A Peek In The Secrets Of Motor Vehicle Lawyers
How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim
If your vehicle is damaged during an accident, it is necessary to submit an insurance claim. It is important to understand how this process works.
An adjuster will be sent by the insurance company to assess your vehicle damage. You don't always have to be present when an adjuster checks the damage to your vehicle, however you must bring along your insurance policy and any documentation that is relevant to it.
Take Pictures
Ever watch a crime show in which the detectives look over every square inch of the scene, snapping every tiny detail, from footprints to discarded chocolate wrappers? Apply the same rigor to your accident scene. It is important to capture as much of the incident in the event of an accident, so that you have something concrete to prove your case later.
It is important to take photos of both vehicles, however you should also take closeups of the damaged parts. These photos can assist insurance companies and expert witnesses determine the size of specific objects, like skid marks. In your photos, you should include reference points such as the locations of stop signs and traffic lights. They can later be linked to the actions of the driver at fault that led to the crash.
If you can you can, take photos of other driver and their passengers, and any witnesses. You might be able to get a photo of their license plate. Additionally, take photos of emergency responders and their vehicles, and if anyone is put on a gurney and then into an ambulance, take pictures of them as well.
Do not submit the photos to the insurance company only when you are instructed by your attorney or if you are required to do so by the court. In other words, you could accidentally be providing evidence against your own claim. For instance, if it is changed the date stamp on your photos after the incident, it could cause insurance companies to doubt the legitimacy of your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are involved in an accident the first thing to get medical attention. Not only is this crucial for your health but also to ensure that any injuries you may have are documented. In many personal injury cases the plaintiff seeks compensation for medical bills and other damages. This is why medical records are vital to the success of your claim.
Even if there are no symptoms that you are able to identify then you should schedule an appointment to see your primary medical doctor or an emergency room. Your doctor can provide you with an evaluation of your injuries and perform an exhaustive medical assessment. They can also to give you the treatment that is needed.
It is crucial to adhere to your doctor's recommendations regarding your treatment plan, as this will allow you to recover quicker and strengthen your case. This includes filling your prescriptions, using any over-the counter medicines, taking part in physical therapy, adhering to instructions on time off of work, and attending follow-up appointments.
During this process, it is essential not to mention anything that could be incorrectly interpreted by an adjuster from the insurance company. The insurance company could try to discredit the harm that you've sustained in order to deny or reduce your compensation. It is important that you only talk to adjusters with your attorney present.
Contact an attorney
The ability to access legal representation is essential for injured parties. Attorneys can help them manage their stress and know where to focus their energy. Attorneys can also consider evidence and facts to determine whether a case is worthy of fighting in court.
Insurance companies are primarily businesses. Their objective is to collect the maximum money from their insureds while paying out the least amount of money (in theory). It is tempting, if you're on the scene of an incident to accept a lower settlement offer because it is the easiest thing to accomplish. This is a mistake that could cause a lot of damage down the road.
When you submit an insurance claim the adjuster from your insurance company will come out to examine the damage to your vehicle and review receipts for personal property damage and medical bills. They will also likely interview witnesses and review police records. It is a good idea to get estimates on repairs from local auto shops or contractors prior to meeting with the adjuster so they know what to anticipate when it comes to repairs.
motor vehicle accident law firm lees summit will ensure that all the required information is provided in a timely manner and that the appropriate documents are provided to an insurance company. He or she can give advice and suggestions about how to deal with an insurance adjuster, the best way to handle a settlement and what to do when an insurance company is unresponsive or acting unethically.
