Understand what you should do before and after a Florida traffic crash to better protect yourself and your family
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has reported that there were 366,917 drivers involved in Florida traffic crashes in 2007. This figure does not account for passengers or pedestrians who may have been involved or injured in these accidents. The average number of traffic crashes in Florida that year was 702. It therefore seems likely or even probable that if you drive on Florida’s road system, you will be involved in an accident at some point. Although you can’t always be prepared for accidents resulting from negligent drivers, you can be prepared to properly handle your interests and concerns after such a crash.
There are several things that you can do to protect yourself before such an accident. You should review your current insurance coverage to be sure that it properly suits your particular situation and that you understand the different types of insurance coverage. You should always have a current copy of your insurance card in the vehicle along with a first aid kit and a cell phone. You should also have a list of your emergency contact information, medications and allergies in the glove compartment along with your insurance information.
After the crash, try to remain calm and aware of your surroundings. If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle from the roadway and call the police to report the crash. Seek medical attention for anyone who is or may be injured. At the scene, exchange information with the other drivers involved in the crash. This information includes names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance information and vehicle information (make, model and license number). You should write down contact information for all witnesses to the crash. Do not discuss the cause of the crash with the other drivers. When the authorities arrive, cooperate fully and provide them with all requested information.
After you and your passengers have obtained medical attention, you should notify your insurance company of the crash. If you are contacted by the other driver’s insurance company representative, our advice is for you to politely decline to discuss the matter with them until you have obtained your own legal advice. Remember, if you or your passengers are injured, you may be entitled to compensation under the law and it is advisable for you to seek the services on an attorney who specializes in these matters.
Please feel free to contact our office for further information. To assist you with these preparations and consequences of a traffic crash, we would be pleased to provide you with a free form for you to retain in your vehicle that will help you obtain all of the information suggested in this article. Simply call our office and request this free information. You may not be able to avoid all traffic crashes resulting from negligent drivers, but you can be better prepared to protect yourself if you are a victim of that negligence.
