Understanding What Is Considered Property Damage in a Car Accident
In addition to injuries sustained in the incident, property damage in car accidents is another cause of concern for the victim. That said, it’s only fair to be compensated to help cover any needed repairs or replacements.
This article discusses crucial steps you need to take to help you file your claim effectively and secure the appropriate compensation for your damaged belongings. From doing proper documentation to negotiating with the person at fault’s insurance company, these steps are key to ensuring you obtain the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Understanding Property Damage Claims
Property owners submit property damage claims to recover losses incurred due to damage to their property. These claims can cover various types of damage, such as damage from natural disasters, accidents, vandalism, or theft.
Filing a claim involves providing evidence of the damage, getting cost estimates, and working with the insurance company to receive compensation. In car accidents, this may include your vehicle, personal belongings, and even your pet.
You will be eligible for compensation for the damages caused by the accident if you have the proper documents and evidence to support your claim.
Types of Property Damage
Vehicle Damage
When you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s inevitable for your car to obtain damages such as minor scratches, body dents, and fender benders. In some severe cases, the car could be considered as a total loss.
In states like Nevada, you’re entitled to receive compensation for the damages if you’re not at fault, so the person at fault’s insurance company will cover the expenses for repair, relieving you of financial burden.
Once you determine the cost of repairs and the vehicle’s market value, the insurance company will cover whichever cost is less than the other. For example, if the repairs cost $3,000 and the car’s market value costs $1,500, they will only cover the lower amount.
Personal Property Damage
It may not be common knowledge, but you’re eligible for compensation if your personal belongings, such as laptops, cellphones, and even designer items, are damaged due to a car accident and would require replacements or repairs.
People often assume that the vehicle damage and physical injuries acquired from the accident are the only ones covered by the insurance, but that’s not the case. So, don’t forget to examine your belongings after the accident.
Pet Injuries
If you were traveling with your pet during the accident, there’s a possibility that they felt the effects of the accident and had injuries as well. Under the law, your pets are considered property; hence, receiving compensation for their medical expenses and recovery is possible.
Handling a Property Damage Claim
To ensure you get positive results when you file a property damage claim, you must have proper documentation and evidence of the damages caused by the accident. This can be tedious, but it will save you from all the financial burden when you receive compensation.
Gather Evidence:
One of the most crucial steps when filing a claim is gathering enough solid evidence to support it. This can include photos of the vehicles involved, statements from eyewitnesses, surveillance footage from surrounding areas of the accident, and the police report.
Contact a Seasoned Mechanic:
Getting your vehicle assessed by a credible mechanic is vital because this is one of the most important factors in determining how much compensation you can get. The mechanic can not only identify the external damages but also dig deeper and assess possible internal damages caused by the accident.
Get Help from a Legal Expert:
Filing a property damage claim can be stressful, and the process could take a while, so having someone well-versed in the area, specifically a car accident lawyer, ensures that you build a strong claim is necessary, which ultimately can result in a favorable outcome.
Seek Legal Assistance
Are you looking for a Henderson car accident lawyer to help you file a property damage claim against the party at fault? At Jones Wilson Injury Lawyers, we are ready to fight for your rights so you can get justice and the compensation you deserve.
With over 53 years of experience and numerous cases successfully defended, we assure you you’ll be in good hands! We know how frustrating this ordeal can be, so we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation with us today !
