Florida is a hot zone for car accidents in the US (and not only that, but also for motorcycle wrecks, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian injuries and fatalities too!), and while you may have a lot on your mind when you get in the car, it is vital to make the task of driving your car your number one priority. It is incredibly easy today to become distracted—as so many different factors constantly work to take our attention from the road and the task at hand—from smartphones, to that GPS, to loved ones in the car who may need things or want to engage in lively conversation.

Distracted driving is the number one reason for injuries and accidents, and the best you can do is to drive as defensively as possible. You may see numerous erratic drivers on the roads today, and those are the ones to which you should give a wide berth! Unfortunately, there are also still far too many drivers who are on the road after drinking too much, smoking marijuana, or using other drugs (that may be illegal) making it hazardous for them to drive. Other drivers may be drowsy, falling asleep at the wheel, or stressed out from work and not paying attention. Speeding and reckless driving, however, are still some of the top reasons for crashes—and often both at once as drivers may also swerve into other lanes quickly, and tailgate, with terrible consequences. Running stop signs, ignoring other traffic signals, and failing to use turn signals can all wreak havoc as well.

In the case that you are in an accident, however, know what to do ahead of time. At the scene, make sure to call for help immediately if you or a passenger are injured, call the police, and get contact information from the other driver—as well as any witnesses on the scene (please read over our recent blog, ‘Five Steps to Take Directly After an Accident.’) In the case of injuries—and especially due to the negligence of another party—you may be shocked at how quickly adjusters begin calling you for information. Rather than speaking to them, it is in your best interest to consult with a skilled car accident attorney to protect you and guide you through the process—along with handling all communication with insurers. This could make an enormous difference in the outcome of your case.

Remember, adjusters are interested in one thing: getting as much information as possible from you—and if they can, they will use it against you so they can pay out less or even deny your claim altogether. They may ask about injuries (you may not even know the full extent yet, or other issues could develop), request medical records and ask for police reports—and they may even want to interview you and tape record the conversation. Refer them directly to your car accident attorney!

If you or a loved one have been injured due to the negligence of another driver, contact the attorneys at Heintz Law. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses after accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.