Motor accidents, unfortunately, are a fact of life in Queensland, and Cairns is no exception. These unexpected occurrences can severely disrupt our day and often, more. No matter how minor the prang, adrenaline will be pulsing and the mind will be racing. It is however at this time when you need to think clearly. Doing a few basic things now will make all the difference later on.
Read our simple guide to make sure that you know what to do if you are ever involved in an accident:
Safety is paramount
These steps are NOT applicable to serious injury. In this instance, immediately dial 000 if you can, remove yourself and others from danger, and wait for help.
In all other cases, move the vehicle from the road or traffic thoroughfare if possible, to avoid further collisions. Turn the engine off, flick on the hazard lights and remove your keys.
Are Police or Ambulance Services required?
Even if injuries sustained appear minor, there might be issues that only a trained medic will spot. Don’t try to lift or relocate seriously injured people, call 000 and the experts will be there fast.
The Cairns Police should also be called if someone has been injured.
If you are making a call to the Emergency Services it is essential to speak clearly and to convey the relevant details efficiently, e.g., your location; the number of injured people; vehicles involved. Listen carefully to the instructions given to you by the operator.
Photographic Evidence
Now is an excellent time to take some photos of what has happened. This evidence will be useful if youclaim for compensation.
Make sure to photograph damage done to all vehicles involved but also more comprehensive pictures of the actual accident scene. Pay attention to details such as skid marks and debris that may be at the site.
Capture all registration plates and especially the vehicles in direct contact with your car. Discreetly record the number of passengers involved if you can.
Contact Details
Next, it is time to share contact details with the other driver or drivers. These include:
- Full Name of all parties
- Contact numbers and email addresses
- Home addresses
- Name of insurer
- Witnesses and passengers can also give valuable information that can be recorded for future reference.
Don’tfeel you need todiscusscompensationclaims orlegal matters at the scene.These can be left until you are more clear-headed and any potential investigation into the accident has been completed.
Call Your Insurance Company
You should inform your insurance company of the accident, regardless of whether or not you intend to make a claim. This should be done as soon as possible.
The insurer will also assist you with making arrangements to get your vehicle towed to a repair shop if necessary.
Get Medical Attention
Even if you seemed fine immediately after the accident, it can often happen that injuries present themselves a day or two later. If you feel at all unwell or hurt, you must see a doctor as soon as possible.
Remember to keep your medical reports and receipts in case you decide tomake a compensation claim.
Contact your Lawyers
Now it’s time to seek legal advice and assistance. A reputable law firm, experienced in compensationclaims and accident claims will be able to help you take the next legal steps.
Cairns Compensation Lawyers are a practice group ofPreston Law in Queensland and are here to help you with your claim.