This is a collaborative post.
We never know when an accident will happen. And, even if we are the most careful drivers, there is always the potential for someone else’s negligence to cause a collision. Suppose you have been involved in a car accident. In that case, it is essential to take some time to protect yourself, both physically and legally, which is why it is necessary to know your local auto accident attorneys.
Local auto accident attorneys will be familiar with the local laws and court procedures that will apply to your case. In addition, they will usually have a network of professionals, such as investigators and expert witnesses, who can help build your case. If you choose to work with a local attorney, ask about their experience handling car accident cases.
No one ever plans on getting into a car accident. But unfortunately, they happen all the time. If you’re involved in a car accident, there are some things you can do to protect yourself both physically and legally.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
This is especially important if you’re feeling pain at the accident scene. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s always best to avoid caution and get checked out by a medical professional. Many injuries, such as whiplash, may not present themselves until days or weeks after the accident.
Get The Contact Information Of Everyone Involved In The Accident
After being involved in a car accident, getting the contact information of everyone involved is essential. This includes the other driver, any passengers, and any witnesses. This is because you may need to contact them later on for insurance purposes or to follow up on the accident.
By getting their contact information, you can stay in touch with them if you need to. In addition, having the contact information of everyone involved will allow you to have a record of the people who were present during the accident. This can be useful if there are any disputes about the accident. Therefore, it is always best to get the contact information of everyone involved in a car accident.
Take Pictures Of The Accident Scene
If possible, use your cell phone or camera to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and any visible injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. These pictures will help document the extent of the damage for your insurance company.
Good pictures include the damage to both cars, any visible injuries, the license plate numbers of both vehicles, and the make and model of both cars.
Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you think you may be at fault for the accident, do not say so to anyone at the scene. Wait until you have had a chance to speak with an attorney or insurance company before making any admissions of fault.
Contact Your Insurance Company As Soon As Possible
You must contact your insurance company to file a claim if you’ve been involved in an accident. Be sure to have all the necessary information handy when you call, such as the other driver’s contact information and insurance policy number (if available), as well as details about what happened leading up to and during the accident.
Keep Detailed Records Of All Expenses Related To The Accident
This includes medical bills, repair estimates, lost wages (if applicable), and anything related to the accident that costs you out-of-pocket. These records will be vital in documenting your damages should you need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver later down the road.
Speak With A Personal Injury Attorney
Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement offer from an insurance company—even your own!
Insurance companies are notorious for lowballing victims of car accidents to save themselves money (and increase their profits). An experienced personal injury attorney will fight for a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for all your economic and non—monetary damages, including pain and suffering and lost wages down the road (if applicable).
Final Thoughts
No one ever wants to get into a car accident—but unfortunately, they happen all too often here in Florida (and elsewhere). If you do find yourself involved in an accident, there are some things you can do both at the scene and in the days and weeks following to help protect yourself physically, emotionally, and legally. Taking some simple steps and being proactive about your case can help ensure that you are fairly compensated for all that you’ve been through. And that justice is served against those who have wronged you through their negligence behind the wheel!
