Accident Tips

BUCKLE UP
Always wear your seat belt. It is the law! If possible, make sure that the police and medical providers document your usage.
STOP IMMEDIATELY
Florida law requires that you stop if involved in an accident.
ASSIST THE INJURED
If someone is injured, call 911. If appropriate move the vehicles to avoid further accidents.
CALL THE POLICE
Contact the police and cooperate with the investigating officers. If the police do not fill out an Accident Report, you may file a unilateral police report at the police station.
CONVERSATIONS
DO NOT admit fault or make unnecessary statements, especially to the other driver.
SEE A DOCTOR OR SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY
Seek medical assistance if you are hurt or are in discomfort, as soon as possible. Injuries are not always immediately apparent, as you may not be bleeding or in immediate pain at the scene. Injuries often surface days later, after the accident.
NOTIFY YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
Report the accident to your auto insurance company within 24 hours, if possible, to avoid prejudicing your coverage rights.
TAKE NOTES
Keep track of all pertinent information including witnesses and addresses, insurance representatives, etc. Obtain relevant photographs of your vehicle and injury(ies) if possible.
BE CAUTIOUS
Do not admit fault, discuss the cause of the accident, or make any statement to the other driver’s insurance company or representative. To avoid prejudicing yourself, consult an attorney before you sign any releases.

CALL YOUR ATTORNEY
Obtain advice from your attorney as soon as possible. You should be wary of anyone who offers to adjust your case or hurry you into a settlement or in the signing of a release.

The above is not legal advice. That can only come from a qualified attorney who is familiar with all the facts and circumstances of a particular, specific case and the relevant law. See Terms of Use.