Learn What Crucial Things Need To Be Done After A Reckless Driving Incident
A car accident can be catastrophic since it can cause life-changing challenges like serious injuries and financial issues. What's worse is that your pain and suffering may have been caused by someone’s negligence on the road.
If you have been injured in an accident caused by someone, you are entitled to get compensation for lost income, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. If you contributed to the accident, your compensation will be decreased to the extent of your contribution. Read on to learn what crucial things need to be done after a reckless driving incident.
Seek Treatment
You should visit the doctor immediately so that your injuries are diagnosed. Some injuries manifest later, so it is important to get checked by a doctor. This will help you prove that your injuries were caused by the accident when you file a compensation claim. You must follow the physician’s instructions as this will demonstrate the severity of your injuries.
Cooperate With Law Enforcement
It is vital that you report the accident to the police so they can attend the scene to conduct their investigations. You must cooperate with law enforcement, but never accept responsibility even if you know that you also contributed to the crash. Leave the police to do their work and never apologize or show remorse since this can compromise the settlement you should get. Additionally, you must stick to one statement and never falsify events that happened.
Seek Legal Representation
If you are seriously injured as a result of someone’s negligent driving, it can take a long time for you to recover. You may not have the energy, time, and resources to pursue a compensation claim. Therefore, it is a good idea to enlist the services of an experienced lawyer to handle your case. Hiring a lawyer from your area is always the wisest choice, to help you recover evidence from the accident scene and document your injuries and losses. Your St. Louis car accident attorney will play a crucial role in collaborating with other professionals like medical specialists, and vocational and financial experts to build a convincing case on your behalf.
Dealing with a lawyer gives you peace of mind since they will file compensation claims with insurance companies on your behalf. They also have experience in negotiating with insurance providers to help you get the settlement you deserve. Your lawyer can also prepare your case to go to court, if necessary. More importantly, your attorney will handle all the communication for you.
Collect Evidence
You must save all documentation related to your injuries caused by the accident. While at the accident scene, try to get photos of the damaged cars, pictures of your injuries, and other pieces of evidence that can support your claim. Remember to exchange details with the other driver which include their contact information and insurance details, and don't forget to talk to witnesses. Other documents you can collect include medical bills and records, receipts, police accident reports, and witness contact information.
Don’t Talk to Adjusters From Insurance Companies
One thing you should know about insurance companies is that they are in business, and they will actively look for reasons to minimize or deny your injury claim. Therefore, you should not talk to adjusters from other insurance companies since they can use the information you provide against you. If you were partially at fault, you should not say this to your insurer. Although some states use the comparative negligence rule, the total amount you will receive for compensation will be reduced. It is a good idea to leave your attorney to deal with insurance companies to safeguard your interests.
File a Compensation Claim
When you have gathered all the evidence you can use to support your case, the next step is to file a compensation claim. You should use the documentation you've gathered to prove negligence in order to get a fair settlement for your injuries. Filing a compensation claim involves sending a letter of demand to the driver who caused your injuries or their insurance company.
In this letter, you'll state the reasons for the demand and the total amount you are claiming as damages. Most injury claims are settled out of court, but you should be vigilant and not accept any offer that's less than the compensation you deserve. Your case can proceed to trial if you fail to come to an agreement with the other party involved.
If you are injured in an auto accident caused by someone’s negligence, you are entitled to get compensation for damages. However, it might not be easy to get such compensation since the process involves various elements and stages. These tips can help you take the necessary measures to pursue your case after a reckless driving incident.