Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that have not adopted no-fault insurance, you may be required to sue another driver in a small claims court. You should think about hiring an experienced accident lawyer prior to taking this step.

The other party's insurance provider will investigate your claim to determine liability for the collision and provide compensation 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're able do so at the scene of the westmont auto accident lawyer while you are still in a safe place and secure, take photographs of all vehicles involved in the rochester auto accident lawsuit including the damage, as well as any injuries that may have occurred. These photos will help prove that the accident happened in the manner you described. In addition, take pictures of the accident scene itself, including any skid marks or other debris that may be present.

It is also essential to get the names, addresses and telephone numbers of witnesses, if possible. They might later be able to testify as to what happened and who is responsible. In some instances, eyewitness testimony is the most reliable evidence in a lawsuit.

Note down the insurance details of everyone who were involved in the accident. You will require the insurance company's name, policy number and contact information, as well as the driver's name and license plate number. These details should be obtained in the earliest time possible to avoid doubts or disputes later.

Documentation of medical expenses and treatment could be extremely helpful in a claim. Keep receipts of prescription medication and other expenses related to the accident. This can help in proving the damages you claim. If you're unable to work due to an injury, you must keep an eye on any lost wages.

Filing the Claim

If you have the ability to file a claim you should file your claim as soon as possible after the incident. This gives the insurer the chance to look over all your documents and get to work. It also ensures that your claim is in compliance with the deadlines stipulated by New York law.

You'll need to provide specifics regarding the incident including any injuries you sustained. This information is used to calculate damages, such as compensation for medical expenses lost wages, damage to property as well as pain and discomfort.

The insurance company will also need to determine fault, when necessary. The final police report can be helpful for this. However, it is important to keep in mind that determining fault is not always easy. Even if you believe the accident was your fault in some circumstances, other factors could have contributed. For example, New York is a state of comparative fault meaning that your damages will be diminished by your percentage of 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 offer a neutral perspective and help you to negotiate a fair settlement. If you're not able to find a solution that is acceptable, you might have to go to court to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Examining the damages

The insurance company may want to visit the scene of the crash to observe the scene for themselves. They will likely interview you and the other parties who were involved in the collision and speak with witnesses, and look over your vehicle. They will also review your medical records, expense reports, and lost wages to get a clearer picture of the effect that the accident had on you.

While you are waiting for the police to arrive, take photos 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, as well as the presence of any obstructions.

In this period it is recommended to exchange insurance and contact information with other drivers involved in your accident, if safe to do so. Note down the names, addresses, phone number, insurance company's policy number, and driver's license information of each driver. Note the make year, year, and license plate number.

It may be tempting to point fingers at another driver in the midst of a crisis but this could end up backfiring. The words you say can be used against you in court and you should be calm and do not admit to any guilt or fault at the scene of the incident. If you can, it's a good idea to gather the names and contact numbers of witnesses who witnessed the collision.

Negotiating the Settlement

The process of negotiating the settlement of a car crash claim can be difficult and frustrating, especially if you're dealing with the cost of medical bills and lost wages. Engaging an experienced lawyer to negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company will speed up the process. An lawyer will better comprehend the law, calculate your total damages and also know what to expect in settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step in the settlement process is to draft a demand letter that includes your demand for the amount you need to cover your injury and expenses. Your lawyer can help you in compiling this information, and include any relevant documents to support your demand. If you provided photos of your car or other injuries that were especially severe to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer would make mention of them during negotiations. Your lawyer will also remind the adjuster about your pain and suffering damages. These are based on emotional distress and mental agony you've experienced because of the Williamsport Auto accident law firm.

If you engage a lawyer to negotiate a settlement on your behalf insurance companies take claims much more seriously and generally offer higher settlements. Your lawyer will bring a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement.