Some people have to drive for a living, like a truck or taxi drivers, for example. Jobs that involve driving naturally come with a heightened risk of car accidents. If a person whose job it is to drive is involved in such a car accident, then they could be entitled to compensation.

However, before a person can claim compensation there are a few things that they need to think about, plan for, and prepare. If you think that you deserve compensation after a work-related car accident, then this post will tell you everything that you need to know.

Taking Evidence

The first thing that you need to do after you have been involved in a car accident is to take evidence. Ideally, this evidence should be photos or videos of the person that caused it, their vehicle, and yours. However, in serious cases, it may not be possible to take actual evidence from the scene. If you have a colleague or friend with you, then you can ask them to take evidence for you. Acquiring evidence can make proving your case a lot easier when it comes to making a claim for compensation.

Calling Police

The next step is to call the police. It is a legal requirement in most states to notify the police after a car accident. The police will then investigate it and decide whether or not they need to take action. As long as it was an accident, then they will want no further involvement after their investigation concludes. Part of their investigation might be to check the responsible driver’s blood to rule out drunk driving. If you do not call the police within 24  hours, you can get into trouble.

Notifying Employer

You also need to notify your employer, especially if the vehicle involved in the crash was a work vehicle. Many people would go as far as to say that the first people you should call are your employers. However, it is much more important to take evidence and notify the police first. If you are seriously injured, then you should also call an ambulance or an ambulance for anybody else who is hurt. You can wait until the next day to call your employer, there is no immediate rush. The cars involved will likely be towed away by the police anyway.

Contacting Attorney

The most important step on this list is to contact an attorney. An attorney can help with determining who is at fault, as well as making a claim on your behalf. However, most towns and cities have hundreds of personal injury lawyers. You need to choose the one that’s right for you. You can make this decision based on reviews, level of experience, and the number of cases won. All of these things can be seen on a lawyer’s website. 

Learn more about workers compensation lawyer and how they can help you navigate the complicated process of claiming compensation after a work-related car accident. You may also want to ask around locally for feedback about the lawyer you are considering working with.

Keep in mind that working with a local lawyer can often be more beneficial as they will have a better understanding of the specific laws and regulations in your area. Speaking to an Orlando Car Accident Lawyer if you have been involved in a work-related car accident in Orlando, for example, can ensure that you receive the best legal representation and compensation possible. Mreover, a local lawyer may also have experience working with the same company or employer, giving them insight into any potential biases or tactics that may be used against you during the claims process.

Making Claim

Once you have found a lawyer, you can go ahead with your claim. More often than not, car accident claims are cut and dry. They nearly always get resolved through the guilty driver’s insurance company. However, if your accident was caused by a fault with the vehicle that you were driving, then it could be your employer’s fault. If it does turn out to be your employer’s fault then you may have to sue them in court, which is a much longer and more intense process. Thankfully though, most lawsuits against employers are resolved out of court, usually with sizable settlements.

Giving Statement

Once you have told a lawyer that you want to make a claim, you will be expected to give a statement. This statement will be written down by the lawyer and then used when they are representing you in court or with the guilty driver’s insurance agency. The lawyer you work with will coach you on how to give your statement so that it is as impactful as possible. You should explain all of the ways that the accident has changed your life, the extent of your injuries, and anything else that you think is relevant. Make sure your statement is as honest as possible.

Attending Court

As mentioned previously, you may have to attend court. This is only if you end up suing your employer, though. As already stated, most compensation claims are made directly to the guilty driver’s insurance company, in which case no court appearance is necessary. If you are told to attend court by your lawyer, look your best, be confident, and do everything that they tell you to. Your lawyer will brief you before the court on everything you need to do (and everything that you shouldn’t do). Listen to them and follow their guidance.

Being Patient

Patience is essential. Most personal injury cases take a year or more to resolve. You probably won’t get compensation for some time after you make your claim. A lot of claimants make the mistake of harassing and pestering their attorneys, to try and get them to speed things up. While it is understandable why a person might do this, it is a silly thing to do. Your attorney can’t speed up an insurance agency. It is the insurance agency that holds everything up, not the lawyer involved. Make sure that you have patience and do not bother your lawyer, as remember, they are working on other cases too. When they need you or have news for you, they will contact you.

Disability Benefits

If your injuries are severe and you aren’t able to return to work after your accident, then you need to make a claim for disability benefits. Disability benefits will be paid to you so that you can support yourself while your injuries resolve. Your lawyer will be able to help you with making a disability benefits claim. Your employer may also be willing to give you sick pay for the period of your leave, depending on the extent of your injuries.

After a work-related car accident, it’s essential to do the things outlined here. Most importantly of all, make sure that you contact a lawyer. Until you do, you won’t be able to claim compensation. Compensation can pay your medical bills and living expenses, and support you if you are unable to return to work.

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