No one wants to be involved in a car accident. However, they do happen. Often they are unexpected, and occur in a split second leaving little room for a reaction. In the minutes, hours, or even days following a car accident, your mind may be overwhelmed with questions like: What if I had waited 2 minutes?, or What if I had gone the other way? The all-too-common what ifs won’t really get you anywhere. For now, it’s important to focus on what you can do to maintain your health, and protect your interests. Part of this might involve a car accident lawyer in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Calling the police, or 911, and assessing your car for immediate damage might be obvious. Some of the other steps may not be. Below we’ve compiled some of the most important steps to take after a car accident in Fort Pierce, Florida. This page can be an invaluable resource for anyone – including those who have not been in an accident, but like to be prepared. We even recommend printing this page out and placing it with your insurance information in your car. By doing so, you will know exactly what to do in the event of an accident.
At the Collision Scene
Make Sure Everyone is Safe
If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the roadway. If it is not safe to move your vehicle, you might consider using flares, cones, or another indicator to draw attention to other passing cars. If possible turn your hazard lights on. You should remain in the car, unless that is not safe (i.e. the car is on fire). In this case, look in all directions, and exit the car carefully.
Call 911 or the Police
You should dial 911 as soon as possible. You may be asked if emergency personnel are needed. In general, if you believe there are possible injuries, paramedics should assess you. Sometimes police will not automatically come to the scene. You may need to request their assistance. Make sure a police report is filed. Your Fort Pierce, FL car accident lawyer and insurance company will need it.
Exchange Information
Any essential information should be exchanged with all other drivers’ involved. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license number, insurance information, and license plates. You are advised not to discuss what happened. Take special care to avoid statements that might be interpreted as admitting fault. For example, a statement like: I am sorry, could indicate guilt and fault.
Document What Happened
Because everything is fresh on your mind, take a moment as soon as you are able to write down the details of what happened. Use your phone or camera to take as many photos as possible. If there were any witnesses, ask them for their contact details.
Get Treatment
If your injuries are serious, you will be taken to the hospital. If they are not, you should still make a doctor’s appointment for the earliest time possible. Your car accident lawyer in Fort Pierce, Florida will likely want to see a medical assessment. This is to rule out any medical injuries that should be evaluated, but are not immediately noticeable. In short, don’t try to tough things out. Your health should be your priority.
You should understand that if another person was at fault for the accident, compensation might be available. You will almost certainly need a medical evaluation before monetary damages can be awarded to you.
After Your Accident
Even after you have taken the above steps, there will be alot to deal with. Calling an experienced car accident lawyer in Fort Pierce, Florida should not be ignored. A lawyer can give you an honest opinion about your legal case and inform you of your potential options. Call our firm today to learn more.