– DOs –
- Do inform the police, your employer, family doctor, school, banks, credit card companies, landlord, mortgage broker, etc.
- Do record the names and contact information of any witnesses involved, directly or indirectly, with the accident.
- Do check for health and injury coverage provided by your employer, health and benefit carrier, and other sources.
- Do keep all receipts for expenses related to the accident incurred by you or family members helping the injured person.
– DON’Ts –
- Don’t rely on non-professional help from well-meaning friends, co-workers, or family members.
- Don’t sign any document you don’t fully understand or has not been carefully explained to you.
- Don’t rush into any settlement or accept an offer without reviewing it with a lawyer.
- Don’t assume the insurance company has your best interests in mind.
– STEPS –
1. Safety First
If you’ve been in an accident make sure you and everyone with you is OK. Try to attend to anyone who is injured.
2. Call the Police
Call 911 immediately in case of emergencies. Call the police to report the accident if you think a criminal act may have been committed. In cases of car accidents, notify the police if you think the damage to your vehicle is more than $1,000.
3. Exchange Information
Exchange insurance information with other parties involved, including witnesses. Make sure to include names, addresses, contact information and licence plate numbers. When recording vehicle information, remember to include the make, model, plate number and vehicle serial number.
4. Notify Insurance
Report the accident and any damage sustained to your insurance company ASAP.
There are several critical timelines to keep in mind after a motor vehicle accident.
Call a lawyer as soon as you can to preserve your rights and to seek appropriate legal advise.
