How to Document a
motor vehicle accident law firms Vehicle Claim
A motor vehicle claim is the process of filing a report with your insurance company after an accident. The report will enable them to check your coverage and determine how much they will pay for the damages.
You'll need to start your claim as soon as you can after the accident. Make sure you have an official copy of the police report as well as your insurance card or declarations page available.
What to Do After an Accident
As soon as you notice a collision take photos and video from different angles to capture the accident. The scene may change rapidly, witnesses could leave and evidence could disappear.
If possible, record all driver's names as well as their phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information. Note the year model, year, and make of each vehicle, as well as any other important information such damage or license plate number.
Inquiring each driver if they were wearing seatbelts and if they had passengers along with them, and noting their age and gender is also useful. Often, injuries in motor vehicle accident lawyers (
Wayranks.com) vehicle accidents don't become apparent until a day or two after the accident. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately even if it appears that you're not hurt.
If you are able, move the vehicle out of traffic to avoid further damage or injury. Set up flares and reflective emergency triangles as well to stop other motorists from hitting you.
Be sure to report the accident to the police, if possible. Even if it appears minor, it's important to report it to police. The other driver could later deny that the incident occurred and their insurance provider might refuse to cover your claim.
Getting Started
An insurance claim is the process of letting your insurer know about a loss and asking them to pay for it. This can include paying for damage to a car or covering medical expenses in the event of an accident.
Be sure to gather all the relevant information prior to filing your claim. This includes the contact information of each person affected, receipts for any damaged personal property, as well as any medical bills. Also, you should have an exact copy of the accident report and photographs of any damages.
Your insurance company will assign a claim adjuster who will be the person in charge of your claim. They will go through all the information you've gave them immediately following the accident, and conduct an investigation of their own. This will help them determine the root of the accident and determine who was at fault.
Once they have a full understanding of what happened the adjuster will assess the damage to your vehicle. You are welcome to attend the inspection, or provide a list with repair estimates from local auto shops or contractors.
If the insurance company is of the opinion that the damage to your vehicle is too costly to fix the damage, they will mail you an estimate of the value of your car. This will allow you to purchase a new car or use it to pay for the remaining lease or loan payment. If you submit a claim, your insurance premiums could rise. Do everything you can to show that the incident wasn't your fault.
Documenting the incident
Documenting an accident is crucial in the event that you're involved. Insurance companies are looking for documents to back up claims made by you or others. In reality the evidence collected and documented could determine the outcome of a case. It's important to have all of the information whether it's photographs of the scene of an accident witnesses' statements, or medical records showing consistent treatment.
At the time of the accident, be sure to write down the driver's license number and the information about the vehicle. Take down the names and contact details of any witnesses. If you are able, take pictures or create an outline of the accident scene. This will allow you to see what happened at the scene of the crash, and what caused it.
Documentation should also include information about the accident. This includes the location, direction of travel, and any pertinent landmarks. Include an explanation of the injuries that were suffered. It's also important to note any damage and how it happened. It is crucial to record the incident because memories can fade over time, and stories can change. It's a great way to tell the truth. Even if you're at fault Documenting the facts will aid in determining how much responsibility is due to your account.
Need Help
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the police report has been filed. Many insurers now let you make a claim using your phone or tablet app. You should also request that your insurance company send you an amount for the value of your car. This will help you in the event that your vehicle is "totaled" and you are planning to purchase a brand new one. If you're still carrying a loan on your current vehicle and it is paid off, it will pay the balance or reduce your monthly payment.
Your representative will ask you a series of questions, and send you documents to complete. It is important to provide the information accurately and be honest at all times. If you are found not to have provided exact information, it could make your case more difficult.
If you are hurt in an accident, make an appointment with your doctor right away to make sure that your bones are set correctly and that any other injuries are recorded for the claim process. If you visit your doctor as soon as possible, you can also ensure that medical costs are covered by accident-related no-fault benefits.
You'll need to file a lawsuit in the event that your insurance provider rejects your claim for no fault, or if you intend to seek compensation for pain and suffering, or other damages. If you decide to file a lawsuit it is advisable to have an experienced lawyer by your side.