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How to File a Motor Vehicle Claim
If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident, you will submit an insurance claim. It is important to know how this procedure operates.
Insurance companies will send an adjuster to look over your vehicle damage. It's not always required to be present during the inspection, but it is recommended to bring your policy and any other relevant documentation.
Take Pictures
Have you ever watched a crime series where the investigators photograph every aspect from footprints to chocolate wrappers that are thrown away? Apply that same scrutiny to your accident scene. It is crucial to keep as much as possible of the incident that occurs in order to show your case later.
Getting pictures of the damage to both vehicles is essential however, you should also consider taking close-ups of the areas damaged. These photos can assist insurance companies as well as expert witnesses as they determine the dimensions of the various objects. In your photos, include some reference points, like the location of stop signs or traffic lights. These could be later linked to the actions of the driver at fault which led to the crash.
If you are able you can, take photos of other driver and their passengers, and any witnesses. You might be able to get a photo of their license plate. In addition, capture images of emergency responders and their vehicles. If anyone is put on a gurney or in an ambulance, snap pictures of them as well.
If your attorney or court has ordered you to do so, only upload the photos. In other words, you could accidentally be providing evidence against your own claim. If you change the date on your photographs your insurance company may question your claim.
Seek medical attention
The first thing you need to do following an accident is to seek medical attention. This is not only for your health but as a way to ensure that any injuries are documented. In motor vehicle accident lawyer ontario , compensation is sought for medical expenses and damages. This is why medical records are essential to the success of your claim.
Even if you don't notice any symptoms that you are able to identify then you should schedule an appointment with your primary health care provider or an emergency room. Your doctor will offer you an assessment of your injuries and conduct an extensive medical examination. They can also to give you the appropriate treatment.
It is crucial to adhere to the advice of your physician regarding your treatment plan since it will help you recover faster and help strengthen your case. This includes taking your prescribed medications and any prescription medications that are available and participating in a physical therapy program following the instructions regarding time off work, and attending subsequent appointments.
During this process, it is essential not to mention anything that could be wrongly understood by an insurance adjuster. The insurance company might try to discredit the damage you have suffered in order to deny or reduce the amount of compensation you receive. This is the reason why it is recommended to not talk to any insurance adjusters unless you have an attorney present with you.
Contact an attorney
Having access to legal representation is crucial for those injured. Lawyers can assist them in managing their stress and know where to focus their energy. Attorneys can also weigh evidence and facts to determine the merits of a case and whether it is worth fighting in court.
Insurance companies are primarily businesses. Their mission is to get the maximum amount of money from their insureds, while paying out the least amount of money (in the theory). If you are at the scene of an accident, it might be tempting to accept an offer that is low since it appears to be the easiest way to go. This could lead to disastrous consequences in the future.
When you make an insurance claim the insurance adjuster will be out to examine the damage to your car and will review receipts for personal property damages and medical bills. They will also likely interview witnesses and look over police records. Before meeting with an adjuster it is helpful to obtain repair estimates from local auto shops or contractors. This will help them be aware of what they can expect for repairs.
An experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can make sure that all the required information is provided promptly and that the appropriate documents are submitted to an insurance company. He or she will provide guidance and suggestions on how to handle the claims adjuster, on how to deal with a settlement, as well as what to do in the event of an insurance provider being not responsive and is acting in a shady manner.