Because we don’t live in a perfect world, things can go wrong and accidents can happen. That’s why people say there are 4 types of insurance you might need. If you’re involved in a car accident, there are certain steps you should take in order to get the assistance you need. If you’re wondering how to get help, read on because this article will tell you.
Consult With A Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you should consult an attorney – especially if another party was at fault. You’re best advised to make a Google search of local lawyers who can assist you. According to McMath Woods P.A negligent parties should be held accountable for their actions, and full and fair compensation should be sought to aid with recovery and financial burdens. Trial lawyers are trained to understand why car accidents happen, what are the types of car collisions and what are auto accident injuries.
A personal injury lawyer will be able to advise you on your legal rights and options. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages to your vehicle, and things like loss of earnings. A lawyer can also help you negotiate with the insurance company and get the best possible settlement. If the matter ends up being resolved in court, your attorney will be able to represent you.
Seek Medical Attention
If you’re injured – or even if you think you aren’t – it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Often times injuries from car accidents are not immediately apparent. This is especially true for whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. A medical professional will be able to properly assess your condition and give you the best course of treatment.
If you wait too long to seek medical help, the other party’s insurance company may use this against you and say that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.
Contact The Police
In most car accident scenarios, the Police will need to attend the incident before the involved parties can leave the scene. Give them your full name and driver’s license number, as well as the information for the other drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to provide details of what happened – including who was at fault.
The Police will create an accident report, which can be used as evidence later on in court if there are any disputes. Be sure to get the officer’s name and badge number so that you can follow up with them later on. Be sure to get a copy report, and keep it safe – you’ll likely need it down the road. You’ll also need to use the Police accident report when filing a claim with the other party’s insurance company.
Involve Any Witnesses
If you’re able to, try and involve any witnesses that may have seen the accident. They can provide evidence and a statement to support what happened. This could be crucial in deciding who is at fault for the accident. They may be willing to be recorded on your phone as they say what has just occurred. Failing that, take their contact details and ask them for a written statement later. Don’t leave it too long or they may forget some of the key details.
If there are no witnesses, don’t worry – there are other steps you can take to help your case, such as taking photos of your injuries and the accident scene.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Your insurance company will need to be notified of the accident as soon as possible – even if it was not your fault. Your insurer will be able to guide you through the next steps and help you make sure that everything is taken care of. They will likely want to investigate the scene and may send an adjuster out to assess the damage to your vehicle.
It’s important to cooperate with their requests and answer any questions they have; otherwise, it could impact your claim later on.
Seek Benefits
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
It may be that the accident occurred during work time, for instance, when using a company vehicle. If so, your employer is required by law to provide workers’ compensation benefits. Workers compensation is a state-regulated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. These benefits can actually include medical expenses, income replacement, and death benefits.
To receive workers’ compensation benefits, you’ll need to file a claim with your employer – and they have the option to either accept or deny it. If your claim is accepted, you’ll need to provide documentation of your injuries and disability. If you have questions about filing for workers’ compensation, or if your claim has been denied, you should contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney.
Disability Payments
Temporary disability payments are benefits that are paid to employees who are unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness. The amount of the payment depends on your income level and how long you’re expected to be unable to work. The payments can help cover lost wages, as well as medical expenses related to your injury or illness. In addition, they may also help pay for some of the costs associated with returning to work, such as transportation. To receive temporary disability payments, you’ll need to file a claim with your employer.
Permanent disability payments are benefits that are paid to employees who’ve suffered an enduring disability as a result of a work-related injury or illness. Once again, the amount of the payment depends on your income level and the severity of your disability.
As you can see, you’re not alone if you’ve been involved in a car accident. You can receive help from lawyers, medical professionals, the Police, witnesses, insurance companies and benefits providers. If you take the necessary action, you’ll have all you need to get through the next chapter of your life. You’ll be able to focus on your recovery and look forward to your future once again.
