When a person is injured in an accident, they will have to deal with many pain, multiple medical appointments, and lost wages. They will undoubtedly file a personal injury claim with their insurance company, and the company will ask them to provide evidence of the damage.
Once the insurance company receives all the evidence of the claim, the case will be assigned to an insurance adjuster. The adjuster will look at the evidence and investigate the claim. They will then decide whether or not to accept or deny the claim. If they accept the claim, they will decide how much money to offer you. In order to get the best possible settlement offer, you should collect as much evidence as you can. You will want to document your injuries and expenses every step of the way.
What to do at the Scene
When you have an accident, you should pull over to a safe area and find out if anyone was injured. You should then call 911 and let them know if an ambulance is required. You should wait for the police to arrive.
Collect the names and numbers of anyone who may have seen the accident. Exchange contact information with the other driver and make sure to request a copy of the accident report.
Collecting Medical Evidence
When you go to the doctor, you should ask them to give you a written statement detailing your injuries. Ask them to give you a progress report as you go through your necessary treatments.
According to the website Realjustice.com, you should save the bills from every medical appointment that you have, including physical therapy and any mental health treatment that you have received. You should also save the receipts from any prescription or non-prescription drugs that you may have needed.
Evidence of Other Expenses
When you have multiple doctor's appointments and intense pain, you are certain to miss time away from work. You may also have problems doing ordinary chores around the house. You should get the HR department of the company you work for to document the hours that you have missed from work. You should also save receipts from any maid or car services you have needed to use due to your accident.
If you have missed an important business or personal trip due to your accident, you should document any non-refundable travel expenses you have, such as airline tickets and pre-purchased hotel rooms.
It is important to send the evidence to your insurance company in a timely fashion. Make three copies of each piece of evidence - one for you, one for the insurance company, and one for your lawyer.
Hiring an Attorney
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to lowball their clients. You will likely need the assistance of an attorney to get the money you deserve. Make sure to hire a lawyer who specializes in personal injury.
A professional lawyer will know how to negotiate with an insurance company. They can get you the money you need to move on with your life.
