With approximately 4,644 Minnesota residents having tested positive for the coronavirus, and with more cases being reported daily, the Star Tribune reports that while officials are considering relaxing some restrictions, other restrictions regarding large gatherings will likely be in place for some time. This means that in the coming weeks, Minneapolis residents may see more traffic on the roads, meaning the risk of accidents may be higher. The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino is a Minneapolis, Minnesota car accident law firm that works closely with victims who have been hurt in crashes. In the era of the coronavirus pandemic, what should car accident victims keep in mind when making claims or when pursuing personal injury cases?
First, it is important to note that victims of car accidents should always call the police to make a police report and that they should seek medical attention for their injuries after a crash. Car insurance companies are still required to honor their obligations to those who are insured, so victims of car accidents should always report their crashes to their insurance companies to begin the claims process.
Are there any aspects of the car accident claims process that might be affected by the coronavirus pandemic? If you need to pursue a lawsuit with a negligent driver, courts may be closed or subject to greater restrictions in the near future. The options then are to either settle with the negligent party out of court or to follow the court’s instructions regarding filing lawsuits during increased restrictions due to the pandemic. The car accident law firm at the Law Office of Martin T. Montilino in Minneapolis, Minnesota can help you navigate changes in the courts. Victims shouldn’t feel deterred in pursuing a car accident lawsuit at this time, as there remain options for those who need to file suit.
Another issue that might arise is if a victim is trying to make a claim against a negligent party but the negligent party no longer has the cash on hand to pay the claim due to financial uncertainty and recent market changes. In this case, victims may still want to make a personal injury claim, or may want to work with their car accident attorneys about options for settlement. Another option will be to reach a settlement with insurance companies which may be required to pay for some, if not all, of a claim.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it is also important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Given that many hospitals are overwhelmed and many doctors are concerned about the spread of the coronavirus, some doctors are holding appointments remotely, and non-urgent care has in some cases been temporarily delayed. Don’t just cancel an appointment with your doctor without consulting with him or her first. It is important to get the crucial care you need to recover from your injury.
These are just some ways that the coronavirus has impacted car accident personal injury claims. Many aspects of the claims process can proceed as usual. If you have recently been hurt in an accident, don’t delay in seeking help for your losses. Contact the Law Office of Martin T. Montilino or reach out to USAttorneys.com to get matched with our lawyer today.