A car accident can be a jarring experience, especially in a bustling city like Glasgow. The aftermath can be confusing, with emotions running high and adrenaline still coursing through your veins. Knowing the steps to take after being hit can ensure your safety, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal and insurance processes. We will also highlight how you can start a road traffic accident claim.
Ensuring Safety and Gathering Evidence
Immediately after the accident, prioritise safety. Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible, out of the flow of traffic. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries and call for medical assistance if needed. Once everyone is safe, begin gathering evidence.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance companies, and policy numbers. Take photos of the accident scene from various angles, capturing the damage to all vehicles involved, skid marks, traffic signs, and any relevant landmarks. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information as their statements could be crucial later.
Reporting the Accident and Seeking Medical Attention
In Scotland, any accident resulting in injury or damage to property other than the vehicles involved must be reported to the police within 24 hours. If the police do not attend the scene, you can report the accident at a police station or online.
Even if you feel fine at the scene, it’s advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can assess you for any potential internal injuries or delayed symptoms. Keep all medical records and receipts related to the accident, as these will be important for any insurance claims or legal proceedings. Â
Informing Your Insurance Company and Dealing with Claims
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, even if you were not at fault. Provide them with all the information you have gathered, including the accident report, photos, witness details, and medical records. Be honest and upfront about the events leading up to the accident, and avoid admitting fault or speculating about who was to blame.
Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process, which may involve assessing the damage to your vehicle, arranging repairs, and dealing with any personal injury claims. Cooperate fully with your insurer and keep them updated on any developments in your case.
Understanding Your Rights and Seeking Legal Advice
If the accident was not your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for any losses you have suffered, including vehicle damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In Scotland, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a personal injury claim.
If you are considering making a claim, it is strongly recommended to seek legal advice from a qualified solicitor specialising in personal injury cases. They can assess the strength of your case, advise you on your options, and guide you through the legal process.
Preserving Evidence and Avoiding Common Mistakes
Throughout the aftermath of the accident, it is crucial to preserve all evidence related to the case. This includes keeping copies of all documents, photos, medical records, and any communication with the other driver, witnesses, or insurance companies.
Avoid discussing the accident on social media or admitting fault to anyone, even if you believe you were partially responsible. These statements could be used against you in any legal proceedings.
Making a Road Traffic Accident Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand the profound impact that road traffic accidents can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, whether it be due to fatigue, distraction, or recklessness.
Free Consultation
We recognise that every road traffic accident case is unique, and we’re here to offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. During this consultation, we’ll listen attentively to your experience, gather relevant details about the accident, and assess the potential strength of your claim.
Our team will then connect you with a qualified solicitor from our panel who specialises in road traffic accident claims, ensuring that you receive the expert legal representation needed to pursue your case effectively.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
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Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
