Things to Know
What to do After an Accident
Call 911 and remain on the scene until first responders arrive.
Never admit fault to anyone at the scene or during phone calls after the crash.
If you are injured, ask for medical assistance or an ambulance
to be called.While speaking to the police, never admit to being in a rush.
Do not speak to anyone other than the police about how the crash occurred.
Document the scene of the accident. with photos of the full scene;
• Road Signs
• Pavement markings
• Surrounding area
• Vehicles and damage • Drivers Licenses’
• Insurance cardsIf you can get the contact information for any witnesses to the accident or individuals you may interact with who are not first responders.
Call Shalhoub Law at (561) 208-5058 before speaking to any insurance companies.
When Contacting an Insurance Company
It is important to remember that the insurance companies are not necessarily on your side. Representatives from your or other parties’ insurance companies are motivated to quickly resolve your case for as small a settlement as possible.
When speaking with them indicate that you have selected to seek professional representation from an attorney. Provide them with the contact information of your attorney. In turn provide your attorney with the necessary insurance information and a case number your accident was assigned.
Understanding Types of Insurance
PIP or Personal Injury Protection
This insurance is paid to you regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This insurance covers everyone living in your household. PIP covers up to 80% of your medical expenses and up to 60% of your lost wages after your vehicle accident.
All drivers in Florida are required to carry Personal Injury Protection insurance which typically provides around $10,000 in coverage. You have 14 days to seek medical care for injuries received during the accident, if you do not, you will lose this coverage.
Medpay or Medical Payments
In most accidents, Medpay covers what PIP does not, up to 20% of your medical bills only. Depending on your coverage, it may even pay more than 20%, up to $10,000. If you have adequate health insurance coverage you may not need Medpay as it would be redundant coverage.
PD or Property Damage Insurance
This insurance covers any damage you may have caused to another person’s vehicle. This is another type of insurance that is required by Florida state law.
Collision
This insurance is optional in the state of Florida and covers damage to your vehicle no matter whose fault the accident was.
BI or Bodily Injury
If you are at fault for an accident, this type of insurance covers any pain and suffering of other people who were involved in the accident. This is another type of insurance that is optional in the state of Florida, yet it is highly recommended to have up to $100,000 in coverage.
UM or Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
If you are hurt in an accident caused by someone else who does not have auto insurance or has poor coverage, then this insurance will pay for your pain and suffering that they or their insurance does not cover. This is another type of insurance that is optional in the state of Florida, yet it is highly recommended to have up to $100,000 in coverage.
