Being involved in a car accident can cause you a lot of emotional and financial distress. If you feel that you suffered these damages because the other motorist was reckless, you can sue them and get a settlement. However, before you file a claim, it is advisable to understand the car accident claim process and timeline. This will guide you in taking the right steps and avoiding pitfalls that can cost you your settlement.
Having a lawyer to walk with you from the start of the process to the end also helps you avoid making mistakes for a quick and stress-free settlement. Here is the process your lawyer will walk you through when you decide to make a personal injury claim.
1. Collecting Evidence at the Scene of the Accident
The first thing to do after the accident is to check on the occupants of your vehicle. If they are safe and can move the vehicle to the side of the road, do it. If not, evacuate the vehicle, and contact a car accident lawyer closest to you.
They will collect information such as the number plate of the other motorist, and speak to eyewitnesses. They will also be present when the police are making their assessment of the scene. The lawyer will make sure you don't say or do anything that might compromise your chances of winning the case.
2. Swapping Contact Details
After gathering the evidence, your lawyer will guide you to get the personal and insurance details of the other motorist. If other people witnessed the accident, the lawyer would take their contact. Staying in touch with those who saw the accident happen minimizes your chances of losing important evidence that could help your case.
Since you might be distressed and even injured in the collision, your lawyer will take up these responsibilities for you.
3. Keeping Medical Records
As you proceed to get medical treatment, remember that everything that happens to you may be admissible as evidence in the settlement hearings. Hold on to every medical statement, bill, and assessment report from the doctor, medical test, and other documents you get from the hospital. These will come in handy when you have to prove the extent of the damage the other party caused you.
You will have an easier time handling your personal injury case process when you have a competent lawyer by your side. Experienced auto accident attorney services will get you a quick settlement to get ahead with other aspects of your life.
