How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states that have no-fault insurances, your insurer will pay for medical costs and lost wages, regardless of who is responsible for the accident. They'll also need to gather evidence and review documents (photos, witness testimonies medical records, witness testimony, and expense reports).

The amount of compensation that you receive is contingent on the severity of your injuries and the cost of your injuries. This article will walk you through the steps to file an auto accident claim.

Report the Accident

If you're involved in a car crash it's crucial to report the accident away. In several states, you'll need submit the 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. You can use these photos to help you remember the incident and for your insurance claim. For instance, photos could show skid marks, damage to vehicles or weather conditions, among other important details.

You should also get the details of the other driver, such as their name and insurance provider. If possible, you should ask for their driver's licence and car registration.

It's also crucial to write down your own report of the incident in detail, including what you witnessed and what happened. If you fail to record what happened, you may be held accountable for any injuries or damages that later become apparent. If you don't inform your insurance company, they could not pay for any damages resulting from the accident. Go through your policy, or contact your agent to inquire whether you have to file an accident report.

Get Medical Attention

One of the first things you need do following a car crash is seek medical attention to be assessed for injuries. You can prevent future complications by seeing the doctor as soon as you can. It can also strengthen your case when negotiating with the insurance company.

It is recommended to visit a hospital emergency room, whenever possible after a car accident. This is because hospitals have access to best surgeons, physicians, and medical supplies. Insurance companies and defense lawyers may find it difficult to minimize injuries treated in the hospital.

Injuries resulting from car accidents can range from minor bruising up to severe internal injuries like the traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if symptoms, such as stiffness or pain, don't show up right away it is important to see a doctor. Medical records are critical evidence in proving your claim that you suffered injuries related to injury as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident attorneys will use these records to establish a convincing case that the actions of the at-fault driver caused your injuries, and that you deserve fair damages for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Photograph the accident site as soon as possible, but ideally before police arrive. If you can, take photos of all the damage to each vehicle from various vantage points. If you are able, take photographs of vehicles in close-ups and other evidence (such shattered glasses or airbags in use). If you can't get closeups of the vehicles, place something like a penny in the photo to give it a sense of scale. It's also beneficial to shoot photos with and without flash because different lighting conditions can reveal hidden details.

It is also a good idea to photograph any injuries you sustained in the accident. Bruises, cuts and scrapes will fade over time, and the photos will serve as valuable evidence of your injuries later. It is also an excellent idea to take pictures of other details that may be relevant to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals, weather conditions, and road debris) because they will help paint a clearer picture of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance company is vital regardless of whether you plan to file a claim due to an auto accident. Your policy could require you to take this step, but even in the event that it doesn't, your attorney will require records of your losses (like medical bills and repair costs) to prove your claim.

Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information regarding the scene. This includes information regarding your vehicle as well as any other drivers involved. Ask to see the insurance card of the other driver and ensure that you have their name, address, phone number and insurance details for the car (company or policy number). If there are any witnesses, you should try to get their names and contact numbers too.

It's important to stay calm, even though the last thing you'd want to do following a car accident is to fight with insurance companies. If you're emotional and make statements, they could be later used against you in the process. This is why it's recommended to hire an attorney to manage negotiations. They can ensure that you don't mention anything that can later be used against you.

Contact an attorney

An experienced attorney can assist you in navigating the insurance company and get an appropriate settlement. They will review all medical records and bills, and consult with your doctor to determine the extent and extent of your injuries. If you don't provide them with complete and accurate documentation, they will not give you a fair value.

In addition to seeking compensation for your economic losses, like medical bills and lost wages, you could also be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the other driver was found to have acted with gross negligence or recklessness the court can award additional compensation, which is known as punitive damages.

If the driver at fault fled the scene, you will have to report it to the police. You can also obtain the copy of the crash report at the police station or online. This will be required to make a claim in a lawsuit, or a no-fault lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that apply to auto accidents and these rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.