For some drivers it’s the saddest day of their lives when they get involved in a car accident and they find they can no longer drive their car any more. The only quick way of handling this is to call a tow truck company to take your car to a safe place to be repaired. This happens every day of the week throughout the country and the cost is typically carried by the at-fault driver’s insurance company as part of a personal injury claim. Before you call the tow truck company you will need to dial 911 especially if your damaged car is blocking traffic. The police should arrive and direct the situation and write a report. It is this report that will help to determine who is at fault for the accident.
What to Do After the Tow Truck is on its Way
As it is likely the damage to your car will be part of your PI claim you will need to record as many details as possible to the damage done to the vehicle. Most drivers have a camera available to take photos of the damage. You have to be meticulous about every little bit of damage done. This includes the following:
- checking and photographing damage to the chassis;
- taking photos of rear end damage and front end damage;
- taking photos of damaged windows, windshields and lights;
- taking photos of interior damage.
Each of the photos should be backed up with a description. If there are witnesses available at the time of the accident you should get their names and addresses so if it is necessary they can be asked to write a report stating that the damage was done at that accident. Insurers are notorious for refusing damages payments for vehicles if there is no evidence to prove when and how the damage was done.
What go Do When the Tow Truck Arrives
As long as you know you are able to prove the accident was not your fault it is important you get all the documentation from the tow company for the service. This includes the cost of the tow and the cost of storing it if applicable when it reaches its destination. You may be asked to pay upfront for the tow so you will need a receipt to prove payment.
You May Need the Help of a Personal Injury Lawyer
If your accident requires medical treatment you may be entitled to include the cost of the tow in your PI claim. To make it easier and to help to ensure your PI claim is successful it pays to ask for assistance from a PI lawyer who knows how to get the settlement you deserve.
