Car accidents are often costly, especially when they lead to physical injuries and property damage. Insurance can help cover the costs, but you generally need to provide various information to make a successful claim. Should you be in an automobile accident, the following documents and information can help you make an insurance claim.
Police report
Calling the authorities after a serious accident helps ensure that emergency services arrive to provide immediate assistance and that you have access to a police report. This report provides a mainly neutral account of the incident and some of the aftermath, which is why insurance providers often need it for their investigation.
Other parties’ details
The following information about the other parties in the car accident may be helpful in your insurance claim:
- Full name
- Address
- Contact details
- Insurance company
- Insurance policy number
- License plate
When investigating the incident, your insurance provider will likely use these details to contact the other parties.
Medical report
Even though you may not feel any injury symptoms, visiting your doctor is usually a good idea after a serious accident. Doing so helps uncover and treat injuries with possibly delayed or hidden symptoms, such as whiplash. It also documents the accident’s effect on your body, which your insurance provider might need later when assessing your claim.
Vehicle appraisal
It helps to have professionals appraise both internal and external damage to your vehicle because of the accident. This evaluation might give you an idea of the repair cost and how much your ideal insurance payout might be.
Insurance providers often employ various tactics to evaluate the circumstances of car accidents. Being able to provide the appropriate information may help increase the chances of them approving your claim and giving you a payout that matches what you need.