What Vancouver Residents Need to Know About Personal Injuries During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Personal injuries typically occur as a result of accidents in which the reckless and negligent actions of others are to blame. Impacts you suffer as a result of these injuries can affect your health, financial security, and overall well being now and for years to come. To ensure your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs are covered, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim with an insurer or file a lawsuit against those responsible. Currently, the coronavirus pandemic is impacting every area of life for residents of Vancouver. The following details what you need to know if personal injuries happen to you or a loved one during this time. 

Know Your Risks

In Clark County, the coronavirus pandemic has caused normal daily activities to grind to a stop. Schools, businesses, and recreational facilities have closed and many will remain so through the late spring and early summer months. In the meantime, grocery stores and other essentials remain open for residents who need to stock up on supplies or attend to other household and personal needs. While there are far few people out and about, the risks for personal injuries are still very real. 

Panic over the pandemic, reduced personnel, and inattention to basic maintenance tasks can all make personal injuries more likely to happen. Common causes of personal injuries during the pandemic include: 

• Motor vehicle accidents caused by distracted or aggressive drivers;
• Parking lot accidents, impacting motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians;
• Slips and falls, which often occur in grocery stores due to spills and cluttered aisles;
• Getting struck by or against objects, which can happen when reaching for items or due to improperly stocked shelves. 

What to Do When Personal Injuries Occur

When personal injuries happen, it is important to be aware of the steps you need to take to protect yourself. This includes taking actions to protect your rights in filing a personal injury claim as well as following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. If an accident resulting in personal injuries happens, we recommend doing the following: 

• Report it immediately to the police, store managers, or other authorities;
• Maintain social distancing from any others involved;
• Jot down information about the circumstances and those involved;
• Consult with your doctor on how best to seek treatment for your injuries;
• Contact our Vancouver personal injury attorneys as soon as possible.  

While many businesses and government agencies in the city of Vancouver are closed or have limited hours, we can still assist you in filing a lawsuit seeking compensation for the damages you suffered.  

Reach Out to Us Today for Help

At the Johnston Law Firm P.C, we provide the trusted legal representation you need to get compensation when personal injuries occur. We remain here and ready to help throughout the pandemic. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Vancouver personal injury attorneys online and request a consultation today.