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What To Do Immediately After A Car Accident
Automobile accidents seem to occur more and more frequently every year. Unfortunately, in the United States, it isn’t uncommon to be the victim of a terrible car accident. The aftermath of a collision involves physical and emotional recovery and crucial legal steps that can significantly affect your rights and potential compensation. Being prepared for what to do immediately after an accident can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve.
The first and foremost priority after any vehicle crash is to account for the safety of everyone involved. If any person is harmed or injured by the collision, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention is critical, as some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. Once you have ensured that everyone is safe and medical assistance is on the way, you can focus on gathering evidence at the scene.
When the police arrive, they will typically file an accident report. Request a copy of this report, which will contain critical information such as the officer’s observations, details from both parties involved, and any citations issued. This document can be essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal proceedings. Be sure to get the contact and insurance information of the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s licenses, and insurance policy details. Document the vehicles’ make, model, and license plate numbers if applicable. If you require more detailed information, the FLHSMV’s (Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) official website has many resources available to help those who need it.
Lastly, many people who find themselves in the legal aftermath of a car accident consider seeking the help of a lawyer who can guide them through the process. Depending on the circumstances and nature of the accident, it could greatly benefit you to have a skilled personal injury attorney by your side. At Legler, Murphy & Battaglia, LLP. Our team of attorneys can help you get the outcome you want and deserve. Call us today for a free consultation at 941-909-3763.
Potential Emotional and Physical Impact
Car accidents often result in injuries that can significantly impact one’s health and well-being, both short-term and long-term. Understanding these injuries can help one recognize symptoms, and knowing the relative treatment cost for potentially serious injuries will keep you informed on how much compensation you potentially deserve. These standard vehicle collision injuries are:
- Whiplash: A neck strain resulting from sudden jerking motion, typically in rear-end collisions. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes dizziness. Treatment may involve physical therapy and pain management
- Sprains and Strains: Injuries to ligaments (sprains) and muscles or tendons (strains), often occurring in the back, shoulders, or knees. Symptoms can include swelling, bruising, and a limited range of motion
- Contusions: Bruises resulting from the force produced during a collision, which can cause pain and swelling. While often minor, they can be the result of more deep tissue damage
- Limb Fractures: Breaks in the arms or legs due to the force of impact or bracing during an accident. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and inability to move the limb.
- Spinal Fractures: Serious injuries that can occur in the lumbar regions of the spine, potentially leading to paralysis. Symptoms include severe pain and neurological issues. Immediate medical care is crucial for assessment and treatment
- Concussions: When the head is jolted during a crash, the force can cause a concussion. Symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and sometimes memory issues. Most people recover with rest, but repeated injuries can lead to long-term effects
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): More severe forms of head injuries that can significantly impact cognitive and physical functions. Symptoms can range from loss of consciousness to severe headaches and mood changes. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Chest Injuries: Damage to the chest area, including internal organ injuries or rib fractures, often caused by seatbelt or steering wheel impact
Being the victim of a car accident injury can be potentially life-changing, not only physically but emotionally as well. The long-term costs for a severe injury for treatment and therapy can greatly impact one’s life financially as well.
How To Handle Insurance
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps at the accident scene, your next priority should be to notify your insurance company. Most insurance policies require policyholders to report accidents before a specified timeframe. If you miss this step, it could jeopardize your coverage and ability to claim benefits.
When you report the accident, provide your insurance company with all relevant details. Try to focus on the facts: describe the circumstances of the accident, where it occurred, and any injuries sustained. Avoid making statements construed as admitting fault, as this can complicate your claim later.
Your insurance policy may offer different types of coverage. This could be liability, collision, and personal injury protection (PIP). Familiarize yourself with these coverages and understand what your policy entails. Asking your insurance representative for clarification if you’re unsure about your coverage is always a good idea.
What Should I Do Next?
Your steps after an auto accident can have lasting implications for your health, finances, and future. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. With proper legal support, you can focus your efforts on healing while knowing your rights and interests are protected. If you are in this situation, you should not hesitate to contact a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Our skilled attorneys at Legler, Murphy & Battaglia, LLP. will fight adamantly on your behalf. For a free consultation, call us today at 941-909-3763 or visit our home page.
