What to Do if Hurt in a Car Accident in Key West

Being involved in a car accident in Key West can be a jarring experience, especially in a place as scenic and tourist-heavy as Key West. Whether you’re a local or a visitor enjoying the island’s charm, knowing what steps to take after a car accident can make all the difference in how your case progresses and the compensation you may receive. Understanding how a Key West car accident lawyer can help can also ease some of the stress that follows an accident.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Key West, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 for a free consultation today. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.

1. Prioritize Safety and Get Medical Attention

Your immediate priority after a car accident should be ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. If the accident is minor and it’s safe to move, try to get your vehicle off the road to prevent any further accidents. However, you should never leave the scene of an accident if there are injuries.

After you’ve ensured that everyone is safe, it can be crucial to seek medical attention if you feel any pain. Injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions can take hours or even days to become apparent. Seeking prompt medical treatment can not only protect your health but also provide documentation of your injuries, which can be critical if you later decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

2. Document the Accident Scene

Gathering evidence is often essential in the moments following a car accident. Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Try to capture different angles, and if possible, document any skid marks or road signs that may be relevant.

In Key West, where tourists and unfamiliar drivers may frequent, road conditions and local driving behaviors can contribute to accidents. Your documentation could play a critical role in establishing fault, especially if the other driver is found to be negligent. Additionally, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved, and make sure to get the contact details of any witnesses.

3. File a Police Report

You should report any car accident that results in injury or significant property damage to the police. When the police arrive at the scene, they will document the details of the crash and file an official report. This report can be an important piece of evidence in personal injury claims as it contains the officers’ account of the accident and potentially notes on fault.

Be sure to request a copy of the police report once it’s filed, as your attorney may use this to support your case. Provide accurate details to the officers, but avoid making statements about fault, as investigations and reports may bring additional details to light later.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

As soon as you are able, contact your insurance company to report the accident. In Florida, which operates under a no-fault system, your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance will cover certain medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. However, if your injuries are severe and exceed the limits of your PIP coverage, you may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.

While notifying your insurance company is important, it’s also important to remember that insurance adjusters may not have your best interests at heart. They may attempt to minimize your claim or offer a low settlement. This is where a Key West car accident lawyer may help—by negotiating on your behalf and helping to get you a fair settlement.

5. Consider Legal Action

If you sustained significant injuries or your damages exceed what PIP covers, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. To pursue compensation beyond what insurance offers, it’s important to prove that the other driver was negligent. Negligence could include anything from speeding to texting while driving or driving under the influence.

A Key West car accident lawyer can help you evaluate your legal options and take the necessary steps toward seeking compensation. They can also investigate the circumstances of the accident, review medical records, and gather evidence to help build a strong case on your behalf.

6. How a Key West Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the legal aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with physical and emotional recovery. A Key West car accident lawyer may assist you in various ways, including:

• Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident to determine liability.
• Gathering evidence, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
• Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Representing you in court if necessary.

Having an attorney by your side can take the burden of dealing with insurance companies off your shoulders, giving you the time and space to focus on healing.

7. Florida’s Statute of Limitations

It’s important to keep in mind that Florida law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you don’t file within this timeframe, you may be barred from pursuing compensation for your injuries.

Because of these legal time limits, it’s essential to act quickly if you believe you may have a personal injury case. A Key West car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and ensure that all deadlines are met.

Contact a Key West Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Key West, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. An experienced Key West car accident lawyer can guide you through the complexities of the claims process, help you gather the evidence needed to prove your case, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 for a free consultation today. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.