Driving is such an everyday part of life that it is easy to overlook the high risk that comes with it. Yet in Florida, the number of traffic accidents have increased the last several years, with only a very slight drop in 2017, reveals statistics from Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Although most accidents are not deadly, the consequences of even a minor collision can still be severe. Bodily injury can lead to high medical bills, long recovery, permanent health changes and temporary or permanent loss of employment. With so much at stake, are you prepared for the likelihood of car crash? If not, these are the steps you need to take after getting into an accident.
Get help
Report the accident to the police. Having an official report on record will be useful when you deal with insurance companies or if you must file a lawsuit. Seek medical treatment right away, even if you do not have signs of a severe injury. Sometimes physical harm is not visible or may not show symptoms for days or weeks.
Document the accident
Talk to others involved in the accident. Get their driver’s license, insurance and contact information. Remember to speak to witnesses as well. Take pictures of the scene and all damage for insurance and legal purposes. In the case of a hit-and-run, try to notice and write down as many identifying details about the vehicle and driver as possible.
Initiate a claim and/or lawsuit
Notify your insurance provider of the incident without going into detail, because anything you say can become evidence against you to deny your claim. Insurers are not there to help you but to help their profits. Call a personal injury attorney for further guidance specific to your case, such as the possibility of a lawsuit, and for help with handling the insurance companies of both parties. A qualified lawyer will know what a fair offer is and how to get you the maximum compensation you are eligible to receive.
