3 Things to NEVER Do After a Car Accident in Tampa Bay
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
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The actions you take after a car accident in Tampa are important. Don’t risk your chance for compensation by making these 3 mistakes
Car accidents in Tampa happen every day. While being involved or injured in a car accident can be traumatizing, the steps you take post-collision can significantly impact your right for full and fair compensation. Don’t jeopardize your insurance claim by making these three mistakes after a car accident in Tampa.
1. NEVER leave the scene without contacting the police
Even if the accident is minor, always contact the police. Here’s why: When a police officer responds to an accident scene, he or she must complete an accident report. This is an official, third-party document of how the accident happened and who is likely at-fault.
If you do not contact the police, you will not have an accident report. Without this report, your insurance company of the other driver’s insurance company can dispute or deny your claim. Protect yourself. Never leave the scene of an accident in Tampa without getting an accident report.
Learn how to obtain a Tampa accident report.
2. NEVER leave the scene without sufficient documentation
If you are able, and once you have contacted the police, the next thing you should do is document the accident scene. This means taking photos of your vehicle, the other driver’s vehicle, and your surroundings. Document anything that seems out of the ordinary, such as a burned out street light, construction, or debris.
Also, be sure to get the contact information of the other driver and witnesses. You should get their names, cell phone number, driver’s license number, license plate, and their insurance information.
If the other driver flees the scene, find out what to do after a hit-and-run in Tampa here.
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3. NEVER give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company
A few days after the accident, you may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. DO NOT give them a recorded statement. You are NOT legally required to speak with them or their attorney.
Any statement you give to the other party’s insurance company can be used against you. As injury attorneys, we have seen first-hand how insurance companies try to manipulate people into admitting partial blame or accepting a lowball settlement offer.
Therefore, NEVER give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without contacting an experienced car accident attorney in Tampa. An attorney will be able to protect your rights and can speak to the insurance company on your behalf.
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Injured in a car accident in Tampa?
Call Darrigo & Diaz immediately at (813) 437-5523
If you are injured in an accident in Tampa Bay, you should contact Darrigo & Diaz immediately. We understand how frustrating and overwhelming this situation can be. Our experienced team has helped hundreds of Tampa Bay residents recover compensation for serious auto accidents.
We offer free consultations and you do not have to pay anything unless we win your case.
Call (813) 437-5523 now to schedule your complimentary meeting with our experienced Tampa Bay accident attorneys.