Everyone who files an auto accident claim hopes that outcome is a success, but there are claims that go unpaid or are drastically underpaid. To help ensure the success of your claim, it's important for you and your personal injury attorney to work together. Simply doing these three things after you're involved in an auto accident makes it a lot easier to win your case.
Gather Information
If you aren't severely injured in the accident, you need to gather as much information as possible from the scene. You need to collect insurance information from the driver of the other vehicle, as well as contact information for the other driver and anyone who witnessed the accident. You'll pass this information onto your lawyer so that he or she can take formal statements. You should also file a police report and get a copy of the report for your records. However, the most important thing you can do is take pictures. Be sure to photograph:
- The accident scene as a whole from multiple angles.
- The current conditions of the road and weather.
- Damage to your vehicle and the other driver's vehicle.
- Any other factors that you believe contributed to the car wreck.
Complete All Recommended Medical Treatment
In order to successfully settle an auto accident claim, your personal injury lawyer needs to be able to prove that the accident caused damage. You need to be able to show the insurance company, and court if needed, how serious your injuries are and how they've impacted your life. If you don't follow through your treatment, the seriousness of your injuries can be hard to prove. Additionally, you need to give your lawyer a copy of any medical documentation that you receive. This includes your doctor's recommendations, proof of your visits, and any medical bills that you receive.
Consult Your Lawyer Before Making Statements
Unfortunately, hiring a lawyer to settle your personal injury claim doesn't stop the insurance company from calling you. In fact, you might find that both your and the other driver's insurance companies start to contact you frequently. However, if you do get a call from an insurance company -- or anyone else that wants case-related information -- you need to refer them to your lawyer. Keep in mind you will need to make an initial statement confirming facts to your insurance company, but beyond that initial statement, you shouldn't speak to anyone about your case without checking with your lawyer first.
There isn't a magic spell that will help you win your auto accident claim, but your chances of winning increase if you and your lawyer work together. The more information you gather for your lawyer, the easier it will be for him or her to present your case. For more information, contact a firm like Sarkisian, Sarkisian & Associates PC.
