Often, after an automobile accident, individuals not only are injured but also lost and not knowing what to do. First and foremost, try to stay as calm as possible. If your airbags have deployed there could potentially be dust all over the vehicle. Over the years, I have had a number of people tell me that they were scared because they believed the car was on fire. Fortunately, it was just the airbags dust in the air. Next, you must determine if you or your passengers have been injured. If you have any type of pain, you must call 911 immediately. Oftentimes, individuals do not feel pain immediately after the accident. In fact, you might feel pain from the accident the next day, or a few days later. I see this happening very often. Now, no matter how minor the accident, call the police and report the accident! When the police officer arrives, be sure to calmly explain what occurred and mention any injury or pain you are experiencing.
Keep in mind that in Florida, if you’re hit in the back of your vehicle it is presumed that the other party is guilty for causing the accident. So, if you were rear-ended make sure the officer is aware. If possible, take photos of all the vehicles involved in the accident, including the inside of the airbags were deployed. Take pictures of vehicles where they ended up after the accident and any markings on the road due to the accident. Photographs are vital in auto accidents. The photos are very important because they can help to determine who is to blame the cause of the accident. Secondly, it can help prove that the impact was severe enough to cause your injuries.
It is also very important to obtain a police report. This document will give you the name and the insurance information of the other drivers involved in the accident. Try to get the name and addresses of all witnesses of the accident. Now, you have to report the accident to your insurance company. However, I strongly believe the help of a qualified law firm should be used when reporting the accident. In addition, the other driver insurance company probably will contact you. In my experience, insurance companies often try to get you to admit facts so that they can avoid having to pay your claim. As such, if injured, it is important to seek the help of an attorney experienced in personal injury cases. Your lawyer can help with all aspects of the case, including the recovery of money for your injuries and physical damage to your vehicle. Keep in mind, if injured due to the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to recover the money for your medical treatment, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
In Florida, Personal injury lawyers can be retained under a contingency agreement. In other words, your lawyer will only get paid if he/she recovers money on your behalf. With this in mind, do not dispute insurance companies alone. Look for a qualified personal injury attorney, and don’t hesitate to get in contact with me. The consultation is free.
