There are over 200,000 road accidents in the UK every year from small bumps up to complete write-offs, from minor whiplash to much more severe injuries. If you have been in a road accident recently, or even if you are just curious as to what to do, or not to do, in the event of an accident then this list of Do’s and Don’ts should assist you in managing your road accident claim.
The 5 Do’s when Managing your Road Accident Claim
- Inform the police and your insurers right away. If you have been in a road accident then it is your duty to make sure that the correct people know about it. You have 14 days to inform the police, or a road accident claim could be deemed as void, also if the accident is severe then it is important that the police arrive at the scene to clear any debris and so on. You must also tell your insurers as quickly as possible as keeping them in the dark could prejudice you and your claim in the future.
- Collect as much information as possible. The first thing to do is get information from the other driver, contact details and insurance details are important. Also, if there are witnesses to the accident you may wish to take down their contact details as well, this could really help with a road accident claim. Lastly, any other information you think could be helpful such as photographs of the scene using your camera phone, precise location, date and time, weather conditions and so on. The more information you have, the better equipped you will be when it comes to making a claim.
- Seek medical attention. If you believe you are injured or are even just unsure then you need to seek out medical assistance immediately. In a lot of road accident cases an ambulance will arrive at the scene anyway, so make sure you get yourself checked over. If you are injured then you will be able to claim compensation for that injury.
4. Inform a personal injury lawyer. To get the best advice regarding a road accident claim, you need to speak to an expert. A personal injury lawyer will be able to go through the details of your accident in detail with you, informing you of the best course of action to take.
5. Keep all expense receipts and proof of medical attention. If you have sought medical attention, or paid out any expenses due to your accident then make sure you keep all of your receipts handy. It is possible in most cases to be able to claim back what you have spent due to your accident or injury, as well as claiming compensation for the medical assistance you required.
The 5 Don’ts when Managing your Road Accident Claim
- Don’t just get back in your car and drive away. There may be damage that you cannot see on your car, such as leaking fluids or dangerous bodywork, so always make sure your vehicle has been checked over before driving away.
- Don’t leave the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of the accident before anyone has got there, such as the police or ambulance service, could make you seem guilty for the accident.
- Don’t hold anybody responsible, especially yourself. Until you have spoken to a personal injury lawyer or claims management company, try not to talk to anybody about the accident until you have sought advice on the matter.
4. Never sign any paperwork or agreements. If an insurance company send you any paperwork or agreements to sign regarding your road accident claim, do not do so until you have spoken to a lawyer about what they are asking of you as you could be forfeiting your claim for compensation.
5. Don’t forget your statement. If you make a statement, this could be used against you in court. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask to speak to a lawyer before making a statement and will ensure you do not say anything that could lay the blame on you.
Conclusion
Being involved in a road accident can be very distressing, so it is important to remain calm and collected when possible. Ensuring you follow these simple do’s and don’ts will greatly assist you in your road accident claim and give you the best chance for compensation. If you are looking for a road accident claim company visit the website of the Road Accident Claim Company for more information.
