Car Accident FAQs

If you have ever been in a car accident, then you understand how confusing, frustrating and stressful the entire ordeal can be. It's likely your mind is racing as you question what to do, whom to call and how to recover physically, emotionally and financially. But after the dust settles and the medical and police reports have been filed, you probably still have a lot of questions. The Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A. are here to help you know what to do after a car accident and why you should contact a car accident and personal injury lawyer.

Florida Car Accident FAQs

What to do after a car accident?

A car accident can be scary, but by following these basic steps, the event can be handled much smoothly.

• Remain calm. Resist the urge to argue, yell or create tension with the other members involved.
• Seek medical attention. Check to see if you (and your passengers) have any injuries. If so, you should call 911 for medical assistance. Even if you do not have any injuries, you should still obtain a full physical examination after a car accident.
• Take photographs. Pictures of the scene, injuries and any damages will be helpful in the future.
• Document important information. You should notate how the accident occurred, the date and time of the accident, the conditions of the accident, and any other important details so that you do not forget.
• Exchange contact information with the members involved. This should include basic contact information and license numbers.
• Speak to witnesses. It is best to gain the contact information of witnesses early on, as their testimonial support may be beneficial if you decide to sue or file a car accident claim.
• Contact your insurance company.
• Contact a lawyer. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you through the aftermath and turmoil of a car accident.

How soon after an accident should I contact a lawyer?

As soon as you are able to contact a personal injury lawyer after an accident is when you should do so. Acquiring legal representation early can be incredibly beneficial to your case, allowing you to submit documents in a timely manner, understand your policy, and craft compelling evidence and support for your car accident claim.

What is PIP insurance?

PIP stands for personal insurance protection. PIP insurance is favorable because regardless of who is considered “at fault” or responsible for the accident, the program provides payment to you after a car accident.

How can I protect myself against uninsured drivers?

First and foremost, you should practice defensive driving techniques. Drive safely, being sure to avoid toxic driving behaviors, such as eating, drinking and using cellular devices.

You should also review your insurance policy to see if your insurance plan has any stipulations for additional coverage.

Lastly, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney so that you may be knowledgeable of your rights and responsibilities, and gain the compensation that you need for lost wages and medical expenses following a car accident.

What are my legal rights after a car accident?

An accident attorney can help you understand your rights after a car accident. As a general rule, you have the right to file claims against people who may be at-fault for the car accident and/or for the damages accrued.

 

Can passengers make a claim to recover damages for injuries?

Yes, this is possible. In most cases, passengers can file a claim under the driver’s bodily injury insurance coverage. The driver, however, must be considered responsible for the injuries if passengers expect to receive compensation.

Can my lawyer assist with an insurance claim after an accident?

Absolutely. At the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A., our experienced personal injury lawyers will help you understand legalise and percentages found in contracts; review your claim and provide general guidance; inform you of your basic legal rights and privileges; help you submit important documents in a timely manner to meet appropriate deadlines; advocate and negotiate on your behalf with your insurance company; and help obtain compelling evidence, support and witnesses to make your claim successful. With the assistance of an injury lawyer, you can feel confident that you have a high probability of enjoying a successful insurance claim.

 

Involved in a Motorcycle Accident? 
Find out what to do with our Motorcycle Accident FAQs!

If I don't feel injured after an automobile accident, do I have to see a doctor?

You should still seek medical attention if you do not feel injured after an automobile accident. Explain the event to a doctor and allow him/her to perform a comprehensive physical examination on you. Many times, car accidents result in traumatic long term injuries that are not seen or felt until months (even years!) after a car accident. If you hope to receive coverage for these injuries, it is best that you gain medical attention early.

Who pays for my medical bills if I’ve been injured in a car accident?

The person who is “at-fault” for the car accident is required to pay for your medical bills. If the individual does not have insurance, your own insurance policy may afford your expenses.

The insurance company is disputing my injuries. What should I do?

The truth is that while insurance companies are designed to provide financial support when emergencies and unforeseen circumstances such as car accidents occur, they must also make profit. Many times, insurance companies make it extremely difficult for claims to go through. While discrepancies and lack of compelling evidence may be justified reasons for failing to approve a car accident claim, a dispute can cause much frustration and disease. It is best to contact an injury lawyer for assistance.

Can I receive compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

The amount of compensation that you receive will likely be decreased if your insurance policy considers you eligible for compensation at all. It varies depending on the type of policy that you have and the eligibility requirements of the insurance company. Keep in mind that as a driver, it is your responsibility to wear a seatbelt. Failure to wear a seatbelt does not only violate Florida law, but it places you at a greater risk of injury. Do not allow carelessness to prevent you from receiving compensation after a car accident.

What if I believe the accident I was in was at least partly my fault?

You should notify the police and your insurance company.

Can I still win my case if my memory of the accident now conflicts with things I might have said at the time of the accident?

In order for car accident claims to be successful, it is best that discrepancies do not exist. It is common for people to forget the specific details of their car accident, especially after experiencing injuries and lengthy negotiation with your insurance company. To avoid the risk of inconsistencies (or forgetfulness), you should write down a full, detailed account of the car accident as soon as possible. You will be able to refer to this document later.

I was in a car accident and the airbags in my car didn't deploy. Do I have a case against the car manufacturer?

If you knew that your airbags were defective before the accident, and failed to have them fixed, you do not have a case. If you were unaware of the defect, you may have a case. You will need compelling evidence and an experienced accident attorney.