Freak accident: How Should One Handle It?
Automobile accidents are almost becoming common today, with the number of accidents in the US increasing in leaps and bounds each year. Thousands die or are injured in car accidents each year and such accidents are certainly a cause for both civil and criminal liability for the driver.
Take the case of the freak accident on South Frontage Road, Billings, where three people were seriously injured. A small car collided with an SUV while heading west. The driver of the car, 18-year-old Jessica Umphrey, along with 19-year-old Matthew Nygard and an unnamed 8-year-old girl were rushed to the hospital. The accident happened when the car took a left hand turn near Zoo Drive and rammed into the oncoming vehicle, the driver of the SUV was unhurt.
What to do first?
So what should one do in such cases? Here are some steps to follow:
1. Write down the name, address and license number of the other driver involved in the accident.
2. Call the police.
3. Check your insurance policy status.
4. Gather documents/photographs of the scene.
5. Immediately get in touch with a car insurance lawyer.
6. Rush to the nearest hospital or get first aid.
7. Gather evidence in the form of medical reports.
Will I be compensated?
Accidents, regardless of whether they are big or small, and injuries, major or minor, you have the right to receive compensation. In a personal injury claim, the plaintiff will be compensated due to damage caused by the other party’s negligence. Claims can be filed against uninsured drivers, vehicle damage, medical expenses or injuries.
The case will be based on a circumstantial situation after examining the nature of the accident. For instance, whether the accident involved a roll over, side collision, rear end collision or a head-on collision needs to be ascertained.
A case can be presented to the insurance company, backed by ground evidence and substantial medical information to build the case. If caught driving without insurance, the fine can be up to $500 and/or 10 days in jail. Getting in touch with an attorney will make the claimant compensation process easier.
What does it cost?
The minimum auto insurance policy requirements for the state of Montana are as follows:
* $25,000 for bodily injury liability for each person
* $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
* $10,000 for property damage liability
Accidents and their after affects can be really stressful in terms of the financial and mental ordeal one goes through. Drive safe, but in case of an unfortunate event, an attorney’s help can accelerate your cleanup and repair process and also help you claim your rights.
