When you’re driving on Calle Ocho, Miracle Mile, State Road 11, Palmetto Expressway, or any highway, road, or street in Miami, you may be involved in an accident that results in damages and injuries. Common types of car accidents that can occur include:
- Head-on collisions. When the front of two cars collides, this crash is known as a head-on collision. These types of collisions often occur when either party runs through a traffic light or stop signs or either driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Multi-car crashes. If there is spilled cargo or a driver loses control of their vehicle and skids, a multi-car accident (i.e. an accident involving several vehicles) can occur.
- Read-end crashes. When a car hits the back of another car, they are involved in this type of crash. Typically, the driver who was hit made an unsafe lane change or the other driver is tailgating.
- Side-impact crashes. Also known as T-bone collisions, this crash occurs when a car hits the side of another vehicle head-on; in these incidents, one side of the car suffers more damage, and passengers on that side are likely to suffer more severe injuries.
- Sideswipe accidents. If a car passes another vehicle and is too close, it may swipe the side of the other vehicle.
- Single-car accidents. Sometimes, a driver may get into an accident that only involves their car after suffering a vehicular issue (tire blowout, engine failure, etc.) or hitting a tree or other inanimate object. It is important to note that passengers in single-car crashes can hold the driver responsible for their damages.
- Vehicle rollovers. When a car flips and rolls, that is a vehicle rollover. Many cars that make turns too quickly or that are hit while going at a high speed, can flip. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rollover crashes account for 30% of passenger vehicle fatalities in 2020.
Regardless of the type of accident, being involved in an accident can be scary and confusing for all parties involved. Below, we will discuss what you should do after being involved in an accident.
Crucial Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Florida
Here are nine steps to take after a car accident in Florida.
- Do not leave the scene. Even if you believe you are totally or partially at fault, you need to remain at the scene of the accident. Fleeing the scene and failing to report the accident can have serious consequences.
- Check for injuries. If possible, you should check yourself and other passengers in your vehicle for injuries. If you are unharmed, you should check on those in other vehicles; under Florida law, you are required to offer injured people help or call emergency services on their behalf. It is also important to note that the preceding steps should only be taken if you are not seriously injured. If you have suffered serious injuries, try not to move until emergency services arrive.
- Call 911. If you or other parties are injured, you should call 911 to ask for emergency medical services. Even if there are no injuries, you will still need to report the accident. Legally, you are required to report an accident to the police immediately if death or injury occurs. You must also report an accident that involves a hit and run, an impaired driver, or property damage that exceeds $500 (see Florida Statute § 316.065). While you must make a report, the accident report cannot be used for or against you as evidence in a trial as outlined in Florida Statute § 316.066 (4).
- Take photographs. You should take pictures of your injuries (before and after treatment), the damage to the vehicles and property involved, and the scene of the accident. If weather or road conditions contributed to the accident, these photos can be extremely valuable as these conditions are not permanent. The pictures can also be used later as evidence if needed.
- Exchange information with the other party involved. Under Florida Statute § 316.062, drivers involved n a crash resulting in death, injury, or property damage must give the other parties involved their name, address, vehicle registration number, and license information.
- Get witness information. If anyone witnessed the accident, you should also ask for their name and contact information. In some cases, this information can be found in the accident report.
- Get medical treatment. Whether you seem unharmed, have minor injuries, or are severely injured, you should seek medical treatment and be looked over by medical professionals.
- Contact your insurer. You should report the accident to your insurance company and provide them with minor details about the accident. If the other driver’s insurance company calls you, you have the right to tell them you won’t answer questions unless they go through your attorney.
- Contact our personal injury attorneys. Even if you were involved in a minor car accident, retaining an attorney can help maximize your compensation, which can cover your medical bills and damages.
Get Legal Help
At Hubbs Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping car accident victims understand their legal options and fight for their right to fair compensation. If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident, we are here to help you minimize your liability and maximize your compensation for your damages.
Call us at (305) 570-4802 or reach out online to schedule a free case consultation today.