Five Common Mistakes People Make At Naples Car Accident Scenes
Car crashes are sudden, traumatic events that can cause extensive injuries and property damage. Even if you have been in a car accident in Naples before, you are likely to be stunned and unsure of what to do in the aftermath.
When the other driver is to blame, you have the right to hold them liable for your medical expenses, missed work, and other losses. However, your words and actions at the scene could jeopardize your rights in a claim. Our Naples car accident lawyer explains five common mistakes at crash sites to avoid.
- Not getting a description of the driver.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that over 100,000 hit-and-run car accidents occur throughout the Sunshine State each year, Being under the influence, lacking a license or insurance, and having outstanding warrants are common reasons at fault drivers flee crash sites. Make it a point to get the driver’s license plate number and a description of the vehicle.
- Not reporting your accident to the police.
Under the Florida Statutes, drivers are required to report any car accident in Naples that results in property damages or injuries to the police immediately. Failing to do so jeopardizes your rights in a claim and could result in criminal charges.
To protect themselves and avoid points on their license, increased insurance premiums, or even potential arrest, the at-fault driver may offer you an immediate cash settlement. As this will likely be significantly less than what you are entitled to, avoid accepting.
- Speculating on the cause of the crash.
Once police arrive at the scene, provide your information and a brief statement on what happened. However, avoid speculating on the cause of the crash with them or others involved.
Car accidents are traumatic events that leave you shaken in the aftermath. You may make statements blaming yourself or admit partial liability, which insurers will use to deny or downplay your claim.
- Providing details about what you were doing right before and during a crash.
In addition to not speculating on the cause of the crash, avoid providing too many details about what you were doing before or during it. Saying that you were at dinner with friends, coming home from work, or that you looked away for even a second could lead to allegations of drunk, drowsy, or distracted driving.
- Downplaying your injuries and not seeking immediate medical care.
Potentially life-threatening car accident injuries can have symptoms that are subtle at first. Downplaying your injuries and not getting medical care could jeopardize your health and your rights in a claim.
Contact Our Naples Car Accident Lawyer Today
Cardinal Law, P.A. understands how shocking and traumatic car accidents in Naples can be. While you focus on your recovery, we provide the professional legal representation you need to get compensation. Call or contact our Naples car accident lawyer online and request a consultation today.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/hitrun/#:~:text=Of%20the%20271%20hit%2Dand,%2C%20dusk%2C%20or%20nighttime%20conditions.
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.065.html
