When a driver is not being safe and puts others at risk on the roads, they should be held accountable. As someone who is a victim of an auto accident, it’s important that you take steps to make a claim against the at-fault driver.
If you know that the other driver was distracted, make sure you speak up and say so. For example, if you were approaching an intersection and noticed that the driver coming from the right was looking down or away from the front of the vehicle, you should let the police know at the scene. Inform your attorney and be ready to make your statement. There will be other ways to show that the driver was distracted, but your first-hand knowledge could be helpful in your car accident case.
Witness statements make a difference in distracted driving cases
It’s true that what witnesses say can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. For instance, if a passenger in the vehicle admits that their friend, the driver, was using their phone while driving, then their statement may help you make a successful claim for compensation. The goal is to show that the other driver was absolutely at fault, so you can make a claim against their insurance and seek the maximum amount of compensation allowed by law.
What information do you need to make your claim?
It is helpful if you have a few pieces of information for your claim. Some items to collect for your attorney include:
- Your medical documentation
- Witness information, such as contact information
- A copy of the police report
- A written copy of your own statement about what happened
These and other documents will help you build your case, so you can seek the compensation you need.
If the insurance company calls you to try to ask you about what happened, keep in mind that you should not speak with them without knowing your rights. You do not want to say or do anything that might harm your case, so it’s a good idea to refer the call on and ask them to call your attorney’s office.