What To Do If You Are In An Accident With A Company Vehicle
Accidents are a common yet unfortunate reality of life, and they can occur when we least expect them. The situation can become even more complex when an accident happens with a company vehicle. You may be unsure about what steps to take, who is responsible for your medical bills, and how to protect your rights.
Steps To Take After an Accident with a Company Vehicle
1. Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
First and foremost, prioritize your safety and that of anyone else involved. If you can, move to a safe location to avoid further danger from others on the road. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, your adrenaline could be so high you aren’t comprehending the extent of your pain. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time. Regardless of how severe your injuries are, getting seen by a first responder and then potentially at the hospital will help you and your lawyer when it comes time to get compensation for the accident.
2. Document the Scene
While waiting for emergency services to arrive, document the accident scene as thoroughly as you can. Use your phone to take photos of the cars involved, any visible injuries, road conditions, and any other relevant details. It’s best to take as many pictures or videos as possible; even if you think it is not important, because it might be later on. This documentation can be invaluable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
3. Exchange Information
Ensure you exchange contact and insurance information with the other people involved in the accident. You’ll want to get their name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance policy number. You will also want to get the name of the company they are working for and find out if they were working on the job when the accident with the company vehilce occurred. Also, if there are any witnesses, collect their contact information as well since they can provide additional insight into the accident.
Understanding Who you Have a Claim Against
Driver liability
The driver of the company vehicle who hit you is personally liable for your injuries that were caused by the car crash.
Employer Liability
Employers are generally responsible for their employees’ actions while performing job-related duties. This concept, known as “vicarious liability,” means your employer’s insurance may cover damages resulting from the accident. However, this coverage depends on whether you acted within the scope of your employment during the accident.
Comparative Negligence
If you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation might decrease the percentage of your fault.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Navigating the legal complexities of an accident involving a company vehicle can be challenging. Knowing where to start, how to file the right paperwork, and what to expect can be stressful. That’s why seeking help from a personal injury attorney is your best option. If you are unsure whether to work with a lawyer, consider what they can do for you.
Evaluating Your Case
A skilled personal injury lawyer can evaluate the details of your case to determine the best course of action. They can help you understand your rights, the potential value of your claim, and the legal avenues available.
Gathering Evidence
An experienced attorney can assist in gathering and preserving evidence to support your claim. This may include obtaining accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies only want to minimize payouts. A personal injury lawyer can negotiate to ensure you receive fair compensation. Furthermore, they have the skill to counter lowball settlement offers and advocate for your best interests.
Representing You in Court
If a fair settlement is not possible, your attorney will represent you in court. They will present your case, argue on your behalf, and strive to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
Choosing the Right Personal Injury Lawyer
Selecting the right lawyer is crucial to the success of your case. Here are some tips for finding the best personal injury attorney for your situation:
Experience and Expertise
You will want to look for a lawyer with extensive experience handling cases similar to yours. They should have a proven track record of success in personal injury claims, particularly involving company vehicles.
Reputation
Research potential lawyers to learn about their reputation in the legal community. Read client reviews and testimonials to understand their professionalism and effectiveness. Beyond that, seeing their success in similar cases to yours can give you a good idea of if they’re the right match for you. Don’t get fooled though by out of town advertising law firms. They sppend all of their time marketing themselves to get cases and then refer the cases to real attorneys that do the work. Don’t be fooled by catchy billboards.
Communication
You want to choose an attorney who communicates clearly and regularly. It could be them, another lawyer helping on the case, or a legal aid. Either way, the firm you choose should be responsive to your questions and keep you informed about the progress of your case.
Contingency Fees
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. All of your costs and expenses, including your medical costs will be covered by your attorney. At Perkins & Perkins, we handle all of our injury cases on a contingency basis. You never a pay a penny out of your pocket.
Contact an Injury Lawyer Who Will Fight For Your Rights
Being injured in a crash with a company vehicle can be a stressful and confusing experience. However, understanding the steps to take immediately after the accident, knowing your legal rights, and seeking the assistance of a qualified personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
If you are in this unfortunate situation, don’t wait to seek medical attention; document the accident, notify your employer, and consult an experienced injury lawyer. With the right support and guidance, you can navigate the complexities of the legal system and secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
