Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that haven't adopted no-fault insurance, you may be required to sue another driver in small claims court. Before taking this step, you should consult with an experienced accident lawyer.

The insurance company for the other party will investigate your claim to determine liability for the collision and compensate you for your injuries, car damage, and other losses, such as pain and suffering. The process usually consists of the following steps.

Gathering Information

If you are able to do so at the site of the accident while you are still in a safe place and secure, take photographs of all 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've described. Photograph the site of the accident, including any skidmarks or other debris.

It is also crucial to collect the names, addresses and telephone numbers of eyewitnesses, when possible. They could be later able to testify about what happened and who was accountable. In certain instances, eyewitness testimony can be the most valuable piece of evidence in a case.

Make note of the insurance details of all the parties involved in the accident. You'll need the insurance company name as well as the policy number and contact information, as well as the driver's name and license plate number. These details should be obtained immediately to avoid doubts or disputes later.

Documentation of medical treatment and expenses could be valuable to any claim. Keeping receipts for prescription pain medications and other expenses incurred as a result of the crash could be helpful in proving claims for damages in the claim. Also, if not able to work due to the injuries you sustained, it is important to keep an eye on your lost wages.

Filing the Claim

If you're able to do so it's recommended to make your claim as soon as possible after the auto accident attorney. This allows the insurer to examine your documents and get started. This will ensure that you meet the New York law deadlines for filing your claim.

You'll have to provide information regarding the incident including any injuries that you suffered. This information will be used to calculate your damages, which may include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, as well as pain and suffering.

The insurance company will have to determine fault when necessary. It is beneficial to have the final police report for this purpose. However, it is important to keep in mind that determining fault isn't always straightforward. In some cases, even if you think the accident was your fault, other factors may have contributed to the crash. For example, New York is a comparative fault state meaning that your losses will be reduced according to the percentage of fault you have.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. It's a good idea have your lawyer with you when you speak to the adjuster. They can provide a neutral perspective and help you to negotiate an acceptable settlement. If you are unable to reach an acceptable settlement, it may be necessary to go to court to get the amount you're due.

Examining the damage

They'll want to visit the scene of the accident to see for themselves. They will likely interview you and other people who were involved in the collision and talk to witnesses and examine your vehicles. They will also scrutinize your medical records, Auto accident lawsuits expenses, and lost wages in order to have a better understanding of the impact of the crash on you.

While you wait for police to arrive at the scene Try taking pictures using your mobile phone. This will help document skid marks, the locations of both vehicles and the degree of damage, as well as the presence of any obstructions.

During this time it is recommended to share contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident, if safe to do this. Note down the name, address, phone number, insurance company's policy number, and driver's license information of each driver. Note the vehicle's model year, make and license plate.

It may be tempting to blame another driver in the midst of a crisis but this could end up backfiring. Keep your cool and avoid admitting fault or guilt. If possible, it's good idea to gather the names and phone numbers of anyone who witnessed the collision.

Negotiating the Settlement

Negotiating a settlement in the event of an Auto Accident Lawsuits in the car can be stressful, especially when you have to pay medical bills and loss of income. Fortunately you can get the process expedited by hiring an experienced lawyer to handle all negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf. An attorney will have a greater knowledge of the law and how to calculate your total loss and damages, and what to expect from an insurance company during settlement negotiations.

The first step is to draft a demand letter that includes the amount you want to pay for your medical expenses and other injuries. Your lawyer can assist you create this list and include any other documents to support your request. If you provided photos of your car or injuries which were particularly serious to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer would mention them during negotiations. In addition, your attorney will remind the insurance adjuster of your pain and damages, Auto Accident Lawsuits which are based on the emotional distress and mental anguish you have suffered because of the accident.

Insurance companies will consider your claim more seriously if you employ an attorney to negotiate an agreement on behalf of you. They will also offer a greater settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer an acceptable settlement, your lawyer will start a lawsuit and advocate for you in court.