What are Your Responsibilities after a Car Accident?
According to Florida Department of Highway and Safety, car accidents are among the most common of types of accidents that occur in the whole state. We all know that an accident has several repercussions and associated procedures that should be followed to clear the mess and restore normality.
In this post, we look at some of your responsibilities as the victim of an accident.
Stop and Remain at the Accident Scene
You need to stop immediately at the site of the accident. Do this without jeopardizing other people’s safety. It is advisable you remain at the place unless you have injuries that need immediate medical attention.
If the accident involves two vehicles, ensure you get all the information from the other driver. You should also give all the data such as the vehicle registration number, insurance company and the details of other people in the car.
Also Read : The Dos and Don’ts in a Car Accident
Gather vital information
In most cases, the motorist who causes the accident is often reluctant when it comes to giving information. It is important to get comprehensive information from the other party involved in the accident.
The information you gather should include address, the insurance company of the other party, and contact and information from witnesses.
By doing this, you will have tangible and reliable evidence that can bolster your position in arguing your case and also filing for claims. You should then formulate an effective way of documenting the evidence to prevent leakage.
Notify the police
In most occasions, calling the police is the last thing you would do if you feel that you are at fault. This happens because you want to avoid getting the ticket, avoiding trouble or even to avoid inflating your insurance premiums.
The police should be the first people you contact after an accident. Simply grab your phone and call 911 to avoid upfront problems associated with car accidents. The police determine who deserves a ticket.
The police also carry out law assessment of the fault after which he or she gives out a report and instructions according to the state laws. Insurance companies usually take police reports into consideration when making decisions regarding your claim.
Notify the Insurance Companies
One of the first things you need to do in case of an accident is to notify the right people and the relevant authorities. That is why most people are advised to call 911. Apart from the police, relevant authorities also include insurance companies.
You should immediately contact your insurance company and inform them of the accident. You should do this even if you feel that you are not responsible for the accident.
Inform the other party’s insurance company of the accident and clearly state the damages and injuries that have occurred due to the accident. Include all the facts about the accident and don’t forget the circumstances that led to it.
Most insurance companies don’t believe in theories because they don’t reflect reality in most cases. Some of the companies can demand that you get permission from them to repair your vehicle or any other changes you want to make to the car.
Ensure you comply with all the conditions set by the insurance provider to avoid potential problems with your claim. In case you want to repair the vehicle, make sure the insurance company has fully accepted liability in writing.
Some insurance companies allow their clients to select a repair facility of their choice. However, Florida auto insurance laws allow for auto body shops but don’t require the companies to comply with your requirements when selecting a repair facility. You simply can’t force them.
Tell your Story Correctly and Honestly
Some people can be dishonest if they notice they are at fault to avoid getting into trouble, getting a ticket or getting a hike in their insurance premiums. This is quite crucial because a false statement can brew a vigorous battle between the insurance companies of the parties involved.
Some insurance companies may use false evidence from their client to force the other company to compensate it. In such cases, you have to pick your war wisely by honestly accounting for what happened.
Enquire about your Injury Coverage
In Florida, you will only make your claim through the insurance company of the driver at fault. In case the driver is not insured, you can make a claim using the uninsured motorist policy.
Florida laws require every driver to have a personal injury protection (PIP) from a licensed insurance company. The insurance policies cover for medical payments due to bodily injury, collision coverage and uninsured or underinsured motorists.
Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer
In some cases, you need to consult with a professional lawyer who is knowledgeable in auto insurance laws governing Florida for advice and protection from unscrupulous insurance companies.
A car accident lawyer will also give you relevant advice and all the legal requirements involved in the whole process.
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