Very few people go through life without being involved in a car accident at some point. Some car accidents are small fender-benders with minimal damage to the vehicle and none to the driver or passengers. Other car crashes, even at low speeds, can result in significant injuries, medical bills, and property damage. Additionally, victims of vehicle accidents may suffer some level of emotional or physical trauma. Because of this, it is important to prepare a plan of action before the accident happens.

When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyers

The first thing to do when you are involved in a car accident of any type is to call 9-1-1 to report the accident. This is especially true if anyone involved is injured or in pain. It is also important not to make assumptions or claims about who was at fault in the accident. Each person involved offers a limited perspective of the circumstances.

Once authorities have been notified, the following are important items to consider:

Photos taken at the scene can be critical to documenting the accident. Use your cell phone camera to take pictures of damages to vehicles involved and the accident scene.

Be sure to gather identification and contact information from other drivers, along with their insurance information.

Be sure to gather identification and contact information of any witnesses to the crash.

Cooperate fully with emergency responders and law enforcement. Request a copy of the accident report.

Seek an immediate medical exam for yourself and any of your passengers, even if you don’t think you are injured.

Once you have taken care of these initial items, it is time to contact an experienced car accident lawyer to protect your rights. If you contact Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., we can deal with your insurance company for you and handle all the communication going forward. We will be your one point of contact so that there is no confusion regarding what you should or should not do following your car accident.

Florida Car Accident Laws Explained

All drivers in Florida should have an understanding of the Sunshine State’s auto accident laws to prepare oneself for the unfortunate event of being involved in a crash. Whether you are a new driver or simply need a refresher since your last driver’s education class, the following guide summarizes everything you need to know about Florida’s car accident laws.

Florida Car Accident Statute of Limitations

Under Florida’s statute of limitations for car accident cases, if you have been injured in a car accident, you have until four years from the date of your crash to file a lawsuit. Filing a claim after this deadline has expired could result in your case being dismissed, effectively prohibiting you from being able to take legal action. This window can sometimes be extended if your injuries were not discovered until some period of time after your collision. If your loved one was killed in a fatal crash, you only have two years to bring a wrongful death case against the at-fault driver. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your crash, it is imperative you retain the services of an experienced attorney as soon as possible to begin collecting key evidence and comply with all applicable legal deadlines. Car Accident North Port FL

When Do You Have to Report a Car Accident?

Florida law requires all drivers to stop at the scene of an accident and render aid to any injured parties. You must report a crash to local law enforcement (police, sheriff, or highway patrol) if the crash causes injury to any parties or if there is more than $500 in damage. If anyone was injured, you must stay and exchange information with everyone who was involved. Never flee the scene of an accident and make sure to stay until law enforcement gives you permission to leave.

You must also report any crash to your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurance policies require claims to be submitted within a few days in order to be eligible for coverage. It is important to read and be familiar with the terms of your policy to ensure your compliance with all applicable deadlines.