If you've ever been in a car accident, you have an idea of how complicated things can get in the aftermath. This is especially the case when you're not the one responsible for the accident. In the best case scenario, you'll have to go for some time without your car. In other cases, you could be in a hospital bed for an extended stay, dealing with emotional trauma and trying to get the insurance company to offer a respectable settlement. There are several things that you can do to make your life easier after an accident.

1. Gather all the Information You Can

Information is key when you're going up against an insurance company. These companies have plenty of experience and very good lawyers. It's important to have as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the damaged vehicle and the accident scene. If other cars are involved as well, take photos of their damaged cars too. You should also have a police at the scene to make a formal record of the incident.

2. Get the Insurance Information of the Other Party

If you wait to get the other person's insurance information from police records, you could wait for several days or even weeks. This can lead to a delay in making your claim. As soon as the police arrive at the scene, those involved in the accident will be separated to avoid contact. Be sure to get your information before the police get there (assuming it's safe and you're able to do so).

3. Write Down Details

It's easy to forget certain details about the accident due to the trauma. Write down as much information as possible so you don't forget. This information will help the claims adjuster. Indicate the street you were on, which direction you were travelling in, the time of the accident, road conditions, weather conditions etc.

4. File the Claim as Soon as You Can

It's better if the insurance company finds out about the accident as early as possible. This will mean the information going to the adjuster will still be fresh and details sharper. Therefore, you'll be able to get a better and faster service so you can go on with your life.

However, there is no guarantee that things will go smoothly. You may have to go to court at some point, so you should have a car accident attorney ready by the time it gets to this. Contact a law office like Carter & Fulton, P.S. for more information and assistance.