Let us say you were the victim of a rear-end collision, and the impact caused your head to strike the steering wheel. The bump was painful and left you feeling a bit disoriented.
However, the damage to your car made you feel even worse. Your beloved convertible took quite a hit, and you can envision a hefty repair bill. Once you can think clearly again, what are your next steps?
First things first
If anyone involved in the accident suffered injuries, call 911 to summon medical help, then call the police. You can collect pertinent details about the crash while waiting for law enforcement officers to arrive. You must exchange insurance information with the other driver, so make sure you have his or her contact information: phone number, physical address, email address and driver’s license and license plate numbers. Use your cellphone to take pictures of the crash site and the damage to your vehicle. When the police arrive, they will document the incident. Ask for a copy of the police report.
Dealing with property damage
In addition to your convertible, your laptop also sustained damage in the collision when it crashed to the floor during impact. Therefore, your claim for property damage will include two items: You want your car professionally repaired, plus, compensation for the loss of your laptop.
Seeking medical help
See a doctor promptly about that bump to your head, and ensure you have no other injuries. The diagnosis may be a concussion. Keep in mind that even a rear-end collision that occurs at a low speed is sufficient to cause mild brain trauma, the symptoms of which are not always apparent at the time of the crash.
About your claim
Add the medical report to the police report, and give copies to your attorney, along with the photos and notes you took at the crash scene. Your advocate will find this information very helpful in negotiating a full and fair settlement on your behalf to cover your medical expenses and—equally important—to make your convertible look good as new again.