5 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Florida
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
Nobody expects to be in a car accident. However, accidents do happen. In 2023, there were 391,428 car accidents in Florida—that’s more than 1,100 car accidents per day in our state! As Tampa injury attorneys with over 25 years of experience, we have seen firsthand the common mistakes people make in the aftermath of a collision. Therefore, to help you protect your rights, here are five crucial mistakes to avoid after a car accident in Florida.
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5 car accident mistakes to avoid
If you’re ever involved in a car accident in Florida, we strongly recommend you contact an experienced car accident attorney immediately. While this blog provides information on five car accident mistakes to avoid, the best thing you can do is speak with an attorney directly. At Darrigo & Diaz, we offer free consultations to anyone who has been involved or injured in an accident. Call us at (813) 774-3341 to speak with our attorneys.
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Mistake #1: Failing to seek medical attention immediately
As Tampa injury attorneys, one of the most critical mistakes we see individuals make after a car accident in Florida is failing to seek medical attention immediately. In Florida, there is a 14-day rule that you must seek medical attention within 14 days after an auto accident to receive benefits from your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or “No-Fault” insurance coverage. If you fail to do so, your PIP claim may be denied and you will have to pay out of pocket for your medical expenses.
Under this 14-day rule, you have exactly two weeks from the date of your accident to get “initial services and care.” Almost any type of medical attention will meet this requirement as long as it comes from a qualified healthcare provider. Therefore, even if you believe your injuries are minor or non-existent, some injuries may not manifest symptoms until hours, days or weeks later. By seeking medical attention immediately, you not only prioritize your health but also create a crucial record of your injuries for potential insurance and legal claims.
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Mistake #2: Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene
In the chaos following a car accident, it’s natural to want to diffuse tension and express sympathy. However, admitting fault or apologizing at the scene can be misconstrued as an admission of liability, potentially harming your case down the road. Instead, focus on exchanging information with the other party involved and refrain from discussing fault until you’ve consulted with a car accident attorney.
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Mistake #3: Neglecting to gather evidence
Evidence is key in establishing fault and proving the extent of damages in a Florida car accident case. Failing to gather evidence at the scene, such as photographs of the vehicles involved, contact information of witnesses, and a copy of the police report, can significantly weaken your case. If you are able, take proactive steps to document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible to better support your legal claim.
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Mistake #4: Delaying contact with an experienced car accident attorney in Florida
Time is of the essence in Florida car accident cases, and delaying contact with a qualified Florida attorney can be a costly mistake. An experienced car accident attorney can provide invaluable guidance from the outset, advising you on your rights, communicating with insurance companies on your behalf, and building a strong case to pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.
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Mistake #5: Accepting settlements from insurance companies without consulting an attorney
Insurance companies may offer quick settlements in an attempt to minimize their payouts, often before the full extent of your injuries and damages is known. Accepting a settlement without consulting with a car accident attorney can result in inadequate compensation that fails to cover your current and future expenses. An experienced Florida car accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure that any settlement offer is fair and just.
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Don’t make a critical mistake after a car accident in Florida!
Call the Florida Accident Attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz for a free consultation at (813) 774-3341
If you’re injured in a Tampa car accident, or an accident in the greater Central Florida region, the experienced injury attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz are here to help. For over 25 years, we have helped accident victims get the support, legal guidance and compensation they deserve.
Contact us immediately through our secured contact form. Or call our office at (813) 774-3341 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and connect with an experienced and knowledgeable accident lawyer.
