Understanding the Immediate Steps to Take After a Car Accident: A Comprehensive Guide
A car accident can be upsetting, painful, expensive, and time-consuming. If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, your auto insurance should pay for the medical bills related to your accident.
When you file a claim, you will call your insurance company and provide them with the basic facts of the case. They will have you send in all the documentation you have. Once they receive the documentation, they will ensure your bills are documented and paid for. If the other driver was at fault for your car accident, their insurance company will investigate the accident and the cost of the damage to your property. They will accept or deny your claim. If they accept the claim, they will make you a settlement offer. Most car accident lawyers will tell you that the first offer will be too low.
Following certain steps after an accident will give you the best chance of getting a fair settlement.
What to Do at the Scene
When you have an accident, you must pull over and see if anyone is injured. If there are injuries or significant property damage, call the police. You should also:
- Take pictures
- Get the names and numbers of witnesses
- Ask for a copy of the accident report
Exchange insurance information with the other driver. If they caused the accident, their insurance company should pay for damage to your vehicle.
If an ambulance arrives, let the EMTs examine you. If they tell you to go to the hospital with them, you should go. If you refuse medical care, an insurance company can deny your claim.
Save Your Bills
Go to the doctor after an accident, even if you feel okay. Some injuries take time to manifest. Save your medical bills and bills for any alternative treatments related to the accident.
Have your employer write you a letter stating the number of hours you missed and the wages you lost if you had to miss work for medical care. Save the bills from cleaning or rideshare services you need as a result of the collision.
If your injuries are permanent or disfiguring, you should keep a journal of how your life has changed due to your crash. It is a good idea to see a mental health professional as well. You may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering.
Talk to an Attorney
Before accepting an insurance company's settlement offer, you should talk to a personal injury attorney. The lawyer will review the documentation you have collected and tell you if the offer is fair. If an offer is unfair, the attorney can negotiate on your behalf. A professional personal injury attorney will be knowledgeable about the laws in your state. They know how to get you compensated fairly.
Getting into an accident is a terrible experience. If you document your accident carefully and hire an experienced attorney, you can fight for the compensation you need to get back on the road.