If another driver’s negligence leaves you injured in a car accident, you will have to deal with an insurance company or two. Knowing what to expect and how to ensure that the insurance company takes your claim seriously can make all the difference when it comes to obtaining the compensation to which you are entitled. The fact is that insurance companies are in the business of turning massive profits, and this includes cutting corners wherever they can. Understanding your rights will allow you to deal with the insurance company in a forthright manner that helps protect your best interests.
Collect the Other Driver’s Insurance and Contact Information
If another motorist causes you to be injured, it is imperative that you obtain his or her insurance information and contact information. Without this essential information, it may be impossible for you to move forward with a robust claim.
Beware the driver who wants to deal with the accident without going through your insurance companies. This approach is not in your best interests. The fact is that it is often difficult to know the extent of the property damage to your car and your physical injuries immediately after an accident. The impact of a crash can cause structural damage to your vehicle that may not be readily apparent, and physical injuries often blossom over time. If the other driver does not want to exchange information, your best option is to call the police and allow them to settle the matter.
Seek Medical Attention
If you have been in a car accident that involved a significant impact, it is always a good idea to seek medical attention. Some injuries are slow to present, but early diagnosis is closely related to an improved prognosis. Obtaining the medical care you need is not only in the best interest of your health but is also the best thing you can do for your claim.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Whatever your doctor advises you to do in relation to the injuries you have incurred, follow his or her instructions to the letter. This is the best path forward regarding your health, and it lets the insurance company know that you are invested in recovering from the injuries you have sustained and that you are not exaggerating or exacerbating them. The insurance company may be looking for an opportunity to show that you worsened your condition, but carefully following medical advice will go a long way toward disproving such a theory.