Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that have not adopted no-fault insurance, you could need to sue the other driver in small claims court. It is recommended to hire an experienced accident lawyer before making this decision.

The insurance company of the other side will examine your claim to determine the liability for the collision and compensate you for your injuries, car damage and losses such as pain and suffering. The process usually involves the following steps:

Gathering Information

If you're able to do so at the scene of the crash, while you are still in a safe place you should take photos of all vehicles involved in the crash, including the damage and any injuries that were sustained. These photographs can help verify that the accident occurred in the manner you described it. Also, take pictures of the accident scene itself and Auto Accident any skid marks or other debris that are present.

It is also crucial to obtain the names, addresses and phone numbers of eyewitnesses if possible. They may be able later to testify about what transpired and who was accountable. In certain instances, eyewitness testimony is the most valuable evidence in a lawsuit.

Get the insurance information of all parties involved in the auto accident lawsuit. You'll need to know the name of the insurance company, the policy number, and the contact information along with the license plate number and driver's name. This information should be obtained as soon as you can to avoid confusion or disputes later on.

Documentation of medical bills and treatment can also be very valuable for claims. Keep receipts of prescription medication and other expenses resulted from the accident. This can be used to support the damages you claim. If you are not able to work due to injuries, it's essential to keep an eye on your lost wages.

Filing the Claim

If you are able to do so it's recommended to file your claim as soon as possible following the incident. This gives the insurance company an chance to review all of your documents and then get to work. It will also ensure that your claim is within the deadlines stipulated by New York law.

You'll have to provide information regarding the incident and any injuries you may have sustained. The information you provide will be used to calculate damages. This includes the amount of compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, damage to property, and pain and discomfort.

The insurance company will also need to determine fault, if necessary. The final police report may serve as a reference point. It is crucial to remember that determining fault isn't always an easy task. In some instances, even if you think the accident was your fault, other factors might be responsible for it. For instance, New York is a state that is a comparative fault one, which means that your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault you have.

The insurance company will assign an adjuster for cases. It is important to have your attorney with you when you speak to the adjuster. They can provide an impartial view and assist you negotiate an acceptable settlement. If you're unable come to a settlement that is acceptable, you might have be in court to get the money that you are entitled to.

Inspecting for Damages

They will be keen to visit the scene of the accident to witness for themselves. They'll likely interview you as well as other people involved in the crash, talk with witnesses and inspect your vehicles. They will also examine your medical records, expenses and lost wages to provide an understanding of how the accident affected you.

While you wait for police to arrive Take pictures with your cell phone. This will allow you to document skid marks, the location of both cars, the severity of damage, and the presence of any obstructions.

If it's safe, you can exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the auto accident law firm. Jot down each person's name address, phone number, address and the insurance company's policy numbers, and driver's license information. Note the make year, year and license plate.

It's tempting to blame another driver in the midst of a crisis, but this can backfire. Keep your cool and don't admit fault or guilt. It is also an ideal idea to record the names and numbers of witnesses who witnessed the accident, if it is possible.

Negotiating the Settlement

Settlement negotiations for an auto accident can be stressful, particularly when you have to pay medical bills and lost income. Fortunately it is possible to speeded by hiring an experienced lawyer to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. An lawyer will have a better knowledge of the law and the method of calculating your total losses and damages and what to expect from an insurance company in settlement negotiations.

The first step in the settlement process is writing an offer letter that contains your request for the amount that you require to cover your injuries and expenses. Your lawyer can assist you in compiling this information and include any documents that support your demand. If you sent photos of your car or other injuries that were particularly serious to the insurance adjuster, your lawyer would make mention of them during negotiations. Additionally, your lawyer will remind the adjuster of your pain and damages that are based on the mental and emotional anxiety you've experienced as a result of the accident.

Insurance companies will take your claim more seriously if hire an attorney to negotiate the settlement on behalf of you. They will also offer a greater settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will start a lawsuit and represent you in court.