How To Handle Car Crashes During The Shutdown

Most of us know how to handle a car crash under normal circumstances, but in this pandemic that is still so unpredictable, the primary thought has been about avoiding infection. However, what happens if you are in a car crash while running an errand or going to work? How can you avoid the risk of infection or pursue compensation for your damages amid COVID-19 concerns?

Jay Trucks and Associates provides answers to these important questions as Michigan attempts to reopen and get back to business-as-usual.

In short, yes. Calling 9-1-1 for help after most car accidents is still your best first step, even during public health emergencies like the one we are facing now. If the accident was significant and there are visible injuries, or even if there is no immediate evidence of an injury, having first responders and paramedics on the scene is a good idea. EMTs and police officers have personal protective equipment (PPE), and know how to respond to emergencies while protecting their health and yours.

The dispatchers handling 9-1-1 calls are trained to ask the right questions to determine if you need someone on the scene or if you can create a police report over the phone. After a very minor accident, you may also be able to complete your police report later and online.

It is important to note that Michigan state law requires drivers to report any accident to the police if it involves serious injury, death or property damages of $1,000 or more.

Having a police report is beneficial, because it creates an official record from someone who is trained to investigate and document details and evidence. If you file a claim with your insurer, you will need this information. It is also helpful if you later decide to pursue compensation for your damages through a personal injury lawsuit.

If you can safely move about, put on your face mask and gloves, and gather the following evidence while standing six or more feet apart to maintain social distancing:

• Get the other driver’s contact details, driver’s license and insurance information. Photos of the drivers license and insurance card can be sent to you by text, but remember to immediately confirm the images are clear and easy to read.
• Ask eyewitnesses for contact details as well, so you or your attorney can get a statement from them later.
• Use your cellphone to photograph damage to all involved vehicles. Take images from different angles, remembering to be aware of your surroundings.
• Take any additional photos that may be useful such as evidence of the weather conditions, debris from the accident and landmarks or road signs that show the location of the crash.

Protecting your health should always come first, so if your injuries may be serious, do not attempt to gather evidence. In that situation, rely on the police and first responders. You can request a copy of the police report for your records later.

We do not recommend waiting to get a medical examination after a car accident. We understand that coronavirus concerns make seeing a doctor or going to any healthcare facility an uncomfortable thought for many people right now.

However, following an accident you should always protect your health by getting examined by a medical professional. Here’s why:

• You may not seem hurt, but some injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury, internal bleeding or internal organ damage are not visible and may not cause immediate pain, but they can be serious or even life-threatening.
• Seeing a doctor creates a medical record and links your injuries to the crash if you need to file a claim for no-fault benefits.

Although hospital emergency rooms and other healthcare facilities are wearing PPE and taking necessary precautions during the coronavirus crisis, you can also further protect yourself by:

• Continuing to wear your face mask and gloves
• Being diligent to maintain recommended social distancing if you have to be in a waiting area
• Keeping your hands away from your face

If you only had a minor accident, virtual care may be another option. Contact your healthcare provider to see what online services may be available.

At Jay Trucks & Associates, you can contact our office anytime, day or night, to schedule a free, no-obligation legal consultation. You can also ask for more information about our secure methods for processing new claims online.

Following a car crash, it is a good idea to contact one of our Clare car accident attorneys as soon possible. We are prepared to discuss your potential legal options for recovering damages at no cost to you and without the need for a face-to-face meeting. We remain open and equipped to continue offering all of our legal services. This includes processing new claims and fully managing existing ones.

If we validate your case and you hire us to represent you, there are no upfront costs for you to pay. We operate on contingency which means we do not get paid unless you do.

Call Jay Trucks and Associates for legal help today: (800) 762-8623

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