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Following a car accident, people are shaken and scared. Well-meant actions and comments can, unfortunately, cause problems later on. Know these do’s and don’ts so that if the time comes, you will respond appropriately.
1. Keep a pen, paper, disposable camera and emergency contact information in your glove compartment at all times. Take notes, names, numbers and addresses. Get the name of the insurance companies for all drivers involved. Things that you think you will remember are easily forgotten when you are under stress.
2. If it is safe, move the vehicles to the side of the road. If it is not safe, buckle seatbelts and wait in the car until help arrives. Unless you are trained in emergency care, avoid offering medical assistance to injured people after an accident. Your well-meaning gestures may actually cause harm.
3. Photograph the scene and the area where the accident occurred. Contact emergency workers and your insurance company. Only do this when all the victims of the accident are safely out of the flow of traffic.
4. Never admit fault in an accident, no matter what the circumstances are. Also avoid saying you are sorry. These could be considered admissions of guilt. Even if you believe you know exactly what happened, avoid accepting blame. Issues may come up later proving your innocence, such as another driver being intoxicated or not having a valid driver’s license.
5. Know what your insurance covers. After an accident is no time to wonder whether you are covered for a tow truck or rental car.
Sometimes a simple insurance claim to your insurer or the other driver’s insurer is denied for no good reason. At this point, contact a Florida personal injury attorney to find out your rights and how to protect your interests.