Auto accidents happen every day. There are millions of crashes reported across the U.S. every year. These car accidents can be very expensive. If you have been involved in an auto accident and you were not at fault, you should pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation to pay for any damages that you suffered because of the crash.
There are various damages that you may suffer, including property damages, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and more.
What Kinds Of Damages Can I Collect?
The damages that you suffer depend on the kind of crash, the severity of the crash, and the severity of your injuries. You will need to carefully review your losses. All damages should be itemized and then added up to come up with the total value of your claim.
One claim can vary significantly from another. There are various damages that can result from a car accident. Here is a rundown of a few of the damages most often collected in such scenarios:
- Vehicle damage – Make sure you take your vehicle to a qualified auto repair facility for a thorough inspection and a written estimate
- Personal damage – This could include your medical expenses, future medical expenses, lost wages, future loss of earnings, and pain and suffering
- Rental car – The cost of a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired
- Legal expenses – These include your attorney’s fees, court costs, and so forth
- Any other expenses out of pocket associated with the accident
Maintain thorough supporting documentation and evidence for your claim. Keep medical records, medical bills, prescription receipts, receipts for medical devices, proof of missed work and lost wages, repair estimates, medical excuses, rental car receipts or bills, tow bills, and so forth.
Gather Information And Evidence
You will want to make sure you have all the supporting evidence and documentation that you need to prove your personal injury claim after an auto accident. Always call the police after an auto accident, and make sure you get a copy of the accident report as this is the foundation of your personal injury claim.
If you are physically able to do so, get photos of the accident scene from all angles as well as of the damages and of any physical injuries.
Ask any witnesses for their names and contact details. You will want written statements from them regarding what they saw, but they may need to be contacted later for additional information.
You should gather all the supporting documentation including bills, receipts, and estimates to add up your total damages and to come up with a fair settlement value for your claim. An accident injury attorney can help you gather additional evidence and documentation, so you can negotiate a fair settlement with the liable party’s insurer. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will help you pursue a claim in court to recoup your losses.
There is a statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury claim after an auto accident. Make sure you file your claim in a timely manner before it is too late to recover damages.
