Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that have not adopted no-fault insurance, you might have to sue the other driver in small claims court. You should think about hiring an experienced accident lawyer before making this decision.

The other party's insurer will investigate your claim and determine liability for the collision. They will then award compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage, and also for losses such a pain and suffering. The process typically involves the following steps.

Gathering Information

If you're able to do so at the scene of the collision while it is safe, take pictures of all the vehicles involved in the auto accident lawsuits including the damage and any injuries that were sustained. Photographs can be used to prove that the crash took place as you've described. Also, take pictures of the accident scene itself including any skid marks or other debris which are present.

It is also crucial to get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of eyewitnesses if possible. They may be able testify later as to how the accident occurred and who was responsible. In certain cases, eyewitness testimony can be the most valuable piece of evidence in the case.

Get the insurance information of all those involved in the wreck. You will need the insurance company name as well as the policy number and contact information, along with the driver's name and license plate number. In the event that you can get this information as quickly as you can could avoid confusion or disputes later on.

Documentation of medical expenses and treatment could be extremely helpful to support claims. Keep receipts for prescription drugs and other expenses resulted from the accident. This can be used to support the damages you claim. If you are disabled from work because of the injuries you sustained, it is important to keep the track of your wages lost.

Claim Form

If you are able to file a claim you should submit your claim as quickly as you can after the incident. This gives the insurance company an opportunity to go through all of your documents and begin work. This will ensure that you are in compliance with the New York law deadlines for filing your claim.

You'll need to give details regarding the incident, including any injuries you may have sustained. This information will be used to calculate your damages which may include compensation for medical bills, lost wages property damage, and the suffering.

The insurance company will also have to determine fault should it be necessary. The final police report may be helpful in this regard. It is crucial to remember that determining the fault is not always an easy task. In some instances even if you believe the crash was your fault other factors might have contributed to the accident. New York, for example, is a state that has a comparative negligence system, which means that your damages are reduced according to the proportion of your fault.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. It's a good idea have your lawyer with you as you talk to the adjuster. They'll provide an objective view and help you negotiate an equitable settlement. If you're unable find a solution that is acceptable, you may have be in court to receive the money you are entitled to.

Inspecting the Damages

They'll be keen to visit the scene of the crash to see for themselves. They'll likely interview you and any other parties involved in a crash as well as interview witnesses and inspect your vehicle. They will also go through your medical records, your expenses and lost wages to get clear information about how the auto accident law firms affected you.

While you are waiting for the police to arrive, snap photographs with your mobile phone. This will allow you to document the skid marks and damage on both cars and also the exact location of the cars.

If it's safe you can exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the crash. Note down each person's name, address, telephone number and the insurance company's policy numbers and driver's licence information. Note the car's make year, make, and license plate number.

In the midst of a situation, it can be tempting to point the finger at another driver. However, this could backfire. Be calm and don't admit fault or guilt. It is also an ideal idea to record the names and contact numbers of witnesses who witnessed the auto accident attorneys, if they are able to.

Negotiating the Settlement

Negotiating a settlement for a car accident is stressful, particularly when you have to pay expenses for medical treatment and lost income. Hiring an experienced lawyer to negotiate on behalf of you with the insurance company can expedite the process. An lawyer will better comprehend the law, estimate the total amount of damages you have suffered and also know what to expect in settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step in the settlement process is writing your demand letter, which includes your demand for the amount you require to cover your injuries and expenses. Your lawyer can assist you to compile this information and include any other documentation that supports your request. If you submitted photos of your car or injuries that were particularly severe to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer would make mention of them during negotiations. Your attorney will also remind the adjuster about the damages you suffered due to pain and suffering. These are based on the emotional stress and mental agony that you've experienced because of the accident.

Insurance companies will consider your claim more seriously if hire an attorney to negotiate the settlement on behalf of you. They will also offer a higher settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer an equitable settlement, your lawyer will make a claim and fight for you in court.