If you have been in a car accident with multiple drivers, it might be hard to determine who is at fault. One driver may be liable, or there could be a situation with multiple drivers sharing responsibility.
The officer who completes the accident report will investigate the crash, but your personal injury attorney will also conduct a thorough investigation. You will want to recover compensation to cover your damages, so you will need to send a demand letter to the responsible party or parties to let them know you are filing a personal injury claim.
If more than one driver was at fault, it will need to be determined who had which percentage of fault for their role in the crash. You should enlist the help of a personal injury attorney, who will gather up the supporting documentation and pursue a claim against the proper party or parties. The first step in your personal injury claim will be to send a demand letter, which can be done by your personal injury lawyer.
The Demand Letter for an Accident with Multiple Vehicles
When you prepare a demand letter, it should be very precise and detailed. You should include supporting documentation and evidence to show that you are eligible to pursue a claim.
You need to consider all the damages that you suffered and come up with a fair value for a settlement. Always ask for more than your minimum settlement amount, so there is room for negotiation with the insurance company.
- First, include the date, time, and location of the accident
- Explain the crash in detail – what happened, how it happened, and why it happened – state only facts
- Discuss the damages you suffered – medical costs, prescriptions, medical devices, lost wages, rental car, tow bills, property damages, and pain and suffering
- You will need to come up with an itemized list with the value of your damages – such as a line for medical expenses, a line for property damages, and so forth
- Provide supporting documentation, such as tow bills, prescription receipts, medical bills, and documentation showing lost wages
- Include photos of the damages and injuries, photos of the accident scene, a copy of the accident report, and copies of witness statements
- Include the total that you expect to be compensated for the damages that you suffered
Always Maintain Documentation
Establishing medical care right away is essential to the success of your personal injury claim. Keep copies of medical bills, proof of lost wages, prescription receipts, bills for towing your vehicle, rental car receipts, and proof of any other losses incurred because of the crash. Remember, you will not get the total dollar amount that you initially request, so leave room to negotiate.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in an accident with multiple drivers, consult with a personal injury attorney. Complete the Free Case Evaluation form above to discuss your case with an attorney. By enlisting the help of a personal injury lawyer, you can make sure you don't forget anything in your demand letter.
