Car accidents happen every day in Florida. The aftermath of a car crash can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve been injured. People often make mistakes after an accident that can affect their ability to get fair compensation for their injuries and damages. Knowing what to avoid can help you protect your rights. This guide will cover the common errors people make after being involved in a car accident in Florida. It’s important to understand how to navigate the aftermath of an accident, so you can focus on recovering and getting back to your life. At, Serrano Law , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Not Calling the Police After the Accident
One of the biggest mistakes people make after a car accident is failing to call the police. It is critical to report the accident, even if it seems minor. Some individuals may think that if the damage to the vehicles is small, there’s no need to involve law enforcement. However, filing a police report is essential for documenting the accident, which can become very important later if you need to make an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Without a police report, it may be harder to prove what happened in the accident, and insurance companies may not take your claim as seriously. Always make sure to call the police, even if the accident appears minor, to ensure the incident is properly recorded.
Admitting Fault at the Scene
After an accident, people are often emotional and shaken. It can be tempting to apologize or admit fault at the scene, especially if you feel partly responsible. However, admitting fault can be a big mistake that could impact your ability to recover damages. In Florida, the legal system will determine fault based on the evidence, and sometimes what may seem like your fault in the heat of the moment may not be as clear-cut once all the facts are gathered. It’s best to stick to the facts and avoid making any statements about who is to blame. Let the police and the insurance companies handle the investigation and determine liability based on the evidence.
Founding Attorney Associate Attorney
Michael Serrano
Candace “Cea” Hartley
Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Another common mistake is not seeking medical attention immediately after the accident. Many people assume that if they feel okay immediately after the crash, they don’t need to see a doctor. Unfortunately, injuries from car accidents, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. It is essential to seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel pain at the moment. A doctor can check for hidden injuries that could worsen over time. Additionally, having medical records that show you sought treatment right after the accident can be crucial in supporting your claim if you need to seek compensation later.
Delaying Contacting an Attorney
Some car accident victims wait too long to contact an attorney, thinking they can handle the insurance claims on their own. However, insurance companies are primarily concerned with protecting their bottom line and may try to offer you a lower settlement than you deserve. By delaying contacting an attorney, you risk losing valuable time to build a strong case. An attorney can guide you through the legal process and help ensure that you get fair compensation for your injuries and damages. It is always a good idea to consult an attorney early in the process, so they can help protect your rights and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Not Gathering Evidence at the Scene
Failing to collect evidence at the scene of the accident is another common mistake. While it may be difficult to think clearly after an accident, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible. If you are able, take pictures of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be when it comes to proving what happened and who was at fault. Waiting too long to gather this information may result in important evidence being lost.
Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.” - Mary Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!" - Kylie Collier Border I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help." - Sandy Carter
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies may quickly offer a settlement after an accident, especially if they know their client is at fault. While it may be tempting to accept the first offer and move on, this can be a mistake. Often, the first settlement offer is lower than what you deserve. Insurance companies want to settle claims for as little as possible. Before accepting any settlement, it’s important to understand the full extent of your injuries and damages, which may take time to assess. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
Posting About the Accident on Social Media
Many people use social media to share updates about their lives, but posting about your car accident on social media can be a costly mistake. Insurance companies and defense attorneys often look at social media accounts to find information that could be used against you. Even something as simple as a post saying you are “feeling fine” after the accident could be used to argue that your injuries are not as serious as you claim. It’s best to avoid discussing the accident or your injuries on social media until your case is fully resolved.
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Not Following Through With Medical Treatment
After seeking initial medical attention, some people make the mistake of not following through with their recommended treatment. If you fail to follow your doctor’s advice, such as attending physical therapy or taking prescribed medications, it can hurt your chances of receiving full compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim if you don’t follow the treatment plan. It’s essential to continue with your medical treatment and attend all follow-up appointments to document the full extent of your injuries.
Underestimating Long-Term Effects of Injuries
Many car accident victims make the mistake of underestimating the long-term impact of their injuries. Even minor injuries can lead to chronic pain or long-term disability. It’s important to consider the future when evaluating a settlement offer. You may need ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or time off work. Consulting with a doctor and an attorney can help you understand the full extent of your injuries and ensure that you receive compensation that accounts for any long-term effects.
Trying to Handle Everything Alone
Handling the aftermath of a car accident on your own can be overwhelming. From dealing with insurance companies to gathering evidence and assessing the full extent of your injuries, there are many steps involved in pursuing a claim. Trying to handle everything alone can lead to costly mistakes that could affect the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the process, deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected.
Founding Attorney Associate Attorney Michael Serrano
Candace “Cea” Hartley
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Florida, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes to protect your rights and ensure you get fair compensation for your injuries. Navigating the legal process can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Serrano Law, we are here to help you every step of the way. Our dedicated team will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Serrano Law today for a consultation and let us help you get back on track after your accident.