So You’ve been in a Car Accident, What Now?
- Report your claim to your insurance company immediately.
- Seek medical care within 14 days of the accident or you will not be eligible for personal injury coverage.
- Ideally, you should see a doctor within the first 48 hours.
- Remember that many physical conditions do not manifest themselves right away. When in doubt, seek medical treatment.
- The first and most important task is to take care of your physical needs. Yes, your car may be banged up and you might face a traffic violation, but those things are secondary to tending to your injuries.
- If your injuries are so severe that you require emergency medical care, many medical decisions will be made quickly, especially if your life is in danger.
– Make sure you discuss your medical wishes with your loved ones.
– Better yet, contact an attorney to prepare your estate plan, which will include a Living Will/Health Care Surrogate
- If you are conscious, ask questions. You are in charge of your medical treatment. If you are not satisfied with the answers you receive, ask for a second opinion.
- Ask what the cost will be. You can use up your personal injury coverage very quickly.
– Your personal injury coverage in Florida is $10,000, at the most; you may only be entitled to $2500 in certain situations
– Some medical providers work with referral groups and will refer you to another provider based on their agreement within the group, rather than your medical needs. Again, ask questions.
- Do not make any statements to any insurance company employees.
- Do not post any statements about your condition on social media sites.
