After you’ve been in an accident, the first thing you think about is your safety and that of everyone else involved in the incident. But after things calm down, you start taking into account the damage done to you and the compensation you’re owed.
In that case, you’ll have to file an insurance claim. Here’s how you can best prepare for it:
1. Gather Information
It is the authority’s job to collect evidence and information, but it can never hurt to keep yourself fully informed of the situation. Try to find these details and keep a record of them to help your case:
- The other driver’s name
- Insurance information of the other driver
- Names of any police officers who were on the scene
- Anyone who may have witnessed the accident
Take some photographs of the situation as well, including the exact damage to your car and the angle at which the accident happened.
2. Understand Your Coverage
If you’re in a situation where you need to claim insurance from your provider, it’s important to go over the fine print. See how well you’re covered and the terms under which the company is liable to pay.
Only when you have a good understanding of the terms and conditions can you engage in a conversation; otherwise, the insurance agent might get you to agree to less than what you’re owed.
3. Don’t Accept a Repair Estimate by the Insurer
To get the vehicle fixed, the insurer may provide you with an estimate that they received from their contractor. It may help to get your car checked by a trustworthy mechanic and get a full estimate.
That estimate can then be used to negotiate a better payout from the insurance company.
4. Know Your Injuries
Not everyone is fortunate enough to get through a car accident unscathed. You may have suffered severe injuries or mental trauma that manifests in unexpected ways.
Go to your doctor to get a full check-up and estimate of the medical costs. You can also get yourself evaluated by a psychologist to understand the full extent of your trauma.
These medical costs can end up being more than the car’s repair costs, and you may be eligible for far more than you initially thought.
5. Get a Car Accident Attorney Involved
To navigate these challenging legal matters, you may want to get help from an accident lawyer who has worked on these types of cases before and can guide you through it all.
To avail the services of one of the best auto accident lawyer in Little Rock, get in touch with Lisa Douglas’ office. Be it vehicular damage or an injury, she has relevant experience to help you get what’s rightfully yours.
Get a free case evaluation by visiting the website.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is provided for general informational purposes. It may not reflect current laws in your region or state. It isn’t intended to substitute legal counsel.
