Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that do not have no-fault insurance, you could have to file a lawsuit against the driver at a small claims court. Before taking this action you should talk to an experienced accident lawyer.

The insurance company for the other party will examine your claim to determine liability for the collision and compensate you 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 scene of the collision while you are still in a safe place you should take photos of all the vehicles involved in the accident including the damage as well as any injuries that may have occurred. These photos can be used to show that the accident took place in the manner you described it. Also, take pictures of the scene, including any skid marks or debris that are visible.

If possible, it's important to get the names, addresses and phone numbers from eyewitnesses. They may be able later to testify on what transpired and who was accountable. In certain cases, eyewitness testimony is the most valuable evidence in a lawsuit.

Note down the insurance information of all the parties involved. You'll need the name of the insurance company and the policy number and the contact information as well as the license plate number and driver's name. In the event that you can get this information as quickly as possible could prevent any confusion or disputes later.

Documentation of medical expenses and treatments can be useful to any claim. Keep receipts for prescription drugs and other expenses that were incurred due to the accident. This can help in proving the damages you claim. If you're unable to work due to injury, you must keep track of any lost wages.

Filing the Claim

If you have the ability to file a claim it is recommended to start your claim as soon as you can after the accident. This allows the insurance company to review your documents and begin working. It also ensures that your claim is in compliance with the deadlines stipulated by New York law.

You'll need to provide details about the accident including any injuries that you suffered. This information is used to calculate damages. This includes reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages, damage to property as well as discomfort and pain.

The insurance company will need to determine fault, if necessary. It is beneficial to have the final police report available to assist in this. It is important to remember that determining the fault is not always an easy task. In some instances, even if you think the benton auto accident law firm was your fault, other factors might have contributed to the crash. For instance, New York is a comparative fault state which means that your damages will be diminished 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 during your conversation with the adjuster. They can offer a neutral perspective and help you to negotiate a fair settlement. If you're not able to agree on a settlement that's acceptable, you may have to go to court to get the money that you are entitled to.

Inspecting the Damages

The insurance company will visit the scene of the accident and examine the accident for themselves. They'll likely question you and any other parties who were involved in the collision and speak with witnesses, and inspect your vehicle. They will also look over your medical records, expenses, and lost wages to get a clearer picture of the impact of the crash on you.

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

If it's safe you can exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the columbus auto accident attorney. Jot down each person's name address, phone number, address and insurance company, policy numbers and driver's licence information. Note the vehicle's make year, model, and license plate number.

In the heat of the circumstances, it could be tempting to point the finger at the other driver. However, this could backfire. Be calm and avoid admitting fault or guilt. It is also an excellent idea to collect the names and contact numbers of witnesses who witnessed the collision, if you can.

Negotiating the Settlement

The process of negotiating the settlement of a car crash claim can be difficult and a bit frustrating, especially when you're faced with medical bills and lost wages. Engaging an experienced lawyer to negotiate on behalf of you with the insurance company will expedite the process. An attorney will have a greater understanding of the law and how to calculate your total losses and damages, and what to expect from an insurance company in settlement negotiations.

The first step in the settlement process is to draft an official demand letter that outlines your request for the amount that you need to cover your injury and expenses. Your lawyer can assist you create this list and include any other documents that support your request. For example, if you have provided the insurance adjuster with photographs of your vehicle and injuries that were particularly severe, your lawyer will mention those during negotiations. Your lawyer will remind the adjuster of your pain and suffering damages. These are based on emotional distress and mental agony that you've suffered as a result of the shawano auto accident law firm.

Insurance companies will treat your claim more seriously if you engage an attorney to negotiate for a settlement on behalf you. They may also offer a higher settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer an equitable settlement, your lawyer will bring a lawsuit and fight for you in court.