How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim

If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident, you'll submit an insurance claim. It is important to understand the procedure.

An adjuster is sent by the insurance company to inspect your vehicle damage. You don't always have to be present when an adjuster examines the damage to your vehicle, however you must bring along your insurance policy and any other relevant documentation.

Take Photos

Have you ever watched one of the crime shows where investigators capture every detail, from footprints to chocolate wrappers being thrown away? Apply the same level of attention when looking over your accident scene. It is essential to keep as much as you can of the incident as it happens in order to prove your case later.

Photographs of the damage to both vehicles is essential, but also consider taking photographs of the areas that have been damaged. These photos will help insurance companies and experts witnesses as they determine the dimensions of the various objects. In your photos, be sure to include important points of reference such as the locations of stop signs and traffic lights. These can be used to determine the actions of the driver who was at blame for the crash.

If you are able take pictures of the other driver and their passengers, as well as witnesses. You might be in a position to take a picture of their license plate. Photograph emergency responders, their vehicles and anyone who is put on a gurney, or into an ambulance.

If your attorney or court has ordered you to, only upload the photos. Otherwise, you could unwittingly be providing evidence against your own claim. If you alter the date on your photos the insurance company could be skeptical about your claim.

Seek medical attention

When an accident occurs the first thing to get medical attention. This is not just for your health but also to ensure that any injuries are documented. Many personal injury claims require compensation for medical bills as well as other damages. Medical records are crucial to your claim.

Even if you're not displaying any noticeable signs, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or an emergency room. Your doctor can offer you an assessment of your injuries and perform an extensive medical examination. Additionally, they'll be able offer you the proper treatment.

It is essential to follow the advice of your physician regarding your treatment plan, as this will allow you to recover faster and strengthen your case. This includes taking your prescribed medication and any prescription medications that are available as well as participating in a physical therapy program following the instructions regarding time off work, and completing any subsequent appointments.

During this process, it is important not to say anything that could be mistaken by an insurance adjuster. The insurance company may try to discredit the damage you have suffered in order to reduce or deny the amount of compensation you receive. This is the reason why it is recommended to not talk to any insurance adjuster unless you have an attorney present with you.

Contact an Attorney

Legal representation is crucial for injured parties. Attorneys can help them manage their stress and help them understand where to focus their energy. Additionally, attorneys can also evaluate the evidence and facts of a case to determine whether it is worth fighting in court.

The insurance company is first and foremost a business and their mission is to get as much money from insureds as they can while paying out as little as is possible (in the theory). If you're in the midst of an accident, it may be tempting to accept an offer that is too low since it appears to be the easiest option. This is a mistake that can cause a lot of damage later on.

If you file a claim with your insurance company, an adjuster will come to your home to evaluate the damage to your vehicle. They will also review receipts for attorneys medical bills and personal property damages. They will probably also interview witnesses and read police reports. Before meeting with an adjuster, it is beneficial to obtain estimates for repairs from local auto repair shops or contractors. This will help them know what they can expect for repairs.

An experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can ensure that all information required is provided in a timely manner and that the appropriate documents are provided to an insurance company. He or she can also provide advice and recommendations about how to handle an insurance adjuster, how to handle an agreement and what to do if an insurance company doesn't respond or has a shady behavior.