Has your child been involved in a road accident?
Being involved in a road accident can be an emotional and traumatic event for anyone. However, as a parent, the thought of your child being involved in a car accident can be even more frightening. Even if it is only a minor incident, a car accident may cause emotional damage, leaving your child feeling nervous, unhappy or scared.
So when an accident happens, it’s important to know what action to take to help your child recover and get them back on track.
For peace of mind in ensuring you have protected their rights and secured your child's entitlements for the future, you should do the following things:
Seek appropriate medical attention
If required, call 000 and accept medical help from ambulance staff. Even if your child appears to have only suffered minor injuries or no injuries at all, it's best to still arrange an appointment with your local doctor for a check-up and medical advice.
Exchange details
Exchange the relevant details with any other parties involved in the accident, including name, address, license details and car registration details. Whilst the incident can be incredibly upsetting, avoid any heated confrontation with the other party. If the other party is being difficult, seek police assistance.
Talk to and monitor your child
Check whether your child is okay and be sure to take note of any unusual symptoms, especially with babies who are unable to communicate verbally. These can include excessive crying and restlessness or perhaps excessive sleeping, difficulty with eating or other behavioural changes. It's also important that the other people who usually care for your child (such as child care workers and relatives) are aware that your child was involved in an accident, so they can assist you by monitoring any changes in your child’s behaviour or any ongoing complaints.
Lodge a claim
You'll have to make a claim with the insurance company or regulatory body in your state.
See our team as soon as you can
If your child is injured as a result of the accident, you should seek legal advice and support as soon as possible. We can help you with the claim process, seeking access to medical treatment and services, and any compensation that your child is entitled to. We can provide you with expert independent advice and help you navigate the process so you can focus on your child's recovery and wellbeing.
By working with us:
You'll know of any relevant insurance scheme applicable to your child
You'll know the range of benefits and lump sum compensation available
We'll guide you through the legal process and provide you with an estimate of when you might expect to receive compensation
We'll make you aware of the time limits applicable to your child's claim
We'll conduct investigations to ensure evidence is collected when it's fresh and available
We'll offer our No Win - No Fee* arrangement
You'll know the likelihood of success in your claim upfront
Contact our team for a cost free and obligation free appointment for more information on how we can help and navigate you through the process.
Fees
Slater and Gordon's No Win - No Fee* arrangement is generally available for all motor vehicle accident claims. This means you do not pay for professional fees unless your case is successful. If your case is successful, our fees are not a percentage of your compensation payout. Fees are agreed to upfront so there are no hidden or unexpected costs.
The No Win - No Fee* arrangement is designed to help those whose financial circumstances might otherwise deny them access to legal representation.
You will receive a document setting out the details of the No Win - No Fee* arrangement after your first appointment. You've not committed to anything until you sign and return the document to us. This is so you can take the time to understand your options and make a decision you're happy with.