20 Things Only The Most Devoted Motor Vehicle Lawyers Fans Know
How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim
You'll need to file an insurance claim if your vehicle has been damaged. It is important to know how this process is carried out.
motor vehicle accident lawsuit merced will be sent by the insurance company to look over the damage to your vehicle. You don't have to be present when an adjuster inspects the damage to your vehicle. However, you must bring along your insurance policy as well as any relevant documentation.
Take Pictures
Have you ever seen one of the crime shows where investigators photograph every detail, from footprints to chocolate wrappers, and then throw them away? Apply the same method to your accident scene. It is important to capture as much of the incident as you can when it happens, so that you have evidence to prove your case later.
Photographs of the damage to both cars is a must however, you should also think about taking photographs of the areas that have been damaged. These photos can assist insurance companies as well as expert witnesses, determine the size of different objects. In your photographs, include reference points such as the locations of stop signs and traffic lights. These could later be connected to the at-fault driver's actions that led to the crash.
If you're able to capture photos of the other driver and their passengers as well as any witnesses. It is possible to take a photo of their license plate. Take pictures of emergency responders, their vehicles and anyone who is placed on a gurney or into an ambulance.
Only submit the photos to the insurance company if instructed by your attorney or ordered to do by the court. In the event that you don't, you could be providing evidence against your own claim. For instance, if you change the date stamp on your photos after the incident, it could make the insurance company doubt the legitimacy of your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you must do following an accident is to seek medical attention. This is not only for your health but as a way to ensure that any injuries are recorded. In many personal injury lawsuits the plaintiff seeks compensation for medical expenses and other damages. This is why medical records are vital to the success of your claim.
Even if there are no symptoms you can observe then you should schedule an appointment to see your primary doctor or an emergency room. Your doctor can give you an evaluation of your injuries, and also perform an entire medical examination. In addition, they'll be able offer you the proper treatment.
It is important to follow the recommendations of your doctor about your treatment plan as this will allow you to recover quicker and strengthen your case. This includes taking your prescribed medication and any prescription medications that are available taking part in a physical therapy program following orders regarding time off work, and attending follow-up appointments.
It is important to stay clear of saying anything that an insurance adjuster could mistakenly interpret. The insurance company might try to discredit the harm you have suffered in order to deny or reduce your compensation. This is why it is recommended that you do not speak to any insurance adjusters unless you have an attorney present with you.
Contact an attorney
The ability to access legal representation is essential for those injured. Attorneys can assist those who have been injured deal with their stress and determine where they should focus their energies. Additionally, attorneys can analyze the evidence and facts of the case to determine if it is worth fighting for in court.
The insurance firm is first and foremost an enterprise and their aim is to take as much money from insureds as they can while paying out as little as they can (in the theory). It is tempting, when in the middle of an incident to accept a lower settlement offer since it's the easiest thing to accomplish. This could lead to disastrous consequences in the future.
If you make a claim with your insurance company, an adjuster will come to your residence to assess the damage caused to your vehicle. They will also look over receipts for medical bills and personal property damages. They may also speak with witnesses and review records from the police. It is helpful to obtain estimates for repairs from local contractors or auto shops prior to meeting with the adjuster so they are aware of what to anticipate when it comes to repairs.
An experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can make sure that all required information is provided in a timely manner and that the proper documents are provided to an insurance company. He or she will provide advice and make recommendations regarding how to deal with an adjuster for claims, how to handle a settlement, and what to do if an insurance company is not responsive and is acting in a shady manner.