Steps To Take After a Left-Turn Accident in Florida
Florida law required drivers to be vigilant when making a left turn. According to the law, before turning left, a driver must yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles and ensure that it is safe for them to proceed. Unfortunately, left-turn accidents are common in Florida, especially at intersections. These accidents often result in severe injuries and even death.
After being involved in a left-turn accident in Florida, it is crucial that you understand what actions you should take immediately after the crash. Understanding this is vital for protecting your health and legal rights. Below, we share the steps to take after a left-turn accident in Florida.
- Focus on Safety
After being involved in a left-turn accident, assess injuries and move your vehicle to a safe location to avoid obstructing traffic. However, if there are serious injuries and it is not safe, you should not move the car.
- Call 911
Next, call 911. Call the police even if you believe the accident is minor or there are no serious injuries. Once the police arrive at the scene, they will conduct a preliminary investigation and prepare an official report. This report can be invaluable in any insurance or legal case you pursue later.
During your 911 call, be sure to request emergency medical services so that everyone is assessed at the accident scene and any injuries are documented early. This is crucial not only for your well-being but also for protecting your legal rights. Early documentation of injuries is vital for establishing the severity of injuries and the link between the injuries and the accident, also called causation.
- Collect Evidence at the Scene
Another vital step to take immediately after a left-turn accident, if your condition allows you, is to gather evidence at the accident scene. Here is what to do;
- Take pictures of vehicle damage, road and weather conditions, traffic signals, your injuries, skid marks, and anything else you believe is relevant. Remember, you can never take too many photos.
- Exchange information with the other driver, such as names, contact information, addresses, and insurance information.
- Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Politely request to take the responding officer’s name and badge number.
Evidence is crucial in determining fault in a left-turn accident. For instance, evidence like the timing of traffic lights and vehicle positions can be essential in proving who had the right of way.
- Seek Prompt Medical Attention
If you are not medically evaluated at the accident scene, ensure you visit a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Don’t assume you’re fine, as some injuries, like whiplash, internal injuries, or head injuries, may not appear immediately. A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. Follow this plan and keep all medical records. These documents are vital for establishing the extent of your injuries and damages.
- Speak to an Attorney
A qualified Florida car accident attorney can help you report your accident to your insurance company. They can help you understand the law, investigate the accident, handle negotiations with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been in a left-turn accident, speak with our Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for help understanding your legal options and protecting your rights.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.122.html