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1. STOP: Florida law requires you
to stop at the scene of an accident.
2. PROTECT THE SCENE: Leave cars
where they came to rest unless they are blocking traffic
and take note of the vehicles' locations before moving
them.
3. CALL THE POLICE: Cooperate with
the investigation officer and speak only to the officer
concerning the facts.
4. GET MEDICAL ATTENTION: Cooperate
with emergency medical personnel and go to the hospital
in an ambulance.
5. EXCHANGE INFORMATION with the
other driver including names addresses, VIN #s, and
insurance.
6. DO NOT COMMENT or make statements
to the other driver concerning the cause of the collision.
7. OBTAIN INFORMATION: Make notes
of any statements made by the other driver concerning
the cause of the collision.
8. TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS of the vehicles:
Always keep a disposable camera in your glove compartment.
9. OBSERVE whether the driver appears
to be intoxicated, if so, report it to the police officer
and insist that the other driver be given a breath test.
10. SEE A DOCTOR. Serious injuries
do not always show immediate symptoms. It would be wise
to have a doctor examine you as soon as possible.
11. DO NOT EVER give a recorded
statement to the other driver's insurance company.
12. DO NOT sign any release from
the other driver's insurance company without first seeking
the advice of an attorney.
13. DO NOT allow anyone to rush
you into a settlement. You may be entitled to significantly
more. By consulting a lawyer you will safeguard your
own legal rights.
14. REPORT the accident to your
own insurance company.
15. If your were injured, SEEK MEDICAL
TREATMENT IMMEDIATELY. Tell your treating physician
all of your physical symptoms and complaints and follow
the doctor's instructions.
16. GATHER all the documents related
to the accident in one place or file. These may be used
as evidence.
17. Contact a qualified personal
injury attorney and ask for a free consultation to discuss
your rights.
18. Ask the attorney lots of questions
about his or her background, training, experience and
qualifications. Ask the attorney about fees and costs.
19. Ask the attorney to explain
your legal rights and to explain the attorney's role
in protecting your rights.
20. Get well and Protect your Legal
Rights!
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