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The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates that there is an average of 5.89 million motor vehicle collisions reported nationwide each year. Safe driving practices can reduce your risk of being involved in a wreck—but it cannot completely eliminate it. Following a serious crash, it is imperative that you know how to protect your rights. You need an experienced attorney. In this article, you will find an overview of when to hire a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer after a crash.
The Aftermath of a Car Accident (When to Hire a Lawyer)
Step #1: Stop Your Vehicle, Report the Collision, and Seek Medical Care
Florida law requires all motorists involved in a car crash to stop their vehicle and exchange information. Injury crashes should be reported to local or state law enforcement. A police officer will be dispatched to help control the scene and draft a crash report.
You should also seek prompt medical attention for any injuries. You need to see a doctor if you are considering filing a personal injury claim. Without medical records, a car accident attorney cannot help you secure compensation for your injuries.
Step #2: Avoiding Providing a Recorded Statement to Any Insurance Company
You need to notify your own insurer that a crash occurred. However, you are not required to answer any questions or give a recorded statement to your insurance company at this point in the process. Further, you are not required to answer any questions or give a recorded statement to an opposing insurance company. Insurers are not on your side. When should you hire a car accident attorney? Consult with a lawyer before you speak to the insurance company.
Step #3: Hire a Car Accident Attorney if You Were Injured or Sustained Significant Damage
When do you need to hire a lawyer for a car accident? As a general matter, you should always retain professional legal representation if you were injured in the crash or if you sustained significant property damage. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process and seek full and fair financial compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies will often start by trying to find a way to deny liability altogether. If they cannot do so, they will focus their defense strategy on resolving the car accident claim for the lowest amount possible.
Know the Timeline: Hire a Car Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible After a Crash
A car accident injury lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires. The deadline varies by state. For example, Florida has an unusually long four-year statute of limitations for fault-based car accident injury claims. However, you do not want to wait to get started with the personal injury claims process. Not only will waiting delay your compensation, but it will also make it more difficult to gather all of the evidence you need to prove liability and damages. Do not fail behind the insurance company: Hire a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a collision.
