How to Get the Most Money from a Chandler Car Accident
After sustaining injuries in a Chandler car accident, you may be wondering what kind of compensation you’re entitled to and the amount you’ll be awarded. Unfortunately, obtaining a fair settlement from big insurance companies can be a struggle.
To get the most money possible after your accident, it’s important to investigate every piece of potential evidence. Find out everything you need to know about winning your case from Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Under ARS §28-667, motorists are only required to file a police report if there is at least $2,000 in property damage, someone is hurt or killed in the accident, or a citation is issued. That being said, it is always wise to report the accident regardless of its severity. Having access to a Chandler police report can make a huge difference when it comes to determining who is at fault for the accident and maximizing your settlement.
In addition to taking an official statement from you, the other drivers, and any witnesses, a police report is an excellent third-party piece of evidence. In the case of serious collisions, police will often document the scene photographically. If possible, take your own photos of injuries, vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions.
Get Medical Care ASAP
If you are seriously injured in a car crash in Arizona, you will likely be taken to the hospital by ambulance. However, even if you feel fine, the rush of adrenaline after an accident can mask symptoms of pain and injury. Fender benders can still result in whiplash, spinal injuries, and brain injuries. Be sure to see an urgent care physician or your regular doctor as soon as possible following an accident.
Insurance adjusters may question the authenticity of your injuries if you did not seek medical care right away. Continue following up with a medical provider regularly to keep track of any delayed symptoms that may emerge. Finally, keep detailed records of your doctor visits, diagnoses, and any medications prescribed to you.
Talk to Witnesses
If there are people who witnessed your car accident, ask them for their contact information. If a witness is willing to give a statement, they may be able to help strengthen your case and increase your settlement. Like law enforcement officers, credible witnesses can be a powerful third-party tool to recreate the conditions of the accident and settle disputes over who was at fault.
Important information to collect includes witness names, phone numbers, a brief statement, and other contact methods to reach them.
Document Everything
After a car accident it is important to document everything to ensure that you capture all the necessary details of your accident case. This includes photos of the accident scene, any car damage, and any physical injuries. Doing so will help present a clear picture for when it comes time to estimate the total losses and damages from your car accident. You should also meticulously keep track of any expenses you incur, including rental car fees, lost wages due to missed work, and any medical bills you pay out of pocket.
Consult a Chandler Car Accident Attorney
Arizona is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying for any incurred damages. However, you must prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident in order to receive compensation for your injuries, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
To complicate matters, Arizona practices the legal doctrine of comparative negligence, meaning that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced accordingly.
The best way to negotiate a car accident injury settlement and get the most money from a car accident in the shortest amount of time is to consult with a Chandler personal injury lawyer.
The experienced legal team at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is here to help. You can reach us by phone at 602-977-1900 to schedule your free consultation at one of our offices conveniently located throughout Arizona. You can also speak with a representative online using our LiveChat service, or submit the details of your accident using our contact form.