By definition, an accident is an unexpected and unintentional unfortunate incident. These instances often result in damage or injury. If you have been involved in a car accident, it can be a scary and challenging time. It is expected to be at a loss for what to do. Navigating the aftermath of a Bellevue car accident includes speaking to insurance companies, negotiating, and understanding your rights. This article helps you know what to do if you have been in a Bellevue car accident!
The Steps to Take After a Bellevue Car Accident
If you are involved in a Bellevue car accident, you must take several essential steps as soon as possible. These actions will help you protect yourself and your legal rights.
1. Stay at the Scene and Call Emergency Services
According to all legal experts, you mustn’t leave the scene of an accident. Call emergency services if there are any injuries or significant damage to vehicles. Medical help and the police will be dispatched to the scene. Remain where you are until the emergency responders arrive, check yourself, and seek medical attention if necessary.
2. Exchange All Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in your Bellevue car accident at the scene. Write down their name, address, phone number, driver’s license and license plate information, and insurance company and policy number. The more information you get, the easier it will make your claim in the future.
3. Take Photographs and Keep Records
Photographs are the best way to document what happened. Without physical evidence to prove what happened and subsequent damages, you may find yourself in a future legal problem. Take as many photographs of damage to cars, property, road conditions, and injuries. Write down details and start keeping diligent records.
4. Talk to Witnesses
If you can find witnesses to your accident, it is critical to speak to them. Ask them what they saw and document it carefully. Obtain their contact information in case you need their testimony in the future.
5. Report a Claim
After leaving your Bellevue car accident scene, you must report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Reporting a claim early ensures you comply with your contract and get assistance filing your claim with your company and the other driver’s insurance. Finally, the sooner you file your claim, the faster you will receive compensation for the damages.
6. Seek Legal Counsel
You should seek legal counsel if you sustained injuries or significant property damage or experienced loss of work or money due to an accident. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and navigate the complicated world of insurance claims.
7. Deal with Insurance Adjusters and Negotiate a Settlement
You must keep detailed records of all expenses, medical treatment, lost wages, and potential future costs related to your Bellevue car accident. Use this information in your insurance claims with your company and the other party’s insurance. Hiring a personal injury attorney with years of experience dealing with insurance adjusters is the best way to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to from your accident.
Tips for Dealing with Insurance Companies
Filing a claim and negotiating with insurance companies can be stressful and confusing after an already upsetting accident. The first thing to do is report the accident promptly and keep detailed records of your communication with your insurer throughout the process for evidence in case of any disputes.
Be honest and accurate about the damages to yourself and your property, but never accept their first offer. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly with a low amount of compensation. If you are afraid to negotiate, hire a personal injury attorney like Robert Jones Law to help you through your Bellevue car accident claim. Remember important deadlines for filing a claim, and ensure you sign everything after reviewing it. If something seems off, consult an attorney immediately!
How to Avoid Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Case
Car accident victims make several common mistakes when pursuing a legal case. First, make sure you seek medical treatment immediately and thoroughly. If you delay treatment, it can show an insurance company that your injuries weren’t as bad as you claimed. Second, never admit fault – that is the work of the investigation! Third, wait to post on social media for a while. Insurance companies can use your activities against you. Other vital mistakes to avoid are signing documents without reviewing them, settling quickly before understanding your injuries or future medical expenses, and letting deadlines pass you by!
Should I Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
If you have been involved in a Bellevue car accident caused by negligence, it is essential to consider hiring a personal injury attorney. Lawyers have years of legal knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. Hiring an attorney can also help you calculate the full extent of your damages and are swift and effective negotiators to maximize your compensation from insurance companies. Attorneys can access resources such as investigators, medical experts, and other advisors to help build your case. Finally, if you cannot reach a fair settlement, a lawyer can represent you in court to fight for compensation. Hiring a personal injury attorney can help take stress and hassle off your shoulders as you recover from your accident.
How Robert Jones Law Can Help
Have you recently been involved in a Bellevue car accident in Washington? If so, Robert Jones Law is here to help! Our professional team of personal injury attorneys are experts on the intricacies of Washington State law and dealing with insurance companies and claims. We will work diligently to understand every detail and aspect of your case and ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible. Additionally, should you need to take your case to court, you have a professional, seasoned team. Visit our website to learn more about our company or schedule a free consultation with our car accident lawyers!
