According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, around 200,000 car accidents happen yearly. That’s about 650 car accidents in a day. Driving in Florida requires one to follow the road rules to avoid personal injuries and accidents. But there are times that you cannot prevent yourself from getting caught in a crash. So, what do you do when you get caught in a car accident in Florida?
- Stay Put
You might want to leave the scene to get your injuries treated, but you shouldn’t move. You may be charged with criminal charges if you leave the scene of the accident.
- Call the Police
After getting into a car accident, be sure to call the police and emergency medical services. Wait for the help to come and don’t attempt to move your car not unless it puts you at a higher risk. You can then move the vehicle to a safe area and out of traffic.
- Call an Attorney
Call a Florida car accident attorney to help you in collecting all the information needed to get an accident claim such as medical bills and diagnostic workups. Your attorney could also help you negotiate a settlement to account for the financial expenses you’ve incurred. Also, he’s responsible for establishing liability to preserve pieces of evidence and talk to witnesses.
- Exchange Contact Details with the Other Driver
When exchanging contact information with the other, be sure to get the contact number, address and additional necessary details like email and workplace address. Be sure to be objective and never apologize for anything. Be tactful so your statements wouldn’t get misinterpreted as an admission of guilt.
- Get Contact Information from Witnesses
After obtaining information from the other driver, talk to witnesses who saw the accident. They could be people walking nearby, drivers not part of the crash, and even passengers from either car. Get their names, contact numbers, and addresses. They will be accommodating during a lawsuit.
- Take Photos
Pictures are essential pieces of evidence of the car accident. If you are able and don’t need medical attention right away, be sure to take photos of the car crash as soon as you can. These photos accurately convey what has transpired. Don’t just take pictures of the cars. Also, take pictures of those passengers injured.
- Get in Touch with Your Insurance Provider
Get in touch with your insurance coverage and let them know about the car accident. Give them objective details of what happened. Before you call your insurance provider, be sure to consult your Florida car accident attorney.
- Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media
Stay off social media and don’t post anything about what has transpired during the accident. These posts may be used against you. Don’t post unless the case has been decided.
- Be Mindful of Your Injuries
Just because you’re okay thirty minutes after the accident doesn’t mean you are medically alright. Some symptoms don’t immediately appear after the accident. Some may experience a concussion, vomiting, and bleeding after a few hours.
Image Credits: Matt Alaniz
Like this article? Share with your friends!