Car accidents can change the course of victims’ lives in more ways than one. On one hand, victims often leave the scene of the crash with extensive injuries and are usually forced to adopt an entirely new lifestyle to accommodate for the physical and mental impacts.
On the other, these incidents can wreak devastating financial impacts in the form of crushing medical bills, vehicle repairs, and more. Fortunately, as an auto collision victim, you have the right to recover monetary damages from your crash. To learn more about how to receive your compensatory funds in the aftermath of a vehicle accident, see the guide below.
Seeking Monetary Compensation After an Accident
After a car accident, it is imperative that you collect as much evidence as possible to build your case. Each document you gather will work toward demonstrating not only the other driver’s fault but the costs you incurred as a result of their actions. The documentation you will need includes the following:
- Medical paperwork: One of the first things you must do after a car accident is seek medical attention. The hospital will supply you with a medical visit summary and a bill, both of which are crucial to demonstrating the full extent of your need for compensation. You may need to visit the hospital more than once to get a full scope of your condition. Collect the bill each time, as the at-fault driver will be required to cover it all.
- Note: Psychiatric care also qualifies for coverage. With this documentation, you can request compensation for non-physical damages, such as pain and suffering.
- Mechanic’s repair estimates: Any vehicle repairs should be covered by the earned compensation as well. After the crash, take your car to a mechanic to receive an estimate for restoring your car to its pre-collision condition. Consult with your insurer for this step, as they may prefer specific auto shops for these assessments. If the vehicle is totaled, the negligent driver will still be responsible for covering the costs.
- Work hours: If you missed any work shifts, you can be compensated for the lost wages. Be careful to log the time you were absent, and if you are no longer able to fulfill your professional duties due to extensive injuries, record this information as well. The negligent driver can be required to pay the difference in your income.
Once you have your foundation of evidence, get in touch with a car accident lawyer to increase your chances of successfully securing the necessary funds to support your recovery.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer to Support Your Case
The at-fault driver’s insurer is likely to offer you a small settlement in an effort to rush the litigation process along and protect their finances. Yet, you could be entitled to a much larger sum. With an experienced car accident lawyer’s help, you can avoid such manipulative tactics and get the money you need to fund a full recovery, all damages considered. Contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to begin your case and take one step closer to your return to health and peace.
