Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that have not adopted no-fault insurance policies, you may be required to sue another driver in small claims court. Before taking this action you should talk to an experienced attorney for accidents.

The insurance company for the other party will investigate your claim to determine liability for the collision and pay compensation for your injuries, car damage and other losses, including pain and suffering. The process typically includes the following steps:

Gathering Information

If you are able to do so at the site of the collision while it is still safe and secure, take photographs of all vehicles involved in the accident including the damage as well as any injuries that may have occurred. These photographs will show that the accident took place as you described. Photograph the site of the accident, including any skidmarks, debris or skid marks.

It is also vital to get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of eyewitnesses if possible. They could be able witness later in the case about how the accident occurred and who was at fault. In some instances, eyewitness testimony is the most valuable evidence in the course of a lawsuit.

Note down the insurance information of all the parties involved. You will need to know the name of the insurance company, the policy number, and the contact information as well as the license plate number and driver's name. This information should be obtained as soon as possible to avoid any confusion or disputes later.

Documentation of medical expenses and treatments can be useful to a claim as well. In keeping receipts for prescription pain medications and other expenses that result from the wreck could support the damages that are claimed in the claim. If you are unable work due to an injury, you should keep track of any lost wages.

Filing the Claim

It is best to file a claim as soon after the accident as soon in the event that you are able. This will allow the insurer to review your paperwork and get to work. This will ensure that you are in compliance with the New York law deadlines for filing your claim.

You'll have to provide information regarding the incident including any injuries you suffered. The information you provide will be used to calculate your damages which may include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, as well as pain and suffering.

The insurance company may also have to determine the fault, when necessary. The final police report may be helpful for this. However it is crucial to keep in mind that determining fault is not always easy. In some instances even if you believe the accident was your fault other factors might have contributed to the accident. For instance, New York is a comparative fault state, which means that your damages will be reduced based on the percentage of fault you have.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster for cases. It's a good idea to have your lawyer with you when you speak to the adjuster. They can offer a neutral perspective and help you negotiate a fair settlement. If you're not able to come to a settlement that is satisfactory, you may have be in court to get the money that you deserve.

Inspecting Damages

They'll want to visit the scene of the accident to witness for themselves. They'll likely interview you and any other parties who were involved in the collision and speak with witnesses, and examine your vehicle. They will also look over your medical records, expenses and lost wages to get an understanding of how the accident affected you.

While you wait for the police to arrive, try to take pictures with your cell phone. This will allow you to document skid marks, the locations of both vehicles, their severity of damage, and the presence of any obstructions.

In this instance you should exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident, if safe to do so. Note down the names of everyone involved, address, telephone number and insurance company, policy numbers, and driver's license information. Note the vehicle's make year, year and license plate.

In the midst of the situation, it might be tempting to point the finger at the other driver. However, this can backfire. Be calm and don't admit fault or guilt. It is also a good idea to gather the names and contact numbers of witnesses to the collision, if possible.

Negotiating the Settlement

The process of negotiating a settlement after an auto accident attorney auto accident (visit the site) can be stressful, particularly when you have to deal with expenses for medical treatment and lost income. Engaging an experienced lawyer to negotiate on your behalf with the insurance provider can speed up the process. An attorney will be able to better understand the law, calculate your total damages and understand what to expect in settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step is to compose a demand letter that includes the amount you need to cover your costs and injuries. Your attorney can help you create this list and include any other relevant documents to support your request. If you provided photos of your car or other injuries that were particularly serious to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer will mention them during negotiations. In addition, your attorney will remind the adjuster of your suffering and damages that are based on the mental and emotional anxiety you've experienced as a result of the accident.

Insurance companies will treat your claim more seriously if engage an attorney to negotiate the settlement on behalf of you. They will also offer a higher settlement. Your attorney will pursue a lawsuit if an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.