A car accident can be a traumatizing experience, and individuals should seek medical care, if necessary, after a vehicle collision. Once medical concerns are handled, individuals should take steps to legally protect themselves following a car accident. Residents of Florida and other states should keep some things in mind in order to protect themselves after a vehicle collision.
Photograph everything
Immediately after a car accident, individuals should preserve as much evidence as possible. This means that people involved in the collision should photograph all cars, people, streets, and anything else that may be relevant to evaluating liability and damages after a car accident. In some circumstances, individuals should also make video recordings, if it is appropriate.
Make no statements
It is important not to make statements after experiencing a car accident. Everything you say may be used against you at later proceedings, and it is important not to say anything about an accident that can harm you in the future. This is especially true when speaking with insurance professionals, and it is important to speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney before making statements.
Obtain the accident report
If police are involved in the aftermath of a vehicle collision, it is likely that they will prepare a report of the incident. The report usually includes all of the information for the people involved in the accident and statements made by parties at the scene. This report can be important when evaluating any claims that arise from a car accident.
Pursue a claim
If you sustained damages as a result of a car accident, it is possible that you have a legal claim. Sometimes, individuals must exclusively seek insurance payments to pay for damages suffered from a car accident, and other times, a lawsuit may be filed. Individuals should speak to an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney following a collision to discuss their rights.