In the moments after the car accident, it is very difficult to think clearly or rationally, yet your compensation or court case in Florida (if you end up before a judge) greatly depends on what you do and say during and after the accident. Therefore, it is critical for you to know how to approach the situation to protect yourself and your rights.
Calm down, don’t panic
This may seem like an impossible task since you may have almost lost your life or damaged one of your most valuable assets, but you need to remain composed. Panic and emotions can cloud your judgment and lead to decisions that are not in your best interest. Take a deep breath, collect yourself, then follow the steps below.
Call 911
Florida traffic laws require people involved in motor vehicle accidents to call the police, especially when someone is injured or there is significant property damage. You can use the police report as evidence in a courtroom or when claiming compensation through your insurance company.
Exchange information
You should exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident, including names, phone numbers, addresses, license plate numbers, license numbers and car registration details. You may also want to take photos of both vehicles, as well as any visible injuries you have sustained, as further evidence. If there were any witnesses at the scene of the accident, collect their contact information, too. Don’t make the mistake of apologizing for the accident or admitting fault in any way or form. The other driver may be able to use that to prove fault during your court case.
Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to motor vehicle accidents. In other words, your personal injury protection insurance will pay for all your injuries and other damages resulting from the accident. But you can consider going to court if the injury or vehicular damages goes beyond your policy’s limit.
