Car accidents are serious affairs that can result in costly medical costs, missed income, and long-term psychological consequences. Following the proper steps after a crash is essential to protect your legal rights.

Take photographs and gather contact information for anyone who witnessed your accident. This will help you build your case later on in the process.

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Insurers are often suspicious of car accident claims, leading to delays in providing necessary coverage. Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys at The Levin Firm can help clients establish the legitimacy of their claim through a thorough understanding of policy terms and accumulating evidence that supports it. Additionally, an attorney can inform clients of filing deadlines and other important dates that must be met to avoid negative consequences.

You must contact your insurance company after a car accident, but it’s best to refer them to your lawyer first. Avoiding the at-fault driver’s insurance company is also a good idea. Their primary goal is to reduce their liability and payouts by shifting blame to the victim. They may ask leading questions that could be misinterpreted to allege contributory fault, limiting your coverage. A police report can prevent this by establishing an objective opinion of the cause.

Reporting the Accident

A car accident is not only a frightening experience but also one that can be very difficult to manage. Dealing with insurance companies, law enforcement, and doctors may make the situation even more stressful.

To avoid confusion and unnecessary problems, you should report the accident to the police immediately. A police report is vital because it includes information about the crash, including road conditions and the involved parties.

It also contains the officer’s perspective on what caused the accident and assigns fault. However, remember that it’s only an opinion and cannot be considered evidence in court.

While speaking with unaffiliated witnesses at the collision scene, never accept responsibility or guilt for the mishap. The other party’s attorneys may use such statements to undermine your claim. 

Obtaining Medical Attention

Feeling rushed and anxious is natural in the wake of a car accident. This may lead to you needing to remember to take necessary steps, such as obtaining medical attention.

After a car accident, it’s critical to get medical attention immediately for your health and legal rights. Even if you don’t think you are injured at the time, seeing a doctor can help rule out internal injuries that do not immediately manifest.

It’s also important to document your injuries for insurance and legal reasons. If you put off getting medical help, insurance companies can claim that your injuries were already there or that you weren’t in a car accident.

Make notes about how the injuries have impacted your life, and ask your doctor for copies of all test results and treatment records. This documentation will strengthen your case and provide proof of your damages if you decide to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver.

Contacting an Attorney

In many cases, obtaining compensation from an insurance company requires a lengthy process. The insurer will require information about your medical costs, property damage, and other losses. You can help speed up the process by keeping records of your expenses and updating them often.

Your lawyer will deal with the insurance provider. It is important to remember that insurance adjusters are trained negotiators concerned with protecting their employer’s financial interests. They may try to blame you for the crash or argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.

Before speaking to an insurance company, consult with a car accident lawyer. Your attorney will review your alternatives for pursuing compensation and your legal rights. It is also a good idea to keep copies of all evidence related to the crash, including photos, police reports, medical records, letters from the insurance company, and repair estimates. You should store this information in a folder or box that you can access easily for your case.