Car Accident Claims: Important Things You Need to Know

Nobody ever plans on getting into a car accident. But if you are unfortunate enough to be involved in one, knowing what to do to protect your rights is essential. 

Beyond financial compensation, filing a car accident claim can also help boost your chance of recovering total damages. If you have suffered physical or emotional injuries from the accident, filing a claim can make it easier to get the treatment and support you need to recover. 

What Are the Things You Need to Do After a Car Accident?

1. See a Doctor as Soon as Possible

You should always see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident, even if you don’t think you were seriously injured. This is because some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Moreover, having a medical record can help solidify your claim.

If you wait too long to see a doctor, you may jeopardise your health or the personal injury claim you may want to file later.

2. File a Claim

If you were not at fault for the accident, you might be able to recover damages from the other driver’s insurance company. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. 

The first step is to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. You will need to provide them with documentation of the accident and evidence that you were not at fault. 

When someone is in an accident, it’s essential to record the contact information of any witnesses. This includes the driver and passengers of the other car and any people who may have seen or heard what happened. It is helpful to have this information if you decide to make a car accident claim.

Once you file the claim, the insurance company will investigate the accident and determine whether or not they are liable for the damages. If they are responsible, they will reimburse you for your expenses.

3. Provide Proof

If you are in an accident and the other driver is at fault, you must provide their insurance company with proof of your injuries and expenses. This can include medical bills, pay stubs, and receipts for repairs to your car. The insurance company will then reimburse you for your losses.

Is There a Time Limit in Australia for Filing Car Insurance Claims?

In Western Australia, the time limit for initiating legal proceedings for a personal injury claim is three years; however, more extended periods are permitted for those under eighteen, and there are rare exceptions.

How Long after an Accident Can You File a Claim for Auto Insurance?

According to Section 14(1) of the Limitation Act 2005, an injured person cannot seek damages for personal injury if three years have passed since the person became aware of the injury. Most injured people become aware of their injuries immediately after the accident.

Suppose you are injured in a car accident and want to file a claim in Western Australia. In that case, you must do so as soon as possible after the accident, according to the Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act 1943.

If you have a valid insurance policy and your car is damaged, you should contact your insurance company immediately.

Conclusion

It is essential to file a car accident claim if you have been injured in a car accident. If you do not file a claim, your rights may be limited, and you may not be able to receive the compensation you are entitled to. Filing a claim can help ensure that you get the compensation you deserve and that the party who caused the accident pays what they owe.

If you have been into an accident and want to file a claim, D’Angelo Legal is here to assist you. We have the best car accident lawyers in Perth dedicated to providing clients with legal solutions to their problems. Start the conversation with us today!