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In the Maldives, laws governing car accidents are designed to provide justice and compensation to the affected party. The law is based on the principle of 'fault', and in the event of a car accident, the party at fault is liable for damages and injuries caused. The types of damages can include medical expenses, property damage, and in some cases, pain and suffering. It is important to note that insurance companies are also involved in these cases, and they might have a say in the settlement process.
In spite of the clear 'fault' principle, determining who is at fault can be complicated. There may be situations where both drivers are partially at fault, or where the at-fault driver's insurance company disputes the claim. A lawyer can help you navigate through these complexities, provide expert advice, gather necessary evidence and represent your interests in court if required. Personal injury lawyers specialising in car accidents are typically the attorneys handling these types of cases.
The Traffic Act of Maldives is the main law regulating road traffic and dealing with accidents. This statute defines different types of traffic offences including dangerous, careless or inconsiderate driving and it lays down the procedures to be followed after an accident. The Act also mandates that every motor vehicle on the road must be insured against third party liabilities.
The first thing you should do is ensure the safety of everyone involved. If someone is injured, call 102 for medical help. Report the accident to the police and don't leave the scene until the police allows you to do so. You can collect accident details like pictures, videos and contact information of witnesses for future reference.
Fault in a car accident is typically determined by the police based on evidence at the scene, including eyewitness accounts and CCTV images. However, in some situations, the process may be more complex, requiring reconstruction of the accident and expert witness testimony.
Yes, you should notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, even if you believe you were not at fault. Your insurance policy likely requires such notification, and failure to do so could result in denial of coverage.
Depending on the extent of your injuries and the specifics of your case, you may be able to obtain compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Defining fault as "contributory negligence," Maldivian law allows for a partially at-fault driver to recover damages. However, your damages award can be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
The Maldives Police Service website provides useful information about the procedures to follow in case of a traffic accident. The Maldives Road Safety Association can also provide useful resources and advice in case of a traffic accident. For more specialized advice, it could be helpful to consult with a local Personal Injury Lawyer or the Maldives Bar Association.
If you have been involved in a car accident and need legal assistance, consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury and traffic accident cases. A well-prepared lawyer will help you obtain police reports, medical records, conduct settlement negotiations with insurance companies and if necessary, represent you in court proceedings. Proactively seeking professional advice can go a long way towards obtaining the compensation you deserve.
