Motor Vehicle Accidents on the Rise

Motor Vehicle Accidents on the Rise

 

It goes without saying that ‘accidents happen’, especially on the roads. Whether you drive a little or you drive a lot, getting behind the wheel puts you at risk. Even careful drivers are at the mercy of not so careful drivers when they are out and about on the road. Despite tighter road safety rules and increased regulation, motor vehicle accidents in New South Wales are on the rise.

According to Road Safety Transport NSW, during the 12-month period ending May 2016 there were 384 fatalities on the roads. That’s 80 more fatalities, and a 26% increase, compared with the corresponding period in 2015. It’s the highest total fatalities since June 2009. Furthermore, there are approximately 20,000 casualties each year in motor vehicle accidents in NSW alone. Intoxication, failure to look or give way, speeding, using mobile phones, drivers falling asleep at the wheel, driver fatigue and passenger interaction are the most common causes for motor vehicle accidents.

A motor vehicle accident can bring about a number of negative consequences which can be physical, emotional and financial. Compensation may be available to you if you were a driver, passenger or pedestrian and you have sustained physical or physiological injuries (including anxiety, shock and PTSD) in a motor vehicle accident arising out of the negligence of someone else. The relatives of a person who dies as a result of a motor accident may also be entitled to recover damages against the person responsible.

With a greater risk of motor vehicle accidents, it’s important to know what you should do if you, or someone close to you is involved in a motor vehicle accident.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

In the event of a motor vehicle accident you should:

  1. See your doctor. You may feel ok following the accident but injuries take time to manifest. In particular, if you suffer an injury to your back or neck, it may take time following the accident for symptoms to develop. These injuries may affect your ability to work, perform domestic and household tasks and impact on your ability to interact with your family, children and friends.
  2. Report the accident to the Police. If police do not attend the scene report the incident to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
  3. Take photos of where the accident occurred, including any markings on the road.
  4. Get the name and contact details of any witnesses to the accident. This will be useful if the circumstances of the accident are disputed.
  5. Call one of our Motor Vehicle Specialists for an obligation free case assessment and quote. Even if you are undecided about making a claim, you should obtain advice to protect your interests. Time limits apply for making a claim for personal injuries in a motor vehicle accident.

WHAT CAN YOU CLAIM?

You may be entitled to claim compensation for past and future loss of wages, past and future medical expenses, claim for care provided by family and friends or paid commercial care such as lawn mowing, guttering and cleaning, and pain and suffering.

If you have already made a claim on the insurer of the vehicle that caused the accident, it is a good idea to get legal advice before you resolve your claim on a full and final settlement to ensure that you are not settling your case too cheaply.

WHY CALL US NOW!

In July 2016 the NSW State Government announced considerable changes to the legislation surrounding motor vehicle accidents. The extensive overhaul will see the implementation of a hybrid no-fault scheme, significantly affecting all motorists. The new scheme introduces a number of major changes including defined benefits for low severity injuries and protection for at-fault road users. The changes will mean the vast majority of motorists will receive little if any compensation. Therefore you should act now.

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, it’s important to understand how the changes will affect you and the compensation you are entitled to.

Taylor & Scott is Sydney’s leading and most experienced car accident and personal injury law firm. We have over a century of legal experience helping clients obtain the injury compensation they deserve.

One of our experienced lawyers will be happy to provide a no-obligation free initial assessment of your case.

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