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It’s a beautiful sunny day, and you’re cruising down the picturesque Florida highways, enjoying the ocean breeze. Suddenly, the unthinkable happens – you’re involved in a car accident. Amidst the shock and confusion, you may be wondering what your next steps should be.

A personal injury attorney at Morgan Law Group understands how distressing a car accident in Florida can be. This article aims to provide you with essential information and guidance to help you navigate the complicated aftermath of a Florida accident.

Common Car Accidents in Florida

Florida’s bustling highways and picturesque coastal roads are sadly also some of the most dangerous, witnessing a high number of car accidents each year. The accident scenarios vary widely, but a few types seem to occur more frequently. Some of the most common types include:

  1. Rear-end collisions: These are one of the most common types of accidents not just in Florida but nationwide. These accidents often occur when a driver is following too closely (tailgating) or are distracted, perhaps by a smartphone or GPS device, and doesn’t notice that the car in front has stopped or slowed down.
  2. T-bone collisions: Also known as side-impact or broadside collisions are another common type of car accident in Florida. These occur when the front of one car collides with the side of another, forming a “T” shape. These collisions most commonly occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield right-of-way or ignores a traffic signal.
  3. Single-vehicle accidents: These accidents involve only one vehicle and can be caused by a myriad of factors. For instance, Florida’s frequent heavy rains can lead to poor visibility and slick roads, causing a driver to lose control and crash. Additionally, driver errors, such as speeding, reckless driving, drowsiness, or impairment due to alcohol or drugs, can lead to these accidents.

Understanding these common accidents can not only improve your defensive driving skills but also better equip you to deal with the aftermath should you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation.

Car Accident Injuries

The injuries sustained in a car accident in Florida can range from minor to life-threatening. Some common injuries include:

  1. Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head during a collision.
  2. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A blow to the head can cause severe brain damage, leading to long-term or permanent cognitive impairment.
  3. Broken bones: The force of impact can break bones in the arms, legs, or even the spine.
  4. Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage organs, leading to internal bleeding and other life-threatening complications.

Timely medical attention is crucial, as some injuries might not exhibit immediate symptoms, and early detection can significantly improve recovery outcomes and give an advantage in your claim.

What To Do After the Accident

Immediately following a car accident in Florida, it’s crucial to take several steps to protect yourself and preserve evidence for your claim:

  1. Call 911: Report the accident to the authorities, and request medical assistance if necessary.
  2. Gather information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved. Additionally, obtain contact information from any witnesses.
  3. Document the scene: Use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to the vehicles, skid marks, and traffic signals or signs.
  4. Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately and can worsen over time.
  5. Contact your insurance company: Inform them of the accident but avoid admitting fault or providing a detailed statement before consulting with an attorney.
  6. Preserve evidence: Keep all medical records, repair estimates, and other documentation related to the accident.

The steps you take immediately after a car accident in Florida, from contacting authorities to preserving evidence, play a significant role in protecting your rights and interests. These actions not only ensure your safety and health but also lay the groundwork for a potentially successful personal injury claim should you need to pursue one.

What Am I Entitled To After the Accident?

Under Florida law, you may be entitled to compensation for damages resulting from a car accident, including:

  1. Medical expenses: These include both past and future costs related to your injuries, such as hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  2. Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income.
  3. Pain and suffering: This compensation accounts for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
  4. Property damage: You may be reimbursed for the costs of repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.

Being involved in an accident, you should know what you are entitled to. Understanding these potential avenues for recovery can help ensure that you pursue all the compensation you deserve for your losses.

Do You Need Immediate Legal Action After a Car Accident?

A car accident in Florida can be a harrowing experience, but understanding your rights and taking appropriate steps following the accident can significantly impact your ability to receive fair compensation. If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in Florida, it’s crucial to seek professional legal help as soon as possible.

At Morgan Law Group, our team of dedicated and experienced personal injury attorneys is ready to assist you. We will guide you through the complexities of Florida’s accident laws, fight for your rights, and strive to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Morgan Law Group today for a free consultation and let us support you on your road to recovery.