What Should You Do After an Auto Accident in Florida?
If you have just been injured in an auto accident, there are important steps you need to take in order to protect your claim for just compensation. Even though Florida is a “no-fault” auto insurance state, and even though your insurance company is supposed to treat you fairly, the simple fact is: If you do not take action to protect yourself, you will not receive the compensation you deserve.
5 Steps to Take After a Car, Truck or Motorcycle Accident in Florida
So, what do you need to do to protect your legal rights after an auto accident in Florida? Here are five recommendations from the personal injury attorneys at Miami Legal Firm:
1. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
After any auto accident it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. This is true not only if you are in pain or experiencing symptoms of a concussion or other potentially-serious injury, but even if you feel fine. Internal injuries from auto accidents may not trigger immediate symptoms, and securing a prompt diagnosis could be critical to minimizing the cost and duration of your recovery.
2. Keep Any Evidence You May Have
In order to convince the insurance companies to pay for your injuries (or, if necessary, to prove your case in court), you will need evidence of the cause and extent of your injuries. Did you take photos at the scene of the accident? Do you still have your damaged clothing and personal items? Do you have copies of your x-rays or scans? Have you written down everything you remember about the collision? These could all be key sources of evidence in support of your claim for just compensation.
3. Avoid talking to insurance companies
While you may have an obligation to report the accident under the terms of your insurance policy, you should not discuss any details of the accident with your insurer. Anything you say can be used against you; and, if you receive a quick settlement offer, it will almost certainly be for less than you deserve.
4. Make Sure You Know Your Rights
One of the keys to securing maximum compensation after a car accident is to make sure you have a clear understanding of your legal rights. For more information, we encourage you to read:
- 5 Ways an Attorney Can Help With Your Auto Accident Claim
- Can I Use a Speeding Ticket or Texting Ticket to Prove My Claim for Compensation?
- What Accident Victims Need to Know about Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law
- When Should You Settle Your Auto Accident Claim?
- Will My Health Insurance Cover Injuries from a Car Accident?
5. Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Finally, when recovering from a car accident, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to ensure that you avoid costly mistakes. From negotiating with the insurance companies to preparing your case for trial, an experienced attorney will be able to efficiently handle all aspects of your claim for compensation.
Contact Us for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation
The personal injury lawyers at Miami Legal Firm provide strategic and aggressive legal representation for auto accident victims in South Florida. To discuss your case in a free and confidential consultation, please call (305) 265-2266 or tell us about your accident online today.