If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident and sustained an injury due to someone else’s negligence, then there’s a very good chance that you could make a claim for compensation. If you’ve been involved in an accident involving another party, whether that’s a pedestrian, fellow driver or cyclist, then the first thing you should do is stop and gather the details of anyone involved, either directly or as a witness.
If you’ve sustained an injury, and the accident was caused by the negligent behaviour of another person, then it’s vital that you immediately make note of as many details of the incident as possible. Whilst the facts are still fresh in your mind it may be useful to sketch such things as the positions of vehicles and pedestrians and the direction of travel. If it’s possible, take some photographs of the accident and its’ aftermath.
It’s vital that you take down the details of everyone involved including, if possible, their name, address and telephone number. The ideal scenario is to exchange insurance details but if any party involved is reluctant to do so then ensure that you note the registration number of all vehicles involved.
If anyone has been injured in the accident, then it’s vital that they seek medical attention at the earliest possible opportunity. Not only will this go some way toward ensuring their well-being, but it will also provide an official written record of any injuries.
For an in-depth summation of the actions to take following an accident, see the Citizens Advice Guide at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk.
If you’ve been involved in an accident that was caused by the negligence of another party – whether that means a dangerous driver, an unobservant pedestrian or a poorly maintained road surface – then you’ve every right to seek compensation. The money you win could reimburse you for immediate expenses and lost earnings, as well as paying an amount based upon your injuries. Most important of all, perhaps, it will allow you to recover and get on with the rest of your life in the knowledge that justice has been done. Taking the right steps from the moment the accident occurs will maximise your chances of success.
