How COVID-19 May Challenge Your Car Accident Claim

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has disrupted almost every part of life in the U.S. and many of us have found ourselves personally affected by this horrible pandemic, especially here in Florida where the number of COVID cases continues to rise. And while countless car owners are driving a lot less these days with many people working from home and avoiding gatherings, that doesn’t change the fact that a collision can occur any time cars are on the road and accident victims are continuing to pursue claims to hold the responsible parties accountable. However, COVID-19 has challenged just about every aspect of life and unfortunately, personal injury claims are no exception.

Social Distancing Issues at the Scene of the Accident

Unfortunately, the pandemic doesn’t stop if you find yourself involved in an accident and you should undertake measures to remain socially distant such as:

• Remaining 6 feet away from the other driver and their passengers
• Wearing your mask if you are able to without discomfort
• Asking the other parties to wear their masks while you interact, and waiting for authorities to arrive before continuing if they refuse
• Recording all information for the other driver and any witnesses yourself instead of taking anything that has been touched by someone else

Obstacles to Obtaining Medical Treatment

Regardless of the pandemic, it is imperative that you do not delay seeking medical treatment. Even if you are uncomfortable with visiting an emergency room or urgent care center out of fear of contracting the virus, it is important that you at least contact your doctor soon after to initiate the course of your care and document injuries caused by the collision. Your primary care provider may be able to address your initial needs with a telemedicine appointment or video call instead of an in-person visit. In addition, he or she can help you come up with an appropriate treatment course for your injuries that doesn’t conflict with the current constraints of our healthcare system.

Delays No One Can Control

While the bulk of car accident claims don’t go to trial, they usually involve some required interactions with the court system. During the pandemic, work in Florida’s courts has proceeded in essential and critical matters and attempts have been made to advance other cases with the use of telephone and video conferences. However, you should understand that most personal injury claims won’t be considered as critical matters by the court and may be postponed. Further, keep in mind that our healthcare system is overwhelmed and the non-emergency medical procedures you may need to advance your treatment are less prioritized when resources are already spread thin. Therefore, there may be delays that prolong your car accident claim that, unfortunately, even the most experienced attorneys have no way of overcoming at this time.

Understand What Hasn’t Changed – We Remain Here to Support You

As the Orlando personal injury attorneys of The Pendas Law Firm, we remain open and available to help you whether your case is a simple collision or a complicated wrongful death case. Despite the difficulty and uncertainty that comes with the current pandemic, you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Contact us today.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Jacksonville, Ocala, Tampa, Bradenton, Fort Myers, West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach areas.

Resource:

cnn.com/2020/07/13/health/florida-coronavirus-cases-comparisons/index.html

https://www.pendaslaw.com/florida-residential-pool-safety-tips/