Accidents can happen at any time and in any place. They are unexpected, unsettling, and often come with a host of complications. When you find yourself in an accident involving a government vehicle, the situation becomes even more complex. Understanding the process and your rights in such cases is crucial. In this article, we will explore what happens when you are in an accident with a government vehicle, why seeking the help of a personal injury attorney is critical, and how pre-settlement funding or an accident loan might help.
The Types of Government Vehicles
Government vehicles encompass a wide range of vehicles operated by various government agencies. These can include:
- Law Enforcement Vehicles: This category includes police cars, sheriff’s vehicles, and other law enforcement agencies’ cars.
- Emergency Services Vehicles: Ambulances, fire trucks, and other emergency response vehicles fall into this category.
- Municipal Vehicles: Vehicles owned by city or municipal governments, such as garbage trucks and public transportation buses.
- State Vehicles: State-owned vehicles, often used by government employees for official duties.
- Federal Vehicles: Vehicles operated by federal agencies like the FBI, or Department of Defense.
- Postal Vehicles: Vehicles operated by the U.S. Postal Service.
Now, let’s delve into what happens when you are involved in an accident with one of these government vehicles.
The Immediate Aftermath
Ensure Safety
Your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident should always be your top priority. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If it’s safe to do so, move to the side of the road to prevent further accidents.
Notify Authorities
Regardless of who was at fault, you should notify the appropriate authorities about the accident. This means calling the police to the scene, even if it involves a government vehicle. Having an official police report can be essential for insurance claims, legal purposes, and seeking compensation.
Exchange Information
Just like in any accident involving civilian vehicles, exchange information with the other party involved. This includes names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle identification numbers (VINs). Document the accident scene by taking pictures and making notes.
Seeking the Help of a Personal Injury Attorney
It’s important to note that seeking legal counsel is an important step you should consider early in the process, especially in accidents involving government vehicles. Here’s why:
Determining Fault
Determining fault in an accident with a government vehicle can be more complex than a standard collision. The process may vary depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction. An attorney experienced in personal injury and government liability cases can help you navigate this process effectively.
Government Immunity
Government vehicles may be subject to certain immunities or limitations on liability. An attorney can assess whether these factors apply in your case and advise you on the best course of action.
Protecting Your Rights
Government agencies often have legal teams representing their interests. Having your attorney can level the playing field and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
Shorter Time Period to File a Claim
Claims involving governmental vehicles may have a shorter time in which to file a claim. Failure to file during that period of time could bar you from receiving damages.
Have you been involved in an auto accident with a government vehicle and need help with pre-settlement funding? Oasis is here to help!
Dealing with Insurance
Follow the guidance of your attorney on how to best deal with insurance, both your own insurance, and that of the government party though many agencies do not have insurance, and are considered “self-insured”. Insurance matters can become complicated when a government vehicle is involved. Here are some important steps your attorney can help you consider:
Contact Your Insurance
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details you have, including the police report and any available evidence.
Government Insurance
Government agencies often have their insurance policies to cover accidents involving their vehicles. Your insurance company will likely communicate with the government agency’s insurer to determine liability and negotiate a settlement. In other cases, they may not have insurance, and may pay any claims directly.
Potential Claims
Depending on the circumstances, you may need to file a claim against the government agency’s insurance to recover damages. This process can be complex and may involve strict deadlines and legal requirements.
How Can Pre-Settlement Funding Help?
In cases of personal injury due to an accident with a government vehicle, you may find yourself facing medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and other expenses while waiting for a settlement. Pre-settlement funding may be an option to consider.
What is Pre-Settlement Funding?
Pre-settlement funding, sometimes referred to as a “lawsuit loan,” “accident loan” or “legal funding” depending on the circumstances of the transaction, is a financial arrangement where you receive funds upfront in exchange for a portion of your potential settlement. This can help cover immediate expenses such as medical bills and daily living costs while your case is pending.
How It Works
To obtain pre-settlement funding, you’ll typically work with a legal funding company. They will discuss with your attorney, assess the strength of your case, and if approved, offer you immediate cash, which you repay, plus fees, after you receive your settlement. The amount you receive is contingent on the estimated value of your case.
Being involved in an accident with a government vehicle can be a daunting experience, but understanding the steps to take and your rights is crucial. Prioritize safety, notify the authorities, gather evidence, and consult with an attorney who specializes in personal injury and government liability cases. Once the case is established with your attorney, you can decide if pre-settlement funding or an accident loan is right for your needs. With the right approach, you can navigate the complexities of such accidents and seek the compensation you deserve. Remember, every situation is unique, so consult with an attorney to address your specific circumstances effectively.
Apply today with Oasis Financial to learn more about how we can help!
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. No attorney-client or confidential relationship is or will be formed by use of the site. Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction.
Oasis provides pre-settlement funding, also known as consumer litigation funding, to its customers through different products depending on their state of residence or cause of action. Many consumers will be provided pre-settlement funding in the form of a purchase agreement, which assigns a portion of the pending proceeds from their legal claim. Other consumers, such as those in SC and CO will be offered a funding in the form of a pre-settlement loan, sometimes referred to as a lawsuit loan. These transactions have important differences, therefore, consumers should carefully review and be aware of the type of transaction that is offered to them by any funding company.