Being involved in a car crash can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not at fault. Understanding the insurance claims process and knowing what actions to take can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and property damage. In this blog, we’ll outline the do’s and don’ts for navigating the insurance claims process in Pennsylvania.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident
If you’ve been in a car crash, it’s crucial to take immediate and appropriate steps to protect your rights. Here's what you should do:
1. Report the Accident Immediately
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Delaying the report can complicate your claim and jeopardize your case. If either vehicle is disabled, if the other driver is uninsured, or if it’s a hit-and-run accident, call the police right away to document the incident.
2. Gather Information
Be sure to collect important details from the other driver(s), including:
- Insurance information
- Contact information
- Witness statements
This information will be essential when filing your claim and determining who is at fault.
3. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Keep all relevant medical records and repair receipts as they will be crucial in supporting your case. Also, be sure to obtain a medical claim number from your auto insurance to provide your healthcare provider for billing purposes.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, always get checked by a healthcare professional after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. In Pennsylvania, your auto insurance pays for medical benefits first, regardless of fault.
5. Consult a Lawyer
It’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to guide you through the complex claims process. The Law Offices of Anthony Urban has over 60 years of experience handling personal injury cases and can help you navigate your claim, negotiate with insurers, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Not to Do if You Are Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident
While knowing what to do is vital, it’s equally important to avoid certain actions that could harm your claim. Here’s what you should not do:
1. Don’t Admit Fault
Avoid admitting fault at the scene or to your insurance company. Liability should be determined through an investigation, and admitting fault could negatively impact your claim.
2. Don’t Sign Documents Without Understanding Them
Insurance companies may ask you to sign documents that could limit your compensation. Never sign anything without fully understanding it. Always consult your attorney before agreeing to any terms.
3. Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but these initial offers are often too low. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get a fair settlement based on the full extent of your injuries and damages.
4. Don’t Delay Medical Treatment
Delaying medical treatment can not only harm your health but also weaken your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries are less severe than you claim if you don’t seek treatment promptly. Consistent medical documentation is vital for your case.
5. Don’t Provide Recorded Statements to the Other Driver’s Insurance
Avoid giving recorded statements to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Their goal is often to get you to say something that could harm your case. Always consult with your lawyer before providing any statements.
The Importance of Hiring a Lawyer to Navigate the Claims Process
An experienced personal injury lawyer plays a crucial role in maximizing your compensation and protecting your interests. Here's why you should consult with a lawyer like Anthony Urban after a car crash:
1. Maximize Insurance Benefits
A lawyer can help you claim all benefits under your auto insurance policy, including medical benefits, wage loss, and underinsured motorist benefits. An attorney may even secure more benefits than you initially thought.
2. Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators who can ensure you receive a fair settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance. Lawyers like the team at The Law Offices of Anthony Urban work on a contingency fee basis, so their success is directly tied to getting the highest possible settlement for you.
3. Handle Liens and Subrogation Claims
Medical liens or reimbursement rights from healthcare providers, Medicare, or workers' compensation can complicate your settlement. Your lawyer can negotiate with lienholders to reduce what you owe, ensuring that you keep more of your settlement.
4. Prove Fault and Maximize Compensation
A personal injury lawyer will help prove the other driver’s fault, gather evidence, and secure expert testimony when necessary. They will also help quantify your damages to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Proving Liability and Damages in Auto Crash Cases
To recover compensation for your injuries, you must prove both liability (who is at fault) and damages (the losses you incurred).
Proving Fault
In Pennsylvania, the law requires you to prove that the other driver was at least 51% at fault. Your lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to establish the other driver’s negligence. At the same time, they’ll ensure that you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.
Proving Damages
After proving fault, your lawyer will help document the full extent of your damages, including:
- Medical expenses (including future treatment)
- Lost wages and future lost earnings
- Pain and suffering (both physical and emotional)
- Property damage (repair or replacement of your vehicle)
In cases of severe negligence (e.g., drunk driving), your lawyer may also seek punitive damages to hold the at-fault driver accountable for their reckless actions.
Conclusion
Navigating insurance claims after a car crash can be a complex and overwhelming process, but knowing the do’s and don’ts can help you avoid common mistakes. Hiring an experienced lawyer, like The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, will ensure that you receive the fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and property damage.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact The Law Offices of Anthony Urban for expert legal representation. We will guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight to maximize your recovery.
Call to Action:
If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Pennsylvania, contact The Law Offices of Anthony Urban for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the insurance claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 888-268-0023 or fill out our online contact form.