Car accident claims can be difficult to handle. You may be dealing with injuries, damage to your vehicle and other disruptions to your life. However, filing claims for car accidents does not have to be an added headache. Below, find a concise guide to navigating a car accident claim.
Immediate Steps to Take
Even if you feel fine at the scene of an accident, always seek medical attention. Certain injuries may not appear immediately and a medical report can be used as evidence in your claim. You should also request an accident report from law enforcement for use in your claim.
Regardless of who was at fault in the accident, you will likely be working with the insurer of the other driver and not the actual driver. This means that gathering information at the scene of the accident is imperative, including the name, contact information of the other driver, the driver’s insurer, witnesses and any law enforcement that may arrive at the scene. It is also a good idea to take pictures of the scene, including hazardous road conditions, signage, the condition of both vehicles and the license plates of both vehicles.
Making a Claim
As soon as you can, you should hire a lawyer. Choosing a professional D.C. car accident lawyer for your case can ensure that you have the best chance at recouping losses.
Remember, when a car accident claim is filed, you are mainly dealing with the insurer, not the driver. Refrain from speaking with insurers or others and allow lawyers to handle communications. Your lawyer should be the one to file the case.
Collecting Damages
There are certain damages you may be entitled to collect, depending on the nature of your claim. If you are making a claim for property damage, you may be able to collect vehicle damage, personal property damage (for items in the car), car rental fees and other out-of-pocket expenses pertaining to the accident.
If you are injured in the accident, you may be entitled to additional reimbursement as well as the damages above. More visible, long-term injuries likely mean more compensation, with settlements ranging from thousands to millions of dollars.
Taking the appropriate steps after a car accident can mean the difference between quickly resolving a case and dealing with a drawn-out settlement process. Keep in mind that while these steps can make the process easier, there are many moving parts within your case that can affect the outcome. Gathering information at the scene and contacting a lawyer can reduce some of the uncertainty involved in a car accident claim.
Contact an Attorney Today
Having a skilled attorney can ensure that your car accident claim is managed properly. An attorney with experience in car accident claims can take the stress off of you by handling the paperwork and negotiation, allowing you to focus on rehabilitation and moving on from the accident. Gelb & Gelb, P.C. is experienced in this area of law and can help you get the compensation you deserve. We understand your feelings and frustrations and want to get you back on the road as soon as possible. Contact our attorneys today to seek the compensation you are owed!
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