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How to File an Auto Accident Claim In states that have no fault your insurance company will cover the cost of medical treatment and lost wages regardless of who is at fault for the incident. They'll also need to look over documents and gather evidence (photos witness testimony, medical records and expense reports). The amount you receive depends on the severity of injuries and expenses. This article will help you understand the steps to file an auto accident claim. Report the Accident It's essential to report a crash immediately. In several states, you'll need to do this to the local police department, county sheriff, state police or Department of Motor Vehicles. If you can, snap photos of the crash scene. This can help you recall what happened and could be beneficial for your insurance claim. For instance, pictures can show skid marks, damage to vehicles or weather conditions, among other important details. It's also a good idea to obtain the other driver's information including their name as well as the insurance company. If you are able, also request a copy of their driver's licence and car registration. It's also important to record your personal account of the accident as well as what you saw and what happened. Remember that memory isn't always reliable If you don't write down what happened then you could be at fault for damages or injuries that are not apparent later on. If you fail to report the incident the insurance company could refuse to cover any damages caused by it. Check your policy or contact your agent to find out if you need to file an accident report. Get Medical Attention One of the first things you need do following a car crash is to seek medical attention and be examined for injuries. You can avoid future complications by visiting an expert as soon as possible. It could also help your case when you negotiate with the insurance company. If auto accident lawsuit worcester can, it's best to go to the emergency room of a hospital following an accident. This is because hospitals have access to the most highly skilled surgeons, doctors, and medical supplies. It isn't easy for insurance companies and defense attorneys to deny injuries sustained at hospitals. Car accidents can result in injuries that range from minor bruising, to serious internal injuries like the traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Even if you do not feel any symptoms at first such as pain or stiffness it is essential to consult a physician. The medical records will serve as critical evidence in proving your claim that you sustained injury-related injuries as a result of the crash. Our Denver car accident attorneys will use these records to present a convincing argument that the actions of the at-fault driver caused your injuries, and that you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. Take Photos Take photos of the scene of the accident as soon as possible, but ideally before police arrive. If you are able capture images of the damage to each vehicle from various angles. It is also important to take close-up pictures of the vehicles and any other evidence that is crucial (such as broken glass or airbags that have been deployed) as long as you are able do so. If you aren't able to take close-ups of the vehicles, place an object such as a penny in the photo to give it a scale. It's also beneficial to shoot photos with and without a flash, since different lighting conditions might reveal some hidden details. You should also take pictures of any injuries that you suffered in the accident. The photos will serve as valuable evidence later on. The bruising and cuts will fade over time. Also, it's a good idea to capture as many other relevant details of the accident as possible (such as traffic lights, street signs or weather conditions, as well as road debris) because these details could help paint a more detailed picture of what transpired. Contact Your Insurance Company No matter if you're planning to file a car crash claim, it's important to contact your insurance company as quickly as you can. Your policy may require you to make this call, and even in the event that it isn't, your attorney will require proof of your losses (like medical charges and repair costs) to prove your claim. Luna suggests that you take all relevant information from 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, the address, number, and details about their car insurance (company or policy numbers). If witnesses are present, obtain their names and numbers. It's crucial to remain calm even when the last thing you'd want to do after a car accident is to fight with insurance companies. Any 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 handle negotiations. They can make sure that you don't say anything that could be later used against you. Contact an attorney A seasoned attorney can assist you in negotiations with the insurance company in order to get a fair settlement. They will go over your medical records and bills and will often consult with a physician to provide an opinion regarding the extent of your injuries. If you fail to provide them with complete and accurate evidence, they will not give you a fair estimate. In addition to pursuing economic losses, including medical bills and lost wages, you could also be entitled to non-economic damages for suffering and pain. If the other driver was found to have acted with a degree of gross recklessness or negligence the court could award additional compensation, which is known as punitive damages. If the at-fault driver fled the scene, you will have to report it to the police. You can also request a copy of a crash report from the precinct, or online. This will be required to start a lawsuit or file a no-fault lawsuit. New York has specific laws that regulate auto accidents. An experienced attorney will explain these rules.