Car accidents are common in Ottawa and across Eastern Ontario and can have devastating consequences for those involved. The consequences of a car accident can be severe, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses. Many car accidents in Ottawa are caused by distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and poor weather conditions. According to Transport Canada’s report, 101,572 police-reported car accidents resulted in personal injury in 2020. 

In Ontario, car accident victims are entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. The compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the accident. In this blog post, we will cover some important things about car accident claims in Ottawa.

First and foremost, seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Before anything else, you should do this after a car accident, i.e., seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but may develop or worsen over time, such as pain or psychological difficulties. Early medical attention can help you receive prompt and proper care and document your injuries, which can be important when filing a claim.

Next, gather as much evidence as possible. If you are physically able to, it is important to gather evidence at the scene of the accident. This may include taking pictures of the vehicles involved, the location of the accident, and any visible injuries. Gathering witness information can also be helpful in establishing liability.

After gathering the evidence, report the accident to the police immediately. In Ontario, it is mandatory to report a car accident to the police if it results in property damage exceeding $2,000 or if anyone is injured or killed. Even if the damage to your vehicle does not appear significant, it should still be reported. Reporting the accident to the police can help ensure an official record of the incident, which can be important when filing a claim.

After reporting the accident, it is imperative you notify your insurance company about the accident. If you were injured, your insurance company will send you the application for accident benefits and then open your accident benefits claim. 

If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, hiring a car accident lawyer in Ottawa is in your best interest. A lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also help investigate the accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and determine the appropriate amount of compensation you may be entitled to.

Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after the accident to gather information about the accident and your injuries. While providing truthful and accurate information is important, you should be cautious about what you say. Insurance adjusters may use your statements against you to minimize your compensation. It is therefore in your best interest to retain a lawyer to assist with your dealings with the insurance company, to ensure you are not taken advantage of. 

Keeping records of all documents and expenses related to the accident is important and can help you document your losses and prove your damages. This includes medical bills, receipts for car repairs or rentals, and records of lost wages due to your injuries.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Ottawa, seek medical attention, report the accident to the police, gather evidence, notify your insurance company, and consider hiring a car accident lawyer in Ottawa. We are committed to helping our clients with their car accident claims. Contact us  today to schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer in Ottawa.