Timothy Felice, founder of Felice Trial Attorneys, provides critical guidance for Floridians on what steps to take immediately after a motor vehicle crash. With over 20 years of trial experience, Timothy explains how following these steps can protect both your health and your legal rights.
Why Calling the Police Immediately is Crucial After a Car Accident
After a crash, the first step is always to call the police. Even in minor accidents or when property damage seems minimal, obtaining a police report is essential. Timothy Felice notes that failing to do so can create disputes over fault and complicate insurance claims. Moving vehicles before police arrival can also misrepresent the circumstances, potentially harming your case.
Collecting Witness Information and Documenting the Scene
Timothy Felice emphasizes the importance of collecting names and phone numbers of witnesses at the scene. Witness accounts are often overlooked or lost if the police do not document them. Photographing and videotaping the scene, including surrounding areas and intersections, ensures evidence is preserved. This documentation may help obtain additional video footage from nearby cameras, such as red light or store surveillance systems.
Understanding Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
Florida is a no-fault state, but this does not mean no one is responsible for an accident. Drivers must carry property damage and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP provides medical and lost wage benefits for injuries regardless of fault, covering up to $10,000. Timothy Felice explains that purchasing additional coverage, including bodily injury and uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance, is critical to fully protect yourself and others.
Seeking Medical Attention Promptly After a Crash
Immediate medical treatment is essential, even for seemingly minor injuries. Florida law requires PIP claims to begin within 14 days of the accident; delaying care can limit benefits to $2,500 or result in denial. Timothy Felice warns that waiting to seek treatment can give insurance adjusters reason to question the legitimacy of a claim, potentially reducing compensation.
Reporting the Crash to Your Insurance Company
Drivers must report accidents to their insurance carriers promptly. Timothy Felice advises that someone other than the injured party—such as a spouse or family member—make the initial report. Only provide basic information to obtain a claim number; avoid giving recorded statements without legal representation, especially when uninsured motorist coverage may apply.
Common Mistakes Clients Make After a Crash
Timothy Felice identifies key missteps that can jeopardize a claim:
- Failing to follow medical advice or treatment plans.
- Ignoring doctor-imposed restrictions, which can be used against the client by insurance carriers.
- Posting on social media about the accident or unrelated activities, which can be misinterpreted and used in court.
Ensuring Adequate Insurance Coverage in Florida
Adequate insurance is crucial for protection in the event of a crash. Timothy Felice recommends:
- Bodily injury coverage of at least $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage of similar limits.
- Considering an umbrella policy with a separate insurance carrier for higher protection, ideally $1 million coverage.
Proper coverage safeguards both your finances and legal rights if you or others are injured in a car accident.
Conclusion
Following proper steps after a car crash, seeking immediate medical attention, and maintaining adequate insurance coverage are essential for protecting both health and legal interests. Timothy Felice emphasizes that consulting an experienced personal injury lawyer ensures that claims are handled effectively, maximizing the potential for full justice. For more information or assistance after a car accident, visit InjuryTrialAttorneys.com.
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