Calling for assistance and dialing 911 should occur immediately after taking a preliminary assessment of the accident situation as well as ascertaining your condition in addition to any of your passengers. It is easy to become confused and disoriented in the aftermath of any accident and knowing what to do is essential and will benefit everyone involved.
Most often a police officer will arrive at the scene and assist you with gathering important information and help with filling out the driver exchange information which includes necessary facts as well as the make and model of the vehicle, insurance information and of course, the name of parties involved.
However, in some minor accidents, a police officer may not arrive at the scene. Therefore, you should immediately exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, which should include make and model of their vehicle and any other type of identifying information. If at all possible, take pictures of the scene including damages to all vehicles. You should never discuss fault or facts of the accident with anyone but a police officer and it is in your best interest not to discuss any facts of the accident with the opposing vehicle.
If your injuries warrant medical attention, you should seek medical care immediately or within 14 days of your accident. Since Personal Injury Protection is mandatory in Florida, it is important to note, your auto accident will not cover the cost of your care if you do not seek medical treatment within 14 days.
Notification to the insurance company can be done by you or directly by a car accident attorney in Tampa as soon as possible following the accident, even if injuries were slight. Do not give any recorded statements, whether written or oral to the insurance company since it is in your best interest to avoid discussing injuries with them. Your attorney can handle all discussions regarding your injuries and accident with them during the notification and claims process.
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