Any type of motor vehicle accident can leave you shaken up and wondering what to do next. Obviously, if you are seriously injured, you should always seek medical treatment immediately. If your injuries are not life-threatening, however, there are several important things you can do to protect your legal rights.
Notify the Police and Your Auto Insurance Company
Under Ontario law, all motorists are required to report accidents to the police when an accident involves a personal injury, property damage that exceeds $1,000, or damage to highway property. Ontario law also requires you to notify your auto insurer right away after an accident.
Gather Witness Information
In many cases, there are witnesses around who observed the accident. This is especially true for accidents that take place in busy urban environments. Take advantage of the opportunity to obtain firsthand observer accounts from passersby who are willing to submit their names, addresses, and other contact information. Ask them if they are willing to write down a brief statement about how the accident occurred and which driver caused it. With the prevalence of smartphones, a witness may even be willing to email you a brief statement of his or her observations.
Take Pictures of the Scene, Your Injuries, and Property Damage
Today, most people have a mobile phone that includes a camera. If your injuries permit it, take pictures of your surroundings, including the position of the vehicles, damage to both autos, your injuries, and any debris scattered on the road. You should also take photos of your vehicle’s exterior as well as its interior. Because physical evidence deteriorates quickly, these photographs can become some of the most important evidence in your personal injury case.
Seek Medical Attention
It is important to obtain medical treatment as soon as possible after an accident occurs. Your family doctor or an emergency room surgeon can create a treatment record that documents your injuries. The longer you go without treatment, the more difficult it is to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident.
Speak to an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
You should not delay speaking to a personal injury lawyer. Your lawyer can help you determine the extent of your injuries and the long-term damages associated with them.
Lomax Law Firm
Rein Lomax has helped the injured and their families in Ontario for nearly two decades. Contact Lomax Law Firm today at (519) 488-9378 for a complimentary consultation regarding your legal matter.
This website has been prepared by Lomax Law Firm for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.