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You may not have known that at least 6 million American citizens find themselves involved in car accidents each year. These are startling numbers for sure. These accidents also result in a number of legal battles that are difficult to fight on your own.

The number of injuries and deaths that take place each year is astounding as well. At times like these, the assistance of an injury attorney in Port St. Lucie is of the utmost importance. Those who do not know what to do after a traffic accident may place themselves in a far more difficult position.

The risk levels for Florida residents are particularly high.  Let’s take a closer look at the steps that can be taken to ensure continued safety for all parties involved.

Look For Injuries

An injury attorney in Port St. Lucie will always recommend staying still and looking for any injuries. Avoid moving vehicles, if possible, as they are going to make it more difficult to collect the necessary evidence.  There may be instances where law enforcement requests you move the vehicles for everyone’s safety.  Do not move yourself or anyone else. If the injuries are particularly severe, stay in one place until the paramedics arrive.

Ask For Help

Call 911 and contact the police as well. The police reports and medical paperwork that you obtain in these instances are key pieces of evidence.  Also, contacting 911 will ensure you get the necessary medical assistance.

Share Information With Other Motorists

Take the time to share insurance information with any motorist that is involved in the accident. This ensures a smoother legal process and keeps you from having a more drawn out battle with the insurance company. Contact information and policy information must be as detailed as possible.

Collect Additional Evidence

Take as many photos as you can of all the vehicles that were involved in the accident. If anyone else saw the accident, this is your chance to ask for their contact information. This information is also crucial once the police arrive and begin to ask questions.

Receive Medical Assistance

You should be evaluated by medical personnel following the crash.  The medical assistance that you receive in these instances is pivotal. Injuries do not always reveal themselves right away. Follow the doctor’s instructions to the letter, and do not make the mistake of going against their wishes.

Call Your Insurance Company

Once all of the other steps have been completed, contact your insurance company and start the claims process. Be sure to ask the agent about the duration of the process and any necessary procedures for handling repairs to the vehicle.

Do Not Speak with the At Fault Driver’s Insurance Company

The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company may try to obtain a statement from you. Do not speak with insurance companies until you have the chance to consult with an attorney.  The insurance company is trying to protect their driver’s interests, not yours.

Contact An Accident Attorney

This is the final and most pivotal step. The accident attorney that you contact will provide you with the best possible legal advice. The best course of action is to find someone who has handled cases just like yours in the past. Do not choose an attorney that does not specialize in automobile accident and injury matters.