A car accident is a traumatic experience that can leave you feeling confused and overwhelmed as you try to figure out what happened, what injuries you may have suffered, and what to do next. The actions you take following a crash are important and can improve your odds of receiving the compensation you deserve. Here are a few general things you should do after being involved in a car accident.
Stay on the scene
This is critically important for virtually any car accident. Unless the accident involved little to no property damage or injuries, it is always imperative that you stay on the scene. Leaving the crash scene reflects poorly on you and can be used by a liable party to argue against your compensation claim later. However, be sure to evaluate your surroundings to make sure you are safe.
Report the crash
If you are conscious and physically able, call 911 to report the car accident as soon as possible. This applies to minor accidents as well.
Seek medical attention
Injuries ranging from minor to severe can result after a car accident. If you suspect that you have suffered any injuries after a car accident, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. It is important to note that many internal injuries are not obvious right away. You may feel fine immediately after the crash, but a day or two later, different internal complications from the crash may surface. In addition, your refusal to get medical attention may be used as an argument against your compensation claim. The insurer or the liable party may argue that you have no injuries or only minor injuries in an effort to reduce the amount of compensation you are paid.
Talk to the police
When police arrive at an accident scene, you will be required to provide a statement. Police can help you document how the accident happened and assist with arranging for emergency medical attention if needed. In addition, they can assist with the exchange of information with other parties involved in the crash. It is generally a good idea to stick to the facts when giving the statement. Avoid blaming anyone or admitting any kind of fault. However, anything you say in a statement can’t be used during a personal injury lawsuit.
Gather evidence at the scene
When you file a car accident compensation claim, you will be required to submit evidence and prove your claim. You can start collecting this evidence right after the crash. At the scene, you can take photos the vehicles involved in the crash, any visible damage on the vehicles, skid marks or debris on the road, as well as the final resting position of the vehicles.
You should also determine if there were any witnesses to the accident. If so, make sure you obtain the names and contact details of any witnesses who were present at the scene. These witnesses play a key role in corroborating your version of the events.
Hire a personal injury attorney
If you have been involved in a car accident in Florida, it is important to consult a qualified attorney as soon as possible. A good attorney will help you gather evidence, meet other requirements, and seek the compensation that you deserve without losing time.
Patrick Cassady, Esq.
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