Six Steps to Take After an Accident
Car Accident Statistics
It’s estimated that everyone, even the most vigilant drivers, will experience a car accident about once every decade. For that reason, it’s necessary for all motorists to learn what to do after being involved in one.
Keep reading to get some basic tips and information about the proper after-collision procedure in Florida.
Step One: Secure the Scene
Immediately after an accident, you need to check yourself, your passengers and any other people involved for injuries. If the roadway is unsafe, then you may need to get everyone out of their cars and safely on the shoulder.
Step Two: Notify the Authorities
Once you’ve dealt with the immediate dangers of being in the roadway, you need to call the police. Many mistakenly believe that a simple exchange of information between the involved parties is enough, but keep in mind that you won’t be able to prove anything happened without a police report.
Step Three: Collecting the Evidence
After filing the accident report, it’s best to take a few photographs of the scene before you leave. Document any damage to the cars and their positions in the road. Photos can also reveal unsafe road conditions or other hazards that may have gone unnoticed. If there are witnesses who saw what happened, then ask if they’d be willing to share their contact information. Let them know that you may want to request a statement about what happened later on.
Step Four: Notify your Insurance Company
Next, you’ll need to reach out to your insurance to let them know an accident occurred. While speaking with them, be as honest as possible about what happened. Don’t admit fault or accept any kind of deal while on the initial call.
Step Five: Go to the Doctor
Next, you’ll want to seek medical treatment from a doctor. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s still important to get a thorough physical check-up to ensure everything is okay. In the event you are injured, make sure to keep records of your diagnosis, medical bills and prescription bills.
Step Six: Evaluate the Property Damage
Finally, you need to estimate the costs of repairing any damage to your car. When you get an estimate, be sure to maintain all the records regarding any expenses.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in Florida
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a car accident in Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey represent clients injured in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, Uber & Lyft accidents and more in Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Plantation, and throughout Florida. Call 954-525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2211 Davie Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, as well as offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Plantation.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.