Although car accidents are more prevalent in the summer months in Florida, what you need to do after an accident does not change. It is sometimes difficult to be level headed after an accident so it is important to know before you get into an accident what your priorities should be and anticipate some of the questions your may have. This checklist will help you plan what to do after an accident. The Orlando accident attorney trial team suggests keeping a copy of this checklist with you in your car so that in case of an accident you are able to properly document your claim.
For help from an Orlando Accident Attorney today, call 888-420-4878.
Determine the Extent of Damage or Injuries. Try to stay calm. Panic can make others panic and the situation worse. There needs to be a calm person to determine the extent of damage and to determine if there are any injuries that need immediate medical attention.
Before you contact an Orlando motorcycle accident attorney, file a an accident report with the local police. Your Orlando accident attorney can request this later. Even in a minor accident it is important to make sure there is an accident report to record the event in case your injury is severe. Do not leave the scene until the police officer files a full report. Discuss the accident with the investigating police officer only. With everyone in shock it can be difficult not to talk about what just happened with others before you get legal advice. It is important to limit your discussion of the accident and not to admit any fault or liability. You should talk about the accident with the police and your accident attorney if you have one. Any statments made to insurance adjusters will be used against you later in your claim process or in court.
As Orlando accident attorneys we rely in part on you to get the Facts. This is the part most people know to do, but often forget to after the accident for one reason or another. It is important to get names, address, and phone numbers of everyone involved in the accident as well as anyone who was witness to the accident. A description of the car and license plate number can also be helpful, but make sure you also get their insurance company and the vehicle identification number of their car. Don't just assume the license plate number will do because most insurance companies only record the type of car and the vehicle identification number, not the license plate number.
Call your Orlando accident attorney, your agent or insurance company's 800-number immediately, even at the scene with the police if possible. Sometimes the police officer can give your insurance company more accurate information rather than information you may not be recording properly because you are upset by the accident. This can save you a lot of time later waiting for your claim to be processed.
Car Truck and Motorcycle Accident Summary Checklist
Protect yourself and others:
Drive defensively.
Don’t drive after drinking.
Make sure you and your passengers wear seat belts.
Use appropriate and properly installed car seats for small children.
Have adequate insurance coverage.
If an accident happens:
Stop.
Help or get help for injured people.
Warn motorists (use flares, hazard lights).
Call 911 to contact the police or California Highway Patrol if an injury or death occurs.
Take notes on the accident—write down information about the other driver and car, witnesses, passengers, accident location and more.
Cooperate fully with law officers, but speak with your insurance company or insurance agent and/or lawyer before accepting any blame.
After an accident:
Call or see your physician if you have any health concerns.
Report the accident to your insurance company.
Report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days if someone is injured or killed or if damage to either car is more than $750.
Make a claim with your insurance company and/or the other driver’s insurance company to pay for your injuries and losses.
Contact your insurance company and/or a lawyer if you are sued.
Contact a lawyer if you need legal advice or assistance in making a claim or in dealing with your insurance company.