Traffic accidents can be life-altering, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. When you should be dedicating your valuable time and energy to your recovery, you’re then stuck navigating the complex landscape of insurance claims. Insurance companies prey on the fact that people often don’t know their rights and the value of their cases. The negligent party’s insurance company will try to undervalue your claim, and your insurance company will pressure you to accept their offer so they can close your case and move on to the next. It’s essential to understand how to navigate insurance claims in Philadelphia so you can reach the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one were involved in a car, truck, or 18-wheeler accident in Philadelphia, Bensalem, Landsdowne, Norristown, Reading, Doylestown, or beyond, turn to the experienced personal injury team at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C.. We are prepared to leverage our experience and expertise to guide you through the insurance claims process.
- Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first and most critical step after a traffic accident is ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Call 911 immediately if anyone has sustained injuries, and report the accident to law enforcement. A police report, even for minor accidents, is essential for insurance purposes. Seek medical attention promptly, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries have a delayed onset, and fear, adrenaline, and shock can mask critical symptoms. Not only is a medical evaluation essential for your health, but a medical report also provides vital evidence to document the extent of your injuries for insurance purposes.
- Gather Information at the Scene
While waiting for law enforcement to arrive, if you are able, it’s helpful to gather information at the scene to streamline the insurance claims process. This includes contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration for every party involved. Photographs of the accident scene can also be beneficial when providing accident details to your insurance company. The contact information for any witnesses on the scene will also bolster your case and your account of events.
- Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you’re able. Delaying this step can have an adverse impact on your ability to see compensation. It’s important to provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident, but you should avoid admitting fault or speculating as to which party was liable before consulting with an experienced attorney. From there, your insurance company will lay out your next steps, including what documentation is necessary to move forward with your claims.
Pennsylvania has a no-fault insurance system, meaning that your insurance company will almost always cover your medical expenses and other financial losses regardless of where the fault lies. However, you still may be able to pursue a claim against the party at fault under certain circumstances. An experienced attorney can advise you of your rights and options under Pennsylvania’s no-fault system.
- Document Your Damages
To strengthen your insurance claim and corroborate your losses, it’s best practice to document all damages resulting from the accident. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, and similar expenses. This information is vital to negotiating a fair settlement in the insurance claims process.
- Consult an Experienced Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorney: Larry Pitt & Associates. We Won’t Quit.
If you or a loved one were involved in a traffic accident in Greater Philadelphia, don’t navigate the complex world of insurance claims alone. Trust the experienced personal injury lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. to guide you through the process and to safeguard your rights. Contact us today or call us at 888-PITT-LAW for a free consultation.
