How does Covid-19 impact my car accident case?

Our world looks a lot different today than it did just a few months ago. One thing that has remained the same is Aronberg & Aronberg’s commitment to helping our clients with their personal injury claim every step of the way.

Even in times as challenging as these, accidents continue to happen, so it is imperative to know how COVID-19 will affect your personal injury claim. Getting into a car accident can be a stressful situation to navigate, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic. Take note of these guidelines and changes for handling a car accident during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Accident Scene
After being in a car accident under ordinary circumstances, you may approach the other driver or drivers involved. In compliance with coronavirus guidelines, you should maintain a distance of six feet from any other person involved in the accident at all times. If they are available to you at the time, put on a mask and gloves.

It is important to collect information from other drivers, but instead of exchanging physical papers, you can utilize your cell phone. Ask for the other driver’s phone number, and send a text before leaving the accident scene to ensure the number provided is accurate. Then have the driver send you their name, driver’s license number, photos of their vehicle registration and license plate number.

You should also use your telephone to take photos of the accident scene, including the damage on your vehicle and any other vehicles involved. All of these steps should be completed while maintaining an appropriate distance from others.

Getting Medical Treatment
If you have suffered serious injuries that require immediate medical attention, do not hesitate to go to the emergency room. Any injury involving head trauma, suspected internal bleeding, a large open wound, or a broken bone requires prompt medical care. Taking care of your health and mitigating any pain is vital, even during the coronavirus outbreak.

With gradual re-opening measures, doctors’ offices are increasingly able to treat patients. Some injuries and situations may even require you to appear in your doctor’s office for treatment. Still, when going to visit a doctor, remain mindful of coronavirus guidelines by keeping at least 6 feet from others. Many medical providers have implemented increased sanitization and social distancing guidelines, but be sure to ask your doctor about their specific protocols in place to ensure the health and safety of their patients.

Many doctors have embraced remote solutions to treating patients, such as telemedicine appointments. Additionally, some physical therapy providers are guiding patients through self-directed therapy exercises, as opposed to using techniques involving physical contact. At-home physical therapy exercises are also beneficial, but make sure that you remain diligent with your self-guided routine. If you feel more comfortable with these alternative and remote treatment methods, ask your medical provider what options are be available to you.

Whichever treatment option you choose, it is important to contact a health care provider as soon as possible after your car accident. Treating your injuries is not only necessary to reducing any pain and discomfort, but it will also help move your case toward settlement. When negotiating an auto accident claim, insurance companies often look to devalue claims if they see gaps in medical treatment. We have found that many insurance carriers have been understanding of short treatment gaps due to Covid-19. However, as state and federal guidelines ease up, we expect the insurance companies to be less forgiving with extra long gaps in medical treatment. As such, the telemedicine visits are a great way to document your injuries during the pandemic.

With a potential reduction in direct accessibility to medical treatment, it is suggested that you keep a diary or journal to record your experience. Begin to write descriptive entries of the pain you are feeling and the limitations it has caused. This will help legitimize any claims presented to insurance companies when settling your personal injury claim.

Seek Legal Assistance From A Personal Injury Attorney
Now more than ever, it is essential to seek legal guidance after being in a car accident. Insurance companies have been exploiting the delays in the process to pressure claimants to settle prematurely. However, with the guidance of our attorneys, we can help to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

The attorneys and staff at Aronberg & Aronberg have been closely following and adapting to the guidelines regarding COVID-19. We have been utilizing Zoom and FaceTime as remote communication methods and can conduct initial intakes in whatever manner is most convenient for our clients. Our clients are able to sign necessary paperwork through DocuSign, so we are able to move cases along without requiring our clients to come into the office. We also have been abiding by social distancing practices and frequently sanitize the office.

As it has been for over the past 20 years, the safety and well-being of our clients remains our foremost priority. The coronavirus has provided a challenge in many ways, and the attorneys at Aronberg & Aronberg will strive to deliver our clients the care and attention they deserve. We hope you all stay safe, healthy, and positive. Call us 24/7 with any questions at 561-266-9191.

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