When it comes to claiming a car accident, you are often tasked with filling out a series of forms and giving your insurance company all the information they need. The task can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to make the process easier on yourself.
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The best way to get started is by following a few simple guidelines. You can start by ensuring that you have all the proper paperwork. Many insurers have a checklist that you can print out and put in your glove compartment. In some cases, you can even use mobile apps to file your claim.
You’ll want to find out if your insurer will pay for your medical bills. If they won’t, it might be time to seek legal assistance. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complicated world of car accident claims. He or she can offer a free consultation.
You can also follow up with your insurance company by phone. They’ll likely be hesitant to pay you until they know all of the details of your case. This is why it is always a good idea to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. In California, you have two years from the date of the accident to sue. But, it’s not a good idea to wait until you’ve reached the statute of limitations. Instead, you’ll want to act quickly to hold the negligent party responsible.
For the sane, you might even want to consider filing a small claims court lawsuit. Small claims courts are available in most local governments. These courts allow you to subpoena witnesses and have a small claim hearing.
You will also need to collect all of the pertinent medical records. In some cases, it can take up to 45 days to receive your records, so be patient.
Obtaining a copy of the police report is also an excellent idea. It will give you a better idea of the other driver’s fault. Plus, it will become part of your case record. Also, the police officer who made the report should be contacted.
Aside from the obvious, you should also try to avoid high-speed roads. Keeping yourself and others safe is of the utmost importance, and avoiding these types of areas will go a long way. Additionally, be sure to pull over to a safe spot. Using a GPS to navigate your way around can be a good idea as well.
Ultimately, you should never settle for less than you deserve. As long as you follow these basic guidelines, you should have no trouble getting the money you need to move on with your life. However, if you’re faced with a high-pressure adjuster, it may be a good idea to consult with a skilled lawyer before making a decision. Having an attorney on your side will make the process much easier.
One of the most important steps in obtaining a fair settlement is to not accept the first offer that you get. Most people will be offered a lesser offer than they expected. That is because insurance companies will typically settle for less than they owe you.
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