Car accidents are frightening experiences that often leave the drivers and passengers involved confused and disoriented about what to do afterward. This is especially the case if you were injured in a rear-end collision in Florida. Typically, if a car collided into the back of your vehicle, you were not only surprised, you were also likely not at fault. There are some important steps to take following a rear-end collision that will help you if you are required to prove that another driver was responsible for your injuries. In this article, our experienced car accident attorney discusses what you should do if you were injured in a rear-end car accident.
Should I Remain at the Scene of a Rear-End Accident in Florida?
Unless you are taken away in an ambulance, you should not leave the scene of a rear-end collision. Florida law requires that all people involved remain at the crash site. If you were to go early, you could be charged with a “hit and run.” The penalties for leaving the scene of an accident range from monetary fines to losing your driver’s license.
You should be proactive at the crash site. First, check on your own injuries and those of your passengers. Then, if capable, check on anyone involved in the accident. Once you know the general condition of everyone involved, call the local police. Under Florida law, you must call the police if there is an injury or over $500 worth of damage. The police will send an ambulance and officers to assist everyone at the scene.
The Importance of Gathering Contact Information After a Florida Rear-End Collision
After a car accident in Florida, it is vital to collect as much information from the other driver as possible. If you have access to your phone, you can take notes and photos to help you gather the information. Make sure you keep a record of any other driver’s name, address, phone number, and driver’s license number. Be sure to take note of the make, color, and model of the cars involved in the rear-end collision as well as the license plate numbers and registration numbers of the other vehicles. Other relevant information to collect includes the insurance carrier and policy number for each driver as well as the names and badge numbers of all officers at the scene. Finally, be sure to gather the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
Why You Should Take Photographs of the Scene of a Florida Rear-End Car Accident
Often, the success of a personal injury lawsuit rests on the evidence provided. Some of the best evidence includes photographs of the scene of the car accident. If you are able, you should take many pictures of the crash site. It is important to take photos of more than just the damage to the vehicles involved. Camera phones usually have a significant amount of memory, so take more photographs than you think you need.
Take pictures of every car involved in the accident. Include their relative positions to one another and all the damaged they sustained. Take these photos from multiple angles – you never know when one angle will present evidence you did not anticipate. In addition, be sure to photograph the scene of the accident. Photographs of the roadway could show debris, and skid marks could help indicate how each driver reacted during the accident. Be sure to include the painted lanes and all traffic signs. If paint lanes are faded or if traffic signs are obscured by trees or other growth, take care to show an angle from a potential driver’s perspective. In your photos, include all surrounding businesses and buildings.
There may be surveillance cameras available that could provide evidence of what happened. Make sure to take pictures of any injuries you sustained. Often, bruises and other injuries might not be readily apparent or visible. Be sure to document your injuries as they change.
How Seeking Medical Attention After a Rear-End Car Collision Can Help Your Case
It is not uncommon, especially when your adrenaline is flowing, to be unaware that you were injured in a rear-end collision. Injuries caused by rear-end collisions can be deceiving because the resulting damage is not always noticeable, such as whiplash injuries and back injuries. It is essential to seek medical treatment immediately after a rear-end collision. This is not only for your health and wellbeing; it could also be a vital part of a personal injury lawsuit against another driver. Documenting that the rear-end collision directly caused your injuries is critical for a successful personal injury claim in Florida.
Should I Speak with a Florida Car Accident Attorney Before Talking to My Insurance Company?
You must report your rear-end collision to your insurance company. However, you should only provide the basic details. Engaging in a long conversation with an insurance agent could result in your saying something that could jeopardize a potential personal injury lawsuit. Before speaking with an insurance provider, you should contact our skilled Florida car accident attorney to ensure you do not admit fault or agree to a settlement that is lower than you deserve. If you were injured in a rear-end collision in Florida, you are entitled to compensation for your medical bills and property damage, as well as the emotional and mental anguish you have suffered.
Call Our Florida Rear-End Collision Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Rear-end collisions in Florida could result in long-lasting physical pain and disabilities. You deserve to be compensated for any injuries you sustained if your car was struck from behind. A successful personal injury result requires our experienced personal injury attorney, Prosper Shaked, as well as the evidence to prove that another driver was responsible. By following the steps outlined above, an injured driver will protect themselves and comply with Florida law. Additionally, they will begin building their personal injury claim. For a free consultation to review your legal rights, call Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA at (305) 694-2676.