If You Have Been Involved in an Auto Accident...
Many people are unsure about what to do after an auto accident. The rush of adrenaline or the pain of an injury can make it difficult to think clearly. At Walker Law Group, in Clearwater, Florida, we focus on guiding clients through difficult situations like these. Our lawyers know that you have enough to worry about, so we handle every element of your personal injury case compassionately, skillfully and effectively.
Together with our experienced support staff, lawyers at our Clearwater, Florida, law offices represent drivers and passengers who were injured in car accidents. We help with the immediate questions like who is going to pay for your care, who will reimburse you for time missed from work and how can I afford medical care. We take all of your options into account in resolving your injury case. We often look for the presence of drunk driving or dangerous road conditions, which can open up more litigation options.
To help you be prepared for a car accident — just in case — Walker Law Group has created a step-by-step guide, listing things you should do after a crash:
1. Make sure you are safe. In an auto accident, your wellbeing is the most important thing. Survey the scene. Pull over to the side of the road and stay clear of traffic, unless moving would cause further injury to you or someone in your vehicle.
2. Call the police. Even if the other party tells you not to, it is a good idea to call the police. They will survey the auto accident scene and complete an official accident report, which may be necessary to insurance companies or in further litigation.
3. If you are injured, make sure an ambulance is called. Because of the large adrenaline rush that often comes with an accident, you may not feel serious pain at the scene. It is important to get medical care, just in case. Many large injuries feel small at the beginning. For example serious jaw injuries often start as head and neck aches.
4. Exchange information. Make sure that you get the name, address, driver's license number and insurance information of the other driver. This will be necessary to get compensation for property damage or a personal injury.
5. Follow up with your healthcare provider. Seeking continuing care with a doctor can be critical to your health. It can also be critical to filing a successful personal injury lawsuit. Insurance companies often use gaps in treatment against claimants, arguing that their injuries are not as serious as they say.
6. Don't cover up critical evidence. Many people are in a rush to get their cars fixed after wrecks, but doing so can cover critical evidence about the collision. Experts often inspect vehicle damage to estimate the rate of travel and force of the impact. Talk with your attorney before you take action.
7. Contact a lawyer. The best way to protect your rights is to contact an attorney before talking to the other driver's insurance company. Contact the trial lawyers and staff at Walker Law Group by calling 727-474-4383 or completing our online contact form. Consultations are free and confidential.
