If you suffered harm in an accident with a negligent driver while on foot, knowing the proper steps to take is crucial for collecting a settlement to cover your losses. Failing to take every step as necessary can greatly reduce the compensation available to you or eliminate the settlement altogether.
Examples of the essential actions following the accident include seeking care from a healthcare provider, gathering evidence, and reporting the accident to the local authorities and insurers. Call today to schedule an appointment with a seasoned attorney to learn more about the steps to take after a pedestrian accident in Inverness.
Essential Steps and Actions
The essential steps to take following an Inverness pedestrian accident include the following:
- Seek prompt medical care, even if the injuries do not appear to be severe
- Call the local police department to report the accident
- Record the driver, vehicle, and insurance provider information
- Gather information and evidence to document the scene, such as pictures of damages, vehicle damage, road conditions, the injuries resulting from the incident
- Identify potential witnesses and obtain their name and contact information
- Contact insurance providers to report the event and start the process
- Avoid any actions that could increase fear or panic, causing the injured party to suffer shock
- Take note of speed limits and other regulations essential to the case
Staying calm in the aftermath is also vital to assess damages and prioritize the safety of everyone involved. Making what seems like a minor misstep could have lasting consequences, including negatively affecting the award for damages.
Important Things to Remember
After any traffic accident involving pedestrians and vehicles, remembering to avoid discussing fault in the immediate aftermath is crucial. Not only is seeking immediate care from a medical provider essential, but so is following the doctor’s orders and follow-up care.
Speaking with auto insurance providers can often lead to misunderstandings, which reduce the potential settlement. An experienced attorney could communicate with the agency to negotiate a fair award for damages. They can handle the investigation and legal work to file a case in civil court if necessary.
Pursuing Compensation After a Pedestrian Collision
Florida traffic and insurance laws follow a no-fault insurance system, meaning everyone involved contacts their insurance provider to initiate the claim and obtain a payout. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles directs that all motorists must carry at least the minimum insurance amount required by law. However, accidents involving pedestrians do present unique circumstances.
When vehicles are registered in the state and covered under a policy, they can collect a payout under their personal injury protection (PIP) to pay for their medical bills. Some policies also cover lost wages. They may initiate legal action in civil court if they do not hold a driver’s license, have an auto insurance policy, or have insufficient coverage to cover their losses. Understanding the important steps after a pedestrian collision in Inverness protects the injured person from financial losses and improves their ability to collect the maximum award amount.
Contact an Attorney for More Information About the Steps to Take After an Inverness Pedestrian Accident
Accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles are highly traumatic and often have catastrophic consequences, including long-term or permanent disabilities. In the worst cases, the injuries suffered are fatal. Taking the proper steps to protect future and legal rights is crucial for obtaining a just settlement to cover your damages and losses.
Contact a dedicated lawyer to review your options and learn more about steps to take after a pedestrian accident in Inverness. Call soon while the evidence is fresh to avoid missing the essential deadlines.
