Steps To Take After Your West Palm Beach Car Accident
According to the FLHSMV, in 2021, 401,183 traffic crashes occurred in Florida. A good number of these accidents occurred in West Palm Beach. Unfortunately, a car accident can be a source of pain (both physically and emotionally) and financial strain. However, the good news is that after being in a car accident in West Palm Beach because of another party’s fault, you may be eligible to file a car accident claim and recover compensation.
To ensure you recover the compensation you deserve after being in a car accident in West Palm Beach because of another party’s fault, there are some crucial steps you need to take. The following are some crucial steps to take after a West Palm Beach car accident to ensure you’re in the best legal position moving forward.
Call the Police
This is one of the most important things you can do after being involved in a car accident in West Palm Beach because of another party’s fault. When law enforcement officers get to the accident scene, they can help you and the other driver exchange information. The police report can also provide crucial information that can help with the investigation of your case.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if it seems as though you are uninjured, you should seek prompt medical treatment after being involved in a West Palm Beach car accident because of another party’s fault. Sometimes, injuries sustained in auto accidents aren’t apparent immediately. If you fail to seek prompt medical attention, it could create issues with your injury claim. Once you file your claim, the at-fault party’s insurance company might claim that you suffered your injuries in a different accident.
Gather Evidence
Ensure you gather evidence after your accident. For example, take pictures at the accident scene. Take, among others, photos of the involved vehicles, road conditions, and weather conditions. If you cannot take photographs at the accident scene because of your injuries, ask someone to help you. And if it proves impossible to take accident scene photos immediately after your accident, you can return to the scene later and take pictures.
Additionally, gather the names of witnesses and their contact information.
Retain an Attorney
An attorney who knows the law and how to handle car accident cases can help you file a successful claim. A skilled and experienced attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
File a Claim Without Delay
You have four years from the date of your West Palm Beach car accident to file a claim against the at-fault party. However, it is best to file a claim without delay. You have everything to gain by contacting an attorney as soon as possible after your West Palm Beach car accident. For example, contacting an attorney soon after your accident can prevent evidence from being altered or destroyed.
Legal Help Is Available
Our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm understand exactly what needs to be done to ensure you recover the maximum compensation possible from the negligent party who caused your car accident. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Miami, Ocala, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Jacksonville, and Tampa areas.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2018/95.11