Working with an attorney after your car accident can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damage. When meeting with the attorney for the first time, you need to make sure you bring all the paperwork necessary to begin filing your case. The following list can help:
#1: Your insurance paperwork
Make sure you bring in your own insurance paperwork, even if the other driver was at fault. Depending on your coverage types and levels, you may also be owed money from your own insurance company. It's also a good idea to bring in proof of payment so your attorney can show the insurance company that you haven't had any lapses in coverage. If you gave a statement to your insurance company, bring in a copy of this as well. Keep in mind, though, you are not legally required to give the insurance company a statement.
#2: The other driver's paperwork
The name, contact information, and insurance information of the other driver is a necessity. You should have collected all of this information at the scene of the accident. If their insurance contacted you for a statement and you gave it, then also bring in a copy of the statement you gave.
#3: An accident report
If the police or emergency services attended the accident scene, there will be an accident report on file. For some minor accidents or accidents without immediately apparent injuries, emergency services don't always attend. In this case, it is up to you to go down to the local police station and file a report as soon as possible. Bring a copy of the report to your meeting with the attorney.
#4: Treatment records
Any treatment you received immediately following the accident, along with documentation of injuries and ongoing medical care, should be brought in for your attorney to review. Any medical bills related to the accident, including prescriptions filled as well as receipts for any over the counter treatments, can have a bearing on your final settlement amount.
#5: Records of loss
You probably have some losses beyond medical bills. These include documentation of damage to the vehicle, loss of any personal effects in the vehicle, lost wages from missed work, and even costs associated with alternate transportation. Bring in any receipts or records of loss that can be traced to the car accident.
For more help, contact an auto accident attorney in your area.
