Side impact accidents, sometimes referred to T-bones, are serious accidents that can lead to death or life-altering injuries. If you have been in a side impact crash, you have suffered a variety of damages and most likely injuries. You will want to pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation for the damages that you suffered because of the negligence of another driver.
You will need to stay on the scene of the crash and call the police to make sure an accident report is filed. You will need the accident report to help get the claim underway. Also, take photos of the accident scene and of the damages. The more supporting documentation that you have, the more likely you are to have a successful personal injury claim.
Be sure to establish medical care right away, so you can prove that the injuries are directly related to the accident. You should maintain medical bills and medical records to support your claim and to show the severity of your injuries as well as your losses.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim
The first step in a personal injury claim is determining liability and proving who is at fault for your damages. To do this, you will need to gather supporting evidence and the accident report. You will then send a demand letter to the liable party and/or their insurer. This letter should be very detailed and convincing.
You will need to explain what happened, when it happened, where it happened, and how it happened. You should then detail all your damages and losses and itemize them. They should then be added up for a total value of your claim, so you ask for a settlement. Ask for more than the minimum amount you will settle for, so you can negotiate with the insurance company.
Send copies of the photos of the damages and the accident scene, copies of witness statements, medical bills, and medical records as well as documentation that shows lost wages and missed work. You may be able to resolve the matter out of court if you show the liable party that you do have supporting evidence and documentation.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in a side impact accident, you have a limited time to pursue a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you will not be able to recover compensation for your damages. A personal injury lawyer will investigate the accident and help you gather supporting evidence and documentation for your claim. Your lawyer will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are treated fairly.
When you enlist the help of a lawyer, you will not have to pay anything out of pocket or upfront. Instead the case will be taken on a contingency basis, which means that the lawyer will not be paid until you win your claim. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share your accident details with an attorney in your area.
