Stenny352's Journal

They happen in an eye-blink, and usually what comes next is a blur. We are not talking about your vision -- its a car accident.

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If you have never been in a car accident, and think you never will, here are some sobering numbers from the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC). In its last full year of statistics, ICBC reported 330,000 car accidents in the province -- 220,000 of them occurring in the Lower Mainland.

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No matter how careful and skillful a driver you may be -- your chance of being in an accident is roughly one in 10 every time you��‚��„�re on the road. And the results of an accident range from light car-body damage to injury to a tragic death (273 throughout BC in 2016).

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The rules of safe driving are, for the most part, common sense, or at least clearly indicated by road signs. We also rely on our years of driving experience to follow the rules and keep safe.

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Unfortunately, all too often, our experience behind the wheel can make us lax about following laws and regulations. Here are the basics, which can never be revisited enough.

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But no matter how carefully you drive, accidents can be completely unpredictable, and often not your fault. What do you do then?

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Mostly, common sense things -- as hard as it may be to think that way after such a shock to your system.

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If anyones injured, call 911, and get paramedics at the scene fast. Call for the police if the other driver seems impaired or was driving aggressively. Exchange information with the other driver. Get as much information as you can but, at the very least, write down their licence plate number.

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Immediately seek legal representation with a law firm that specializes in ICBC law. At the time of the accident, there are too many things to deal with on your own; whether it assessing the damage to your vehicle, seeking treatment for your injuries or making sure witnesses are contacted to support your side of the story.

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You dont have to call ICBC immediately. In fact, you or your lawyer can contact them within a reasonable time. He or she will look out for your interests and make sure that ICBC doesn't take advantage of you. Your representation should start as soon as possible.

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Helpforme� has one of the largest groups of personal injury lawyers under one roof in BC. They are your personal advocates to help you through the complexities of an ICBC claim, and ensure you are getting the settlement or court award that you deserve. Helpforme has contingency-based fees, so you dont pay until your claim is resolved. Find out how Helpforme can help you.