There are many risks for people on the road, whether it be as a driver or a passenger. Sometimes, a severe accident occurs leaving victims with traumatic injuries that can impact them for the rest of their lives. In addition to causing disability and issues with functioning daily, the medical bills can be financially devastating.
A Growing Issue
Although safety measures on board vehicles is improving, the crash rate is increasing due to a few different factors. One of the top causes of automobile crashes is distracted driving. Distracted driving accounts for more accident related injuries and deaths than drunk drivers. This is an alarming statistic, which is why most states have vigorous anti distraction campaigns. Most are related to texting while driving and has become the forefront of the battle a against distracted driving.
Another factor is an increased number of drivers on the road. The population continues to increase and congested roads lead to many crashes with severe injuries. In some cases, heavy traffic can create tense situations resulting in road rage and erratic behavior that can create hazards for drivers.
What Happens After a Major Accident?
The first consideration is the safety and well-being of those who are involved. Emergecy medical teams will transport the injured to the nearest emergency facility for treatment. Once the injured are cleared from the scene, investigators will collect information from the scene to piece together the events leading up to the accident. The paperwork will then be forwarded to insurance companies and any parties of interest.
After the accident has been cleaned up and the vehicles transported to a holding facility, the victims or their representative will begin handling the situation in terms of legal representation and claiming the property left at the scene. Upon hiring legal counsel, the attorney will begin collecting evidence and documentation. If the party they represent were a victim and not the at fault party, they will pursue compensation and legal fees. This may take some time because a clear picture must develop in regards to the course of events and each person’s role in the accident. If the at fault party was grossly negligent, the othe other party may be able to get all of their legal and medical bills paid. They may even be able to recover a sum for pain and suffering and any other applicable ailments as a result.
Drivers and passengers should be mindful of both their actions, and other drivers’ actions while on the road. Serious injuries can occur when individuals are distracted or not obeying the laws of the road. Those who are injured and want to get assistance paying medical bills and repairing property damages, should hire a reputable catastrophic personal injury attorney to help get the compensation necessary to begin recovering physically and financially.
