Car accidents are unfortunately common, and they can happen to anyone at any time. In Florida, there are specific steps you should take after a car accident to protect yourself, your passengers, and your rights. Here’s what to do after a car accident in Florida.
Check for injuries
The first and most important thing to do after a car accident is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
Move to a safe location
If you are able to move your car, move it to a safe location off the road, if possible. This will help prevent further accidents and make it easier for emergency vehicles to reach you.
Call the police
Call the police and report the accident. Even if there are no injuries, it’s important to report the accident to the police. They will create an accident report, which can be useful when filing an insurance claim.
Exchange information
Exchange information with the other driver, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information. You should also get the make and model of the other vehicle, the license plate number, and the name of the driver’s insurance company.
Document the scene
Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to both vehicles, any skid marks, and the position of the vehicles. This can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Notify your insurance company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will need to know the details of the accident, and they may send an adjuster to assess the damage to your vehicle.
Seek medical attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show up until hours or days later. Seeing a doctor can also provide documentation of any injuries you sustained in the accident.
Contact a personal injury attorney
If you were injured in the accident, you may want to consider contacting a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries.
If you are involved in a car accident in Florida, it’s important to follow these steps to protect yourself, your passengers, and your rights. Remember to stay calm, and prioritize safety and medical attention above all else.
File a report with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
In Florida, you are required to report any accident that involves injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) within 10 days. Failure to report an accident can result in fines and a suspension of your driver’s license.
You can report the accident online, by mail, or in person at a DHSMV office. You will need to provide information such as your name, driver’s license number, and the date and location of the accident.
Follow up with your insurance company and medical providers
After filing an insurance claim, it’s important to follow up with your insurance company to ensure the claim is being processed and to address any issues that may arise. You should also follow up with any medical providers to ensure you receive the care you need and to address any billing or insurance issues.
Consider attending traffic school
If you were at fault for the accident, you may be required to attend traffic school. Attending traffic school can help you avoid points on your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance rates and a possible suspension of your driver’s license.
Be cautious of settlement offers
If you were injured in the accident, be cautious of settlement offers from the other driver’s insurance company. Insurance companies may offer a low settlement amount to quickly resolve the case, but this may not fully cover your expenses and losses. Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offers.
A car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but following these steps can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the care and compensation you need. Remember to prioritize safety and medical attention, and consider seeking the advice of a personal injury attorney if you were injured in the accident.
Paul Boone is a personal injury attorney based in Florida who has extensive experience in handling car accident cases. If you are involved in a car accident in Florida, Paul Boone can help you in the following ways:
- Provide legal guidance: Paul Boone can provide legal guidance on the steps you should take after a car accident, such as notifying your insurance company, filing a report with the DHSMV, and seeking medical attention. He can also advise you on your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries.
- Investigate the accident: Paul Boone can investigate the accident to determine who was at fault and gather evidence to support your case. This may include obtaining witness statements, reviewing police reports, and analyzing accident scene photos.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Paul Boone can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. He can also help you navigate the complex insurance claims process.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, Paul Boone can represent you in court to fight for your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Paul Boone can provide invaluable assistance with a Florida car accident case, from providing legal guidance and investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court. If you were involved in a car accident in Florida, consider reaching out to Paul Boone for help.