LAKE COUNTY TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

Although Florida is a no-fault state, there are still steps you can take that may help should you decide to make a claim against the other driver's insurance company. Florida law mandates that vehicle owners carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. They also need to carry property damage liability coverage. While this is supposed to cover losses should you be involved in an accident, there still may be a way to sue the other driver if you were not at fault.

For example, suppose you suffered permanent injuries like a traumatic brain injury. In that case, the other driver may be on the hook for negligence. When in doubt, the personal injury lawyers at Morgan and Morgan can clarify if your situation allows you to go outside Florida's no-fault insurance laws. However, you should take these practical steps right after any Lake County traffic accidents:

Call 911 - You may initially be in shock after a traffic accident. This altered mental state can cause reduced awareness and confusion, among other symptoms. You may not realize what happened and be less aware of the injuries you've suffered. Because of this, it's crucial to get the help of first responders. If you're able, move your car off the roadway to minimize further injury and for the safety of others.

When on the phone with 911, give them the location of your accident and inform them of any known injuries. Look for road signs or highway markers to pinpoint the area.

Seek medical care - Even if you get checked over at the scene or refuse medical care, you should still visit your doctor to ensure you're not suffering from any hidden injuries. A hospital setting will have advanced equipment to detect injuries that are not apparent to the eye. Furthermore, medical records are a critical component of any personal injury claim.

Document the accident - If you're able, start making notes about the accident while waiting for police and paramedics to arrive. Take down the other driver's information, such as name, address, license number, and insurance information. If they don't own the car, ask for the owner's information as well. Get the contact information of any witnesses and responding officers.

Take photos and video of the accident scene prior to moving your vehicle off the road, if possible, including any damage to either vehicle. If there are eyewitnesses, ask them to record their statements while the details are vivid in their minds. You can also request to record the other driver. If they make any statements alluding to fault, you may be able to use this evidence later.

File a police report - Not all car crashes warrant a call to 911, such as in the case of a minor fender bender. However, a hit and run, a collision due to negligence, or an incident with an impaired driver should always be reported. It's always best to file a police report as soon after the accident as possible.

While many people handle car insurance claims on their own, particularly because of Florida's no-fault insurance law, you may encounter problems with your own insurance company. Suppose they are lowballing your insurance payout, or you have been seriously injured, and your PIP won't begin to cover your medical bills. In that case, a personal injury attorney can help to protect your rights and secure the compensation you'll need to get your life back on track.

If you think Florida's no-fault insurance law means you can't sue an at-fault driver, think again. Our results show that we don't back down from a fight when we know our client has suffered significant injuries. We make sure they get the funds they need to set them up for the future.

Our fee is free unless we win. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.