In today’s environment, law firms are necessary to develop more innovative strategies to deliver top-quality legal services at cost-effective prices. Even the insurance companies have teams of lawyers that evaluate your injury claim right away. So, it is essential that you retain a lawyer immediately if you are injured in any motor accident in order to claim insurance.
Here are some steps and advice to help you claim insurance and focus on recovery when encountered with a motor accident.
- Get medical help
Being involved in a motor accident, the first thing to do is relax and assess your physical condition. If the accident is serious request an ambulance. If you’re seriously injured, try not to move, and wait for emergency personnel. A delay in seeking medical treatment can cause you serious injury, even death. If anyone’s injured, get on the phone with emergency services or call for help. Move to the side of the road and get yourself to safety.
- Call 911 and file a police report immediately
Calling the police is important and it’s legally required. Even before filing a claim with your insurer, the first thing they will ask you for a copy of the police report to help with the claims process. The other purpose of calling 911 is that policemen are trained in the procedure and if there is an issue on the accident, then the police may generate some traffic citations in their police report and take some statements of the witnesses. A police report will include all the critical information about your accident.
- Document the accident with all available information
At the accident scene, you should exchange information with the drivers of the other vehicles involved. Include the name of the driver, his license number, even his insurance information, names and contact information of witnesses, vehicle information as well. Keep documentation in order related to the accident. From potential witnesses get multiple phone numbers, their address details as you would need a way to contact them if there is a chance of litigation. Record statements from all parties involved and witnesses. This will be used as additional proof of evidence in your favour.
- Take ample photographs
After the accident, at the scene make sure to take ample photographs of the accident scene with the help of someone. It must include photographs of your vehicle from different angles, the damages done to your vehicle and even the license plate of the car which has done the accident. These pictures will act as a piece of important evidence during your claiming process. They are highly probative and compelling evidence and the insurer will be able to support the claim.
- Do not make any statements on the scene or to Insurance companies
Be aware of not to make any statements which will act in favour of others. If policemen ask about the incident stick to a short, factual recitation of what occurred. Furthermore, you can even take help from law advice to seek legal representation, before giving any statement to insurance companies. To get more information about a good legal company to represent you, click here.
- Keep track of bills and expenses associated with the accident
Keep a file with all bills you have incurred as a result of the accident as they may be recoverable in a personal injury action. Even list any wages you have lost as a result of the accident. Keeping everything organized will prepare you if your accident results in a personal injury lawsuit.
- Consult an experienced lawyer or law firm
Consulting a qualified attorney regarding a potential lawsuit can give you a qualified opinion to deliver proper action in considering a claim. They will work to ensure that you are compensated to the full extent of the law, which will include all the criteria of damages for pain, suffering and losses. They will be able to help you and can tell you exactly what they will need to in order to process your claim.