Getting into an accident is no laughing matter. In addition to damage to your car, you could have to deal with injuries and fighting with insurance companies to be compensated for your losses. Even if you weren’t at fault, you may find that you have a lot of work to do to recoup what you lost. So where do you start?
Assess Damages
Knowing what damages you have incurred is the first step to moving forward. Damages can take many forms. You should make sure that you take an inventory of the damage to your car. Use your phone to take pictures of both your car and the other car. You should also make sure that you document any injuries you and other passengers received. Having this evidence makes it much easier to prove things with your insurance company.
Seek Medical Treatment
If the accident is serious, the paramedics will probably show up with the police. If you are hurt or were hit by an airbag, make sure they check you out and make sure that none of your injuries are serious. Some injuries may not start affecting you until a few days after the accident. If you feel sore or you start hurting, especially in your back or neck, make sure you seek medical treatment immediately. You want to get everything documented properly for your insurance company. It will also be beneficial for you to start treatment as soon as possible so you can recover quickly.
Speak with Insurance
When you are talking with your insurance, make sure that you present everything as clearly as possible. Even if you weren’t at fault, the insurance company will want to take a statement from you. Write all the information down before you call them so that you can make sure that you don’t miss anything. You should also call the insurance for the other driver and give them your statement. The insurance companies will work out the payment for the person at fault and make sure that your bills are paid.
Consult a Lawyer
If the other person doesn’t have insurance or it is contested who is at fault, you may have to retain a lawyer to help you recoup your losses. It is difficult for anyone to know everything about personal injury law. A lawyer can help you get the information you need to rectify the damages of an accident. They will work with all of the parties involved including the insurance companies. This is a method that is strongly advised in situations where there are extensive medical bills or property damages.
Accidents are never easy, but there are some ways to make them less inconvenient. Knowing your damages and communicating with insurance companies and possibly legal counsel can help you receive the compensation you deserve.