Were you injured in a car accident in Jacksonville, FL? If so, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health, legal rights, and potential to receive compensation.
At Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges you face after a car accident. With more than 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has successfully recovered tens of millions of dollars for our injured clients. We guide our clients on what to do after a Florida car accident, how to protect their rights, and how to navigate the claims process.
Contact our law office at (904) 396-1100 to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose Baggett Law After a Car Accident in Florida?
After a car accident in Jacksonville, Florida, you may be unsure of what to do. At Baggett Law, our Jacksonville car accident lawyers are here to help you with the legal process.
When you choose to work with us, you can expect that we will:
- Conduct a private investigation into the cause of your accident
- Review your medical records and other relevant documentation
- Calculate the full extent of your damages
- Handle negotiations with the insurance company
- Take your case to trial, if necessary
Members of our legal team have been recognized by Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, Florida Trends Legal Elite, and other reputable legal organizations.
Call our law office to schedule a free consultation with one of our Jacksonville personal injury attorneys.
What Steps Should I Take After a Car Accident?
In the moments following an accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, what you do right after a car accident can significantly affect your ability to receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Here are some important steps you should take:
Get to Safety
Immediately following a car accident, the most important thing is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If you are physically able, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights and honk your horn if needed to warn surrounding drivers.
If you are unable to move your car, stay inside and keep your seatbelt on. Getting out of the car can put you at greater risk. Your vehicle provides a level of protection, and remaining in the car makes it easier for other drivers to avoid you.
Start Taking Pictures
Once you are in a safe position, begin taking photos of the scene. Use your smartphone to document the vehicles involved in the accident. Make sure to capture each side of every car and any visible damage.
Take photographs of the surrounding area, including the road conditions, any visible debris, and any landmarks. The more detailed the documentation, the better your chances of proving your case later on. Keep in mind that a jury will never physically visit the scene of the accident. Your photos will play a vital role in helping to recreate the incident.
File an Accident Report
Call the police and file an accident report, even if the accident seems minor. A police report is an essential piece of evidence for your case. It provides an official account of the accident and may include important details such as the other driver’s liability, witness statements, and contributing factors. Without a police report, it may be more difficult to prove the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Make sure to exchange essential information with the other driver. This should include:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make and model of the vehicles involved
If the other driver was working at the time of the accident (such as making a delivery or driving a company car), note the name of their employer. The employer may be liable for the accident, and this could impact your claim.
Go See a Doctor
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it is crucial to see a doctor right away. The shock of the accident can mask symptoms of injuries, like whiplash or soft tissue damage. A medical professional will be able to assess your condition and identify any injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Additionally, seeking medical attention establishes a record of your injuries. Florida law requires you to seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to preserve your eligibility for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. These benefits can help cover medical costs. Having a medical file from the doctor is critical for your health and legal claim.
Call an Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take after a car accident is to contact a qualified attorney. Your lawyer can help you navigate the legal process – from filing your claim with insurance to negotiating a settlement or pursuing litigation.
Call a Jacksonville Car Accident Lawyer Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact Baggett Law today for a free consultation. Let our Jacksonville car accident attorneys help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don’t have to pay us anything unless we recover compensation for you.
