Being involved in an accident can be quite distressing. It is important to know what to do afterwards.
This can make a big difference especially if you’re thinking about making a personal injury claim in Australia. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
- Safety First: The most important thing is to make sure everyone is safe. If anyone is hurt, call for medical help immediately. If it’s safe to do so, move to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.
- Exchange Information: If it’s a car accident, exchange details with the other driver. Get their name, contact number, address, and insurance information. Also, note down the licence plate number and the make/model of the vehicles involved.
- Witnesses and Photos: If there are any witnesses around, try to get their contact information too. Their account of the accident might be valuable later. Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any relevant road signs. These can serve as evidence.
- Report to the Police: If there are injuries, or the damage seems substantial, you should report the accident to the police. Get a copy of the police report – it might be useful for your claim.
- Medical Treatment: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s a good idea to get a medical check-up. Some injuries might show up later and having a medical record right after the accident can strengthen your claim.
- Notify Your Insurer: If you have insurance, let your insurer know about the accident as soon as possible. They can guide you on what to do next and may help you with the claim process.
- Keep Records: Maintain a file with all relevant documents – medical reports, insurance communication, photos, and any expenses related to the accident. This will help support your claim.
- Legal Advice: If you’re considering making a personal injury claim, it’s wise to consult a legal professional. They can explain your rights, guide you through the process, and help you understand what compensation you might be entitled to.
- Time Limit: In Australia, there’s a time limit for making personal injury claims, usually around three years from the date of the accident. It’s better to start the process sooner rather than later.
- Negotiation and Settlement: If the other party’s insurance company accepts responsibility, they might offer a settlement. Before accepting, make sure you understand the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs. You can consult your lawyer to help you with this decision.
- Court Action: If the negotiation doesn’t lead to a satisfactory outcome, you might need to take the matter to court. Your lawyer can guide you through this process if it becomes necessary.
Remember, every accident and injury claim are unique. What’s important is to take steps that are appropriate for your situation. It is important to read relevant information about this topic before you take any action.
Author bio
John Bui is the Principal Solicitor of JB Solicitors – a law firm based in Sydney, Australia. John has extensive knowledge in the areas of family law and commercial litigation.
