In certain car accidents, it is not always immediately clear which driver is at fault. When you proceed to file a claim with the other person’s insurance carrier, they have the right to dispute and possibly deny your claim. It is important to understand the claims process beforehand and to gather substantiating evidence to defend your case.
Tips For Handling Your Insurance Dispute
Here are a few steps to take in order to optimize your chances of winning an insurance dispute:
- Gather physical evidence and photo proof — The location of physical damage on your car can be demonstrative of which driver is at fault. For instance, dents or dings on the passenger side of your car would most likely indicate that the other person was not paying attention to the road and side-swiped your vehicle while pulling out of a parking spot, turning improperly, or running a stop sign. In the event of a collision, you should take photos of the scene as soon as is possible. Pictures of damage sustained, debris from the crash, and skid marks on the road can help you prove fault in a dispute.
- Produce medical records of any injuries — If you suffered injuries from the accident, get a full medical assessment immediately. Medical charts, doctor’s notes, and bills that show the scope of your injury and corresponding medical expenses will be necessary to determine an appropriate settlement amount.
- Take note of witnesses present at the crash scene — The testimony of bystanders and neutral witnesses can strengthen your case, provided that their description of the collision matches your story. Make sure to take down the names and contact information of any witnesses present at the accident scene in order to prepare for a possible investigation.
- Get a copy of your police report — When you report an accident to local law enforcement or the Illinois State Police, officers will typically arrive at the scene if injuries or serious property damage were incurred. The responding officer will take down both parties’ accounts, but if he agreed and noted that the other driver is at fault, the insurer will be more compelled to drop the dispute. You should obtain a copy of the police report or report number for reference.
- Contact an experienced attorney — In the aftermath of a serious car crash, you might already be feeling overwhelmed. The last thing you want to deal with is an insurance dispute. Furthermore, most insurance companies will not change their minds once they believe that their driver was not liable. In difficult cases, you will have to be represented by an experienced attorney to fight the dispute.
How a Attorney Can Help
At the Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we have helped clients from all walks of life to make a financial recovery after an auto accident. In the past, we have secured settlements to cover the costs of medical bills, physical therapy, car repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If you suffered trauma from another driver’s mistake, we will strive to obtain the compensation that you rightfully deserve.
Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan.
Our knowledgeable Chicago personal injury lawyers will handle negotiations with insurance adjusters and work our hardest to achieve a fair settlement — or take your case to trial and work to convince a jury why you deserve compensation. Contact our office now at (312) 236-2900 to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys and we will be happy to discuss your legal options.
