How to Protect Your Rights As an Accident Victim

Accidents are unavoidable and can happen anytime, and victims are legally entitled to make an insurance claim for the injuries and damages sustained. After the accident occurs, your steps are crucial in safeguarding your rights and filing a successful claim. We discuss ways that can help you get what you deserve after an accident.

1. Find a lawyer

If you find yourself a victim of an accident whose fault wasn’t yours, find yourself a lawyer as soon as possible so you can focus on the healing process. An experienced and honest lawyer will fight for you to get the compensation you rightfully deserve. Find out more here on how an injury lawyer can help your claim.

2. Call the police

You must report the accident to the police and ask that they document the incident.  You have a right to ask for a copy of the report and challenge any information therein not consistent with the actual happenings at the scene.

Refrain from making any statements insinuating your acceptance of responsibility for the accident. Take note of details of officers who come to the crime scene and make the police report. An official report by a law enforcement officer helps strengthen your claim, especially where your account of events is disputed.

3. Document the scene

The aftermath of an accident can be confusing and chaotic. However, if you are not seriously injured, collecting as much evidence as is possible is key to helping you win an insurance claim. Take many photos and videos of the scene clearing referencing the date and time taken for ease of authentication. If you are not in a position to request a willing witness to document the scene for you and send them to you.

Photograph the scene, damage on the property, injuries sustained, and anything else that might have contributed to the accident. Talk to witnesses and collect contacts of those willing to make written statements supporting your claim.

4. Get immediate medical attention

Your priority after an accident should always be seeking medical attention, irrespective of whether you’re feeling fine. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but are very serious and, at times, fatal. A thorough check by a medical practitioner will determine the extent of injuries sustained and treat them accordingly.

Complete your treatment and follow the doctor’s instructions strictly. Early treatment will set you on the road to recovery early enough, and the detailed medical reports will also come in handy in your compensation claim.

5. Be patient but persistent

Before your compensation case goes to court, it is the insurance adjuster who ultimately decides on your claim. It helps if you remain patient, polite, and professional when speaking with the insurance company. It would be best if you also were persistent, as many insurers may purposely try to frustrate and take advantage of you, so you can give up on pursuing the claim. If you feel that you aren’t making headway with the insurance company, talk to a personal injury attorney for guidance.

Endnote

Satisfactorily settling an accident claim can be a challenge, but when you know your rights, have the documentation in order, and follow the right claim process, you will be well-armed to negotiate for a proper settlement.