However, be careful when you’re on the road this long weekend, as accidents do happen and can be a scary experience for you or a loved one. It can be terrifying hearing news updates on the car radio about fatalities and car accidents over the Easter break – and they are increasing.
Last year the road tolls were at an all time high with a total of 22 deaths*, double the toll of 11 from 2014. In 2014, there were 441 crashes over the Easter long weekend alone – and 196 of those crashes resulted in injuries.
Not only is it important to take care on the road, it’s also important to know how to deal with the aftermath of an accident.
If you or anyone you know is involved in an accident over the coming long weekend, remember these essential tips:
1. Contact the police
In the case of any motor vehicle accident, you should contact the police straight away. This is especially true if you believe there is any possibility you or someone else might have sustained an injury. Also, having a police report may be necessary in order to lodge a claim for compensation, and will officially verify what happened in the accident in case of any later disagreements.
2. Exchange contact details
Before you leave the scene of the accident, exchange contact details with the other driver, regardless of who may have been at fault. If the accident is serious, it can also be helpful to obtain the contact details of any passengers or witnesses.
3. Take photos
Since almost everybody has a smartphone, make use of it – take photos of everything around the scene of the accident. This shouldn’t be limited to the damage, as factors that might not occur to you may become relevant, such as the positioning of street signs, any curves in the road, skid marks or even the ultimate position in which the vehicles came to rest. Try and take as clear a picture of the scene of the accident as possible.
4. Keep detailed records
As soon as you get the chance, make a written record of everything you remember, including the time and date of the accident. In the days following the collision, add any further recollections to the record. You should also add subsequent details about repairs, medical advice and treatment sought.
5. Seek medical advice
You should prioritise getting medical advice and treatment as soon as possible, to ensure any further injury or damage is prevented. Similarly, the accident insurer will want you to prove a clear link between the collision and any injuries you claim to have sustained.
6. Give your car a once-over
If you are involved in a collision, you should get your vehicle assessed. If it’s obvious the damage is serious, then you’ll need to obtain quotes and repair estimates to forward to your insurer. If the damage is minor, it’s still worthwhile getting your car checked – a dent could be hiding a more serious problem.
7. Obtain legal advice
If you have sustained an injury in a motor vehicle accident, speak with a personal injury lawyer as quickly as possible. They will give you advice on whether you may be entitled to make a claim or if you have a legal case. It is a good idea to have the contact details of a reputable firm of personal injury lawyers on hand, so you can obtain immediate advice in case you are involved in a motor vehicle accident.
As you pack the car, ready to go away this Easter long weekend, don’t forget to drive safely and take your time on the road.
If the worst should happen and you are involved in an accident, being prepared and remembering to follow these key steps can help save you a lot of unnecessary and unwanted stress.
*From statistics provided by Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency
The Carousel thanks Chantelle Khoury, Principal at Law Partners
