Our Florida Car Accident Lawyer Explains the Most Important Post-Accident Steps
Federal statistics show that car accidents increase on Labor Day Weekend. According to NHTSA, car accidents increase during and around many holidays where people are off from work.
There are a couple of reasons why accidents are more likely to occur on or close to a holiday. For example, there are a higher number of drunk drivers on the road. Additionally, people may be travelling long distances, and could be prone to fatigue or succumbing to distractions. It is important to be prepared if you or loved ones suffer harm during a collision. Below, we listed steps you should consider taking after a car accident involving injuries.
Seek Medical Attention
There are two main reasons why you should seek medical attention after a crash, even if you do not believe you suffered an injury.
First, you may have injuries that are not apparent right away. Certain types of internal injuries may cause symptoms hours or even days after a major collision. Internal bleeding is a classic example of an injury that may not cause immediate symptoms. If you have a subdural hematoma, a type of bleeding that occurs between the brain and its outermost covering, you could die or suffer permanent injuries without prompt treatment.
Second, seeking medical attention establishes a record of your injuries. If you have a serious injury, medical records are extremely valuable for recovering adequate compensation. Insurance companies will do everything in their power to reduce the value of a car accident claim. Medical records are powerful evidence that can overcome objections the insurance company may use to limit the value of a car accident settlement.
Document Evidence at the Scene
You may not always be able to document evidence after a crash. Understandably, some injuries may prevent you from being able to take photos or obtain contact information from witnesses.
If you are able to do so safely, then you could take photos of your injuries, property damage and conditions near the location of the crash. You could also ask people who witnessed the crash for their personal contact information.
Call the Police
You must report accidents involving injuries, extensive property damage, or deaths to the police, nearest sheriff’s department or highway patrol. A law enforcement officer will arrive at the scene of the accident, assess the situation, speak to witnesses and may eventually file an accident report.
An accident report may help determine who is at fault for the crash and other information that may be valuable to an eventual accident claim. If the responding officer or officers do not file a report, then you or your attorney may file a report with the DMV.
Avoid Common Post-Accident Mistakes
Most people make any number of common post-accident mistakes. You should never talk to the other party’s insurance adjuster. Whatever you say to this person may be used to devalue your car accident claim.
It is also important to stay off social media. Never say anything about your accident over Facebook. Posts, videos or photos may also be used to devalue your car accident claim. A good rule of thumb is to assume no posts or even text messages are private.
Another common post-accident mistake, especially if the other driver’s actions were particularly egregious, is to lose your temper. Remain calm after an accident. Never engage another driver physically, even if he or she is clearly responsible for the crash. Be extremely careful what you say to the other driver or drivers.
Waiting too long to file an accident claim is also a mistake. You should consider speaking with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident involving injuries or the death of a loved one.
Contact Our Florida Car Accident Lawyer for More Information
Milles Law has experience with car and truck accident cases involving major injuries. We can help you review potential legal options for pursuing a settlement, and if necessary, can fight for your claim before a jury. You may contact our Florida car accident lawyer for a free consultation by dialing (855) 553-3310 or by using the contact form on our site. Your Rights. Your Lawyer. Your Personal Injury Law Firm.