Your Guide for Filing Auto Accident Claims

1. Your Guide for Filing Auto Accident Claims

2. Picture this scenario: you’re enjoying an evening drive in your neighborhood and another vehicle appears from nowhere causing an accident. The last thing you can remember, from a hospital bed, is numbing pain in your chest. You’ll likely have many unanswered questions like should you file a claim? How do you go about it? Will your claim be legitimate? A car accident personal injury attorney in Wasilla can help you answer all questions related to auto accidents and auto accident claims. The lawyer will assess the facts surrounding your case and advise you accordingly. You will not need to worry about insurance companies, thanks to their reputation, since your lawyer will ensure your legal rights are protected. Common Events Preceding the Filing of Auto Accident Claims The laws governing auto accident claims vary by jurisdiction hence, the damages recovery process may also vary. Although the process of filing auto accident claims successfully can vary by state, some events precede the filing auto accident claims in most jurisdictions, including: Seeking Medical Assistance If the accident involves injuries, call 911 for immediate medical assistance, but if you can get assistance faster using a different way, go for it. Ensure your proximity to the accident scene is reasonable, meaning you can see what’s going on at the site without endangering yourself and other road users. Also, never admit responsibility for the accident, which is the standard advice given by auto accident lawyers.

3. Inform Traffic Authorities or the Police The facts surrounding an accident must be filed in a police report and it also stores evidence that is used by the court if the case goes to trial. In some jurisdictions, auto accident victims call the national helpline (911) or the police if any of the following is detected: Property damage, which should be significant. In other jurisdictions, the police respond to all accidents, whether minor or major, and there are some instances where police reports can be submitted on the phone. Towing your Car You should hire a towing company to get your car off the road to prevent more accidents and damage. Your insurance should settle the towing charges if you’re to blame for the accident. Otherwise, any out-of-pocket expenses should be reimbursed, including towing expenses. Some insurance policies limit the towing distance, forcing you to top-up for the deficit. For instance, the terms of your policy may indicate that the maximum towing distance is 15KM, meaning you’ll have to pay for the extra towing costs beyond 15KM. Reimbursement Auto accident victims should be reimbursed by their insurance or by the insurance of the liable party for all out-of-pocket payments made, as stated earlier. You can be reimbursed for a couple of expenses, including towing, storage, boarding expenses, and much more. However, you must present evidence when making reimbursement claims, meaning you’ll have to keep all receipts securely.

4. What is required in Car Accident Claims? Insurance companies accept liability based on various factors, including who is at fault, whether your injuries resulted from the accident, and whether the cited car damage was caused by the accident. The insurance company will then request the following after validating the authenticity of your claim: Insurance policy details. The other driver’s details, including insurance details and contact. Statement of the accident. Evidence from the scene of the accident. Medical report. Receipts for all expenses paid upfront. Details of where your car is being repaired. Proof of identification. Car repair estimates. Car repair invoice. Avoiding Claims Rejections Insurance companies are in business hence, they will do anything to reduce, deny, or reject claims, even when they’re genuine. Fortunately, a car accident lawyer can help, although you can still avoid a claim rejection by addressing the following. Driver’s License Your driver’s license is the only document of proof that you’re qualified to drive. Insurance companies can cite the expiry or invalidity of your driver’s license as a defense for avoiding liability, making the claim illegitimate.

5. Jurisdiction Limitations You should consider the details of an insurance cover before investing in an insurance plan. Some insurance companies will not compensate you if an accident occurs outside their geographical boundaries. Policy Transfer If you buy a used car, the seller should transfer the insurance policy, including the registration certificate to you. The transfer should be done within14 days after buying the car. Otherwise, insurance companies can legally avoid a claim by citing this defense. Policy Renewal The insurance policy must be up-to-date if you expect an insurance company to compensate you in the event of an accident.

6. Car Modification Disclosure If you modify your vehicle, whether, for performance, beauty, or a security enhancement, you should inform your insurance. Insurance companies consider the state of a vehicle for purposes of premiums, meaning modifications can distort the original premiums set by the insurance. In layman terms, car modification disclosure can invalidate your claim. Filing a successful claim should not be difficult, but if you face any challenges on the same, seek the assistance of a car accident personal injury attorney in Wasilla.

7. Source: https://explorelifestyle.com/your-guide-for-filing-auto-accident- claims/