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Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states with no-fault insurance you could have to sue the driver in a small claims court. You should consider hiring an experienced accident lawyer before making this decision.

The insurance company of the other party will investigate your claim and determine liability for the collision. They will then award you compensation for your injuries and damage as well as for damages such as pain and suffering. The process usually consists of the following steps.

Gathering Information

Take photos of the vehicles involved in the crash. Include any injuries and damages. These photos can be used to show that the accident took place in the manner you described it. Take pictures of the accident site, including any skidmarks, debris or skid marks.

It is also important to obtain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of eyewitnesses, if possible. They may be able to be later called in to testify about the circumstances of the accident and who was responsible. In certain cases, eyewitness testimony is the most important evidence in a lawsuit.


Note down the insurance details of all the parties involved in the wreck. You’ll need to know the name of the insurance company along with the policy number and the contact information along with the license plate number and driver’s name. It is important to get this information as soon as you can could avoid confusion or disputes later on.

Documentation of medical treatment and expenses could be useful to any claim. Keep receipts for prescription drugs and other expenses related to the accident. This could be helpful in proving the damages you claim. If you’re unable to work because of an injury, you must keep the record of any wages lost.

Claim Form

It is recommended to start a claim as quickly following the accident as when you are able to. This gives the insurance company the chance to review all of your documents and begin work. It also ensures that your claim meets the deadlines set by New York law.

If you are filing a car insurance claim it is necessary to provide details of the incident and any injuries you suffered due to it. The information you provide will be used to calculate your damages which could include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, as well as pain and suffering.

The insurance company will also have to determine the fault, in the event of a need. It is helpful to have the final police report for this purpose. It is essential to keep in mind that determining the cause of the crash is not always an easy task. Even if you believe the accident was your fault in some cases, other factors may have contributed. For instance, New York is a state that is a comparative fault one meaning that your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault you have.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. You should have your attorney with you during your conversation with the adjuster. They can provide an objective perspective and assist you to negotiate an acceptable settlement. If you’re unable agree on a settlement that’s acceptable, you might have be in court to get the money that you are entitled to.

Examining the damages

They will be keen to visit the scene of the accident to witness what they can. They will likely interview you and other people involved in a crash and speak with witnesses, and look over your vehicle. They will also look over your medical records, expenses, and lost wages to get a clearer picture of the accident’s impact on you.

While you wait for the police to arrive Take pictures with your cell phone. This will help you document skid marks, the locations of both vehicles and the extent of damage, as well as the presence of any obstructions.

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

In the heat of the circumstances, it could be tempting to blame another driver. But, this could backfire. Angry remarks could be used against you in court and you should be calm and don’t admit any fault or guilt at the scene of the accident. auto accident attorney pennsylvania is also a good idea to gather the names and contact numbers of eyewitnesses who witnessed the collision, if possible.

Negotiating the Settlement

Negotiating the settlement of a car accident claim can be difficult and a bit frustrating, especially when you’re dealing with the cost of medical bills and lost wages. Employing an experienced attorney to negotiate on behalf of you with the insurance company can make the process easier. An attorney can better know the law, calculate the total amount of damages you have suffered, and know what to expect in settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step is to compose a demand letter that includes the amount you want to pay for your medical expenses and other injuries. Your attorney can help in compiling the information, and include any supporting documents that support your request. If you submitted photos of your vehicle or any injuries that were particularly serious to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer will mention them during negotiations. In addition, your attorney will remind the adjuster of your suffering and damages that are based on the emotional distress and mental anxiety you’ve experienced as a result of the accident.

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