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How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states where there is no fault your insurance company will cover the cost of medical treatment and lost wages regardless of who was responsible for the incident. They’ll also need to gather evidence and read documents (photos witnesses’ testimony, photos medical records, photos, and expense reports).

The amount of compensation that you receive depends on the severity of your injuries and the cost of your injuries. This article will guide you through the steps for filing an auto accident claim.

Report the Accident

It is crucial to report a car crash immediately. In many states, this is carried out by local police, county sheriffs, state police, or Department of Motor Vehicles.

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

It’s also a good idea to collect the other driver’s details, including their name and insurance company. If you are able, also ask to see their driver’s license and car registration.

It is also important to record what you saw and the events that occurred. Remember that memory is not reliable and if you fail to note what happened it could leave you at fault for damages or injuries that are not apparent later on. If you fail to notify your insurance company, they could decline to pay for damages resulting from the accident. You can determine if your policy requires a report of an accident by examining your policy or calling your agent.

Seek medical attention

One of the first things you need to do following a car crash is to seek medical attention so that you can be examined for injuries. Making an appointment with a doctor as quickly as you can will help avoid any further complications and can strengthen your claim when it comes time to negotiate with the insurance company.

If possible, it’s best to visit a emergency room at a hospital after an accident. Hospitals have access top-quality surgeons, physicians and medical equipment. Insurance companies and defense lawyers might find it difficult to minimize injuries treated in a hospital.

Car accidents can cause injuries that range from minor bruising to serious internal injuries like paralysis or brain injury after a traumatic accident. Even if the symptoms, like stiffness and pain don’t manifest right away it is important to visit a doctor. These records will be essential in proving that you’ve sustained injuries in connection with the crash.

Our Denver car accident attorneys will utilize these records to build a solid case that the actions of the at-fault motorist caused your injuries and that you should be awarded fair damages for your injuries.

Take Pictures

Photograph the scene of the accident as quickly as possible, ideally before the police arrive. If you are able, take photos of the damaged vehicle from different angles. It is also crucial to get close-up images of the vehicles and any other critical evidence (such as broken glass or airbags deployed) in the event that you are able to do so. If you’re not able to get closeups, try placing an object, such as coins, into the photo to show scale. It is also helpful to shoot photos with and without flash as different lighting conditions could reveal the hidden details.

It is also important to take photos of any injuries you have sustained during the accident. Scrapes, bruises and cuts will fade over time, so the pictures can be used as evidence of your injuries later on. It’s also a good idea for you to take pictures of other aspects that may be relevant to the accident (such as road signs, traffic signals weather conditions, road debris) because they can aid in forming a more clear picture of what transpired.

Contact Your Insurance Company

If you are planning to file a car accident claim, it’s essential to contact your insurance company as soon as you can. You might be required to do so according to your policy, however even if not legally required, your attorney will need the details of your losses in order to back up your claim (such as repairs and medical bills).

Luna advises that you collect all relevant information regarding the scene. This includes details of your vehicle and any other drivers involved. You should ask for the other driver’s insurance card and ensure that you have their name address, number, and address, and car insurance details (company, policy number). If there are any witnesses, try to obtain their names and contact numbers as well.

While the most unintentional thing you’ll ever do after a car accident is argue with insurance firms it is vital to remain calm. If auto accident law firm decatur are emotional and make statements, they can be used against you later on in the process. It is recommended to let an attorney manage the negotiations. They can make sure that you don’t say anything that could be used against you in the future.

Contact an attorney


An experienced attorney can assist you with navigating the insurance company and negotiate an equitable settlement. They will go over the medical bills and records, and often consult with a physician to provide an opinion as to the full extent of your injuries. Insurance companies won’t offer you a fair amount if they aren’t supplied with full and accurate documentation.

In addition to pursuing economic losses, including medical bills and lost wages, you may be entitled to non-economic damages for pain and suffering. If the court finds that the other driver acted with gross negligence or recklessness the court may decide to award punitive damages.

If the driver who was at fault escaped the scene, you will have to report the incident to the police. You can also request an exact copy of a crash report from the police precinct or online. You’ll need this to submit a no-fault claim, or a liability lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that govern automobile accidents. These rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.