Car Accident Miami
Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Miami, Florida
Accidents happen. We wish they would not, but inevitably they occur. A car accident is no different than any other kind of accident, especially in Miami, Florida. Every day we drive we are risking getting into a car accident. Oftentimes it is something beyond our control that causes the accident like a distracted driver or a mechanical failure. Regardless of what caused the accident, it is key that you contact an experienced car accident lawyer that can help you get through a hard time. If you read on you will find out more about what to do if you are ever involved in one as well as your rights in a car accident.
What to do if you are in a Car Accident:
It is key that if you ever find yourself in an accident, you follow these steps:
- Call 911
You need to make sure everyone in the accident is well and their injuries are treated. Call 911 and report the accident. Just state that there has been an accident and the location. There is no need to discuss fault.
- Complete a Police Report
It is essential that what happened is recorded fully by the police officer at the scene. Remember that saying “I don’t know” is perfectly fine, after all you just underwent tremendous trauma in the accident. Also make sure to tell the police officer what the medical personnel on scene said when they checked you.
- Collect Evidence
Before leaving the scene, maybe as you wait for the police officer and medical personnel to arrive, make sure to gather as much evidence as you can about what happened. This will help paint a better picture of what happened at a later time. Safely take photographs and video of the scene of the accident and any visible damage to the car or the passengers in any of the cars involved in the accident. If possible, write down contact information of possible individuals who saw the accident unfold. If the injuries are severe, you may not be able to collect evidence and will be transported by ambulance. In the case of severe injuries, it is important to contact a lawyer so that they can begin gathering information while it is still fresh.
- Consult with a Medical Doctor
- You should consult with a medical doctor on the day of the accident, or soon thereafter, not to exceed 14 days. Many times, people won’t feel any pain at the scene of the accident because the adrenaline is still pumping. It is often several days until they feel pain. It is important to have a Medical Doctor evaluate you to make a determination of the injuries. If you do not consult with a Medical Doctor you may also lose your right to recovery under the law.
- Contact an experienced Car Accident Lawyer
Whenever such complex and potentially life altering accidents are in play, it can be difficult to know what to do or how to do it. That is why you must contact an experienced car accident lawyer who has dealt with insurance companies many times before to make sure you receive just compensation.
Car Accidents 101 – What you need to know
Statute of Limitations on Car Accidents
One of the most crucial things to know when in a car accident is that there is a small window of time to file a lawsuit. The Florida Statutes limit the time after the date of the accident to decide if one wants to initiate litigation. The lapse of time is your enemy. After an accident, individuals injured in a car accident need to receive treatment for multiple issues stemming from the accident. This treatment, when done correctly, can take between one and two years, closing the window of time to file suit.
Injuries are not Always Instantly Visible
Many people leave the car accident walking perfectly and feeling better than they did before only to find themselves in immense pain days, weeks, or even months after. Some individuals see this and think that they cannot link those injuries to the accident, however, they can. The adrenaline rush after an accident masks injuries and pain suffered in the accident, and while you think it is no big deal, it can lead to even bigger injuries and pain down the line. That is why it is essential to document any pain you feel linked to the accident as it may need to be treated.
What can you Expect of Car Accident Negotiations?
Most people know that insurance companies will try to pay the least amount of money for a claim, however with a seasoned car accident lawyer you most clients can receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages (time missed from work)
- Pain and suffering
- Lost value of your property
If you or a loved one has been in a car accident do not hesitate to call the Law Office of Garcia Hernandez, P.A. for a free consultation or fill out the form and we will reach out to you.