An automobile accident can be a frightening and upsetting experience. Nevertheless, there are certain steps that you should take to comply with the law and preserve your legal rights.
First, Florida law requires you to stop and exchange information with the other people involved in the accident. You should obtain the following information for everyone involved in the accident: name, address, telephone number, driver's license number, vehicle license number, and insurance information. Try to learn as much as possible about the other driver's insurance, including the name of the company, the policy number, the extent of coverage, and the name of the agent.
Get the name, address, and telephone number of all people who witnessed the accident. You probably will want to contact them later if there is a dispute as to how the accident happened.
You should make an initial assessment of any personal injuries and property damage resulting from the accident while you are still at the scene. Make a written record of these observations.
Above all, try to remain calm. It generally is advisable not to discuss liability at the scene of the accident, even though it may be tempting to do so in the heat of the moment. Because the issue of liability can be complicated, you should discuss the accident with an attorney before you admit it was your fault.
The police generally do not come to the scene of an accident or make a report unless someone is seriously injured or there is damage to public property. The people involved in the accident, however, are required to file a report of the accident (called an SR-1) with the Department of Motor Vehicles if the accident involves more than $750.00 of property damage or any personal injuries. If the SR-1 report is filed, all parties to the accident will be required to provide proof of insurance. If you were uninsured on the date of the accident, your driver's license will be suspended for one year.
If you plan to make a claim with your insurance company, you should contact your agent as soon as possible. You also should obtain two or three written estimates for the repair of any damage to your vehicle.
If you are injured, you should seek medical attention immediately. Keep the receipts for all medical treatment, including medications, and maintain a record of all losses you sustain as a result of your injuries (e.g., lost wages).
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The information contained in this article is of a general nature. If you have a similar problem, you should consult with an attorney. Accident victims and/or friends are encouraged to call THE LAW OFFICES OF JUSTIN ZIEGLER to make an appointment (305)793-3088. Appointment hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and we are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
JUSTIN ZIEGLER, ESQUIRE
THE LAW OFFICES OF JUSTIN ZIEGLER
One Datran Center
9100 S. DADELAND BLVD.
SUITE 908
MIAMI, FLORIDA 33156
OFFICE: 305.403.0966
CELL: 305.793.3088
email: justinziegler@bellsouth.net
http://www.justinziegler.net
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