In the days following a car accident, we recommend that you do the following:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible;
- File a crash report with the police; and
- Protect your rights by contacting your attorney.
Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
Often, motor vehicle accidents result in injuries that are not immediately apparent. Generally, people involved in an accident report feeling the most pain a day or two following an automobile accident. Unless you are absolutely certain you were not injured, you should seek medical attention at your local emergency room or with your physician. Even in minor accidents, you can sustain serious and permanent injuries. If you lost consciousness or were dazed for a short period of time following the collision, you may have suffered a concussion. This can cause cognitive and behavioral changes if left untreated.
File a Crash Report with Police
Even if there are no serious injuries, it is a good idea to call the police. You may need a police report to file a claim with your insurance company, even if it is just to make a claim for damage to your vehicle. If you are involved in a car accident in Florida, call police to the scene of the collision immediately. Florida Statute §316.066 requires that a police report be filed within ten days of an accident if:
- Anyone in either vehicle is injured or has died;
- Either vehicle is seriously damaged;
- Either vehicle requires towing;
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol played a role in the accident; or
- A commercial vehicle was involved.
In addition to filing your crash report with authorities, it is also important to collect valuable information regarding the accident such as pictures of each vehicle involved in the collision, pictures of the scene, pictures of any visible injuries you may have, and witness contact information if any, in order to protect your rights.
Contact an Attorney
Your attorney can protect your rights and make sure valuable evidence is not destroyed. Often, insurance companies want to take statements immediately after an accident; therefore, it is important that you have received legal advice before providing such a statement. Your attorney can advise you on issues ranging from how to make sure you are fully compensated for your vehicle to how to make sure you are getting the best medical treatment available.