 Post Accident Information
 No one wants to be involved in an auto accident. They happen so fast and with the adrenaline rush, life can suddenly seem so complicated.
Making clear decisions or answering questions about injuries, car repairs, filing insurance claims or just talking to the police can sometimes seem impossible.
That’s why it pays to know ahead of time what to do if you are involved in any kind of automobile accident.
If you or someone you love has suffered an injury because of an accident, please contact the experienced personal injury attorneys of Holland & Lamoureux at (866) 225-4907 for a free consultation. We will help you to get the compensation that you deserve.
Below are just a few questions and answers on what to do after you are involved in an auto accident.
- What do I do first?
- What facts do I need to gather?
- Do I have to report the accident?
- What if I get a ticket?
- Do I need an attorney?
1. What do I do first?
The first thing that you should do at the scene of an accident is to determine if there are any injuries and how serious they are. If it is just a minor fender bender, emergency medical care might not be necessary. Just because the accident seems minor doesn’t mean you are not injured. Some injuries can take days or weeks to appear. Please do not settle with the other party on the spot.
Florida law requires you to render reasonable assistance to any person injured in a crash. It also states the driver of a vehicle involved in a crash resulting in injury or death to another or damage to any vehicle or property in an amount of at least $500.00 shall immediately, by quickest means, notify the police department. So no matter how minor the injuries may be, call for medical assistance and the police immediately.
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2. What facts do I need to gather?
After the police and medical help have been called and the scene is safe, obtain the following information:
- The drivers and passengers names of all vehicles involved
- Drivers license numbers, addresses and phone numbers
- Name and policy number of all insurance companies
- Year, make, model, color and license plate numbers of all vehicles
- Registered owners name and address of all vehicles
- Full name, address, and phone number of any witnesses to the accident
- Police officers’ name, badge number and department
- Exact location of the accident
- If possible, take pictures of the vehicles and scene
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3. Do I have to report the accident?
Your auto insurance policy requires you to notify them when you have been involved in an accident. If you don’t you will be jeopardizing your coverage and give them a reason to deny covering you for your loss. As soon as you are able, notify your insurer and file a report. You should also notify the other drivers’ insurance companies. If you are not at fault, the damage to your vehicle can be repaired using the at-fault party’s property liability coverage. They may also be responsible for providing a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
You should contact an attorney if you are unsure of your coverage, if you or your passengers were injured in the accident, or if you are afraid your insurance company might claim that you are not covered.
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4. What if I get a ticket?
Do not admit fault! Do not plead guilty! Contact an attorney before you admit guilt or plead innocent. If the officer gives you a ticket at the scene, you are required by law to sign it. Signing the ticket is not an admission of guilt, just simply acknowledging that you received it and know your options…i.e.…pay the ticket, go to court, or complete a driving school. If you are questioned by the officer, stick to the facts. Don’t guess or offer opinions but most of all, do not argue with the officer! It will make matters worse!
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5. Do I need an attorney?
Not all auto accidents require legal counsel. If you have seriously injured in the accident, you will probably need the help of an attorney to communicate with the insurance company and to insure you receive a fair settlement. At Holland & Lamoureux, PA., we will arrange for a free consultation with one of our attorneys. We will make sure you get the compensation you deserve! Contact our attorneys at (866) 225-4907 so we can discuss your case and take action on your behalf.
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See Also...
If you have a question that was not covered in the above Frequently Asked Questions call our Tampa automobile accident attorneys at Holland and Lamoureux at 1-866-225-4907 or contact us today for additional information. |
