Unfortunately, not everyone has enough insurance to cover injuries they may cause in a car accident.
To protect yourself, you have to start building your personal injury case against the at-fault driver right after the accident occurs.
A police report
A police report establishes a record of the incident and contains important details about the scene, so call the police right after the accident. Make sure you request a copy of the police report.
Documentation of the accident
While you are waiting for the police, take pictures of the scene, including damages to your car or any personal injuries you sustained. If possible, gather any witnesses who would be willing to make a statement on your behalf. Witnesses could prove valuable in a personal injury case.
Correspondence with insurance companies
West Virginia is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver will have to cover your damages. Make sure you notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Then, file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. All drivers in West Virginia need at least $25,000 in liability insurance. If the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance to cover your injuries, you can start a personal injury claim.
Medical records
Even if it seems like you have not sustained any overt injuries, you should get examined as soon as possible. Getting that initial exam can help establish a record. Plus, in West Virginia, the statute of limitations is two years to file a lawsuit, so if you develop issues later on as a result of the accident, you can start the claims process.
Every personal injury case is different, but the more evidence you have, the better off you will be.