The first steps you take after a car accident can make a major difference when it comes to filing a claim for your injuries and the damage to your car. For example, if you do not obtain a report from the Cincinnati police after the accident, then you could have trouble convincing the other driver’s insurance company to compensate you.
Dealing with another driver’s insurance company can be extremely frustrating, but there are things you can do after a wreck in order to make the process easier. What you can do to increase your chances of success when file a claim against the driver that caused the car accident?
1. Get the right information
When you are involved in a car accident, both you and the at-fault driver are responsible for reporting the wreck to your respective insurance companies. However, you should also call the other driver’s insurer. This means that you will have to get certain information from the other driver. While you are still at the scene of the accident, be sure to get the other driver’s name, address, insurance information and license plate number. In addition, collect contact information and statements from any witnesses.
2. Make contact
Once you have had time to collect your thoughts and create a detailed account of the accident, contact the other driver’s insurer to report the accident. Only provide the details of what happened and do not give your opinion. When assessing your claim, the insurer will consider your statement, the other driver’s statement, and the police report. However, even if the police report identifies the other driver as the one at fault, the insurance company may see things differently and deny your claim.
3. Dealing with a denial
If the other driver’s insurer denies your claim, you might be able to receive compensation for the damages from your own car insurance provider. Another option is to take legal action. You can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
If you have been the victim of a negligent driver, it is important to take the proper steps after the accident. Failing to get witness statements or admitting some fault in the accident can land you with a denial from the other driver’s car insurance company.