An accident can turn your life upside down in a moment and make it challenging. You can’t even get a second to prepare for the unexpected collision you might be going through. According to the 2023 Ontario Collision Database, nearly 49,708 people got injured in fatal and highway vehicle collisions. However, it’s tough to keep calm yourself and handle the painful situation at the same time. So, it’s essential for everyone to know what to do after an accident before hitting the road.
Also, Ontario litigation is quite strict regarding car collision law. Hence, it’s better to consult personal injury or accident lawyers to deal with legal issues. In this blog post, we will guide you what you should do after an accident in Ontario.
4 Essential Things to Do After an Accident in Ontario
Usually, people get shocked and freeze immediately after an accident. Suddenly, intense pain, trauma, and fear gripped the person from all around. But the first few minutes are very crucial to take some steps that could save you from further disaster. Below we listed 4 essential steps that can save you:
Stop and secure your safety
If your vehicle is involved in an accident, the first thing you must do after the collision is stop your car. According to Ontario Law, if you don’t stop your vehicle after an accident, you are considered guilty. It is a crime not to stop the car after an accident. If you run away from the scene, it will be regarded as if you hit another vehicle or any people intentionally.
Also, the incident will be more complicated to handle. It will be challenging to prove yourself and claim any compensation. So, remember it’s very important to stop the vehicle to avoid criminal code. Afterward, move your vehicle from the middle of the road and turn on the hazard light.
Call for an emergency
Once you stop the car keep yourself calm and don’t panic. Check carefully if you or your passengers (if any) are injured or not. If you need any emergency help don’t think twice, call 911 and ask for help. If the injury is severe, then you must seek emergency medical treatment.
Sometimes, you can’t even notice your injury at that time, but don’t take any risk; rather, get medical help. If the accident is minor and you don’t get any injury, then report the accident to the police.
Document the accident
Once you feel safe and stable after getting medical help, document the accident area. If possible, take photos, audio, or videos of the accident scene. It’s very important to take further action when you decide to file claims for compensation. Also, document the position if any vehicle moves anywhere for safety purposes.
Alongside, note the accident time, date, whether, and road conditions. Most of the accidents occur in the rainy or cloudy season. Notice the other party’s movement so that you can be alert. Also, collect or exchange information with the other parties and eyewitnesses.
Contact personal injury lawyers
After an accident, it’s very important to have an accident lawyer. An expert lawyer can handle your legal representation, and you can get time to recover. Your lawyer will help you to get fair compensation from the insurance companies as well as the other party. Choose Affinity Law firm to get the best lawyer in Ontario, Toronto.
Affinity Law has the best team of accident and personal injury lawyers who can provide the exact service you need. Affinity lawyers can help you to communicate with your insurance company as well as represent your case. They will give you the support you need even if the insurance company denies your claim.
Inform your insurance company
You have to inform your insurance company about the accident within 24 hours. It’s very important to contact and report the incident unless your insurance company may deny your claim. Usually, insurance companies try to minimize the compensation that you are entitled to.
The insurance adjuster will record your statement about the accident, including every single detail. Then, they will use it in court while your case is pending. So, be careful; it will be safer not to make any statement before consulting an accident lawyer. Your lawyer will guide you in everything you have to do that is beneficial for you.
Conclusion
An accident may cause lifelong injuries, traumas, and financial crises. Collision aftermath actions are very essential to take that can reduce the chances of further damage. So, keep yourself calm so that you can secure yourself or your passengers. Ask medical help and report the accident to the authorities.
Also, contact your insurance company on time so that you can get the compensation you deserve. However, an expert lawyer can help you more than anyone to handle your legal representation and get you compensation.