Question from a reader:
There are often cases where a car being pursued by police collides with a civilian, causing injuries, or crashes into other vehicles. In such cases, will the compensation and liability fall on the individual? I believe that if the driver of the fleeing vehicle is not found, or if they are caught but are uninsured, unlicensed, or
driving under the influence, it is often difficult to receive compensation. Depending on the severity of the accident, there may be lasting effects or difficulties in repairing the vehicle in serious cases. I am curious about the actual situation for the victims, as I don’t hear much about it.

Considerations on Accidents During Pursuits and Their Compensation

Introduction

Hello everyone! Recently, I’ve been hearing a lot about cars being pursued by police colliding with civilians. It makes you wonder what would happen if you were to become a victim and how compensation would be handled. I have also thought about what laws apply in such accidents and how victims are protected. Today, I would like to discuss these points.

Background and Situation of Accidents

First, there are various cases where a vehicle in pursuit causes an accident. For example, imagine a scenario where a car being chased by police runs a red light and crashes into a vehicle that was waiting at the signal. In this case, everyone is curious about what the police were doing and what the fleeing driver was thinking. I recall an accident my friend encountered a few years ago. While he was waiting at a traffic light, he was hit by a fleeing vehicle, and his car was severely damaged. He also sustained minor injuries. At that time, he was surprised, saying, “I never thought my car would be hit by a car in pursuit.” This kind of thing is not just someone else’s problem, right?

Basic Considerations on Compensation

So, what happens in terms of compensation when such accidents occur? The first thing to know is that legally, the perpetrator of the accident is responsible. The driver of a vehicle being pursued by police is liable to others just like any other driver. However, how this compensation is received depends on several factors. 1. When the perpetrator cannot be found: If the fleeing driver is not found, the victim will generally have to use their own insurance to receive compensation. However, if the accident was severe or resulted in lasting effects, the victim’s feelings can become particularly complicated. They may strongly feel, “Why should I have to bear the costs through my insurance?” 2. In cases of uninsured or unlicensed drivers: This is also a difficult issue. If the fleeing driver was uninsured, it becomes challenging to receive compensation. In such cases, it may still be possible to use one’s own insurance, but this depends on the insurance conditions, so it’s important to check in advance. 3. In cases of drunk driving: When an accident involves drunk driving, the perpetrator is held responsible, but the impact on the victim can be significant. It often takes time to receive compensation, and the mental stress can be considerable.

The Specific Process of Compensation

Now, let’s look at how compensation is specifically handled. 1. Response after the accident occurs: First, when an accident happens, call the police to document the situation. It’s also important to gather testimonies from witnesses and people around. Keeping solid evidence of the accident will be advantageous when making a compensation claim later. 2. Contacting the insurance company: Next, contact your insurance company. It’s crucial to thoroughly check the details of your insurance and understand what kind of compensation you can receive for the accident. A friend of mine mentioned that he had quite a bit of trouble dealing with the insurance company. 3. Medical examination: If you are injured in the accident, it is essential to get a diagnosis from a medical institution. If there are lasting effects, the medical report can be an important document for the compensation claim. 4. Compensation claim process: Finally, if the perpetrator is identified, a compensation claim can be made against them. At this point, calculating the compensation amount and preparing necessary documents is essential. I have also wondered, “How is compensation calculated?” but often, consulting with an expert can clarify many things.

Don’t Forget Mental Care

In the event of an accident, not only physical injuries but also mental damage can be significant. You may find yourself troubled by thoughts like, “If only I had done this differently.” Mental care is very important. Recently, counseling has become a popular option. A friend of mine also started visiting a mental health clinic after his accident. At first, he seemed resistant, but he mentioned that talking about it gradually made him feel better. Sometimes, just talking can be a great help.

Conclusion

Accidents during pursuits create very difficult situations for victims. However, legally, the perpetrator is responsible, so it is crucial to address the situation properly. Check your insurance, do not neglect necessary procedures, and remember to take care of your mental health. Finally, if you find yourself involved in such an accident, it is important to act calmly and without panic. With the cooperation of those around you, take firm action to protect your rights. While it is best to avoid accidents altogether, it is important to be prepared just in case.