The events following a car accident, even a minor one, can be hectic and stressful but accident victims need to understand this is one of the most crucial points in your case. Auto accident victims who want to maximize the compensation they are legally entitled to under the law and their insurance policy should take decisive and precise steps following a crash.
Even though Florida has “no-fault” personal injury protection (PIP) insurance laws and claims are typically paid out by the injured victim’s own insurance company, victims may still be able to file claims in cases of disability or visible scarring. Even the victim’s own insurance company may be hesitant about paying out all the compensation the victim needs to be compensated for the accident.
Stay Calm
After an accident, one of the most important things victims can do is to stay calm so they can take the appropriate steps to document their experience. This may be difficult but is nonetheless essential to helping yourself and your attorney when the time comes.
Alert the Police
Law enforcement should be contacted as soon as possible after an accident. Florida law holds car accidents involving injury or property damage over $500 need to be reported to the police. Cooperate with the investigators but do not admit fault and refer all questions about the accident to your attorney.
Gather Information
Get the name, insurance, and license plate numbers of any other drivers involved in the accident. Take pictures and video of the scene and try to identify witnesses who can help your case. Get the name and badge number of the police officer handling the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you think you have not sustained any serious injuries, visit a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Some medical conditions take hours or even days before their full effects are truly fet and having your condition documented from the onset can ensure you have all your medical costs covered by insurance companies.
Speak to an Attorney
Retaining the services of a qualified Orlando auto accident attorney from the start of your claim can let insurance companies and negligent parties you are serious about recovering for your damages. Your attorney can help file all the necessary claims paperwork, coordinate with law enforcement, assess damages, and craft any necessary legal strategies to help you in your time of need.
Orlando Auto Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one was hurt in an auto accident, contact an experienced Orlando auto accident attorney about your case. Even your own insurance company may not have your best interest at heart as these powerful entities often place their profits before the people they are sworn to provide compensation for.
Situations can be even more complicated when serious injuries arise and your own insurance does not begin to cover all the damages you have suffered. Wrongdoers and their insurance companies rarely take responsibility for their own actions and you may need an Orlando auto accident attorney to help you get everything you deserve.
