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10 Auto Accident Settlement-Related Projects To Stretch Your Creativity
Tips For Filing a Car Accident Claim

In states that haven't adopted no-fault insurance, you could be required to sue another driver in small claims court. Before taking this step you should talk to an experienced accident lawyer.

The other party's insurance provider will examine your claim to determine the liability for the collision and provide compensation for your injuries, car damage, and other losses like pain and suffering. The process usually involves the following steps.

Gathering Information

Photograph the vehicles involved in the crash. Include any injuries or damage. Taking these photographs could help to prove that the incident was as you described it. Also, take pictures of the accident scene itself and any skid marks or debris that are visible.

It is also vital to get the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of eyewitnesses, if possible. They may be able later to testify as to what transpired and who was at fault. In some cases, eyewitness testimony can be the most important evidence in the case.

Note down the insurance information of all parties involved. You'll need the insurance company name along with the policy number, contact information, along with the driver's name and license plate number. In the event that you can get this information as quickly as possible could prevent any confusion or disputes later.

Documentation of medical expenses and treatment could be extremely helpful for claims. Maintaining receipts for prescription pain medication and other expenses incurred as a result of the accident can help prove the damages that are claimed in the claim. If you are unable work due to an injury, you should keep track of any lost wages.

Filing the Claim

If you're able to file a claim, it's best to submit your claim as quickly as possible following the accident. This gives the insurance company an chance to review all of your documents and then get to work. This ensures that you meet the New York law deadlines for filing your claim.

You'll need to provide specifics about the accident including any injuries you may have sustained. The information you provide will be used to calculate the amount of damages you've suffered, which could include reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages property damage, as well as pain and suffering.

If required, the insurance company will need to determine who is responsible. The final police report can be useful for this. It is important to remember that determining the cause of the crash isn't always an easy task. Even if you believe that the accident was your fault in a few circumstances, other factors could have contributed. For instance, New York is a state with a comparative fault which means that your damages will be diminished by the percentage of fault you have.


The insurance company will assign an adjuster for cases. You should have your attorney with you during your conversation with the adjuster. They can offer an impartial perspective and assist you negotiate a fair settlement. If you are unable to reach an acceptable settlement, it could be necessary to go to court to get the money you're entitled to.

Inspecting for Damages

They will want to go to the accident scene to see what they can. They'll likely interview you and the other parties involved in a crash, speak to eyewitnesses, and inspect your vehicle. They will also examine your medical records, expenses, and lost wages in order to get a clearer picture of the impact that the accident had on you.

While you wait for the police to arrive, snap pictures using your mobile phone. This will allow you to document the damage and skid marks on both vehicles as well as the exact location of the vehicles.

In this instance it is recommended to exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in your accident, if it is safe to do so. Note down the name of each person and address, as well as their phone number and the insurance company's policy numbers and driver's licence information. Also note the car's model year, year, and license plate number.

In the heat of the circumstances, it could be tempting to blame another driver. But, this could backfire. The words you say can be used against you in court, so keep your cool and do not admit to any guilt or blame at the scene of the incident. If possible, it's a good idea to keep the names and telephone numbers of any witnesses who witnessed the collision.

Negotiating the Settlement

Negotiating a settlement in the event of a car accident can be stressful, especially when you must deal with expenses for medical treatment and lost income. Employing an experienced attorney to conduct all negotiations on behalf of you with the insurance provider can make the process easier. An lawyer will better know the law, calculate your total damages and understand what to expect during settlement negotiations with an insurance company.

The first step in the settlement process is writing a demand letter that includes your request for the amount that you need to cover your injury and expenses. Your attorney can assist you in assembling this information and also include any other relevant documents to support the request. For example, if you included the insurance adjuster's photos of your car and injuries that were particularly strong the lawyer will refer to these during negotiations. Your attorney will remind the adjuster of the damages you suffered due to pain and suffering. These are based on emotional distress and mental agony you have endured as a result of the collision.

If you hire an attorney to negotiate the settlement on behalf of you insurance companies will treat your claim much more seriously and usually offer higher settlements. If auto accident attorney harlingen refuses to offer an equitable settlement, your lawyer will bring a lawsuit and fight for you in court.

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