Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states without no-fault insurance you could have to file a lawsuit against the driver in a small claims court. Before taking this action you should speak with an experienced accident lawyer.

The other party's insurance provider will investigate your claim to determine the liability for the collision and pay compensation for your injuries, car damage and other losses like pain and suffering. The process usually involves the following steps.

Gathering Information

Take photographs of the cars involved in the collision. Include any injuries or damage. These photos can help to prove that the incident occurred as you have described. Take pictures of the site of the accident, including any skidmarks, debris or skid marks.

It is also crucial to collect the names, addresses, and Auto Accident Law Firm telephone numbers of eyewitnesses, if possible. They might later be able to provide evidence about the circumstances surrounding the incident and who was responsible. In some cases eyewitness testimony may be the most valuable evidence in the case.

Note down the insurance details of all those involved in the crash. You will need to know the name of the insurance company, the policy number, and contact details as well as the license plate number and driver's name. These details should be obtained as soon as possible to avoid confusion or disputes later on.

Documentation of medical bills and treatment can also be very valuable in an insurance claim. Keeping receipts for prescription pain medications and other expenses related to the accident could help support the damages claimed in the claim. If you're unable for work because of an injury, you must keep an eye on any lost wages.

Claim Form

It is recommended that you file a claim as soon after the auto accident lawsuits as possible should you be able to. This gives the insurer the chance to look over all your paperwork and get to work. It also ensures that your claim meets the deadlines stipulated by New York law.

You'll need to give details about the Auto Accident Law Firm, including any injuries you may have sustained. The information you provide will be used to calculate damages, which includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage as well as discomfort and pain.

The insurance company will also have to determine the fault, when necessary. The final police report can be helpful for this. It is crucial to keep in mind that determining who is to blame isn't always a simple task. In some instances even if you believe the accident was your fault, other factors may have contributed to the accident. New York, for example is a state which has a relative negligence system, which means your damages are reduced by the percentage of your fault.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. It's a good idea to have your lawyer with you as you talk to the adjuster. They can provide an impartial view and assist you negotiate a fair settlement. If you're unable come to a settlement that is acceptable, you may have to go to court in order to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Examining the Damages

They will like to visit the scene of the auto accident law firm to see what they can. They'll likely speak with you as well as any other participants involved in a crash and speak with witnesses, and examine your vehicle. They will also review your medical records, your expenses and lost wages to provide clear information about how the accident affected you.

While you are waiting for the police, take photographs with your mobile phone. This will allow you to document skid marks as well as the location of both vehicles and 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 collision. Note down the names of everyone involved address, phone number, address and auto accident law firm the insurance company's policy numbers and driver's licence information. Also note the vehicle's make the year, make and license plate number.

It's tempting to blame another driver in the midst of a crisis but this could be a backfire. Be calm and don't admit to fault or guilt. It's also a good idea to gather the names and contact numbers of eyewitnesses who witnessed the collision, if you can.

Negotiating the Settlement

Negotiating a settlement in the event of a car accident is difficult, especially if you are faced with medical bills and income loss. Fortunately, the process can be speeded up by hiring a skilled lawyer to negotiate all negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf. An lawyer will better know the law, calculate your total damages and be aware of what to expect during settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step is to write a demand letter that includes the amount you want to pay for your medical expenses and other injuries. Your lawyer can assist you in compiling the information, and include any supporting documentation that supports the demand. For instance, if for example you included the insurance adjuster's photos of your car and injuries that were particularly severe and significant, your lawyer will highlight these during negotiations. Your lawyer will remind the adjuster of your pain and suffering damages. These are based on emotional distress and mental agony you've experienced because of the accident.

Insurance companies will treat your claim more seriously if you employ an attorney to negotiate a settlement on behalf of you. They may also offer a better settlement. The lawyer will start a lawsuit if the insurance company does not agree to a fair settlement.