Automobile Accident Claim Information
Even the most careful drivers can be involved in automobile accidents that will require them to pursue insurance claims. Knowing the accident claim information that you will need to provide is essential to obtaining fair compensation for your damages.
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Accident Scene
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Gathering automobile accident claim information begins at the scene of the accident. Observe as much as possible regarding the vehicles. Note how they came to rest, the direction they are facing in relation to the traffic flow and whether they are in contact with each other. Look inside the other vehicles involved in the accident and note any indication that the driver may have been distracted while driving because of eating, writing or talking on the phone. Also, note the immediate area regarding traffic signs and signals, advertising signs, overhanging trees and the general condition of the roadway.
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Photographs
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Photographs help your claim because they are hard to contradict. Even a cell phone camera can be useful in this situation. The most important photograph you can take is of something that you believe caused the accident. Photograph all injuries and vehicle damage. Also photograph the surrounding area. Return to the scene later to photograph any changes that may have been made since the accident. This may indicate that a problem existed that caused the collision.
People at the Scene
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Identify all of the people at the accident scene, including the other drivers, their passengers, witnesses and emergency personnel, such as police, firefighters, paramedics and tow truck drivers. Each of them may have information that could help your claim. Note what is being said at the scene, particularly by the other drivers involved. Important statements may be made regarding fault, such as an apology, and the extent of injuries.
Documenting Your Claim
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The first documentation regarding your accident claim information should be your own notes, made as soon after the accident as possible. Write down everything you can remember that happened in the moments leading up to the accident, during the accident and in the aftermath until you left the scene. Other important documents regarding your claim include receipts for medical bills, as well as receipts for towing, vehicle repair and rental car costs. If your claim includes lost wages, obtain documentation from your employer.
Filing Your Claim
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Information about the other drivers' insurance companies should be provided to you. Contact the companies immediately to give notice of the claim and get any information you will need from them to pursue your claim. This is also true if you are going to make a claim with your insurance company if other drivers have been uninsured. If a vehicle owned by a government agency caused the accident, you will likely have to obtain a form from the agency to start your claim. If there is no insurance company or government agency involved, you will have to pursue your claim directly with the person who is found at fault in the accident.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of darrin sander
