How to File an Accident Claim

You should provide as much information about the incident as you can your agent and insurer. This will allow you to receive the compensation you deserve.

If your insurance company determines that it is not possible to fix your vehicle, they may decide to pay you the value in cash of your vehicle.

1. Call the Police

You should always report car accidents unless you have car policy that does not allow the requirement to contact the police. Even if there is only minor damage the police will draft a formal accident report which can be helpful in filing an insurance claim or pursuing lawsuit against the responsible party.

The police will conduct an extensive investigation, speaking to all those involved and witnesses. They will also determine who is responsible. In addition to documenting the evidence found at the scene of the crash an officer's perspective regarding what transpired and who was at fault can be extremely valuable in negotiating compensation with an insurer or in court.

It is possible to file an insurance claim without having a police record, however this can make it more difficult to prove negligence, or to get a fair settlement. It is essential to contact the police when you're involved in an accident that results in injuries. This will not only satisfy your legal obligations, but will also assist you in winning the case against the other driver.

If the other driver refuses to allow you to verify their information, this is a red flag that something is not right. Contact the police to ensure everyone is honest and to prevent tempers from being out of control during a stressful time.

Make sure you inform the police of the details of your incident and provide them with the information they require. Any statements you make can be included in the official police report which could be used against you during the claim process for insurance or in an appeal. If you accept not calling the police following an incident that causes injury, it's generally not a good idea since it could lead to suspicions and could impede your case. Contact a Bronx injury lawyer if you are unsure regarding reporting an accident to the police. Your insurance policy may require it, even in the absence of law.

2. Gather Information

As soon as you are in a position to do so, and it is safe and easy begin collecting information regarding the accident. This could include images of the vehicle damage as well as license plate numbers, the timing of the day along with weather conditions and road angles. It is also helpful to get the names and contact numbers of witnesses. Finally, be careful the words you speak about - remarks made at the site of the crash may be used against you later on.

The insurance company needs to determine who is responsible for the accident. This is usually determined by looking at the state laws that define fault and reviewing the facts. It is based on reports from all parties involved, including the police as well as any witnesses who were able to come forward.

In addition, the insurance company has to be aware of any injuries that were triggered by the crash. This is why it is so important to keep medical records and bills as well as any doctor reports that relate to the accident. Insurance companies may ask an independent medical examiner who will review the medical records and notes of the doctor.

It is essential to get a repair estimate when your vehicle has been damaged in an accident. Providing these to the insurance company will help them determine the true value of your vehicle in cash, which is used as the basis for the amount they will compensate you for the loss.

Generally speaking, damages can be classified into two categories: general and special. Special damages are those which are easily quantifiable, like medical expenses and lost wages. General damages are a little more difficult to pin down such as suffering and pain. To make a claim successful, you'll need to provide proof of the two types. This will aid in filing an insurance claim for accidents. You can file a claim by calling your agent, filling out an online claim form or through an app, or speaking to one of their representatives over the phone.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

The majority of insurance companies will require for documentation regarding the incident. You will need to provide medical documents, receipts for expenses that you incurred due to your injuries, and evidence of lost income due to time away from work. The insurance company will also want to review your car and the damage caused by the accident. The insurer will then use this information to determine the value of your claim and send you a check for compensation.

When speaking with your insurance company, it's important that you state the facts of what transpired without being influenced by emotions. Also, you should avoid getting into an argument with the representative, as this can make things worse. It is also important to be clear about any injuries you've suffered and only provide the information once your doctor has confirmed the injury.

You will have a limited amount of time to report the accident to your insurance provider and this will vary based on where you live. In New York, which is considered to be a no-fault state your own car insurance will cover you up to an amount of injury and damage done to your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. It is crucial to call your insurance company as soon after the accident as soon as is possible.

The insurance agent will usually forward the accident report to the department of claims. You will receive a letter confirming that the report was received and is being processed. Insurance companies usually give you a date for when they anticipate the damage to be repaired or to receive compensation for the damage.

Be sure to meet these deadlines. If you're not happy with the outcome of your case, it's always an excellent idea to speak to an attorney about your options. They can help you determine whether an appeal is feasible and assist you in ensuring your rights are protected.

4. Contact an Attorney

Whether you are dealing with damage to your home, vehicle or any other property or if you've been injured in an accident law firm, it is important to make a claim as quickly as possible. This is a requirement in many insurance policies. Inability to file a claim could result in your insurance company refusing to accept the claim or increasing the cost of your insurance.

In most instances, insurance companies assign a person or team to review your claim. This could include arranging for an adjuster inspect the damage to your vehicle. If you decide to take this route, it is essential to take photographs and videos of the damage if it is safe to do so without risking yourself or others, as it can assist your claim tremendously.

The next step is to ensure that you meet the deadlines imposed by your state or the insurance company. If you're unsure what you need to do get an attorney's advice. is knowledgeable of the rules and regulations, as well as your policy.

An experienced car accident attorney can assist you in determining the type of insurance you have and accident attorney the amount you may be entitled. Your Slater & Zurz attorney will also have experience with settlements with insurance companies and knows the strategies used by insurance companies to decrease their payouts, which could save you a substantial amount of money.

An attorney can also assist you with other aspects such as calculating damages like suffering and pain. Insurance companies employ complicated calculations to determine the amount they can pay an injured victim for these types of non-monetary losses, and an experienced lawyer is familiar with the calculation methods used as well as any legal precedents that may be applicable to your situation. An experienced attorney can often gather all the evidence needed for your case, and file an action on behalf of you against the party at fault to get you the compensation you deserve.