Car accidents can be overwhelming, especially when they cause serious injuries. The steps you should take immediately after a Fort Lauderdale car accident include calling the police, exchanging information, collecting evidence, notifying your insurer, and contacting a lawyer.
If you were injured in a Fort Lauderdale car crash, the prospect of navigating the claims process alone may be intimidating. A Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and help you obtain a fair settlement.
Steps You Should Take After a Car Accident in Fort Lauderdale
Knowing what to do right after a crash can make a significant difference in the outcome of your legal claim. Here’s what to do:
- Ensure your safety: If possible, move to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Avoid standing in traffic or near a busy road.
- Check for injuries: Check yourself, passengers, and everyone else involved in the crash for injuries.
- Call the police: Florida law requires that you report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. A police report will also serve as vital evidence for your claim.
- Exchange information: Collect names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details from all of the other parties involved in the accident. Also note the make, model, and color of their vehicles.
- Document the scene: Take photos of all vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs, as well as any visible injuries.
- Identify witnesses: If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their statements can support your version of events.
- Avoid admitting fault: Be polite and cooperative, but do not admit fault or apologize. Liability will be determined later by insurance companies and, if necessary, the courts.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, but avoid speculation or exaggeration.
- Contact a lawyer: Reach out to a Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney to start building your case.
How Does the 14-Day Rule Work in Florida?
In Florida, the “14-Day Rule” refers to the requirement that you seek medical treatment within 14 days of a car accident if you want to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Delaying treatment beyond this period can result in denial of PIP coverage.
This rule applies specifically to medical care and does not replace the need to report the accident to the police or your insurance company, which have separate deadlines.
Why Do You Need to Seek Medical Attention?
Even if you feel fine after a crash, some injuries (such as whiplash or internal trauma) may not be immediately apparent. Visiting a medical professional right away:
- Provides documentation of your injuries
- Helps your recovery by ensuring timely treatment
- Establishes a clear medical timeline if you file a legal claim
Neglecting to visit a doctor can lead to medical complications and weaken your claim.
What Not to Do After a Car Accident in Fort Lauderdale
To protect your injury claim, you should avoid making these mistakes:
- Not calling the police: Skipping a police report can hurt your case later, especially if the accident caused serious injuries or costly property damage.
- Admitting fault: Any admission of liability can be used against you in insurance negotiations.
- Failing to document the scene: Photos, witness information, and detailed notes are critical for insurance claims.
- Ignoring injuries: Untreated injuries can worsen and weaken your claim.
- Delaying insurance notification: If you wait too long to notify your insurer of the crash, your claim may be delayed or even denied.
Why Contacting a Fort Lauderdale Lawyer Matters
After a crash, a lawyer with experience in Fort Lauderdale car accident cases can:
- Investigate your accident to determine liability
- Calculate your damages and determine the value of your claim
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Represent you in court (if necessary)
Legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
Under Florida law, you typically have two years from the date of a car accident to file a personal injury claim. If you wish to file a property damage claim for damage to your vehicle or other personal property, state law allows up to four years.
These deadlines are strictly enforced, so it’s important to contact a lawyer to start putting together your claim as soon as possible.
Speak to a Car Accident Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
The steps you take after a car crash can make or break your case. A Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney from Anidjar & Levine can advise you on the next steps, deal with the insurance company, and help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
Book a free case review to discuss your legal options today.
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