Steps To Take After A Sideswipe Accident
When people think of car accidents, they rarely think of sideswipe accidents. However, sideswipe accidents are quite common in the United States of America. A sideswipe accident occurs when the sides of two cars heading in the same direction make contact. This may not seem serious, but surprisingly, a sideswipe accident can be just as bad as any other type of accident. Sideswipe accidents can result in serious injuries and even death. Fortunately, in Florida, you can file a compensation claim and recover monetary damages after suffering injuries in a sideswipe accident because of another driver’s negligence. But, to ensure you recover the damages you deserve, there are certain steps you must take after your sideswipe accident.
Below are some of the steps to take after a Florida sideswipe accident:
Exchange Information With the Other Driver
After being involved in a sideswipe accident in Florida, you should stop and exchange information with the other driver. Some of the information you should exchange with the other motorist includes names, addresses, registration numbers, and insurance details.
When exchanging details with the other driver, it is crucial that you avoid apologizing, as apologizing can be considered an admission of guilt.
Call the Police to the Accident Scene
One of the most crucial steps to take after getting into a sideswipe accident because of another driver’s negligence is to call the police. The police will conduct a preliminary investigation at the accident scene and prepare a report. A police report will usually contain specific details related to the accident, witness statements, statements from the involved drivers, and other relevant details noted by the police officer. All this information can be beneficial after you file a car accident claim against a negligent party.
Get Medical Attention
Another crucial step you should take after getting involved in a sideswipe accident due to another driver’s negligence is to seek medical attention. Once Emergency Medical Technicians arrive at the accident scene, let them examine you and assess your injuries. If you do not need immediate medical attention, ensure that you see a doctor as soon as you leave the accident scene. Do not delay seeking medical attention. Not only can delaying seeking medical attention impact your ability to recover, but it could also hurt your compensation claim. For example, delaying seeking medical treatment could result in the at-fault driver’s insurance company arguing that you suffered your injuries in a different accident.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
After suffering injuries in a sideswipe accident due to another driver’s negligence, it is crucial that you collect evidence before leaving the accident scene as long as you are in a condition to do so. Take pictures at the accident scene, including pictures of the involved vehicles and your injuries. Also, collect the contact information and statements of any witnesses at the scene.
Contact an Attorney
Finally, contact a qualified car accident attorney after getting into a sideswipe accident. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights and file an effective compensation claim.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you were involved in a Florida sideswipe accident because of another driver’s negligence, contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal help.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Tampa, Miami, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, and Ocala areas.