The holidays are a time for family, friends, food, and celebration- but unfortunately with everybody heading to visit friends, driving to a family vacation, or coming back from a party, it’s also a time for car accidents. This is especially true in the state of Florida, where tourism surges and traffic infrastructure is stretched to the limit. Impatient or intoxicated drivers and heavily congested roads often culminate in dangerous accidents, which is why it’s essential to be extra careful on the road during this time. Even when being cautious, accidents do happen- no matter how careful you are. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared and know exactly what to do if you get into a car accident in order to protect your legal rights and not endanger the potential of being able to get the financial compensation you may be entitled to. If you do get into an accident, an experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate each step of your case and ensure that everything is handled for the optimal outcome while you and your loved ones recuperate from the traumatic event.
I Got Into A Car Accident. Now What Should I Do?
It’s extremely difficult to make rational decisions after an auto accident. Your adrenaline is pumping, you’re probably confused and disoriented, and you may be in pain from your injuries. The best way to prepare yourself is to be informed. Here are some steps you should take if you get into an auto accident in Florida.
- Call the police: The number one priority is always the health and safety of all parties involved. Calling 911 serves two critical functions. First, it gets immediate medical support to the scene if anybody is injured. Secondly, having an official report will be helpful when filing an insurance claim or potentially a lawsuit.
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if you’re not badly injured, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible. After a traumatic accident, your body is pumped full of adrenaline- which can prevent you from feeling pain from injuries that may not become apparent for hours or even days after the accident. Plus, getting checked out by a medical provider right after an accident will provide a medical record of your injuries so that insurance companies can’t claim that your injuries were incurred after your accident.
- Take photos and video (if you’re able): Even though the police officer will create a record of the scene, having a visual record of the event can be invaluable evidence for future insurance claims.
- Get information of all parties involved and witnesses at the scene: Typically, you will receive a driver’s exchange of information sheet from the attending police officer. This will contain basic information of everyone involved in the accident, including insurance information. If for some reason you do not receive this information, make sure to obtain the contact information of all parties involved in the accident and their insurance information. Do the same with any passengers in the vehicles as well as any other people who saw the accident, as they could potentially provide crucial witness testimony if the case winds up in court.
- Consult with a Florida car accident attorney: It’s difficult enough trying to collect your thoughts and recover physically and emotionally from a car accident. An experienced Florida car accident attorney will advise you on your next steps and guide you through the process while you focus on recuperating.
Contact Us Today
If you or somebody you love were involved in a car accident, an experienced Florida car accident attorney will assist you with deciding your best course of action, and ensure that your case has an optimal outcome. Call Rosenblum & Mayer to consult with a trusted Florida auto accident attorney today.