Nobody plans to get in a car accident. It’s a costly occurrence in terms of both money and time. So when your busy day is interrupted by a fender bender, you may feel tempted to pick up the pieces and move on quickly.
Filing a police report will force you to spend additional time at the scene. But it is always a good move to make the call—even when doing so throws a wrench in your schedule.
Below, we have outlined exactly when you should call 911 after a car accident in Miami, FL.
When Medical Attention is Necessary
You might walk away from the scene of an accident feeling fine, only to discover pain or an injury a few hours later. Of course, you can always seek medical attention later on. But if you don’t call the police at the scene, it can be difficult to include any medical costs in your insurance claim.
A seemingly minor injury can result in hefty medical bills. For example, whiplash is a common complaint for car crash victims. And while the injury is technically classified as a simple sprain, it can leave you with chronic pain.
Treatment for whiplash may include anything from pain medication to anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. You may even have to wear a cervical collar for several weeks.
If the other driver is to blame for the accident and your injuries, you’ll want to have medical records on hand to show that you sought treatment immediately after the accident.
Filing a Police Report
Many insurance policies require claims to include a police report. Florida is a no-fault state. After an accident, it’s usually up to your own insurance to cover your damages — unless your injuries are severe or permanent.
Naturally, you’ll want to follow any and all insurance specifications to make sure your claim for damages is approved. That’s why it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call the police from the scene of your accident.
If there is a reason to go after the other driver for compensation, a police report will only help your case. This document can be used as evidence in court.
Obeying Florida Law
In the vast majority of cases, Florida state law requires you to call the police after an accident. The requirements are specified in Florida Statute 316.061. You are required to pull over to a safe place and call the police after any motor vehicle accident.
You must also leave the police with your name, address, and vehicle registration number. You may need to show your license and insurance if the officer asks. The police can even help to facilitate the exchange of information between drivers.
If anyone is injured or killed in the accident, it’s important to call for medical care immediately. By calling 911, you can fulfill your obligations to call the police and request medical support for injured parties at the same time.
Taking the Time to Consider Legal Options
The last reason to call 911 after an accident is to give yourself time to evaluate the situation. If you hurry away from the scene, you may not take the time to truly consider what happened and who was at fault.
Should I Call an Attorney After a Car Accident?
You should call 911 after a car accident in Miami, FL. But there is one question left to ask: should you also call a lawyer after the accident?
If your insurance is refusing to pay or you believe the other driver holds responsibility, a law professional can offer support. You won’t need to call from the scene of the accident, but make sure to get in touch with an attorney soon after.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Miami, FL
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Miami, FL and need legal help, contact our Miami car accident lawyers at Lavent Law Personal Injury Lawyer to schedule a free consultation.
Lavent Law Personal Injury Lawyer
17295 NE 19th Ave
North Miami Beach, FL 33162
(305) 257-9464
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