A car accident can happen in an instant, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do next. Depending on the severity of the accident, the crash can result in minimal damage or injuries to catastrophic and life-changing events. If you have been involved in a car accident in Florida, knowing what to do immediately afterwards is critically important to ensure your safety, health, and rights are fully protected. Follow these steps immediately after a car accident:
1. Check for Injuries
Your safety is an absolute priority. Check yourself, your passengers, as well as anyone else involved for injuries. If someone is hurt, call for 911 immediately and let them know that medical attention is needed urgently. Avoid sudden movements if you suspect serious injuries like back or neck trauma.
2. Stay Calm and Move to Safety
Easier said than done, but it is extremely important to remain as calm as possible. Being involved in car accidents can be a very stressful situation. Take a deep breath and make every effort to keep a clear mind.
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid additional accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and remain inside the vehicle until it’s safe to exit.
3. Call the Police
Even for minor collisions, always contact law enforcement and tell them you have been in a car accident. Florida law requires drivers to report any crash involving injuries or damage over $500. A police officer will come to the scene, assess damages, and prepare an official crash report.
This report serves as crucial evidence when you file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. When speaking with officers, stay polite, provide facts when asked, and do not admit fault or make speculations about who caused the crash.
4. Exchange Information and Document the Scene
Exchange information with the other driver involved. Get their name, address, driver’s license number, vehicle details, and insurance information.
Also, you want to take as many photos as possible. With your phone, capture clear photos of all vehicles, damage, license plates, intersections, and surrounding areas. Recording a written note or voice memo on your phone of any details you recall can be useful. You may think you will remember every detail of the accident, but memories fade with time and details can become a blur. The more information and photos taken at the scene, the better.
5. Seek Medical Attention
After a car crash, it is critical to obtain medical treatment as soon as possible. Often times, injuries, such as internal bleeding, soft-tissue injuries, or concussions, can go unnoticed and not show symptoms immediately. Even if you feel fine, Prompt medical care will help to detect hidden injuries and ensures you receive necessary treatment early.
Also, make sure you obtain copies of your medical records, and any other documents related to treatment of your injuries. Stay on top of your treatment, costs, and how the injuries from the accident have impacted your daily life. This information will be help determine the value of your claim.
In Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the accident.
6. File an Insurance Claim
Notify your insurance company about the accident promptly. Even if the accident was minor, you need to contact them. Your insurance company will then investigate the accident to assess damage and determine fault.
When filing an insurance claim, it is important to be cooperative while understanding and protecting your rights. The handling adjuster may request information or documents. We recommend the following:
- Provide general information as requested, such as the other driver’s information, a copy of the police report, and medical records for injuries or treatment.
- Be honest, consistent, and never admit fault.
- Avoid recorded statements or signing quick settlement offers before speaking with a lawyer.
Insurance adjusters often aim to obtain recorded statements to minimize your claim. Some insurance policies may require such statements; however, we highly recommend speaking with a lawyer attorney before doing so. Having accurate documentation and legal guidance will help ensure your claim is handled fairly and you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
6. Contact a Florida Car Accident Lawyer
After a car accident, speaking with an experienced car accident attorney can help you maximize your compensation and protect your legal rights. An attorney will help investigate your crash, handle communications with insurers, gather evidence, and fight for full compensation for your injuries and losses. Hiring a lawyer early on helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures your case is managed efficiently from the start.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash in South Florida, the last thing you should be worried about is navigating your insurance claim on your own. At DTT Legal, we do all the work so you can get back to living your life. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our firm will do the is here to help you recover and move forward with your life.