Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that haven't adopted no-fault insurance, you might need to sue the other driver in small claims court. Before you take this action, you should consult with an experienced accident attorney.

The other party's insurance provider will examine your claim to determine the liability for the collision and compensate you for your injuries, car damage and other losses, such as pain and suffering. The process typically involves the following steps.

Gathering Information

If you're able to do it at the scene of the crash, while it is still safe you should take photos of all the vehicles involved in the crash including the damage and any injuries that were sustained. These photographs can help establish that the incident occurred as you described. Also, take pictures of the accident scene itself including any skid marks or debris that may be present.

It is also important to get the names, addresses and phone numbers of eyewitnesses if possible. They might be able later to testify about what transpired and who is responsible. In certain instances, eyewitness testimony is the most important evidence in the course of a lawsuit.

Note down the insurance details of everyone involved in the auto accident law firm. You'll need to know the name of the insurance company as well as the policy number and contact details along with the license plate number and driver's name. In the event that you can get this information as quickly as you can could avoid disputes or confusion later on.

Documentation of medical treatment and expenses can prove valuable in the claimant as well. Keep receipts for prescription drugs and other costs caused by the accident. This could be helpful in proving the damages you claim. If you're unable to work due to an injury you must keep the record of any wages lost.

Filing the Claim

It is best to start a claim as quickly after the accident as possible should you be able to. This gives the insurance company an chance to review all of your paperwork and get to work. It also ensures that your claim will be processed within the deadlines set by New York law.

You'll need to provide specifics regarding the incident, including any injuries you sustained. This information will be used to calculate your damages, which could include compensation for medical bills, lost wages property damage, and pain and suffering.

The insurance company will need to determine fault, should it be necessary. The final police report may be helpful for this. It is essential to remember that determining the fault isn't always an easy task. Even if you believe that the accident was your fault in a few cases, other factors could have contributed. For example, New York is a state with a comparative fault, which means that your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. It's a good idea to bring your lawyer along as you talk to the adjuster. They'll be able to provide an objective perspective and help you negotiate an equitable settlement. If you're not able to agree on a settlement that's acceptable, you may have be in court to get the money you deserve.

Examining the damage

The insurance company will need to visit the scene of the crash to observe it for themselves. They'll likely interview you and the other people involved in the collision, talk to witnesses and inspect your vehicles. They will also go through your medical records, expenses and lost wages to provide an accurate picture of how the accident affected you.

While you wait for the police to arrive at the scene Take pictures with your cell phone. This will allow you to record the damage and skid marks on both cars as well as the location of the cars.

If it is safe, you can exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers involved in the collision. Note down the names, addresses, phone number, insurance company's policy number, and driver's licence details of each driver. Note the vehicle's make year, make and auto accident law firm license plate.

It may be tempting to blame another driver in the midst of a crisis however, this could backfire. Be calm and don't acknowledge fault or guilt. If possible, it's good idea also to collect the names and telephone numbers of any witnesses who witnessed the collision.

Negotiating the Settlement

The process of negotiating the settlement of a car crash claim can be stressful and difficult, particularly when you're facing costs for medical expenses and lost wages. Hiring an experienced lawyer to negotiate on behalf of you with the insurance company will speed up the process. An attorney will be able to better comprehend the law, calculate your total damages, and know what to anticipate during settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step in the settlement process is writing an offer letter that contains your request for the amount you require to cover your injuries and expenses. Your lawyer can help you compile this information and include any other documentation that supports your request. For instance, if for example you have provided the insurance adjuster with photographs of your vehicle and injuries that were particularly severe, your lawyer will mention these during negotiations. Your attorney will also remind the adjuster about your damages for pain and suffering. These are based on emotional distress and mental pain you've experienced because of the auto accident lawsuit Accident law firm (www.webnoriter.com).

Insurance companies will consider your claim more seriously if employ an attorney to negotiate for a settlement on behalf you. They may also offer a better settlement. Your lawyer can bring a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.