More than half of car accidents result in injuries. Many of those injuries occur due to the result of the carelessness and/or negligence of one or more drivers involved. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to have an idea of what is required to file a successful personal injury claim. Learn more about filing a successful claim below. If you have additional questions, contact a car accident lawyer at the King Law Firm to schedule a free initial consultation today.
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1. Contact The Police
After an accident has occurred, all parties involved have a “duty of care” to check on other drivers involved (if possible). Once you have done so and moved into a safe area, it is imperative that you contact the police as quickly as possible and file an accident report.
Without documentation of the accident, it can be difficult to prove your claim. However, never admit fault to the police. Only offer them the facts. Furthermore, collect and preserve evidence from the scene such as pictures, videos, and eyewitness contact information.
2. Seek Medical Attention
It will be difficult for the claims adjuster to believe your claims of injury if you do not have adequate medical documentation. Seek medical attention immediately after an accident has occurred. This is true even if you are not sure that you have been injured.
In many cases, accident victims do not feel the extent of their injuries until their adrenaline has decreased. Unfortunately, the longer you wait to seek medical attention, the more likely an insurance company is to not believe your claim or make a low-ball offer to you.
3. Exchange Information And Contact Your Insurance Provider
Always exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident. Contact your insurance company and notify them of the accident. Similar to when speaking with the police, never admit fault. Many conversations are recorded and can be used against you during the claims process and/or a personal injury trial.
4. Contact A Personal Injury Attorney
The law does not require you to hire a personal injury attorney if you choose to pursue a claim or lawsuit. However, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced, successful, and aggressive attorney to increase your chances of receiving maximum compensation for your injuries. Personal injury law can be confusing, complex, and overwhelming for most people.
Though you can certainly file a claim on your own, it can be difficult to negotiate from a position of strength with the insurance company without an attorney advising you. Furthermore, a personal injury attorney will ensure that you follow the correct procedures, know the full value of your case, and don’t settle unless you are offered what you deserve.
5. Carefully Consider All Offers Made
Insurance companies handle thousands of claims each year. They are professionals at making quick offers that are much lower than what you deserve. While some are tempted to accept the first settlement offered, those that wish to receive maximum compensation carefully consider the offer as well as the true worth of their case (medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, etc.) and then make a decision. That decision is often much easier to make when you are working with a proven attorney that you trust.
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