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How to File an Auto Accident Claim

In states where there is no fault, your insurance company will pay for medical care and lost wages regardless of who is responsible for the incident. They’ll also want to gather evidence and review documents (photos, witness testimonies, medical records, and expense reports).

The amount you receive will depend on the severity of injuries and expenses. This article will walk you through the steps of making a claim in the event of an auto accident.


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If you’re involved in a car accident it’s crucial to report the accident away. In many states, you’ll need make this report to the local police department, county sheriff, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles.

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

It’s also a good idea to get the other driver’s details including their name as well as the insurance company. If you can, also request a copy of their driver’s license and car registration.

You should also write down what you saw and the events that occurred. If you don’t record what happened, you could be held accountable for injuries or damages that are later discovered. If you do not report the incident, your insurance company may refuse to cover any damages caused by it. You can find out whether your policy requires an accident report by reviewing your policy or by contacting your agent.

Get Medical Attention

One of the first things you need do after a car accident is to seek medical attention so that you can be assessed for injuries. You can avoid future complications by seeing your doctor as soon as you can. It could also help your case when negotiating with the insurance company.

If possible, it’s best to visit a hospital emergency room after an accident. Hospitals have access to top-notch surgeons, doctors, and medical equipment. Insurance companies and defense lawyers might find it difficult to limit the severity of injuries that are treated in a hospital.

Injuries in car accidents can range from minor bruising up to severe internal injuries like the traumatic brain injury and paralysis. Even if the symptoms, like stiffness and pain don’t appear immediately it’s crucial to for a medical appointment. These medical records will be essential evidence to prove your claim that you suffered injuries related to your injury as a result of the crash.

Our Denver car accident lawyers will utilize the medical records to create solid evidence that the actions of the driver responsible for the accident caused your injuries and that you are entitled to fair compensation for your losses.

Take Pictures

Take pictures of the accident scene as soon as you can, and ideally before the police arrive. If you are able capture photos of the damage on each vehicle from different angles. If you can, take close-up shots of the vehicles and other evidence (such shattered glasses or airbags deployed). If you’re unable to capture close-ups of the vehicles put an object like a penny in the photo to give it some scale. You can also snap pictures without or with flash to reveal the hidden details.

Also, you should take photographs of any injuries that you suffered in the accident. These photos will provide valuable evidence later on. The bruising and cuts will fade over time. In addition, it’s recommended to take pictures of any other pertinent details of the accident as you can (such as traffic signals, street signs or weather conditions, as well as road debris) These details can help paint a more detailed picture of what happened.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance company is vital, whether or not you intend to file a claim in the event of a car crash. You might be required to do so by your policy, but even if you’re not the case, your lawyer will need the details of your losses in order to back up your claim (such as repair costs and medical bills).

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

While the most important thing you don’t want to do after a car crash is argue with insurance companies it is vital to remain calm. Any statements you make while you are emotional can be used to your disadvantage later on. It’s best to let an attorney manage the negotiations. They will be able to make sure you don’t say anything that can later be used against you.

Contact an attorney

An experienced attorney can assist you with navigating the insurance company and negotiate an appropriate settlement. They will review your medical records and bills and frequently consult with a medical professional to provide an opinion regarding the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies won’t give the appropriate amount if they aren’t provided with complete and accurate documents.

You may be entitled non-economic damages like pain and suffering, in addition to the economic loss. If the court concludes that the other driver acted with gross negligence, recklessness or malice the court may award punitive damages.

If the driver who was at fault fled the scene, you’ll need to report that to the police. You can also obtain an exact copy of a crash report at the police precinct or online. This will be required to file a lawsuit or a no-fault lawsuit. New York has very specific laws that govern auto accidents and these rules are best explained by a knowledgeable attorney.