What Should I Do in a Car Accident During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
May 29, 2020The COVID-19 pandemic has increased everyone’s stress and anxiety. A car accident is already a traumatic event, and the accident scene can be overwhelming to process. What happens if you are involved in a car accident during the pandemic? Social distancing plays a significant role at the scene of a car accident. All drivers should adapt to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and social distancing when a car accident occurs.
Car Accident Process
The process after a car accident occurs is similar to the standard guidelines, but social distancing is a new element. If you are in a car accident, it is important to remain calm and follow these steps:
- Do not leave the scene of the accident: Remain at the accident scene, and do not leave until emergency services are contacted and information is collected. If you drive away after an accident, it can be considered a hit-and-run.
- Call emergency services: It may be hard to determine if anyone is critically injured; call 911 immediately. Professional help is essential.
- Collect information from the other driver and any witnesses: Information that needs to be collected includes the driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, and license plate number.
- Document the scene itself: If possible, take photos of the scene. This will be helpful for evidence.
- Seek medical attention: After the accident is settled, seek medical care. If your injuries are not critical, you may be able to hold videoconferences with nurses and doctors. A professional will also give you advice on what to do during this time. If you go to the emergency room, expect significant delays. Delays apply to non-emergency care as well, including physical therapy.
- Contact your insurance company: Immediately contact your provider so you can start the claims process. During this time, there are delays with personal injury claims because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Expect the process to be longer.
- Limit your information and include only facts: When speaking with your insurance provider, your information should be based on facts. Do not reveal too much as it may be misconstrued as fault.
- Seek legal representation: When possible, seek legal representation so that you can obtain compensation for injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A lawyer will also help you with delays and may be able to use it as leverage.
Social Distancing at Car Accident Scenes
When an accident occurs, social distancing still applies. When possible, keep your distance and practice the following methods:
- Limit contact; this includes keeping a distance when obtaining information.
- Keep six feet away.
- Wear a mask and gloves when interacting, which should be kept in your vehicle.
- Instead of using paper for contact information, use your cellphone.
- If you cannot use a mobile device for information, write on a piece of paper and safely put it on a flat surface.
- If you or the other driver feels unsafe, remain in the vehicle until emergency services arrive.
- Keep a card of your information in the car in case you become unconscious during the accident.
As always, remain calm at the scene. Use social distancing as much as possible, and contact emergency services. After the accident, it is beneficial to seek legal representation to help you during these difficult times. Procedures may differ, and delays should be expected.
Baltimore Car Wreck Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Help Victims During the COVID-19 Pandemic
If you are injured in a car accident, speak to one of our Baltimore car wreck lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton immediately. We will help you with the claims process during this difficult time and fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online for a free consultation.
Our offices are conveniently located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie and Prince George’s County, where we represent victims throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood and Elkridge.