The steps you take after a car accident are significant. Don’t jeopardize your claim and chance for compensation by making these 4 mistakes.
Car accidents happen every day on the Treasure Coast. While the aftermath of a car accident can be scary and confusing, the actions you take can have a significant impact on your claim and ability to get fair compensation. To protect yourself, here are four things you should never do after a car accident.
1. DO NOT forget to collect information.
If you are able, one of the first things to do after a car accident is to collect information from the other driver(s) and witnesses.
Collect the following information:
- Name
- Address
- Cell phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate numbers
- The name of their auto insurance company and policy number(s)
If there are witnesses, get their name and contact information. In addition, take photos of the entire accident scene. This includes photos of your vehicle, other vehicles, the intersection, roadway, or anything else you believe is significant, such as lighting, debris, or obstructions to visibility.
2. NEVER leave the accident scene without contacting the police.
Even if the car accident is minor, you should always contact the police. Here’s why:
A police officer at the scene will complete an accident report. An accident report will provide clarity on what happened and who is potentially at fault. This information is critical when filing a claim with the insurance company. Your insurance company will want to see this report.
Find out how to obtain a copy of a police report on the Treasure Coast here.
3. NEVER admit fault without having all of the facts.
Many people who are involved in an accident immediately start to apologize or admit some degree of fault. DO NOT do this! This can come back to bite you.
If you express some degree of fault or guilt, the other driver’s insurance company (or even your insurance company) can use your initial reaction as a way to place blame on you. After all, if you are not at fault, why would you apologize after an accident?
However, there is a way to be sympathetic and concerned without expressing fault. You should never lose your cool at an accident scene. Don’t yell or get angry with the other driver. This can escalate the situation and cause more harm to your case.
4. NEVER speak to the other driver’s insurance company without an attorney.
NEVER, never, never speak to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting a Treasure Coast car accident attorney. Insurance companies very rarely have your best interest in mind. They want to minimize how much they have to pay you. Therefore, they will try to manipulate you into admitting fault or even changing your statement as to what actually happened.
An experienced and local Treasure Coast accident attorney will ensure you are protected during the entire process. They will speak to the other insurance companies for you; they will make sure you are not manipulated; and they will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Worried you won’t be able to afford a car accident attorney? In Florida, a car accident attorney should NEVER charge you upfront for taking a case. You only pay for attorney services if you win a settlement.
Get trusted legal advice after a Treasure Coast car accident
Call 866-930-6435 to speak with our experienced accident attorneys
At Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd, our award-winning, experienced legal team can provide you with trusted legal guidance after a Treasure Coast car accident. With decades of experience and unparalleled local expertise, our reputation speaks for itself.
If you are injured or involved in a car accident in Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach or Okeechobee, call our law firm right away. You will be able to speak directly with one of our accident attorneys and we can help you determine your legal options.
Call 866-930-6435 to speak to our attorneys.
