How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states where there is no fault, your insurance company will cover medical care and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault for the incident. They'll also need to look over 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 expenses. This article will help you understand the steps of filing an auto accident claim.

Report the Accident

If you're involved in a car crash, it's important to report the crash away. In many states, you'll need make this report to the local police department county sheriff, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you are able, take photographs of the scene of the crash. This can help you recall what happened, and could be beneficial for your insurance claim. Photos can be used to display details such as skid marks, vehicle damage, weather conditions, and other crucial details.

It's also a good idea to collect the other driver's details including their name as well as the insurance company. If you are able, also ask to see their driver's license and car registration.

It is also essential to record your personal report of the incident, including what you saw and what transpired. Remember, memory is unreliable and if you fail to write down what happened then you could be accountable for damages or injuries that aren't evident later on. If you don't inform your insurance company, they may not pay for any damages resulting from the accident. Review your policy or call your agent to inquire the requirements for filing an accident report.

Get Medical Attention

One of the first things you need do after a car accident is seek medical attention to be examined for injuries. You can stay clear of future complications by visiting a doctor as quickly as possible. It could also help your case when you negotiate with the insurance company.

It is best to visit a hospital emergency room, whenever possible following a car crash. 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 minimize the damage caused by hospitals.

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

Our Denver car accident lawyers will utilize the medical records to create a strong case showing that the at-fault driver's actions caused your injuries and you deserve an adequate amount of compensation for the damages you sustained.

Take Pictures

Take photos of the accident site as soon as possible, ideally before police arrive. If you're able capture photos of the damages on each vehicle from various angles. If you are able to, take photographs of vehicles in close-ups and other evidence (such broken glasses or airbags deployed). If you're unable to capture close-ups of the vehicles you can place an object like a 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 an excellent idea to take pictures of any injuries you suffered in the crash. The photos will serve as valuable evidence later on. Bruises and cuts will fade over time. It's also a good idea to take pictures of other aspects that may be relevant to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals, weather conditions, and road debris) because they can aid in the creation of a clearer picture of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance company is important, whether or not you plan to file a claim for an auto accident. Your policy may require you make this call, and even if it does not, your attorney may require proof of your losses (like medical bills and repair expenses) to prove your claims.

In addition to collecting your own vehicle's information and identifying any other drivers involved in the accident Also, you should collect any other pertinent information at the scene, says Luna. Ask to see the other driver's insurance card and make sure you have their name, address, phone number and insurance details for the car (company or policy number). If witnesses are present, take their names and phone numbers.

The last thing you want to do after a car crash is to argue with insurance companies it is essential to remain calm. Any statements you make when you're emotional can be used against you in the future. This is the reason it's best to hire an attorney deal with negotiations. They can ensure that you do not say anything that could be used against you later on.

Contact an Attorney

An experienced attorney can assist you in dealing with the insurance company and get an equitable settlement. They will look over all of your medical records and bills and work with doctors to determine the totality and the severity of your injuries. If you do not provide them with complete and accurate documentation, they will not provide you with a fair amount.

In addition to pursuing economic losses, like medical bills and lost wages, you could also be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the court finds that the other driver acted with gross negligence or recklessness or recklessness, it may be able to award punitive damages.

If the driver at fault fled the scene, you will be required to report the incident to the police. You should also obtain a copy of the crash report from the precinct or online. You will need this to submit a no-fault claim, or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws governing auto accident law firms accidents and these rules are best explained by an experienced attorney.