Rear-end car crashes are among the most common types of automobile accidents. But not all victims realize the seriousness of these wrecks. A rear-end accident can cause major medical, financial, and personal problems for the victim. Perhaps you or someone you love was in one of these crashes and you’re wondering what to do next.
Let the dedicated Hollywood, Florida car crash attorneys of Klotzman Property Damage Law guide you. These are a few steps you should take if you’ve been involved in a rear-end accident.
Get Medical Attention Right Away
Do not wait to see a doctor, whether you think your injuries are minor or you have no injuries. Even a low-speed accident can cause significant damage to the human body. You may feel relatively fine at first, but injuries can worsen with time. Not seeing a doctor could risk your health as well as your legal claim for compensation.
Drivers and passengers involved in rear-end crashes may suffer the following medical issues, among others:
- Whiplash
- Herniated discs
- Neck, spine, and back injuries
- Severe headaches
- Numbness
- Paralysis
Never assume that you weren’t hurt in a car wreck. Let a doctor make that decision and make recommendations for your treatment.
Call 911 and Report the Rear-End Accident
Reporting the accident to emergency services isn’t just important for medical reasons. Police will also be dispatched to the accident scene to make a report of what happened.
The police report is an essential element in your Hollywood, Florida rear-end car accident lawsuit. It includes details about the crash such as the identities of the parties and events surrounding it. This information will prove helpful later when you seek compensation.
If the at-fault driver in your accident flees, don’t chase him or her. Wait for the police to arrive and give them all the details you can remember. There may be witnesses and surveillance cameras that can assist. Allow law enforcement to do their job and locate the driver.
Write Down Details of What You Can Remember
You should take as many notes as you can about what happened. Taking notes early after the accident is critical because you may forget important details with time. These notes will assist your Hollywood, Florida auto accident lawyer in building a case against the at-fault party. Even if you think a detail is unimportant, write it down.
As you write your notes, keep in mind a few of the most common causes of rear-end accidents. If you observed evidence of the following, make notes about it:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Distracted driving (for example, due to cell phone use)
- Unsafe lane changes, especially without using a turn signal
- Reduced visibility because of the time of day, weather conditions, etc.
- Poor road conditions due to road debris, construction, or other reasons
Speak to Witnesses and Take Pictures of the Crash Scene
If anyone saw what happened and is still in the area, get their names and contact information. Make some notes on what the person observed, too. Send all of this to your Hollywood, Florida car crash lawyer.
If you can do so, take pictures and record a video of the accident scene. Include images of your vehicle so you can seek coverage for property damage. Include as many details as you can when taking photos and recording videos.
Hire a Skilled Hollywood, Florida Personal Injury Lawyer
Finally, you will need dedicated legal counsel to advocate for you and protect your rights. That’s where we come in. Klotzman Property Damage Law fights for automobile accident victims so they can win the compensation they deserve for their losses.
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Call us today to schedule your free initial consultation with a Hollywood, Florida personal injury lawyer.
