stiffness or pain, don't show up immediately it is important to see a physician anyway. These medical records will be crucial evidence to support your claim that you sustained injuries related to injury as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will use these documents to establish a convincing case that the actions of the motorist at fault caused your injuries and that you are entitled to fair damages for your injuries.

Take Photos

Photograph the accident scene as soon as you can, but ideally before the police arrive. If possible, capture the damages to each vehicle from various vantage points. If you can, take close-up photos of vehicles and other evidence (such broken glasses or airbags in use). If you are unable to get close-ups of the vehicles you can place something like an empty penny in the photo to give it scale. You can also snap photographs without or with flash to reveal more details.

It is also important to take photos of any injuries that you suffered from the accident. Bruises, cuts and scrapes will fade over time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later. It's also recommended to snap pictures of other aspects that relate to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals weather conditions, road debris) as they can help paint a clearer picture of what happened.

Contact Your Insurance Company

If you're planning to file a claim, it's important to contact your insurance company as quickly as you can. You might be required to file a claim by 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 costs and medical bills).

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

It's essential to remain calm, even when the last thing you would like to do after a car accident is to fight with insurance companies. Any statements you make while emotions are high could be used against you later on. It is best to let an attorney manage the negotiations. They can make sure that you don't say something that could later be used against you.

Contact an attorney

An experienced lawyer can assist you in dealing with the insurance company and obtain an equitable settlement. They will look over all medical records and bills, and consult with your doctor to determine the totality and the severity of your injuries. Insurance companies are not able to give you a fair price if they aren't supplied with full and accurate documents.

In addition to seeking compensation for your economic losses, which include medical bills and lost wages, you may also be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the court concludes that the other driver acted with gross negligence, recklessness or malice or recklessness, it may be able to award punitive damages.

If the driver who was at fault escaped the scene, you'll have to report it to the police. You can also obtain the copy of the crash report from the police precinct or online. You'll need this to submit a no-fault claim, or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that govern auto accidents and these rules are best explained by an experienced attorney.