What to do if you are involved in a car accident

Car accidents are a real nuisance, and one of those frustrating and miserable experiences we could all really just do without. But it’s an unfortunate fact of life that yes, accidents do happen, and they can be a real burden for those on the receiving end of some really shocking driving.

This being said, there are a few things you should always do when involved in a car accident. Remember, the best lawyers in Canberra has available are here to ensure you get the best monetary outcome, but there is a list of other important things to take care of before and after enlisting them to ensure your safety and that your legal team are well equipped with what’s needed to get the goods as the end result:

1. Seek medical attention

Car accidents can cause an array of injuries that could require immediate or later medical attention. Therefore, the first thing to do is to seek medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained, ensuring you keep the records so that your lawyers have them for reference.

2. Grab the other driver’s details

Well, this is simply imperative, as you need these for your insurance claims as well as any further legal assistance if it comes to it.

3. Report the accident to the police

It’s vital for you to report the incident to the police so that they have a record of the incident occurring. Once again, this can be an important aspect of getting the best financial result, so be sure to notify them especially if you have been injured or your car severely damaged!

4. Contact a lawyer

The most skilled and experienced lawyers in Canberra has will be able to provide you with the legal support you need to boost your chances of winning any legal battles that might result from this unfortunate incident. The laws surrounding car accidents are complex, and you want to be sure that you have the best team in your corner to handle these difficult issues, especially if the other driver has enlisted their legal support.

5. Determine your claim eligibility

You are required to have third party insurance, as this covers any drivers, pedestrians or passengers injured in a car accident, making them all eligible to make a claim in this unfortunate situation.

You are able to make a claim against the insurance of the negligent car owner or driver, with claims covering the following:

• Medical, hospital & rehabilitation expenses (including potential future costs);

• Loss of earnings as result of the incident (as well as loss of earning capacity);

• Repair or replacement of damaged property;

• Attendant care & home modification expenses;

• Pain, suffering & reduced life enjoyment (if you have experienced a whole person impairment which surpasses the 10% threshold.

1. Lodge your claim

You have to lodge the claim with the negligent driver’s insurer and it must be done within 28 days of the accident. You can receive up to $5,000 for this claim for up to six months after the incident occurred.

2. Lodge your personal injury claim

You must also lodge personal injury claim with the negligent driver’s third party insurer within six months of the incident occurring. This claim is for when you think your recovery time will be greater than six months or you expect your expenses to surpass $5,000.

Time is of the essence

Unfortunately, many of these important steps must be taken soon after the incident, but your top Canberra lawyers will ensure that everything is taken care of with the highest efficiency possible.

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