Why It’s Important to Call the Police After a Florida Car Accident
Many people think that it’s easier, after being involved in a car accident, to avoid involving the police. This, however, is usually not the case. In fact, under Florida law, motorists are legally required to contact the police if their collisions fulfill certain criteria.
When You Have to Call the Police
In Florida, accident victims must contact law enforcement officers when:
- The accident resulted in bodily injury or death;
- The crash qualifies as a hit and run accident or involved an intoxicated driver; or
- The accident resulted in property damage exceeding $500.
Given the cost of vehicle repair, most accidents end up falling under at least the third category, meaning that the parties involved will need to contact the police. However, even when not technically required to make this call, doing so is almost always a good idea.
Providing Medical Assistance
Perhaps the most important thing that police officers can do after an accident is secure the scene of the accident, ensuring that no other vehicles collide with the crash site and that anyone who was injured in the crash receives medical care. In serious accidents, failing to contact the police immediately after a crash could make all the difference in whether or not a person receives life-saving treatment.
Creating an Official Record of the Accident
One of the most important things that police officers can do after a crash is to create an official record documenting the accident. In their reports, officers will include the names and contact information of the parties involved, the names and statements of any eyewitnesses who saw the crash, as well as details about the crash, such as:
- The time and date of the accident;
- The exact location of the crash;
- A description of vehicle damage and physical injuries; and
- Notes regarding the weather and traffic conditions at the time of the accident.
This report can play a critical role in proving fault at a later date if the accident victim decides to file a claim.
Giving a Statement
Giving a statement to the police after being involved in an accident can be complicated, as you may still be in shock and frightened, but be sure to keep the following tips in mind:
- Answer questions truthfully, but don’t elaborate;
- Keep your statement respectful and succinct;
- Don’t admit fault; and
- Obtain the police officer’s name, badge number, and agency information, so that you can request an accident report at a later date.
Taking these steps can help ensure that your statement will be helpful when filing a legal claim and that you won’t accidentally incriminate yourself.
Call Today for Legal Advice
If you were involved in a car accident in Fort Lauderdale or somewhere else in the state for which you were not at fault, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and lost wages. For an assessment of your legal options, please call 954-566-9919 and set up a free consultation with the dedicated Florida car accident lawyers at Boone & Davis today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.065.html
flhsmv.gov/insurance/involved-in-a-crash/
