- Call police-It is important that the police come out and document the accident and do a report. Do not be fooled into just exchanging information as often the at-fault driver will change his story later to benefit him or her and the insurance company. The officer will document contributing factors to an accident, and the other driver is usually more truthful with the officer at the scene then he or she will be days later. The officer can also talk to important witnesses of the accident that may be hard to track down later. The insurance company has less wiggle room when the investigating officer concludes that their insured was at fault. If you are injured, tell the officer and if necessary ask for an ambulance.
- Take photographs and document all physical evidence at the scene– This can become very important in the future if the insurance company tries to say you are at fault. Property damage photos of both vehicles and final resting places after impact are important to document. Also take photos of any other evidence at the scene such as tire marks, damaged signs, and debris. If you are in shock and not physically able to do this, it is always a good idea to call a friend or relative to come to the scene and assist you. If the case gets into litigation, this can be critical evidence in proving fault and even damages to a jury.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately- Do not delay. In Florida to qualify for PIP (Personal Injury Protection Coverage) you must seek medical care within 14 days of the accident. Often you may feel worse days after the accident, so it is important to have a complete diagnosis of your injuries. This can also help you heal from your injuries and give you a better prognosis on your future health. If there are gaps in medical treatment, the insurance company will not think you are hurt or in pain enough to seek medical treatment, and it could affect the ultimate outcome of your case. There is no reason to delay seeing a doctor or going to a hospital. Let the medical professional determine the nature and extent of your injuries and your need for further medical treatment.
- Contact your Insurance Company- You need to contact your insurance company immediately and tell them you were in accident even it was not your fault. Also check the declarations page of your policy to determine all coverages you have including medical payments coverage, uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist and PIP coverage. So often people think they have “full coverage” when they do not. It is also important to get insurance information from the other driver. However be careful not to give a statement to the insurance adjuster until you have a chance to talk to an attorney. Adjusters are trained to get you say things that may diminish your injuries and raise issues of fault. Do not sign anything either until you have sought legal advice. You do not want to release your claim prematurely.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer-it is very important to talk to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Almost all personal injury lawyers will give you a free consultation so you know all of your legal rights. Insurance companies may offer you a few hundred dollars to try to get you to settle your case and sign a release. Do not fall for this tactic. When your injuries are in an acute phase, it is impossible to know the full extent of your injuries and your prognosis for the future. To settle quickly usually invites trouble as once you sign a release, the case is gone. A personal injury lawyer can advise you of the proper steps to take to make sure that you protect yourself and your right to compensation. At Rowe Law Offices, we represent the injured who are trying to put their lives together again. Call Rowe Law Offices for a free consultation to understand all your legal rights and what steps to take to navigate through your personal injury case.