If you have been involved in a phantom vehicle accident, you will need to defend yourself to have your claim approved by your auto insurance carrier. Phantom car accidents are often denied, so you will need to enlist the help of a personal injury attorney early on, to ensure your claim is on the right track.
Because you have no hard evidence of another vehicle having caused the crash because it has left the scene, a thorough investigation will be necessary to uncover any bits and pieces of evidence that can support your claim and allegations of the other driver’s recklessness.
Looking at the Details
The details can be the tell-tale sign that supports your case. As an example, a small paint mark on your bumper or a tiny indentation on the fender of your car might help support your claim. Unfortunately, in most cases, any witnesses would be traveling behind your car and would not have much additional information regarding the car’s make and model, a description of the driver, or the license plate details.
Often, the insurance company adjuster’s initial investigation will miss some details that will help support your claim. Your personal injury lawyer you will ensure that every detail and every piece of evidence is used to support your claim.
Your lawyer will most likely uncover details that will not be discovered early on.
Things to do to Protect your Rights
To pursue a claim after a phantom car causes an accident, you will need to stay on the scene of the crash. You will also need to make sure you file the claim with your uninsured motorist coverage right away, usually within 72 hours of the accident.
Keep all documentation and evidence to support your claim and be sure any witnesses give statements to the police to include in the accident report and that you have their contact details because they can at least confirm another vehicle caused your crash.
Witness statements might not help track down the driver, but they can support your claim and show that you were not at fault for the resulting crash.
Maintain Documentation
You will need to keep records and documentation to support your claim. This means you will need to keep medical records, medical bills, proof of missed work and lost wages, written estimates for repairing damage to your vehicles, photos of the damages and injuries, statements from witnesses, the accident report, and other documents.
This documentation will show your damages and help indicate the value of your claim. Common damages are medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damages, loss of consortium, mental trauma, loss of enjoyment of life, and much more.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured because of a phantom vehicle accident, consult with a personal injury attorney right away. These are complicated claims that require extensive knowledge in accident injuries. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get your claim on track.
