A car accident can be overwhelming, but having an idea of what to do right after the accident can safeguard your legal rights and ensure you receive fair compensation. Whether you have minor damage or severe injuries, it is important to follow the right procedures.
A Step-by-Step Guide after a Car Accident
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 right away. Florida law mandates that you report an accident in the event of injuries, fatalities, or substantial property damage.
Even if minor injuries appear, get medical care—some injuries (such as whiplash) do not immediately present symptoms.
Step 2: Get to a Safe Place
If you can, drive your car to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Engage your hazard lights to warn other motorists.
Step 3: Share Information
Get vital information from all the parties involved, including:
- Driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate
- Witnesses’ names and phone numbers
Step 4: Record the Scene
Get photographs and videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Location where the accident happened, including road signs and conditions
- Any obvious injuries
- License plates of every vehicle involved
Step 5: Refrain from Admitting Guilt
Even if you believe you might have caused the accident, do not confess fault at the accident scene. Keep your statements to facts when making statements to the police and other motorists. Insurance companies will assign fault based on evidence and Florida comparative negligence statutes.
Step 6: Get Medical Care
Florida’s no-fault auto insurance law mandates that you receive medical attention within 14 days to receive Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Even if you’re okay, some injuries may not manifest for days or weeks.
Step 7: Inform Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible about the accident. Tell the truth about what occurred, but don’t give recorded statements without first speaking with an attorney.
Step 8: Call a Car Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg
If you were hurt or the insurance company is denying or delaying your claim, speak with a personal injury lawyer.
A lawyer can assist you in seeking reimbursement for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is a personal injury attorney St Petersburg FL. She focuses on personal injury, car accidents, and bicyclist injuries. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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