If you were injured in an auto accident in Florida, as long as you have insurance, you are entitled to financial compensation. This is thanks to Florida’s “no-fault” insurance law, which requires all drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. But, before you accept a PIP settlement (even if your insurance company offers your policy limit), you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of your legal rights. Settling too soon is one of the biggest mistakes you can make after an auto accident. Here are seven more:
7 Mistakes to Avoid After an Auto Accident in Florida
1. Failing to Seek Prompt Medical Treatment
Auto accidents can cause a broad range of traumatic injuries, many of which may not be noticeable right away. From spinal cord injuries to concussions, you have more than enough reasons to seek a prompt medical diagnosis after an auto accident in Florida.
2. Failing to Understand Florida’s “No-Fault” Insurance Law
The fact that Florida has a “no-fault” insurance law does not mean that only no-fault compensation is available. If your doctor diagnosis you with any type of severe or permanent injury, you will be able to seek fault-based compensation for all of your injury-related losses.
3. Assuming that You Were at Fault
Due to the potential for a fault-based recovery, it is critical not to assume that you were at fault in the accident. Even if you were doing something wrong (such as speeding or texting behind the wheel), this does not necessarily mean that you caused (or contributed to causing) the collision.
4. Assuming that the Other Driver was at Fault
On the same token, no matter how obvious it may seem at the scene of the accident, you cannot simply assume that the other driver will be held responsible. Securing financial compensation requires evidence of fault, and this means that you need to hire a law firm to conduct an investigation as soon as possible.
5. Talking about the Accident in Person or Online
For now, it is best to keep the details of the accident to yourself. Do not give your insurance company any more information than it needs to initiate your claim, and try to avoid discussing the accident in person or on social media.
6. Resuming Normal Physical Activity Too Soon
Yes, you will get bored. Yes, you will find yourself wanting to return to work so that you can get paid. But, to protect your health and your legal rights, you need to avoid resuming normal physical activity too soon. Follow your doctor’s advice, even if it seems like you are waiting longer than necessary.
7. Failing to Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
Due to these and other concerns, if you have been injured in an auto accident, it is important that you discuss your case with an attorney. Your initial consultation should be free and confidential, and you should not have to pay anything unless your attorney helps you recover just compensation.
Schedule a Free Auto Accident Consultation in Crestview, FL
Were you injured in an auto accident in Florida? If so, you can contact our Crestview, FL law offices for a free, no-obligation consultation. To speak with an attorney in confidence, call the firm at 850-682-2757 or request an appointment online today.