P. Michael Rotondo of Rotondo Law Firm, a Leading Toronto Personal Injury Law Firm, Announces Top Tips on What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Toronto, Canada (PRWEB) August 16, 2013 -- Rotondo Law Firm (http://www.RotondoLaw.com), a Greater Toronto Area personal injury and wrongful death law firm, is pleased to announce its top tips on what people should do immediately following a motor vehicle accident.
“Having to deal with injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and insurance companies can turn even so-called ‘minor’ accidents into a nightmare,” says P. Michael Rotondo, lead counsel at Rotondo Law Firm. “Not knowing what steps to take immediately after an auto accident can negatively impact one’s physical, psychological, and financial well-being. At the same time, following a few basic steps can help victims protect their rights and maximize their compensation.”
The first thing someone should do after being in a motor vehicle accident, Rotondo says, is to assess everyone for injuries and contact the police or call 911. Even if there are no obvious signs of trauma, it is essential to seek medical attention, as it is not uncommon for people involved in accidents to overlook injuries because of the adrenaline and shock that comes with a traumatic event. Medical documentation can also be a key component of any legal action.
“It’s also important to gather as much information as possible. Take pictures and write down the circumstances surrounding the accident, including weather conditions, time of day, speed, eyewitness accounts, and any discussions that occurred immediately following the collision. Avoid discussing the details of the accident with the other driver and/or saying you’re sorry; admitting fault in an accident that you are not to blame for could damage your case against the other driver(s) and negatively impact any compensation you rightfully deserve,” Rotondo adds. “The more information someone involved in an accident gathers at the scene, the stronger their case will be, should they need to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim.”
After gathering evidence, Rotondo says, it’s important to file an accident report. The role of police is to document the accident as accurately and objectively as possible, so give them an exhaustive account of the accident. If the accident the person was involved in results in injury or wrongful death and another driver was responsible, the police report may be critical in proving a claim.
A motor vehicle accident can be a very traumatic, life-changing event, Rotondo explains. It can also be very difficult to navigate the often confusing world of personal injury law, as well as understand what one’s legal rights are. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer before discussing any details or signing any documents.
“For example, in Ontario, the insured must contact their insurer within seven days of being involved in an accident and inform them they have been injured. This will trigger the insurer’s obligation to send the insured an accident benefits application package, allowing the insured to claim no-fault benefits. On top of that, file the accident benefits application form within 30 days of receiving the forms,” Rotondo observes. “Insurance companies may tell someone that they don’t need a lawyer if they’ve been injured, but it’s important to remember that insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible. Any delay in pursuing compensation could negatively impact the recovery an accident victim deserves.”
“The fact of the matter is, people injured in motor vehicle accidents are entitled to receive accident benefits and sue the at-fault driver for permanent or serious disfigurement or the serious impairment of an important physical, mental, or psychological function,” he concludes. “For the most objective advice, it’s imperative to consult with a personal injury lawyer to help one explore one’s legal options, not the insurer looking to minimize its obligation to the insured.”
Rotondo Law Firm is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Toronto and has been providing personal injury law services to clients since 1999. Over the last 14 years, Rotondo Law Firm has been providing its clients with the highest level of legal service, spanning many areas of personal injury law, including trip and fall accidents; motor vehicle, pedestrian, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents; brain injuries; air flight accidents; accident benefit claims; and wrongful dismissal claims. Whether their clients have been injured in a car accident, are owed compensation from insurance, or have been wrongfully dismissed, Rotondo Law will work diligently to ensure they receive the settlement they deserve. More information on Rotondo Law Firm is available by visiting the firm's web site at http://www.RotondoLaw.com or by calling 416-868-0900.
P. Michael Rotondo, Rotondo Law Firm, http://www.RotondoLaw.com, 416-868-0900, [email protected]
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