How To Sue A Vehicle Owner For A Car Crash
You may be following the road rules and driving within the speed limits. Accidents often happen due to the carelessness of drivers, and innocent drivers have to suffer if they are involved in the accident. If you’re unlucky enough to find yourself in such a situation, remember that you can always sue the other party.
It's easy to get carried away in the heat and start arguing or picking up a fight. But that isn't the wise thing to do. The best way to deal with the situation is to sue the driver legally. If you are not sure how, these eight tips will help you.
Go To The Doctor
If you are injured, you must see a doctor as soon as possible. Don’t delay because it will look like you weren't hurt that bad if you waited weeks or months to seek medical attention. Get a full report from the doctor, including the ones for brain stem injuries due to falls and how long it will take for you to recover. This document will be useful later.
Get The Car Owner's Information
You will need the other driver’s name, address, contact information, and insurance information. It would help if you also get their license plate number. The best way to get this information is directly asking the car owner. If they are cooperative, they will give it to you. If they are uncooperative and try to drive away, you can get their information from the police. The police will also file a report, which will be useful later.
Get Witnesses Information
If anyone saw the accident, get their information too. They can act as witnesses in your case. Here is how you can do that:
- Talk to the eyewitness on the ground and ask them what they saw.
- Record what they have to stay.
- Check whether there are any CCTV cameras around that might have captured the accident.
- If there are, ask for footage from the store or office owner.
Take Pictures
Pictures are worth a thousand words. In this case, pictures of the damage to both cars and your injuries will help your case. Take photos of:
- Your car
- The other car
- The scene of the accident
- Your injuries
This evidence will help your personal injury lawyer build up a strong case for suing the driver.
Call Your Insurance Company
Do this even if the accident wasn't your fault. You need to inform them about the accident so they can start the claims process. Do not sign anything or give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without consulting your own insurance company first or your lawyer.
Hire An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
You might be able to handle the case and negotiate with the insurance companies if the accident was minor and you don't have injuries. But, if you were seriously injured or had a dispute over who is at fault, it would be best to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to represent you. Your lawyer will also deal with the insurance company on your behalf so that you can focus on your recovery.
File A Police Report
You should file a report yourself if the police didn't come to the accident scene. It would help if you did this as soon as possible, so the details are still fresh in your mind. The police report will be useful as evidence in your case.
Collect Evidence
Besides the pictures and police report, there might be other evidence that can help your case. This includes:
- The other driver's driving record
- Traffic tickets they received at the accident scene
- Witness statements
- Your medical records
Final Word
Suing the other driver is the best way to get compensated for your damages and injuries - especially when you weren't at fault. By following these tips, you can improve your odds of getting the compensation you deserve.