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How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states that have no-fault insurances, your insurer will cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who’s at fault for an accident. They’ll also need to gather evidence and review documents (photos, witness testimonies medical records, as well as expense reports).

The amount of compensation you receive is contingent on the extent of your injuries and the cost of your injuries. This article will walk you through the steps of filing an auto accident claim.

Report the Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident, it’s important to report the crash right immediately. In many states, this is carried out by local police, county sheriffs, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you can, snap photos of the crash scene. This will help you remember what happened and could be useful for your insurance claim. For instance, photos could show skid marks, vehicle damage, weather conditions and other important details.

It’s also a good idea to get the other driver’s details, including their name and insurance company. It is also advisable to request their driver’s licence and car registration, if you can.

It’s also important to write down your own report of the incident in detail, including what you witnessed and what transpired. If you don’t record the incident, you could be held liable for injuries or damage that later becomes apparent. If you don’t inform your insurance company, they could refuse to cover any damages that result from the accident. You should check your policy or talk to your agent to determine whether you have to file an accident report.

auto accident law firm mountain view of the first things you must do following a car collision is seek medical attention to be examined for injuries. You can stay clear of future complications by visiting a doctor as quickly as you can. It will also help your case when you negotiate with the insurance company.

If you can, it is best to visit a emergency room at a hospital after an accident. This is because hospitals have access to top surgeons, doctors and medical equipment. It can be challenging for insurance companies and defense lawyers to downplay injuries treated at a hospital.

Car accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor bruising, up to severe internal injuries such as the traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Even if certain symptoms, such as stiffness and pain do not show up right away, it’s important to go see a doctor. These records will be essential in proving you’ve suffered injuries as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will use these records to build a solid case that the actions of the motorist at fault caused your injuries and that you are entitled to fair compensation for your injuries.

Take Photos

Take pictures of the scene of the accident as fast as you can, ideally before the police arrive. If you are able, capture all the damaged vehicles from various vantage points. It is also essential to capture closeup photos of the vehicles as well as any other evidence that could be crucial (such as shattered glass or deployed airbags) in the event that you are able to do this. If you aren’t able to take close-ups of the vehicle put an object like a penny inside the photo to give it scale. It is also helpful to take pictures with and without flash as different lighting conditions may reveal the hidden details.

It’s also recommended to capture any injuries you suffered in the crash. Bruises, cuts and scrapes will fade with time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later. It’s also recommended to snap pictures of other things that relate to the incident (such as traffic signals, road signs, weather conditions, and road debris) because they can help you get a better understanding of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Whether or not you plan to file a claim, it’s crucial to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. You might be required to do so according to your policy, however even if you’re not the case, your lawyer will need evidence of your losses to back up your claim (such as repairs and medical bills).

Luna suggests that you collect all relevant information on the scene. This includes details about your vehicle as well as any other drivers involved. Ask to see the insurance card of the other driver and ensure you have their name address, number, and address as well as the details of their car insurance (company and policy number). If there are witnesses, try to obtain their names and contact numbers as well.

While the first thing you’ll want to do following a car accident is fight with insurance companies, it’s very important to remain calm. The statements you make when you’re emotional can be used to your disadvantage in the future. This is why it’s best to have an attorney manage negotiations. They can make sure that you do not say anything that could be used against you in the future.

Contact an Attorney


An experienced lawyer can assist you with navigating the insurance company and get an appropriate settlement. They will examine your medical bills and other records and will often consult with a physician to provide an opinion as to the full extent of your injuries. Insurance companies are not able to give you a fair price if they have not been provided with complete and accurate documentation.

You may be entitled to non-economic damages like suffering and pain, in addition to the economic losses. If the other driver was found to have acted with gross recklessness or negligence the court can award additional compensation, known as punitive damages.

If the at-fault driver fled the scene, you will have to report the incident to the police. You can also get an original copy of the crash report from the precinct or on the internet. You will need this to file a no-fault claim or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that govern auto accidents. These laws are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.