(Miri, 12th) In the event of being injured in a traffic accident, never rush to sign a lawyer appointment letter or any settlement documents while you are still receiving treatment in hospital or not fully alert.
Lim Sijian, DAP Sarawak Secretary and practicing lawyer, explained that he recently received feedback from the public that some accident claims ‘middlemen’ go directly to hospitals and clinics to “visit patients”, taking advantage of the situation to promote legal services to victims and their families, and ask them to sign appointment letters on the spot.
“At the time, the injured person may be on a drip, taking painkillers, or just had surgery, making it impossible to calmly judge the content of the documents.”
Lim Sijian admitted that similar “practices” have always existed. The most important thing is for the parties involved and their relatives to maintain firm awareness, so they are not so easily influenced and make hasty decisions.
He stressed that in unfortunate traffic accidents, the first correct thing to do is to make a police report and let the traffic police investigator determine right and wrong, rather than rushing to appoint a lawyer.
“Of course, if you are injured, your priority should still be receiving medical treatment. Afterwards, when your condition allows, then consult a lawyer to pursue compensation.”
He pointed out that legally, signing a contract must be done under conditions of being conscious, voluntary, and understanding the content for it to be valid. If one wishes to overturn it later, the process is complicated and the victim must take on the burden of proof.
“Liability for the accident, extent of injuries, and subsequent rehabilitation costs are all unclear. Hastily appointing a representative may cause you to miss out on the opportunity for higher compensation. The limitation period for personal injury claims is three years, so the public actually has ample time to make a decision.”
He recommended, for any documents presented in person, simply respond that you need to consult family and a lawyer, and do not sign any documents for the time being. Family members should also not sign on your behalf.
“Hospitals must also pay attention to the situation where these middlemen linger around. But admittedly, it is often hard to prevent this completely, so the public’s own legal awareness must be strong to gradually reduce such incidents.”
Lim Sijian reminded everyone to carefully keep records of injuries, vehicle damage, all medical reports, MCs, and receipts. Once you have been discharged and your mind is clear, consult with a lawyer of your own choosing, then proceed according to legal procedures to claim from the insurance company of the party at fault.
“At the time, the injured person may be on a drip, taking painkillers, or just had surgery, making it impossible to calmly judge the content of the documents.”
Lim Sijian admitted that similar “practices” have always existed. The most important thing is for the parties involved and their relatives to maintain firm awareness, so they are not so easily influenced and make hasty decisions.
He stressed that in unfortunate traffic accidents, the first correct thing to do is to make a police report and let the traffic police investigator determine right and wrong, rather than rushing to appoint a lawyer.
“Of course, if you are injured, your priority should still be receiving medical treatment. Afterwards, when your condition allows, then consult a lawyer to pursue compensation.”
He pointed out that legally, signing a contract must be done under conditions of being conscious, voluntary, and understanding the content for it to be valid. If one wishes to overturn it later, the process is complicated and the victim must take on the burden of proof.
“Liability for the accident, extent of injuries, and subsequent rehabilitation costs are all unclear. Hastily appointing a representative may cause you to miss out on the opportunity for higher compensation. The limitation period for personal injury claims is three years, so the public actually has ample time to make a decision.”
He recommended, for any documents presented in person, simply respond that you need to consult family and a lawyer, and do not sign any documents for the time being. Family members should also not sign on your behalf.
“Hospitals must also pay attention to the situation where these middlemen linger around. But admittedly, it is often hard to prevent this completely, so the public’s own legal awareness must be strong to gradually reduce such incidents.”
Lim Sijian reminded everyone to carefully keep records of injuries, vehicle damage, all medical reports, MCs, and receipts. Once you have been discharged and your mind is clear, consult with a lawyer of your own choosing, then proceed according to legal procedures to claim from the insurance company of the party at fault.