A car accident can result in severe injuries to you or your family members and car damage. If this has happened to any family member, you may need to file a car accident claim. To do so, certain types of evidence must be adduced in the event such a claim is made.
Important Evidence in a Car Accident Claim
Here are four types of evidence that are helpful in a car accident claim:
1. Photographs and Videos
According to www.sevafirm.com, photographs and videos are great evidence. These will show the damage to your car, where you were at the time of the accident, your injuries, and any other damage resulting from the accident. The photos can be taken immediately after the accident happens or later when you are healed up. You can also talk to an attorney prior to taking pictures to ensure that any pictures you take do not hurt your case. They can be used to show the extent of your injuries, their location, and the fact that you were hurt in the first place. For instance, a video of someone in the car after the accident could be used as evidence that you were not injured and there was no accident.
2. Medical Records
Your medical records are important in a car accident claim. They can show the injuries that you sustained and how your injuries affected your life. Your records will also show what treatment you received, which helps prove how much your injury affected your life. For instance, if you had surgery to fix your injury, your medical records will show where you had surgery, how long the recovery period was, and how much of an impact it had on your life. Medical records and payment statements can also be used to prove your liability for medical bills.
3. Witnesses
Witnesses are also important, especially if you were inside the car during the accident. You may ask an attorney if it is wise to call witnesses before you do so, but remember that you will only get up to 10 witnesses. Only those in the car with you would be important if no damages were done. This evidence can be used to help support your case. Witness statements can include descriptions of the other driver’s actions, your reactions, and the actions of any passengers.
4. The Police Report
The police report is important evidence for an auto accident claim. It will show the details of the accident and what medical attention you need or may need in the future. It will also show how many claims were made for damages, if there were any complaints about your insurance company and anything else you would like to know. The police report can be obtained from your insurance company or the police. Most states require that both are obtained before you can get your car fixed or sold.
This evidence is important when trying to win a car accident claim. With the help of an attorney, it will be much easier for you to win your claim and get the money you deserve to make up for any damage done in your accident.
4 Mistakes to Avoid in a Car Accident Claim
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Filing a car accident claim can be complicated and time-consuming, and there’s a lot of room for error. Making a mistake in your car accident claim can delay the process or even result in a denial of your claim.
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention
It’s essential to seek medical care after an accident, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Your car accident claim may be denied if you don’t produce a doctor’s note stating that you were unharmed, even if your injuries are minor. If you receive treatment for any damages, get a doctor’s note indicating the treatment date and the extent of your injuries. If you sustain a severe injury, such as a broken bone or concussion, you’ll need medical treatment as soon as possible. Your doctor will need to know the date of your accident so they can accurately report your injury date. A broken bone or concussion not treated properly can result in long-term damage or permanent disability. If you don’t seek medical attention after an accident, you risk missing a potentially severe injury and being denied compensation.
2. Not Reporting the Accident to the Police
In some states, you’re required to report an accident to the police. If you were at fault in the accident, you must report it to be covered by your car insurance. Even if you’re not required by law to report the accident to the police, it’s a good idea. Generally, the more documentation you have in your car accident claim, the better. Reporting the accident to the police will create a record that will be helpful in your claim. It can also help you remember the details of the accident, especially if you’re feeling stressed or distracted: it’s easy to forget details about the accident if it happened recently.
3. Not Gathering Evidence
Evidence is crucial to your car accident claim, especially if you were at fault. If you were at fault in the accident, you’d have to prove fault in court to receive compensation for your injuries. Evidence might include:
- Pictures of the accident scene.
- The damage to your car.
- The position of the other driver’s car.
- Footage from traffic cameras.
4. Not Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
An attorney can help you navigate the complicated process of filing a car accident claim. You might have heard that you don’t need an attorney for a minor accident or can’t afford one. That may have been true in the past, but car accident laws are constantly changing. If you want to be sure your claim is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible, you’ll need professionals. A qualified car accident attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and even negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. You’ll control the process, but with an expert’s guidance.
Conclusion
Whatever happened in your accident, you have rights under the law and deserve compensation for your injuries. Please ensure you’re aware of these mistakes and avoid them at all costs. By doing so, you’ll make sure your claim is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
