Q. What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Automobile Accident
A. Being involved in an automobile accident can be extremely frightening and stressful. Below, we have outlined important steps to inform you as to what to do and what to expect.
1. Stop and protect the scene of the accident.
Florida law requires that you stop after you are involved in an accident. Try to preserve the scene as best as you can, but if your vehicle is blocking traffic, and it is moveable, you must move it to the side of road as soon as possible.
2. Notify the Proper Authorities.
Although Florida law only requires you to report an accident if there is injury involved, or if the property damage exceeds $500.00, it is a good idea to always notify the proper authorities so that your accident and any injuries can be properly documented. This can aid you in a personal injury claim that you may have in the future. In addition, you should report the accident to your insurance company.
3. Gather Information.
Get the name, address, telephone number and insurance information for all drivers involved. In addition, get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to your accident, if possible. Try to make a simple diagram of the accident scene as soon as possible so that you can later confirm it with the diagram on the accident report. Take photos of your vehicles damages as soon as possible. In addition, take photographs of your injuries including all cuts and bruises.
4. Provide Information to the Proper Authorities Only.
Never admit responsibility. Statements to witnesses and onlookers at the scene could be used against you, should you have to go to traffic or civil proceedings. Only give information to the responding officer(s) or to the driver of the other vehicle when exchanging information.
5. Seek Medical Attention if You are in Pain.
Many times, people don’t seek medical treatment after an auto accident because they feel they are fine, only to wake up the following day with severe pain. It is very important to document your injuries and treatments as soon as possible in order to obtain complete compensation. A doctor may recognize injuries that are not apparent to you.
6. Contact a Lawyer to Discuss your Rights.
Q. Who Will Work on My Case If I Hire Your Firm?
A. Your primary contact will be one of our four experienced attorneys. They will be available to answer your questions along with our staff of legal assistants and paralegals.
Q. Who Will Pay my Medical Bills and Lost Wages When I am in a Car Accident?
A. Florida Law requires anyone who owns a car to have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. When you are in an accident your own PIP initially pays for your medical bills and lost wages. You should have $10,000.00 in PIP coverage and may have a deductible. Your PIP will pay 80% of your medical bills and 60% of your lost wages once your deductible is met.
