Car accidents can be frightening, especially if they are severe. The first thing you should do after an accident is check yourself and others for injuries.
Never move someone who is seriously injured, and always call 911. It is also essential to get a police report to collect evidence.
Call the Police
The most crucial consideration in any car accident is ensuring that you are safe. If you can, always call the police to report the collision. Even seemingly minor car accidents must be reported to the authorities because they could have serious consequences.
When filing an insurance claim, the police report will help your case immensely. It will record witness statements, traffic citations, and the officer’s opinion about who was responsible for the crash.
While you wait for the police to arrive, take as many pictures and videos of the scene as possible. Ensure that you include the location, any vehicle damage, visible injuries, and skid marks on the road. Also, try to get the contact information of any people who may have witnessed the accident.
The police will investigate and write up an official account of what happened, eliminating any dispute over what occurred. It is not uncommon for the other driver at fault to attempt to deny their role in a car accident later on, and an official police report can prevent them from doing so.
Gather Evidence
When it comes to pursuing an insurance claim or legal action, evidence is critical. The seasoned auto accident attorneys in Fort Lauderdale can help you gather and preserve this information and substantiate your claims in court.
Document the crash scene as thoroughly as possible, including all vehicle positions and damage, visible injuries, skid marks on the road, etc. Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) and any witnesses, as their statements can be critical in establishing fault and further relevant details.
Ask for a copy of the police report from the officer who responded. These documents can include essential details such as the officer’s preliminary determination of fault and can be used to support a liability claim. If applicable, surveillance footage from nearby establishments may also contain valuable information. Witness testimony can provide critical details that can strengthen your case, but some witnesses may be difficult to locate or reluctant to get involved.
Contact an Attorney
When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, there is a lot of paperwork and deadlines to meet. An attorney can ensure that these forms are filed correctly and on time to avoid delays and ensure your case proceeds quickly.
In addition, an experienced car accident lawyer knows how to calculate your damages. This can be complicated as many injuries take time to be apparent. Insurance companies are notorious for attempting to claim that your injuries were pre-existing conditions and thus not recoverable. Your attorney will review your medical records to determine whether your claims are valid.
Besides financial damages such as medical bills and lost income, your attorney can pursue non-financial damages like pain and suffering. Florida law does not limit these types of damages, and having a knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a Consultation
Car accident lawyers can also help you file court documents and negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They can even help you collect and analyze evidence, including footage from traffic cameras, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts.
Sideswipe collisions often occur when drivers change lanes without using their turn signal or checking behind them. They can also be caused by distracted driving or when drivers veer into your lane while trying to pass. These are among the most common types of crashes in Florida, especially given its high level of tourism and reputation as a spring break destination.
Pedestrians and cyclists are disadvantaged when they come into contact with cars, as they lack outer protection. Their injuries tend to be severe and, in some cases, fatal. A Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney can help you file a third-party claim to recover damages for non-economic losses, which PIP does not cover.
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