Your Checklist: What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Orlando

Experiencing a car accident is a stressful and overwhelming event. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Orlando can protect your rights, ensure your safety, and help secure fair compensation for any damages or injuries you sustain. At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, we’ve put together this comprehensive checklist to guide you through each critical step following a car accident. Follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim. Call us now with your questions at (800) 434-4327.

1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries

Immediately after the accident, your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. Follow these steps:

• Move to Safety: If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
• Stay at the Scene: Florida law requires drivers involved in an accident to remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives. Leaving prematurely can result in legal consequences.

2. Call Law Enforcement

In Florida, you must report any car accident that involves injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Here’s what to do:

• Dial 911: Notify the police of the accident and provide your location. Request an officer to come to the scene.
• Obtain a Police Report: The responding officer will document the accident and create an official police report. This document is vital when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
• Be Honest and Concise: When speaking to the officer, describe the events factually and without admitting fault. Avoid speculation or exaggerated statements.

3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

Gathering evidence is crucial to supporting your case. Use your smartphone or a camera to capture as much detail as possible:

• Photograph the Damage: Take pictures of all vehicles involved, focusing on visible damage, license plates, and surrounding debris.
• Record the Location: Document the scene, including traffic signs, road conditions, and any skid marks.
• Take Note of Injuries: If visible injuries are present, photograph them as well.
• Collect Witness Information: Speak to witnesses and record their contact details. Witness testimonies can be critical to proving fault.

4. Exchange Information With Other Drivers

Florida law requires drivers involved in an accident to exchange certain information. Be sure to:

• Gather Essential Details: Obtain the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and driver’s license number.
• Provide Your Information: Share your name and insurance details, but avoid discussing fault or liability.
• Keep It Professional: Keep your interactions calm and polite. Refrain from arguing or admitting blame at the scene.

5. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible after a car accident. Injuries such as whiplash or internal trauma may not present symptoms immediately.

• Visit a Doctor or Hospital: Ensure a healthcare professional evaluates you promptly.
• Document Medical Treatment: Keep records of all medical visits, diagnoses, and treatments. This documentation can be critical to your claim.
• Follow Up: Attend all recommended follow-up appointments to demonstrate your commitment to recovery.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Here’s what to include:

• Accurate Information: Provide your insurance company with the accident details, including the time, location, and other parties involved.
• Avoid Recorded Statements: Be cautious when providing a recorded statement. Speak to an attorney before agreeing to any requests from insurers.
• Understand Florida’s PIP Coverage: Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers medical expenses up to $10,000, regardless of who was at fault.

7. Consult an Experienced Orlando Car Accident Attorney

Dealing with insurance companies and navigating Florida’s legal system can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. An experienced Orlando car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

• Why Choose Paul | Knopf | Bigger? With decades of experience, our team specializes in handling personal injury cases in Orlando. We’ve successfully represented clients against large insurance companies and negligent parties.
• Schedule a Free Case Evaluation: Call us at (800) 434-4327 or complete our free case evaluation form to discuss your case. We don’t charge unless we win your claim.

8. Keep Detailed Records

Maintaining thorough documentation can significantly strengthen your case. Here’s what to track:

• Medical Expenses: Record all medical bills, prescriptions, and receipts related to your treatment.
• Lost Wages: Document any time missed from work due to your injuries.
• Accident-Related Costs: Keep receipts for towing, vehicle repairs, and other expenses.
• Communication Logs: Save copies of emails, letters, and phone records related to the accident.

9. Understand Florida’s Comparative Negligence Rule

Florida operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. Understanding this rule is essential when negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit.

• Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault, even casually. Statements made at the scene can be used against you.
• Let Us Handle It: Our attorneys are skilled at proving liability and ensuring you receive fair compensation.

10. Protect Your Rights With Timely Action

Florida has a strict statute of limitations for car accident claims. Acting quickly ensures you don’t lose your right to pursue legal action. At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Paul | Knopf | Bigger Today

If you’ve been in a car accident in Orlando, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Let the experienced attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (800) 434-4327 or complete our free case evaluation form now.

Your path to recovery begins with the right legal support.

Sources:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
  The NHTSA provides detailed guidelines on what to do after a car accident, emphasizing safety and reporting requirements.
  Source: NHTSA – What To Do After A Crash
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  The CDC highlights the importance of seeking medical attention after car accidents, particularly for hidden injuries such as traumatic brain injuries.
  Source: CDC – Road Traffic Injuries
• Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
  The FLHSMV outlines Florida-specific requirements for reporting car accidents and provides resources for accessing police reports.
  Source: FLHSMV – Traffic Crash Facts