What to Do After a Collision with a Government Vehicle

Experiencing a rear-end collision accident involving a government vehicle can be stressful and overwhelming. Knowing the proper steps immediately after the incident is crucial to protecting your health, rights, and any potential injury claim. 

Prompt actions such as documenting the scene, seeking medical care, and carefully handling communications with insurance companies will help secure the best possible outcome. Following these steps can strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Immediate Actions After a Collision with a Government Vehicle

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

After any collision, safety is the number one priority. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot and check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you don’t feel pain immediately, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Rear-end collision injuries, such as whiplash, can often appear hours or even days after the initial impact. Immediate medical care helps ensure that any potential injuries are documented early, strengthening your case when pursuing compensation.

Important Medical Steps to Take

• Call emergency services to report the accident and request an ambulance if there are visible injuries.
• Follow up with a medical professional, even if you feel well. This helps document latent injuries, which is vital for your injury claim.

Report the Accident to the Authorities

Reporting an accident involving a government vehicle is especially important. Call law enforcement to create an official police report. This report serves as a neutral third-party account of the accident, which is valuable when pursuing a rear-end collision settlement.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

Gathering evidence at the accident scene is critical to building a solid case. Take the following steps to ensure you have comprehensive evidence:

• Take Photos and Videos of the Accident Scene: focusing on vehicle damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Collect Witness Statements: If any bystanders witnessed the collision, ask for their contact information and request a brief statement.
• Document Everything: Write down the names and positions of the government employees involved and any other relevant details about the vehicle, such as its identification number.

The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be, especially when dealing with a car accident in California involving a government entity, where specific protocols must be followed.

Limit Your Conversations

When dealing with the aftermath of an accident, be careful about what you say. Avoid making statements like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you,” which could be misconstrued as admissions of guilt. Keep your statements factual and concise when speaking with law enforcement and insurance companies.

Be Cautious When Talking to Insurance Companies

• Do not provide detailed statements or admit fault without consulting a lawyer.
• Avoid settling early. Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement that undervalues your injuries, especially in cases involving rear-end collision injuries.

Notify Your Insurance Company

You must inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. Provide only the basic facts about the collision. When dealing with government vehicle accidents, it is wise to consult a car accident lawyer before making formal statements or accepting any offers.

Contact a Lawyer Specializing in Government Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving government vehicles can be complicated due to the unique legal protections that government entities often have. Seeking legal counsel ensures that your rights are protected. A car accident lawyer in California experienced in handling claims against government agencies can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and maximize your chances of getting fair compensation.

Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer

• Expert Guidance: A lawyer can help navigate the complexities of filing a claim against a government entity.
• Evidence Gathering: They will help collect and present evidence in a way that strengthens your case.
• Communication Management: Your lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance company and other parties involved.

Understanding Potential Challenges

Suing a Government Entity

Filing a claim against a government vehicle differs from an ordinary accident claim. Specific rules and timelines, known as “sovereign immunity,” may limit your ability to sue a government body. In California, the time frame to file a claim is often much shorter than for typical car accident claims, sometimes requiring notice to be given within six months of the accident.

A car accident lawyer in California can help you navigate these regulations and ensure that all legal requirements are met so you don’t lose your right to claim compensation.

Dealing with Government Insurance Providers

Government insurance policies and their adjusters may be more challenging to negotiate with than private insurance companies. Their goal is often to minimize the government’s liability, which may lead to lower settlement offers.

Legal representation can greatly increase the likelihood of achieving a rear-end collision settlement that reflects the true extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions

Types of Injuries to Watch For

Rear-end collisions often lead to injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Some of the common rear-end collision injuries include:

• Whiplash: The rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck can cause damage to soft tissues, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Spinal Injuries: Herniated discs and other spinal injuries are not uncommon in rear-end collisions, especially when the impact is significant.
• Head Injuries: Even if you don’t hit your head, the force of the collision can cause a concussion or other traumatic brain injuries.

Documenting these injuries properly is crucial, as they can have long-term effects on your health and quality of life.

Importance of Medical Documentation

Make sure to attend all follow-up medical appointments and keep a record of all medical reports, treatments, and expenses. This documentation will determine the amount you can claim for a rear-end collision settlement.

Final Steps: Preparing for a Claim

Maintain an Organized File

Keep all documentation related to the accident in a single, organized file. This includes medical records, repair bills, witness statements, and any communication with insurance companies.

Consult Your Lawyer Before Accepting Any Settlement

Never accept a settlement offer from the insurance company without consulting with your attorney first. A lawyer will ensure that any settlement adequately compensates you for your injuries and other damages.

Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations

California’s statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim can vary depending on the entity involved. Make sure you understand these deadlines and follow your lawyer’s guidance closely.

Let Adamson Ahdoot Fight for You

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a government vehicle, the experienced team at Adamson Ahdoot can help. Our firm provides the personalized attention of a boutique practice combined with the resources of a larger law firm. We’re committed to putting people first and proudly serving a diverse clientele across California.

With over 100 years of combined legal experience in personal injury cases, our lawyers will aggressively advocate for your rights while providing the support you need during this difficult time. We offer free consultations in English and Spanish.

Call us today at (800) 310-1606 for your free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve for your collision with a government vehicle.