Steps for Resolving Property Damage After a Car Accident
A car crash can bring about immediate and unexpected disruptions to your life. Getting in an accident is stressful enough, and when layered with personal injury and property damages, you may not know the following steps to take.
In any collision, it is vital to understand what to look for, how to protect yourself, and how to obtain efficient compensation. Call our law office today to discuss your case with a seasoned auto wreck attorney.
Inspect For Safety and Document the Scene
Before worrying about accident logistics, make sure to move to a safe location and check on the status of everyone involved. This is your time to gauge whether to seek medical help for yourself or other parties.
If anyone appears injured, call 911 immediately to relay your location and the need for urgent medical assistance. If you confirm that there is minimal or no injury, you can proceed to the next steps.
Take Photos
Prioritize clear photos representing all damages to your property and the surrounding area. Look to capture details like street signs, traffic signals, and road damages (e.g., skid marks, damaged guardrails, debris).
Write Down Notes
If your phone is damaged or you cannot access it, writing down the details of the accident is another excellent tool. Include the date, time, location, and any other observations you made at the time.
Record Videos
Recording videos can act as a representational aid to show the damages that have occurred.
Noting situational details will serve as evidence when filing an insurance claim or proceeding with a legal case.
Exchange Information and Contact a Lawyer
Along with representative documentation of the scene, gathering exchangeable information should be your next priority. Make sure to note:
- Full names of everyone involved
- Address and valid contact information
- Driver’s license numbers
- Insurance company names
- Vehicles’ make, model, and year
- License plate numbers
- Third-party witness contact information
- Police names and badge numbers
Hire a lawyer to better understand your rights and the best course of action before filing your claim. Working with an attorney may legitimize your claim and encourage insurance companies to take it more seriously. If you are unsatisfied with the compensation offered, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit or seek a fair settlement.
File Your Claim to Your Insurance and Acquire a Damage Assessment
Once everything at the scene is settled, report the incident to your insurance. Each insurance company has a different policy on claim filing deadlines. Be sure to check for deadlines from your company. When filing your claim, here is what to prepare:
- Date, location, and time of the accident
- Photos and video evidence from the scene
- Legal names and contact information of parties involved
- Associated insurance policy numbers
- Police or medical reports (if applicable)
- Documentation of damage to your property
Along with filing a claim, a damage assessment provides information on the extent and nature of the damages done during a car crash. Insurance companies may offer to employ and send an advisor to assess damages. The adjuster will inspect the entirety of your vehicle and property and then provide you with an estimate for the cost your insurance should cover for repairing or replacing damaged items.
Another thing to note is that adequate contact information should be provided. During evaluation, adjusters may interview claimants and witnesses and factor in police and medical reports to obtain a more accurate statement.
Call Today to Discuss the Steps for Resolving Property Damage After a Car Accident
Dealing with property damage in a car accident does not have to disrupt your life. You can ensure a smooth and rightfully compensated process by following the steps outlined above in unison with our experienced car accident attorneys.
Contact Whetstone Perkins & Fulda to make sure you are informed of all options available and to prioritize healing yourself and restoring your belongings after a crash.
