Group outings or Camp trips are great ways for a lot of people to enjoy and de-stress together. The camp fires, the cool breeze, and the scenic views all contribute to an unforgettable experience. Sometimes, the trip itself to the destination becomes part of it.
Nowadays, the preferred vehicles for such long and fun trips are vans. These vehicles can carry up to 15 people. Due to its capacity, it provides an excellent way to save up on travel expenses. Due to its rising popularity with a lot of groups, a worrying trend is beginning to show up. Van accidents happen more often.
Vans of these types are often hard to maneuver when operated by a novice driver. Making sharp turns for such a big and cumbersome vehicle can sometimes be too much to handle. The thrill of speeding up also becomes a reason why accidents happen. Even the weather can contribute to such disasters. These factors, along with recklessness and bad driving habits are the primary cause of accidents.
Due to the high center of gravity in these vans, rollovers may happen. In addition to the risks, the amount of damage done in an accident can be multiplied depending on the number of the passengers involved. Accidents like these can be avoided. But what if a tragedy happens and everybody is terrified? Here are some tips on what one should do in an accident.
Composure
When in an accident, composure should remain in oneself. No doubt that the situation itself is terrifying. Be calm enough to be mindful of the surroundings, especially outside the van. The vehicle could be inches away from a cliff, or it could be near water. In that case, any movement should be limited.
Assessment and First Aid
If the area around the van is safe, carefully go out through the windows or doors. Keep in mind that sharp glasses are hazardous. Assess yourself first. If you are not injured, look for the other passengers who have any serious injuries. Quickly apply pressure to any body part that is profusely bleeding. Removal of objects that are lodged or impaled in a particular body part is not encouraged because it can cause more damage. If phones are available, immediately contact Emergency Services.
Gathering Information
When medical teams arrive, gather as much data as you can. Take pictures of anything significant such as skid marks, injuries, or even the photo of the van itself. Police officials will also be arriving soon and may require you to report any relevant data concerning.
Although it may be hard to remember, you may be asked about the events right before the crash. The smell of rubber, weird noises from the engine, and unresponsive brakes are the most premonitions of these kinds of incidents.
Contact your Lawyer
Compensation would sometimes be given out by the company, especially if that company owns the van. Sometimes, the company’s benefits can be unfair. Never be afraid to contact a lawyer for that reason. Know the rights and the proper compensations for such accident.
Safekeeping
Keeping any hospital or medical bill incurred is important. When the time comes that legal action is required, these things are important in court. Anything from the crash that costs you or causes disruption towards your daily routine is to be in safe keeping. These documents will be the basis for the compensation awarded to the victims.
Takeaway
A van accident is by no means, part of that ideal camp trip. When things do go awry, one should know what to do. Being calm and composed can significantly help in the outcome. Even the chance of greater survival is dependent on being calm. Proper assessment is the next thing to do. Watch out for the outside area and look for any injuries.
Afterward, when medical and police teams arrive, be prepared to give out important details about the accident. Any receipts, medical bills, or anything incurred from the crash should be in safe keeping.
Accidents do happen and are part of reality. Even so, these mishaps are totally avoidable if proper precautions and preparations are duly observed.
Barbara Ratliff