What Should I Do if I am Injured in a Car Accident?

When you have been injured in an auto accident, it is vitally important to seek the advice of a Jacksonville Auto Accident Attorney as soon as possible. There are several important steps you should take to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and minimize the risk of any further harm. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Check for Injuries

The first thing to do is to make sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical attention.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle off the road to avoid obstructing traffic and reduce the risk of another collision. If the accident is severe and you cannot move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and wait for assistance.

3. Call the Police

Even if the accident is minor, you should call the police to report the accident. They will create an official report which can be useful in filing an insurance claim or legal action at a later time. Be cooperative with the police officer but avoid admitting fault or placing blame.

4. Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident. Obtain their name, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance policy information. If there are any witnesses, obtain their contact information as well. Take a camera phone picture of the driver’s Driver License and insurance card.

5. Gather Evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles involved, skid marks and/or debris on the road, and any other relevant evidence. If the vehicles have not been moved, take photos of how the vehicles came to rest. This will be helpful in case of a dispute with the other driver or their insurance company.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident to report the incident and begin the claims process. Provide the details of the accident and any other relevant information, including the police report and photos.

7. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not feel injured immediately after the accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not become apparent until several hours or even days after the accident. You have 14 days to treat under our personal injury protection benefits or you will lose the benefits altogether.

8. Do Not Admit Fault

Avoid admitting fault or apologizing for the accident, as this can be used against you in a legal proceeding. Stick to the facts and avoid making any assumptions about what happened.

9. Keep Records

Keep a record of all medical bills, receipts, and other expenses related to the accident. Also, keep a copy of the police report, witness statements, and any other relevant documents.
At Rosenberg & Calvin, P.A., we have prepared and easy to refer to guide on what to do following a car accident that you can download here. Print it, fold it in half, and place it in your glove box, just in case.
Consider consulting with a Jacksonville Personal Injury Lawyer at Rosenberg & Calvin, P.A., if you have any questions about your legal rights or need help navigating the claims process.