Filing for a claim following a car accident is not as easy as it should be given the stringent process of most insurance companies. They cannot be faulted for being strict not only because profit is their main purpose of existence but because insurance fraud abound.
However, for car accidents constituting no-doubt liability, it should be easy to see who is at fault such as in a rear-end accident.
If you have been involved in an accident where a driver rear-ended your vehicle, you should not hesitate on filing a personal injury claim. Rear-end collisions is typically the other driver’s fault for hitting you from behind, except in instances when you brake lights is not working or you did not use your signal lights.
Determining Damages Caused by the Accident
Being rear-ended could vary in impact depending on many factors. What is important is that you manage to be compensated for the injury and damage to property incurred. Some of the most obvious repair expenses that should be included in the calculation for damages are as follows:
- Repaint of the scratched parts of the car;
- Replacement of back lights;
- Back hood repair;
- Car window repairs, etc.
To Find out how to determine damages in your personal injury claim click here.
You have the option of having the repairs conducted and reimbursing the insurance company, or wait for the insurer to provide you with their estimate and decide whether to agree with it or contest it.
You should however be wary that some insurance companies will intentionally delay this matter. You should not let such inaction transpire.
As for Injuries incurred, they may be compensated through the insurance claim by the provision of all relevant medical expenses, bills, statements, receipts and copies of examinations made. However, besides physical injuries, you can also claim for emotional injuries, which includes pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment and consortium.
Importance of Proving Liability
It is the insurance company’s responsibility to determine who is at fault in any car accidents. This task becomes easier in cases of “no-doubt liability” as with a rear-end accident. Unless it is clear that there is carelessness on your part, the other driver will likely be at fault for hitting the back of your vehicle.
Regardless of the situation however, it is important to keep in mind not to admit fault. Claims adjusters may try to deceive you into admitting liability and they do this in ways that is not obvious. To achieve this is an advantage on their part since they will no longer have to pay for the claim if it is your fault.
It would also help your case if you can provide proofs that the other party is at fault by showing photos of the accident where it clearly shows that he hit your car’s rear, witness statements, police report and CCTV videos that would show the actual incident as it happened.
What to Expect When You File a Claim
The amount of money that you receive from the case is directly tied to the damages that you sustained and the evidence that you provided. Most rear end cases are minor and your settlement will likely be enough to cover the costs of fixing any cosmetic damage and replace the bumper if need be. However, if the case is more severe you may be able to claim more.
If the other driver was traveling at a speed that caused you to crash into the back of the car in front of you, your chances of injury will go way up. For example, if a rear end accident left you with a broken leg your expenses can quickly jump into the thousands. In your claim you would be able to receive compensation for a trip to the hospital, surgery required and any special accommodations like a wheelchair that you might need.
Immediately after your trip to the hospital it will be difficult to work. That money that you would have made can be added to your claim. In addition if you need physical therapy to regain mobility this can be a treatment that is part of your claim. In this scenario, you will likely be facing thousands of dollars in medical bills.
Acquire the Help of a Personal Injury Attorney
Filing a claim is a legal proceeding involving an insurance company and a claims adjuster. It is to your advantage to acquire the help of a personal injury attorney to handle your claim and make sure that the relevant personal injury laws in the state where the auto accident occurred are considered to help your case.To find out if you have a claim, take our Free Case Evaluation.
