After an accident, there are several things you typically need to do to file for car accident compensation. It is usually important to obtain insurance and driver’s licensing information from all of the other drivers involved in the accident. You may also document the accident by taking photographs of the scene, photographing the damaged cars, and having a law enforcement officer create an official accident report. Contacting your insurance company typically begins the claims process, and your insurance company will usually guide you through the necessary steps. In some cases, however, you may want a lawyer’s help as well.
One of the most important things to do to file for car accident compensation is obtain insurance information from all of the drivers involved in the car accident. This is important no matter who you think is at fault. If the other driver is found to be at fault, however, his insurance company may pay your claim instead of your own insurance company.
If you are not badly injured and you can safely do so, take photographs of the vehicles involved in the accident. It may be helpful if you can obtain photographs that show the position of the vehicles as well as the damage. In most cases, however, insurance representatives will also take photographs of the damage to the vehicles. As such, you can still file a claim, even if you do not obtain photographs at the scene.
Getting a police report may be helpful when you need to file a claim for car accident compensation. A police officer who arrives on the scene may take information from each driver and provide you with a copy of the report. In some jurisdictions, however, you may be required to visit the police station to obtain a copy. If a police officer does not arrive to document the accident, you may be required to report it to your local department of motor vehicles or a similar agency. It is critical that you do not leave the scene of an accident without obtaining the other driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information.
It's also important to inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. You may call your insurance company from the scene of the accident or as soon as you arrive at home. In order to file for car accident compensation, you will usually have to provide your insurance agent with the details about the accident, information about those involved, and the other driver’s licensing and insurance information.
