Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Miami car accidents occur in the city every day, and unfortunately some of these collisions have a long-term or even life-long impact on victims. In some cases, Miami traffic accidents can cause permanent injuries or severe financial distress for those who sustain serious burn injuries, brain injuries, and other serious injuries in the crash. According to experts, there are several things you can do after a Miami accident to protect yourself:
1) Do the right thing immediately after the accident. Stay at the scene of the accident, call for emergency help for anyone who needs it, and get the contact information for every driver involved and for any witnesses at the scene. If you have a phone camera, take photos of the scene and the damage as well. Call authorities if the accident is significant or if anyone is hurt.
2) Know that you have a choice about towing and mechanics. If police arrive at the scene, they may recommend a tow service if your car is too damaged to drive. To reduce costs, however, you do have the right to choose your own service. As well, while your insurance company may recommend a mechanic, you also have the right to take your car in to any qualified mechanic you wish.
3) Get medical care – just in case. If you have whiplash or any injuries that do not manifest themselves right away, it is best to start documenting and to start getting medical treatment right away.
4) Call a qualified Miami personal injury attorney first. This should be one of the first calls you make. Many victims call their insurance carrier first, but calling an attorney ensures that your attorney can start gathering evidence in your case right away. Calling a good attorney first also ensures that you have someone to work on your behalf, negotiating with your insurance carrier and reading over documents before you sign them. As well, keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations if you do decide to pursue a legal claim following a Miami drunk driving accident or car accident. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner you can file your claim and the more chance your attorney has of gathering important information to support your case.
5) Keep as many records as possible. The more information you have on paper, the better. Taking photos of your injuries, keeping a journal of your injuries, and costs and keeping careful records of anything is invaluable in case you decide to file a claim. Even if you decide not to pursue legal action, proof of your injuries and your case may be required by your insurance company, so keep records – and don’t toss them out when you get better. You may need them years after the fact.
6) Assemble a team you trust and follow their directions to the letter. If you have been injured, find a terrific Miami car accident attorney and an excellent doctor. Follow their instructions carefully and follow up with these professionals regularly. Both these professionals can help you heal from your injuries and can help you face a brighter future – but only if you cooperate.
7) Be very, very honest. Exaggerating injuries or being dishonest about existing conditions can be very harmful. Due to the risk of insurance fraud, insurance carriers frequently hire private detectives to investigate claims. Since Florida and Miami lead the nation in fraudulent car insurance claims, claims from the state may be met with special scrutiny.
A qualified Miami car accident attorney can aggressively pursue your rights and can work with you to help you understand the complex claims process after an accident. If you need a qualified Miami car accident attorney, contact the Flaxman Law Group. With offices in three Miami cities and decades of experience, the legal team at the Flaxman Law Group is standing by to help.