What To Do If You’re Involved In A Motor Vehicle Accident During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Posted on Friday, March 27th, 2020

Right now, with the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) it feels like everything is changing on a daily basis.  So, it’s important to know what is different and what has remained the same when in the moments after a crash.  An accident is already overwhelming and confusing without all of this uncertainty.  It’s important that you react as calmly and clear headed as possible for your own safety and while practicing social distancing.  We want to review what hasn’t changed and update you on some things to be aware of that could impact your case down the road.

 How To Maintain Your Distance After A Crash

A vehicle crash can occur within seconds, but the serious injuries, pain, disability, and financial losses often last a lifetime. Declines in your health, loss of your time and income, and a significant decrease in quality of your life all occur due to the negligence of someone else. If you are involved in a crash during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are certain actions you can take to maintain social distancing while completing the necessary steps to report the incident:

• Call The Police – Although they may not be able to come out to the scene, it’s still required by law that you report the accident to appropriate law enforcement agencies.
• Exchange Information – You should be able to maintain six feet of distance while talking with the other drive while asking for their pertinent information. Rather than touching each other’s documents you can take photos of your driver’s license, insurance and registration documents and text them to each other at the scene.  Make sure to glance at their documents to confirm you received the correct information or offer to take the photos yourself.  Also, make sure to take photos of the scene and any damage to both vehicles. You will still need all this information for your insurance company.
• Witness Information – If there are any witnesses, remain 6 feet away and ask for their phone number to then call and get their names, addresses, and other details. The information they have about the crash could be integral to your case.

Wary Of Going To An Emergency Room?

If you are injured in the crash, you need to get medical attention. Although you may be wary of going to an emergency room because of the COVID-19 outbreak, you still need to receive medical care within 14 days of the crash, or your insurance company won’t pay for your total benefits. If you don’t want to go to the emergency room, the best option is to call your primary care doctor and see what they recommend. Your primary care doctor may tell you to come to their office, or go to an urgent care, some medical facilities are fully equipped stand-alone emergency rooms, you may to call and ask before showing up.  “If you’re hurt in a motor vehicle crash, your injuries are not going to go away,” said Coker Law Partner Matthew Posgay. “Receiving medical care is the one thing you can do to get back to being as healthy as you can, return to work full time, and do the best you can for yourself and your family.”

If You’re Involved In A Crash

Coker Law cautions drivers to be careful and if you are injured by a negligent driver, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. You may qualify to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injuries. To speak with a Coker Law attorney or for more information call (904) 356-6071 or click here to schedule a free consultation.