How can we improve driver safety and avoid car crashes amidst the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic? Sure, you would expect that fewer cars mean a lower number of reported personal injury cases; but this is not necessarily true. In fact, the notion that fewer people go outside increases the possibility of driver speeding and vehicular accidents. Below you will find helpful insights into car accident prevention, as well as how you can file personal injury claims for damages should you become injured or hurt in an automobile crash. 

Preventing Motor Vehicle Accidents

Based on recent statistics, auto accidents have been increasing and have been linked to fatalities or having serious injuries. You only need to check the numbers in your state to be convinced that motorist accidents are not declining during this pandemic. Car accident cases are often a result of driver negligence, distracted driving (texting or calling), drunk-driving, a false feeling of security, going over the speed limit, beating the red light, or reckless driving. 

car accidentsAs some drivers have a higher tendency to manifest recklessness at this time, it is important to adhere to the following driving safety precautions:

  • Maintain a safe distance away from other moving vehicles.
  • Be mindful when making a left turn.
  • Always check the traffic lights before crossing a road.
  • Check if there are distractions that keep other drivers from driving safely.
  • Call out motorists who are going over the speed limit or report them to local authorities.
  • If physically tired or feeling any symptoms, refrain from sitting behind the wheel.
  • Avoid bringing high-risk passengers with you such as infants, children, elderly, or immunocompromised individuals, unless absolutely necessary.

Although these guidelines appeal to one’s common sense, each driver should actively pursue each precaution so as not to be added on the list of accident victims.

Filing Auto Accident Claims

Even when safety measures have been in place and traffic rules are obeyed, sometimes, a law-abiding citizen still finds himself in a car collision. Automobile accident victims who experience physical injuries such as head and neck trauma, broken bones, or burns; emotional turmoil, and financial burden can file an accident claim. Since the top priority for any injured civilian is to seek medical attention, this aspect can be left to the care of a personal injury attorney who can go after the insurance company.

Personal Injury attorneys can help protect your rights and demand for fair compensation for damages, such as but not limited to medical bills, medicine, costs for treatment, and even loss of wages. Your car accident lawyer will also help you prove that the other party is at fault, and file your personal injury claim. By having a legal representative, you can go after the liable party while focusing on your recovery. 

If you have been in a car accident in West Virginia, the good news is that you may avail of personal injury protection which is a form of no-fault insurance. The insurance payment can cover certain medical expenses after a vehicular crash. However, this usually covers reasonable expenses under the hospital bill (surgery, scans, diagnostic procedures) so you will still need your personal savings to pay for the rest. 

To ensure that you can have enough to cover your treatment and therapy after hospitalization, it is important to file personal injury claims as early as possible so the waiting time for a verdict or settlement will be shorter. Moreover, you should consider hiring a motor vehicle accident attorney like those from Ghaphery Law Offices, PLLC who have years of experience claiming compensation for clients victimized by road accidents. 

By getting one of the best lawyers in your area, you can be at ease that your bills can be covered and proper compensation for your pain and suffering will be attained. Our West Virginia personal injury lawyers from Ghaphery Law Offices, PLLC are only one-call away. Contact us now at (304) 230-6500 for your free consultation.