Car accidents can leave the victims with emotional distress, physical injuries, and property damage. Worse, victims are often left wondering what to do next. In this situation, it may be appropriate to consider filing a car accident claim or lawsuit.
Unfortunately, filing a car accident case isn’t easy. It requires a sober mind, focus, and knowledge of what to do and not to do. A slight mistake in filing such a case can negatively affect your compensation. Meaning you should be cautious when building the case.
This article provides practical tips for filing a case if you’re not at fault in a car accident. Keep reading to be enlightened.
- Notify The Authorities
Suppose you aren’t seriously injured, and you can move. Call the authorities immediately. If you can’t, someone else should handle the matter. Inform the police of your location, and describe the accident’s severity to help them prepare for the scene. It’s vital that you call the police instead of the other driver, especially if you’re not at fault. The police report will be a great anchor of a strong car accident case.
The police report includes information on how the accident happened and who’s at fault. The police will also cite errors and mistakes which led to the accident. The report will also include the names and contacts of witnesses, insurance information, weather conditions, and road signs.
- Gather Enough Evidence
After calling the police, get to work if your body allows you to. Talk to the witnesses and get their contact numbers if possible. Note and record road signs available at the scene, and note all road features. Remember to collect the other driver’s name, telephone number, address, and the car’s registration number. When collecting the evidence, especially the other driver’s information, avoid negotiating about who’s at fault since your words could be used against you.
Another vital information you must collect is the other driver’s insurance company, including the policy and telephone numbers. Remember to take pictures of both vehicles and the damage and injuries sustained. This way, you’ll have enough evidence to prove your claim before a court of law.
- Hire A Car Accident Lawyer
Hiring a car accident attorney is vital when filing an accident claim. You should never engage with any insurance company without a lawyer. Their expertise will help you build a strong case, enabling you to get as much compensation as possible. They’ll act on your behalf as you concentrate on physical and emotional healing.
Suppose you have to take the case to court. Your car accident lawyer will be there to represent you. They’ll fight tooth and nail to ensure you get justice. Professional car accident attorneys are familiar with and understand the tactics of insurance companies. They’re always ready for whatever the insurer presents.
- Seek Treatment
It’s imperative to seek medical treatment immediately after a car crash. Getting treated will not only help you get back to your feet health-wise but also help prove the severity of your injuries. Once you’re at the doctor’s office, honestly disclose every symptom you experience. This will enable the doctor to tailor the best treatment approach and determine the type of tests you should undergo.
It’s vital to understand that not all car injuries are evident immediately after the crash. The adrenaline rush usually covers injuries like internal bleeding and head trauma. Such injuries are severe health concerns that could turn fatal if the patient doesn’t receive the necessary treatment. That said, seek treatment as soon as possible since your doctor can only determine if you have any underlying injury requiring immediate attention.
Your treatment record plays a huge role when filing a car accident claim. It helps prove the severity of the injuries and how they interfere with your ability to work. The report will also help your lawyer develop a strong case based on lost wages, physical trauma, and emotional distress.
- Avoid Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Most car accident victims are afraid of losing insurance money. This leads to most accepting the first offer they’re provided with. However, this shouldn’t be the case. Insurance companies are profit-making organizations looking to make as much money as possible. They’ll try to lure you into accepting the fault and offering you as little as possible. Since you’ve already hired a car accident attorney, you should allow them to handle the issue to get a fair settlement and avoid any discussions surrounding the accident.
Conclusion
When you get involved in a car accident, you do not only have to deal with physical and emotional trauma; you also need to ensure you get compensated for property damage and personal injuries. At this point, you must file a strong car accident case to get a fair settlement.
Unfortunately, filing a car accident case isn’t a walk in the park. It involves difficulties that require professional help to overcome. Hire a reputable car accident attorney to help you navigate the process. Additionally, with the help of the above-discussed steps, tailoring a car accident case will be easy and stress-free.
