Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that haven't adopted no-fault insurance policies, you may be required to file a lawsuit against the other driver in a small claims court. You should consider hiring an experienced lawyer for auto accidents prior to taking this step.

The other party's insurer will examine your claim and determine the liability for the collision. They will then award compensation for your injuries and vehicle damages as well as losses such a pain and suffering. The process usually consists of the following steps.

Gathering Information

If you're able do so at the scene of the collision while it is safe, take pictures of all the vehicles involved in the accident, including the damage and any injuries sustained. Taking these photographs could help to prove that the incident occurred as you have described. Also, take photos of the scene, including any skid marks or other debris that are present.

It is also essential to obtain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of witnesses, if possible. They might later be able to testify on what transpired and who was at fault. In certain instances eyewitness testimony may be the most important evidence in a case.

Note down the insurance information of all the parties involved. You will need to know the name of the insurance company and the policy number and the contact information along with the license plate number and driver's name. If you get this information as early as you can could avoid any confusion or disputes later.

Documentation of medical bills and treatment is also very useful for a claim. In keeping receipts for prescription painkillers and other expenses that result from the wreck could support the damages that are claimed in the claim. If you are not able to work due to the injuries you sustained, it is crucial to keep records of the wages you lost.

Filing the Claim

If you're able to file a claim, it's best to make your claim as soon as possible after the incident. This gives the insurer the chance to look over all your paperwork and get to work. It will also ensure that your claim meets the deadlines set by New York law.

When filing a car insurance claim you'll need to provide details about the accident and any injuries you suffered due to it. This information will be used to calculate your damages which could include reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages property damage, and the suffering.

The insurance company will also have to determine the fault, in the event of a need. It is helpful to have the final police report to assist in this. It is important to remember that determining the fault isn't always an easy task. Even if you believe that the crash was your fault in some instances, other factors could have contributed. For instance, New York is a state of comparative fault, which means that your damages will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

The insurance company will assign a case adjuster. It's best to have your lawyer with you when you speak to the adjuster. They'll give you an objective viewpoint and assist you negotiate an equitable settlement. If you're unable to agree on a settlement that's satisfactory, you may need to take your case to court to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Examining the Damages

They will want to visit the scene of the accident to see what they can. They'll likely question you and other people involved in the crash and talk to witnesses and inspect your vehicle. They will also review your medical records, Auto Accident Law Firms expenses and lost wages to provide an understanding of how the auto Accident Law Firms has affected you.

While you wait for the police, take pictures using your mobile phone. This will help document skid marks, the locations of both cars and their extent of damage, and the presence of any obstructions.

If you are sure, you can exchange insurance and contact information with the other drivers involved in the crash. Note down the name, address, phone number, insurance company's policy number, and driver's licence information of each person. Also note the vehicle make year, year and license plate number.

In the heat of the situation, it might be tempting to point the finger at another driver. However, this can backfire. Keep your cool and don't admit to fault or guilt. If you can, it's a good idea to also collect the names and numbers of any eyewitnesses that 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 the cost of medical bills and lost wages. Hiring an experienced lawyer to handle all negotiations on your behalf with the insurance provider can make the process easier. An lawyer will have a better knowledge of the law and how to calculate your total damages and losses and what to expect from an insurance company during settlement negotiations.

The first step in the settlement process is to draft a demand letter that includes your request for the amount you need to cover your injuries and expenses. Your attorney can help in compiling this information and include any supporting documentation that supports the demand. If you have sent pictures of your vehicle or injuries that were especially severe to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer would be sure to mention them during negotiations. Additionally, your lawyer will remind the adjuster of your pain and suffering damages which are based on the emotional distress and mental anxiety you've experienced as a result of the accident.

If you employ a lawyer to negotiate the settlement on your behalf insurance companies take claims much more seriously and usually offer higher settlements. Your lawyer will pursue a lawsuit if an insurance company refuses a fair settlement.