WA Car Accident Claims: Key Deadlines & Steps

Podcast Transcript: WA Car Accident Claims: Key Deadlines & Steps

Disclaimer

The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship with Foyle Legal. For advice tailored to your situation, please consult a qualified legal professional.

Welcome

Welcome to Personal Injury Claims Explained by Foyle Legal—your trusted source for understanding personal injury claims in Western Australia. Each week, we simplify complex legal issues, from motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries, so you can confidently navigate your rights and claim the compensation you deserve.

---

A Common Scenario: Fender Benders and What to Do

Picture this: you’re cruising along, not a worry in the world, and then—bam! A fender bender. Not fun, but it happens.

We recently received an email from a listener in Perth asking about what steps to take after an accident. Smart thinking! They even shared a blog post from Foyle Legal, Perth’s trusted personal injury law firm.

Foyle Legal specialises in car accident claims, motorcycle crashes, truck accidents—you name it. They’ve seen it all and know WA law inside out. Today, we’re diving into their advice and breaking it down step by step.

The Post-Accident Checklist

Foyle Legal’s post-accident checklist is incredibly practical. Here’s what they recommend:

1. Check for Injuries:
   Make sure everyone is okay. Safety first.
2. Swap Details:
   Exchange names, phone numbers, addresses, license details, and insurance information with the other party. Smartphones make it easy to snap pictures of licenses and insurance cards.
3. Take Photos:
   Capture the scene—damaged cars, skid marks, weather conditions—everything. These details can be crucial later.
4. Gather Witness Information:
   If anyone saw the accident, get their contact details. Witness statements can make a big difference if there’s a dispute.
5. File an Online Crash Report:
   Even for minor accidents, lodging a crash report online creates an official record linking the accident to potential injuries.

Acting Fast: “As Soon As Practicable”

The phrase “as soon as practicable” sounds vague, but it simply means not letting too much time pass. Evidence can disappear, and memories fade. Acting quickly strengthens your claim.

Hidden Impacts of Minor Accidents

Even minor accidents, like a fender bender, can have lasting effects. Whiplash might seem like a sore neck at first but can lead to chronic pain or headaches.

Filing a crash report, even for small incidents, ensures there’s a record if issues arise later.

Settlement Expectations in WA

Settlement amounts vary greatly in Western Australia. Factors include:

• Severity of injuries.
• Lost income.
• Future earning capacity.
• Ongoing treatment costs.

Hidden costs like mental health impacts and home modifications for mobility issues are also factored into settlements.

Mitigating Damages: Your Responsibility

Even if you’re not at fault, you have a legal duty to minimise the impact of your injuries. This includes:

• Following medical advice (e.g., attending physiotherapy sessions).
• Seeking mental health support if needed.

Failing to take these steps can affect your settlement amount.

Final Thoughts

We’ve covered a lot today:

• The importance of gathering evidence immediately after an accident.
• Why acting fast strengthens your claim.
• How even minor accidents can have significant consequences.

Taking proactive steps in your recovery not only helps your health but also protects your legal rights.

Thank you for listening to Personal Injury Claims Explained by Foyle Legal. We hope this episode clarified your rights and next steps in your injury claim. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and visit foylelegal.com for more useful information.

See you next time!